JP2006332754A - Image distribution method, image distribution apparatus, event detection apparatus, and image browsing operation terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image distribution method, image distribution apparatus, event detection apparatus, and image browsing operation terminal whereby event information including a type, range, and priority of an event is generated on the occurrence of the event, a camera photographable of the event is efficiently selected on the basis of the event information, and image information photographed by the selected camera is distributed to a distribution destination facility. <P>SOLUTION: With the image distribution method, the event information including the type, the range, and the priority of an event is generated on the occurrence of the event, the cameras photographable of the event are automatically selected on the basis of the event information, and a camera being a distribution object is selected among the cameras by taking the priority into account. Further, instruction information from an operator is generated as operation event information, and a camera selection list on which cameras are listed up on the basis of the priority is generated and displayed so that the operator can quickly and surely select any camera. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

    The present invention relates to image information distribution technology, and in particular, when an event occurs, event event information including the type, range, and priority of the event is generated, and a camera capable of capturing the event based on the event event information is efficiently used. The present invention relates to an image distribution method, an image distribution apparatus, an event detection apparatus, and an image browsing operation terminal that distribute image information captured by a selected camera to a distribution destination facility.

  FIG. 24 is an outline of a conventional image distribution system, and shows image distribution systems (A) and (B) provided corresponding to two image distribution networks 70a and 70b, respectively.

  In the image distribution system (A), the image distribution apparatus 10a distributes the image information captured by the unmanned cameras 50a to 50e installed in the image distribution network 70a to the image browsing operation terminal 20a and the distribution destination equipment 30a. Information associated with the camera is stored in the database 12a. This database is used for the purpose of improving the operability of the operator. For example, an address for uniquely determining a camera (camera ID), a camera name, a camera functional specification (pan / tilt is possible, zoom control is Information such as map information for visually representing the installation location of the camera is stored. This information is referred to herein as camera information, and a database that is an aggregate of the information is referred to as a camera information DB.

  The image browsing operation terminal 20a is a terminal for an operator to select a camera while browsing image information. The image browsing operation terminal 20a instructs the image distribution device 10a to specify a distribution destination of image information and a camera that captures image information to be distributed. . An example of a product is “BroadSight” manufactured by Fujitsu.

  It is also possible to link the sensor and the camera. For example, the unmanned camera 50a and the sensor 60a (including the event generation function) installed in the vicinity of the camera 50a are linked and the sensor 60a detects the event. Distributes image information taken by the neighboring camera 50a of 60a. The same applies to the other unmanned cameras 50b to 50e and the sensors 60b to 60e.

  The image distribution system (B) is the same as the image distribution system (A) described above, but here the camera 50f capable of photographing the periphery of the sensor 60f connected to the image distribution network 70a is an image distribution network. A configuration example connected to 70b is shown. In such a configuration, since there is no processing linkage between the image distribution system (A) and the image distribution system (B), when the sensor 60f detects an abnormal event and the image distribution system (A) recognizes it But you can't take a picture of the area around the sensor 60f. On the other hand, in the image distribution system (B), the vicinity of the sensor 60f can be taken as an image and the image information can be distributed, but the abnormal information detected by the sensor 60f cannot be recognized.

  Non-Patent Document 1 shows an Internet camera system of System Kei Co., Ltd., which is an example of a product that links the above sensor and camera. When an event occurs using a human body sensor or the like, the video of a neighboring camera is stopped. It has a function to capture and save images.

  In the configuration example of the image delivery system shown in FIG. 24, there is no camera in the vicinity of the sensor 60f of the image delivery network (A), and the camera 50f capable of photographing the sensor 60f is provided in the image delivery network (B). The case where it is being shown is shown.

Patent Document 1 discloses an image distribution system that can be accessed by many users and distributes images in real time.
System Kei Co., Ltd. homepage (see page about internet camera system), URL http://ics.systemk.co.jp/ Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-241817 (pages 8 to 14 and FIGS. 1 and 2).

  As shown in the outline of the conventional image distribution system in FIG. 24, each image distribution system has been conventionally constructed as an independent system corresponding to the type of object to be monitored such as road, river, coast, railway, etc. Often done.

  In such a system construction form, there is no camera that can shoot the situation in the vicinity of the place where the event occurred in the own system (for example, an image distribution system of a river), but the camera that can shoot the event in other systems. May be present, but the camera cannot be selected because the system is different. In addition, each municipality has its own system, but in order to perform wide-area monitoring, there may be cases where it is desirable to use image information from cameras of other systems operated by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Because there is no cooperation, it may not be able to import.

  As described above, in the conventional image distribution system, since the cameras and sensors provided in the image distribution network cannot be mutually used, it is necessary to provide the cameras and sensors in the respective image distribution networks. Increased construction cost.

  However, in order to solve this problem, when cameras and sensors are linked between different image distribution networks, a large number of cameras other than the cameras originally provided in each image distribution system are also subject to operation by the operator. Therefore, it is expected that it will be difficult for an operator to find a camera capable of photographing an event that has actually occurred, or a long time will be required.

  In the conventional image distribution system, when the number of cameras exceeds 1000, it is no longer possible to search from the map, and the fact is that it depends on the search from the metadata such as the directory system and the list display. And expensive maps can be a wasteful investment.

  For events that occur suddenly, the operator may be forced to rush to the event occurrence site, and the operator may not always be able to select the camera immediately from the image browsing operation terminal.

  When an event occurs over time, it is difficult for the operator to accurately determine whether it is a plurality of different events or one event at another location, and when different events occur consecutively Therefore, even if the preceding event is more important than the subsequent event and it is desired to hold it, it is expected that the image information of the preceding event will be replaced by the subsequent event.

  Even if image information captured by multiple cameras is listed as a candidate for distribution, if the number of images that can be output simultaneously at the distribution destination facility is less than the number of images for distribution candidates, the operator will prioritize the content of the image information. The camera must be selected while judging.

  Regardless of the occurrence of an event, the operator's operation should be given the highest priority, but if the data transfer interface between the operation terminal and the image distribution device for realizing this is not unified, the image distribution system The configuration becomes complicated.

  As described above, cooperation between different image distribution systems is required, and at the same time, the number of events and cameras to be managed by the image distribution system increases with system cooperation, and the occurrence of events can be accurately confirmed from a large number of cameras. It is necessary to select a camera that can shoot the event and make an appropriate decision in consideration of the priority even when the occurrence of the event is congested. These various conditions are automatically judged and presented to the operator. Therefore, it is desired to realize an image distribution system that reduces the load on the operator.

  The present invention generates event event information including the type, range, and priority of an event when the event occurs, and efficiently selects a camera that can capture the event based on the event event information. An object is to provide an image distribution method, an image distribution apparatus, an event detection apparatus, and an image browsing operation terminal that distribute photographed image information to a distribution destination facility.

  The present invention relates to an image distribution method for distributing image information obtained by photographing a generated event to a destination facility, holding a camera information database including shooting range information indicating a range that can be shot by the camera, and generating the event Time, event event information including event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred is generated, and the shooting range information and the event event information held in the camera information database are generated. Based on the included event range information, the camera capable of capturing the generated event is extracted, and image information captured by the extracted camera is distributed to the distribution destination facility.

  As a result, the camera installed at the position where the event can be photographed is extracted without manual intervention based on the position information of the occurred event indicated in the event event information, and distributed from there to the delivery destination equipment. It is possible to select a camera that captures image information that should be captured.

  Further, the event detection apparatus of the present invention provides a continuous event that associates a plurality of events that may occur in association with each other by assigning a continuous event name as one continuous event based on the event range information of the plurality of events. A continuous event definition database comprising event definition records, means for generating event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred, and a type of the generated event Means for generating event identification information indicating, means for generating priority information indicating the priority of processing of the event, event event information including the generated event range information, event identification information, and priority information. When a continuous event range including the event range information of the event event information to be generated is defined in the continuous event definition database when the event is generated and transmitted Means for generating event event information having event identification information indicating a type of the event that has occurred, and setting event name information to a continuous event name assigned to the defined continuous event. Configured.

  This makes it possible to identify the type of event corresponding to the event that occurred, and to select the camera that captures the event while considering its priority. Can assign a continuous event name to the event group and handle it as a single unit, and it becomes easy to select a camera that can capture any of the events belonging to the continuous event.

  The image distribution apparatus according to the present invention, when the event occurs, means for acquiring continuous event definition information by searching the continuous event definition database based on a continuous event name included in the generated event event information. When the event range information of the generated event event information is the continuous event name and the continuous event definition record corresponding to the continuous event name includes the delivery destination facility information, the generated event event information Are stored in the event event information storage unit in order of priority, and when the operation event information requesting display of the camera selection list is generated by the image browsing operation terminal, the events stored in the event event storage unit Means for generating a camera selection list including identification information of a predetermined number of cameras based on the event information and transmitting the camera selection list to the image browsing operation terminal; Means for transmitting image information taken by the camera included in the camera designation operation event information to the distribution destination equipment upon reception of camera designation operation event information designating a camera transmitted from the continuous event definition record The delivery destination facility information, the event range information, and the shooting range information held in the camera information database include kilopost information indicating a distance from a predetermined starting point as supplementary information, and the camera selection list When the direction identification information included in the delivery destination facility information indicates an upward direction from the predetermined starting point, the event event information stored in the event event information storage unit The event event information in which the kilopost value included in the event information is greater than the kilopost value included in the delivery destination facility information. When the direction identification information included in the delivery destination facility information indicates a downward direction when viewed from the predetermined starting point, the kilopost value included in the event event information from the accumulated event event information. Means for extracting the event event information smaller than the kilopost value included in the delivery destination facility information, and selecting the extracted event event information in order of priority, and photographing the event corresponding to the selected event event information The camera selection list by selecting a predetermined number of cameras based on the camera information database in ascending order of difference between the kilopost value included in the shooting range information in the camera information database and the kilopost value of the delivery destination facility information. As many cameras as the number of screens that can be displayed on the distribution destination equipment are selected for addition to the camera selection list. And a means for generating the camera selection list is provided.

  As a result, when there is a linear event occurrence range, such as traffic congestion monitoring on an expressway, the priority of the event is considered while considering the distance relationship between the image information distribution destination equipment and the occurrence location of the event that occurred. The camera can be selected according to the degree. For example, it is possible to select a camera from a distribution destination facility installed in a service area of an expressway within a predetermined distance in the traveling direction of the car and monitor a traffic jam situation.

  Furthermore, the image browsing operation terminal according to the present invention generates operation event information that is instruction information for requesting transmission of a distribution destination equipment list that is a list of distribution destination equipment that is a distribution destination of image information. A means for transmitting to the distribution apparatus; a means for displaying the distribution destination equipment list transmitted from the image distribution apparatus; and a distribution destination equipment selected by the operator from the displayed distribution destination equipment list. Means for generating operation event information, which is instruction information for requesting transmission of a camera selection list, which is camera list information for selecting a camera for photographing image information, and transmitting the operation event information to the image distribution apparatus; Means for receiving and displaying the camera selection list transmitted from the camera, and preferentially selecting the camera selected by the operator based on the information of the displayed camera selection list. Comprising means for transmitting to the image distribution apparatus generates a camera-specified operation event information is instruction information, configured as.

  According to this, the operator can select a delivery destination facility as a delivery destination of the image information by operating the image browsing operation terminal, and the camera that can capture the image information to be delivered to the selected delivery facility has priority. Since the list is displayed on the image browsing operation terminal according to the degree, the operator can perform the camera selection operation accurately and quickly.

  Further, as described above, in the image distribution system according to the present invention, the attribute information of the event that has occurred is unified into a predetermined event event information format, and the operation instruction information from the operator is unified into predetermined operation event information. The interface between the event detection device, the image distribution device, and the image browsing operation terminal constituting the image distribution system is unified, and the image distribution system can be flexibly constructed. Conventionally, only an individual image distribution system can be used. The cameras and sensors that have been used can be used interchangeably between different image distribution systems.

  According to the present invention, event event information in a unified format is generated by assigning the types of events detected by the event detection device, the occurrence range, the processing priority, etc. with respect to the events detected by various types of sensors. Then, based on the event event information, the image distribution apparatus automatically selects a camera that can most accurately capture the situation of the event, and distributes the image information captured by the selected camera to the distribution destination equipment. By passing this event event information as the mutual interface information, it becomes possible to cooperate between a plurality of image distribution systems, and to share and utilize the camera equipment possessed by each other's image distribution network.

  In addition, it is possible to automatically select image information that takes into account the priority of events and cameras, even for events to be managed and the increase in the number of cameras and congestion of event occurrences associated with cooperation of multiple image distribution systems. Convenience is improved at the same time that the operation of the distribution system is improved.

  In addition, since the interface between the image viewing operation terminal, which is the operator's operation terminal, and the image distribution device is unified for the exchange of operation event information, the camera selection by the operator's operation can also be performed between multiple image distribution systems. Not only can cooperation be performed, but a list of cameras that can be selected is automatically displayed on the image browsing operation terminal in order of priority, so that an operator can perform a reliable and quick camera selection operation.

"Example"
FIG. 1 is an outline (1) of the image distribution system according to the present invention. The processing cooperation between the image distribution systems (A) and (B), which is conventionally independent of the two systems as shown in FIG. The image distribution apparatus 100 and the event detection apparatus 400 are provided in common between the image distribution systems (A) and (B).

  The image distribution networks 70a and 70b and the distribution destination facilities 30a and 30b are the same as those of the conventional image distribution system shown in FIG.

  Here, the prior art distribution destination facilities 30a and 30b used in the image distribution networks 70a and 70b are used as they are, and the conventional image browsing operation used in the image distribution networks 70a and 70b. It can be assumed that the terminals 20a and 20b are replaced with the image browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b, respectively.

  The image distribution apparatus 100 of the present invention selects a camera that captures image information to be distributed based on the event event information generated by the event detection apparatus 400 of the present invention, and distributes the image information captured by the selected camera to the distribution destination. Delivered to facilities 30a and 30b.

  50a to 50k are cameras, and 60a to 60k are sensors. For example, as in the case of the sensor 60a, a camera 50a for photographing an event detected by the sensor 60a is often installed in the same image distribution network 70a in the vicinity of the sensor 60a. In some cases, the camera is not installed nearby in the image distribution network 70a in which it is accommodated. In this case, when the camera 50f accommodated in the image distribution network 70b is near the sensor 60f, the sensor 60f of the image distribution network 70a can be obtained by using the image distribution apparatus 100 and the event detection apparatus 400 of the present invention. Is detected by the camera 50f of the image distribution network 70b, and the captured image information can be distributed to both the distribution destination facilities 30a and 30b.

  The image browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b according to the present invention are terminals operated by an operator of the image distribution system. Regarding the events detected by the sensors of the image distribution networks 70a and 70b, a camera capable of capturing the events is used for image distribution. It is possible to select from both the networks 70a and 70b and distribute the image information captured by the selected camera to both the distribution destination facilities 30a and 30b.

  The event detection apparatus 400 according to the present invention receives event information transmitted from the sensors of the image distribution networks 70a and 70b, generates event event information based on the received event information, and performs image distribution according to the present invention. Send to device 100.

  In the present invention, when an operator (operator) performs an operation such as camera selection on the image browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b, the instruction information for the image distribution device 100 is converted into data in a unified format called operation event information. Transmit to distribution device 100.

  The distribution destination facilities 30a and 30b are facilities that have been conventionally provided corresponding to the image distribution networks 70a and 70b, respectively, and are installed in, for example, a service area (SA) on a highway. There are a large display, an N-division synthesizer, a video patrol display, and the like. Generally, the delivery destination equipment is the same as the delivery destination equipment of the prior art shown in FIG. 24, and the existing equipment can be used as it is. However, in the image delivery system of the present invention, this conventional delivery destination equipment 30a is used. , 30b, image information taken by either camera of the image distribution networks 70a, 70b can be distributed.

  FIG. 2 is an outline (2) of the image distribution system of the present invention and shows another form of application of the present invention.

  1 differs from the outline (1) of the image distribution system of the present invention in FIG. 1 in that the event detection apparatus and the image distribution apparatus are not used in common, and the event detection apparatus is adapted to each of the image distribution networks 70a and 70b. The point is that 400a and 400b and the image distribution apparatuses 100a and 100b are provided.

  In this embodiment, the image distribution apparatuses 10a and 10b and the image browsing operation terminals 20a and 20b that are conventionally installed in a form corresponding to the image distribution networks 70a and 70b are used as the image distribution apparatuses 100a and 100b, the image of the present invention. It can be assumed that the functions of the browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b are improved, and the event detection devices 400a and 400b are newly added in association with the image distribution networks 70a and 70b.

  In this embodiment, the processing performed by one event detection device 400 and the image distribution device 100 in the configuration of FIG. 1 is distributed to the two event detection devices 400a and 400b and the image distribution devices 100a and 100b. This is performed in a distributed manner and does not affect the essence of the present invention. The operation of each device is the same as that of FIG. 1, and detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described forms shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and depends on the number and arrangement of image distribution networks, event detection apparatuses, image distribution apparatuses, image browsing operation terminals, and distribution destination facilities. It can be applied to various forms.

  FIG. 3 is a data transfer sequence when an event occurs according to the present invention, and shows an example of a cooperative operation among a sensor, a camera, an event detection device, an image distribution device, and a distribution destination facility when the event occurs as a data transfer sequence. Yes.

  S01. The occurrence of an event is detected by the sensor 60a.

  S02. Event information indicating the content of the event that has occurred is transmitted to the event detection device 400.

  S03. The event detection device 400 that has received the event information, based on the received event information, an event ID that can identify the type of the event, an event priority that indicates the priority of event processing, and an event range information that indicates the event range And event event information in a predetermined format including a status code indicating the detailed status of the event is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S04. The image distribution apparatus 100 selects a camera capable of capturing an area indicated by the event range information included in the received event event information based on the camera information DB, and sets image information captured by the selected camera as the image distribution apparatus. Switch the camera so that 100 receives. In this example, the camera 50a is selected.

  S05. Image information captured by the switched camera 50a is transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S06. The image distribution apparatus 100 transmits the image information received from the camera 50a to a separately specified distribution destination facility. In this example, it is delivered to the delivery destination facility 30a.

  S07. The distribution destination equipment 30a displays the received image information taken by the camera 50a on the screen.

  S08. Thereafter, another sensor 60a becomes the sequence S01 and detects the occurrence of another event.

  S09. Event information indicating the content of the event that has occurred is transmitted to the event detection apparatus 400.

  S10. The event detection apparatus 400 that has received the event information indicates an event ID that can identify the type of the event, an event priority that indicates the priority of event processing, event range information that indicates the event range, and a detailed status of the event Event event information in a predetermined format including a status code is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S11. The image distribution apparatus 100 selects a camera capable of capturing an area indicated by the event range information included in the received event event information based on the camera information DB, and receives the image information captured by the selected camera. Switch the camera so that. Here, the camera 50b is selected.

  S12. Image information captured by the switched camera 50b is transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S13. The image distribution apparatus 100 transmits the received image information taken by the camera 50b to the distribution destination facility 30a.

  S14. The distribution destination equipment 30a displays the received image information taken by the camera 50b on the screen.

  The sequences S05 and S06 and the sequences S12 and A13 are described on the assumption that the image distribution apparatus 100 includes a video switcher that performs switching of image signals. When the image information is an IP moving image based on IP (Internet Protocol), the image distribution apparatus 100 does not receive the IP moving image itself, and notifies the distribution destination facility of the address information of the distribution source of the IP moving image. The distribution destination equipment directly accesses the IP moving image distribution source and receives moving image information, but this difference does not affect the essence of the present invention.

  As described above, in the image distribution method of the present invention, the event detection apparatus 400 includes information that can specify the event occurrence range in event event information in a predetermined format and transmits the information to the image distribution apparatus 100. Can select a camera (neighboring camera) that can capture the event that has occurred, based on the camera information DB that holds information indicating the position of the installed camera and the shootable range.

  FIG. 4 is a method for determining neighboring cameras when a single event occurs according to the present invention.

  When an event occurs independently, the image distribution device 100 selects each camera (neighboring camera) that can photograph the situation of the event based on the event event information from the three cameras. The relationship between the shooting range and the event range is shown.

  The event event information includes event range information indicating the range of events that have occurred. This event range information includes center coordinates indicating the center position of the event range, and a range size indicating the extent of the event range. For example, when the event range can be grasped as a circular area, the central coordinates are the central coordinates of the circular area, and the range size is the radius of the circular area. In many cases, the range that can be photographed by the camera can be grasped as a circular region. Accordingly, in the following description, a case where the event range of a single event and the imageable range of the camera are a circular region will be described as a representative example.

  The example shown in FIG. 4 shows a case where the event range can be grasped as a circular area, and the captureable ranges of the cameras 50a, 50b, and 50c in the image distribution network 70a are the circular areas 1a, 1b, and 1c, respectively. It shows a case. The center coordinates of the circle area 1a are represented as (Xa, Ya), the center coordinates of the circle area 1b are represented as (Xb, Yb), and the center coordinates of the circle area 1c are represented as (Xc, Yc). Are Ra, Rb, and Rc.

  Therefore, the event event information generated by the event detection device 400 when the sensor 60a detects an event includes the center coordinates “(X, Y)” of the event range 3 which is a circular region as the event range information, and the event range. A radius “R” indicating the degree of spread of 3 is set, and the event event information is transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  The image distribution apparatus 100 extracts the event range information in the received event event information, and generates the circular area 1a indicating the shootable range of the camera A based on the shooting range information of the camera A stored in the camera information DB 920. It is determined whether or not there is a common area with the circle area 3 indicating the range of the event that has been performed.

  In other words, the distance between the center coordinates (Xa, Ya) of the camera shooting range and the center coordinates (X, Y) of the event range

  If so, it is determined that the event is within the captureable range 1a of the camera A, that is, the camera A is a neighboring camera of the event.

  Similarly, the distance between the center coordinates (Xb, Yb) of the shooting range of camera B and the center coordinates (X, Y) of the event range

  Therefore, it is determined that the event is outside the image capturing range 1b of the camera B, that is, the camera B is not a neighboring camera of the event.

  Similarly, the distance between the center coordinates (Xc, Yc) of the shooting range of camera C and the center coordinates (X, Y) of the event range

  Therefore, it is determined that the event is outside the image capturing range 1c of the camera C, that is, the camera C is not a neighboring camera of the event.

  As described above, based on the event event information transmitted from the event detection device 400 and the shooting range information of the camera stored in the camera information DB 920 held by the image distribution device 100, an event that has occurred independently It is possible to determine a camera that can be photographed, that is, a neighboring camera of the event that has occurred.

  In the above description, for convenience of explanation, the event range is a circular region, but the present invention is not limited to this. By changing the configuration of the event range information set in the event event information, various shaped regions can be used as the event range. Can be used.

  FIG. 5 is a method for determining neighboring cameras when a continuous event occurs according to the present invention.

  For a single event occurrence as shown in FIG. 4, the event range can be regarded as a single circular area. For example, the occurrence of events in the entire linear area such as rivers, roads, railways, etc. is continuously performed. When grasping as an event, it is necessary to grasp the event occurrence area not as individual circle areas but as a series of circle area sequences connected by a common area.

  FIG. 5 is a neighborhood camera determination method when photographing the situation of such a linear event occurrence area with a camera. The linear continuous event occurrence area 4 is defined as a union of single event groups 3-1 to 3-11. An example of capturing is shown. Therefore, definition information indicating that the event groups 3-1 to 3-11 are one continuous event is registered in advance as a database (continuous event definition DB), and both the event detection apparatus 400 and the image distribution apparatus 100 are registered. Make it accessible from. Then, a neighboring camera is selected for each event range constituting the continuous event range, and the selected camera as a whole is determined as a neighboring camera in the continuous event range.

  The center coordinates of the circular areas that can be photographed by the cameras A, B, and C are (Xa, Ya), (Xb, Yb), (Xc, Yc), the radii are Ra, Rb, and Rc, and the event range group 3-1 The radius of each event range of ~ 3-11 is R1 ~ R11.

  First, for camera A, events range 3-1 to 3-7 are within the shootable range, and event ranges 3-8 to 3-11 are outside the shootable range, but events that constitute continuous event range 4 If at least one event range in the range group has a common area with the imageable range, the camera is determined as a neighboring camera of the continuous event range. Therefore, camera A is considered as a neighboring camera in the continuous event range 4 here.

  For camera B, event ranges 3-1 to 3-5 and 3-11 are outside the shootable range and event ranges 3-6 to 3-10 are within the shootable range, but constitute continuous event range 4. If at least one event range in the event range group has a common part with the shootable range, the camera is determined to be a neighboring camera, and therefore camera B is determined to be a neighboring camera in the continuous event range 4.

  For the camera C, since all of the event ranges 3-1 to 3-11 are out of the imageable range, it is determined that the camera is not a neighboring camera of the continuous event range 4.

  The event detection device 400 refers to the continuous event definition DB when an event corresponding to any of the event ranges in the event range groups 3-1 to 3-11 constituting the continuous event range 4 occurs. Event event information for all event ranges constituting the groups 3-1 to 3-11 is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

For example, the operation sequence when an event corresponding to the event range 3-4 occurs is as follows.
1) Event information of the event that has occurred is transmitted from the image distribution network 70a to the event detection device 400.
2) The event detection device 400 obtains event range information corresponding to the received event (the center coordinates of the event range information and the radius that is the range size), and whether or not the continuous event definition information including the event range information is registered. Is determined with reference to the continuous event definition DB.
3) If the corresponding continuous event definition information is registered, event event information for all event ranges constituting the continuous event range is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.
4) The image distribution apparatus 100 selects a camera capable of capturing the event range for all the received event event information. That is, if a camera can capture any one of the single event ranges constituting the continuous event range, the camera is selected.

  By processing the entire event range groups 3-1 to 3-11 constituting the continuous event range as one unit in this way, the camera A and the camera B are regarded as neighboring cameras of the continuous event range, and the camera A , B can be selected as the distribution target.

  This is effective when monitoring the state of the entire predetermined area triggered by notification of event information from a certain sensor. For example, when a camera and a sensor are arranged at a predetermined interval in a linear area along a road or a river, the traffic condition of the entire road or the water level of the entire river during heavy rain is monitored using image information captured by the camera. When a sensor installed along the road detects a speeding vehicle, it becomes possible to simultaneously select cameras capable of photographing the entire linear continuous area along the road. Similarly, when a certain sensor installed along the river detects an abnormal rise in water level, it becomes possible to simultaneously select cameras capable of photographing the entire linear area along the river. At this time, a means for narrowing down the necessary cameras from a number of selected cameras and a list of a plurality of selected cameras are given to the operator with priorities, and the operator selects a camera from the prioritized list. A function considering the convenience of the operator, such as selecting, is also required, which will be described later.

  Although the case where the event range is a linear region has been described as the above continuous event, the present invention is not particularly limited to the shape of the continuous event range, and can be applied to a region having an arbitrary shape.

  FIG. 6 shows the configuration of the event detection apparatus of the present invention.

  The event detection device 400 of the present invention includes an event information receiving unit 410 that receives event information transmitted from a sensor, an event event information generating unit 420 that generates event event information, and an image distribution device that receives the event information from the received event information. An event filter unit 430 that discards items unnecessary for the camera selection process, an event event transmission unit 440 that transmits generated event event information to the image distribution apparatus 100, an event filter DB 450, and coordinate information DB 460 are provided.

  The event information receiving unit 410 receives event information transmitted from the sensor of the image distribution network and delivers it to the event event information generating unit 420.

  The event event information generation unit 420 generates event event information in a predetermined format that can be processed by the image distribution apparatus 100 of the present invention based on the information stored in the delivered event information. The event event information includes an event ID that identifies the type of the event, event range information that indicates the range of the event that has occurred, an event priority that indicates the priority of processing, and a status code that indicates the detailed status of the event.

  The event event information generation unit 420 generates an event ID and a status code, sets the event event information creation region in the event event information creation region, calls the event filter unit 430 using the event event information creation region as a parameter, and the camera of the image distribution device 100 An event priority necessary for the selection process is given, and an event unnecessary for the camera selection process of the image distribution apparatus 100 is discarded.

  The event range information of the event event information is obtained by searching the coordinate information DB 460 based on the sensor identification information included in the event information notified from the sensor, for example, and setting the event event information. At this time, the continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the obtained event range information as a key to determine whether or not the continuous event range including the event range information is registered. Considering that the event is a single event, the generated event event information is delivered to the event event transmission unit 440. On the other hand, if a continuous event range including the event range information is registered in the continuous event definition DB 910, event event information is generated for all event ranges constituting the continuous event range, and the event event transmitting unit 440 generates the event event information. hand over.

  The event filter unit 430 refers to the event filter DB 450 based on the event ID and the status code delivered from the event event information generation unit 420, and determines whether or not the specified condition of the status code set in the event filter DB 450 is satisfied. And the event that does not satisfy the specified condition is notified to the event event information generation unit 420 as a discard target. If the specified condition of the status code is satisfied, the priority set in the event filter DB 450 is set as the event priority in the delivered event event information creation area, and then delivered to the event event information generation unit 420.

  The event event transmission unit 440 transmits the event event information passed from the event event information generation unit 420 to the image distribution device 100.

  As described above, the event detection apparatus 400 of the present invention performs the filtering process according to the type of the event that has occurred, thereby discarding events that are unnecessary for the camera selection process of the image distribution apparatus 100, thereby processing unnecessary events. Efficient camera selection and image distribution can be performed without the load caused by. Furthermore, by assigning event priority, camera priority selection based on event priority can be performed.

  The event filter DB 450 will be described in detail in the record configuration of the event filter DB of the present invention in FIG.

  Details of the continuous event definition DB 910 will be described in the record configuration of the continuous event definition DB of the present invention in FIG.

  The coordinate information DB 460 holds information (such as coordinate information) necessary for generating information related to the range of events that have occurred from information included in event information received from various sensors. The contents of this database differ depending on the type of sensor used and the installation environment, and do not affect the essence of the present invention, so the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

  FIG. 7 shows a record structure of the event filter DB of the present invention, and shows a record structure stored in the event filter DB 450 shown in the structure of the event detection apparatus of the present invention of FIG.

  The event filter DB 450 is configured as a collection of records including an event ID 451, a status code specified value 452, and a priority 453.

  The event ID 451 is information for identifying the type of the event that has occurred, and the identification information is assigned for each type of event that has occurred, such as a fire occurrence, illegal intrusion, or a weather event (snow, fog, etc.).

  The status code specified value 452 is a specified value that is compared and checked when checking the status code indicating the detailed status of the event that occurred.For example, if the status code of the event transmitted from the sensor is smaller than this specified value The event event information is not generated by ignoring the event, and the selection process of the camera of the image distribution apparatus 100 is not affected. As an example, when an event indicating snow cover occurs, the event information sent from the sensor includes “snow cover” as the status code. Therefore, this event can be used when it is not desired to activate camera selection processing for monitoring.

  The priority 453 is a value indicating the processing priority of the generated event event information in the image distribution apparatus 100. This priority is set in the event event information and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100. The image distribution apparatus 100 performs camera selection according to the priority set in the received event event information. For example, when event event information of a plurality of different event IDs is received within a predetermined short time, the event event information having the highest priority among them is valid and the other event event information is discarded, or the priority is high Is preferentially selected, and as a result, priority processing is performed such that image information captured by the camera is preferentially distributed to the distribution destination equipment.

  A predetermined priority is set for event event information of an event ID that is not registered in the event filter DB 450. Further, when the status code specified value is not set, the filtering process by the status code is not performed.

  FIG. 8 shows the structure of the event event information according to the present invention.

  The event event information includes an event ID 611, event priority 612, event range information 613, and status code 614.

  Event ID 611 is identification information indicating the type of event that has occurred. For example, unique identification information is provided for each type of event such as speed violation, fire occurrence, illegal intrusion, water level abnormality, weather event (snow cover, fog, etc.). Is granted.

  The event priority 612 is a value indicating the priority of event processing, which is given by the event detection device 400, and the image distribution device 100 that has received the event event information selects the camera and distributes the image information based on the event priority. Do.

  The event range information 613 is information indicating an area where the event detected by the sensor may have occurred, the center coordinates 613a of the area, the range size 613b indicating the extent of the occurrence position of the event, and if necessary And incidental information 613c. As a typical example, the event occurrence area can be regarded as a circle area, the center coordinates can be the center coordinates of the circle area, and the range size can be the radius of the circle area.

  As the supplementary information 613c, for example, a kilopost value described later can be set.

  The status code 614 is a code indicating the detailed status of the event that has occurred. For example, when the event type is “snow cover” in a weather event, it can be the amount of snow (the height of snow cover).

  FIG. 9 shows the record structure of the continuous event definition DB of the present invention.

  The continuous event definition DB 910 is configured as a collection of records including a continuous event name 911, distribution destination facility information 912, and event range group definition information 913.

  The continuous event name 911 is name information of the continuous event range defined here. When this continuous event name is defined, the event detection device 400 sets this continuous event name in the event range information of the event event information when any event in the continuous event group defined here occurs. It can be configured to transmit to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  Further, the continuous event range in which the continuous event name is defined can be manually operated from the image browsing operation terminal. In this case, necessary information is registered in the distribution destination facility information 912 described below.

  The delivery destination facility information 912 is information that the image delivery device 100 refers to when selecting a camera by an operator's operation from the image browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b. Condition information for selecting a camera to shoot is set. For example, when selecting a linear continuous event range camera along a road by an operation from the image browsing operation terminal, by setting the direction information indicating the direction of the vehicle flow and the number of selected cameras, the event It is possible to select a predetermined number of cameras by limiting the area in the direction in which the vehicle flows from the point where the camera has occurred to cameras that can capture the image.

  The event range group definition information 913 lists the range information of individual events constituting the continuous event range. In this example, continuous events are defined by n pieces of event range information of event range information 913-1 to 913-n.

  The event range information 913-1 includes center coordinate information 912-1a, range size information 913-1b, and incidental information 913-1c.

  The center coordinate information 913-1a is the coordinates of the center position of an area (range) where the event may occur. The range size information 913-1b is a value indicating the extent of the event spread from the center position indicated by the center coordinate information 913-1a, and the range size information 913-1b and the range size information 913-1b The event range is fixed. As a typical example, when the event range can be represented as a circular area, the central coordinate information 913-1a is the central coordinate value of the circular area, and the range size information 913-1b is the radius value of the circle.

  The event range information 931-2 to 913-n has the same configuration as the event range information 913-1 described above.

  The continuous event definition DB 910 is configured to be accessible from the image distribution apparatus 100.

  The event detection device 400 searches the continuous event definition DB 910 using the position coordinate information of the generated event as a key, and if a continuous event range including the position coordinate of the generated event is found, the generated event is a continuous event. And event event information for all the events constituting the matched continuous event is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100. Thereby, at the timing when one event to which the continuous event belongs is generated, all cameras capable of photographing any one of the event ranges belonging to the continuous event range can be selected and set as monitoring targets of the operator.

  For example, when monitoring congestion on a certain road, the linear area of the road is regarded as a continuous event range and registered in the continuous event definition DB 910. When an event that causes traffic congestion such as a traffic accident occurs, when the event detection device 400 receives event information about the traffic accident from the sensor, the continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the occurrence position coordinates as a key. Determining whether or not a continuous event range including the occurrence position coordinates is defined, and if defined, by transmitting event event information about all events belonging to the continuous event range to the image distribution apparatus 100 The image distribution apparatus 100 can select all cameras capable of photographing the road on which the accident has occurred as a monitoring target.

  FIG. 10 is an operation flow of the event detection apparatus of the present invention.

  S401. Based on the event information received from the sensor, the event ID and status code are set in the event event information creation area.

  S402. The event filter unit 430 is called using the contents of the event event information creation area as a parameter, and it is determined whether or not the status code delivered as a parameter satisfies a specified value and assigns a priority.

  S403. It is determined whether or not the return information passed from the event filter unit 430 indicates event discard. If the event is discarded (YES), the process is terminated, otherwise (NO) the next step S404. Migrate to

  S404. Based on the event information received from the sensor, refer to the coordinate information DB 460 to obtain the center coordinates and range size of the range of the event that occurred and set it in the event event information creation area.

  S405. The continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the center coordinates generated in step S404 as a key.

  S406. It is determined whether or not a continuous event range including the central coordinates is defined in the continuous event definition DB 910. If it is defined (YES), the process proceeds to the next step S407, and if not defined (NO) The process proceeds to step S408.

  S407. Event event information having the event range information as event range information for all event ranges belonging to the continuous event range searched from the continuous event definition DB 910 is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100, and the process ends. At this time, the value set in the event event information creation area in the above steps is set in the event ID, priority, and status code of the generated event event information.

  S408. Event event information is generated based on the contents of the event event information creation area generated up to step S404 and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100, and the process ends.

  As described above, event information transmitted from various types of sensors that are not necessary for camera selection is discarded, and then unified into a predetermined format information called event event information. Since the event information is transmitted as an interface, it is possible to control the transfer of camera image information between different image distribution systems.

  As another form of the present invention, instead of the event range information in the event event information creation area generated up to step S404, the event event information is created after setting the continuous event name retrieved from the continuous event definition DB 910. The contents of the area can also be configured to be transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100 as one event event information. In this case, the image distribution apparatus 100 that has received the event event information searches the continuous event definition DB 910 using the continuous event name as a key, extracts all event range information belonging to the continuous event definition of the hit record, A camera capable of photographing any of the ranges indicated by all the event range information extracted is selected. As a result, the number of event event information transmissions between the event detection device 400 and the image distribution device 100 can be greatly reduced, and an efficient image distribution system can be obtained.

  FIG. 11 is an operation flow of the event filter unit of the event detection apparatus of the present invention.

  S431. The event filter DB 450 is searched using the event ID in the event event information creation area passed from the event event information generation unit 420 as a key.

  S432. It is determined whether or not there is a record with matching event ID in the event filter DB 450. If there is (YES), the process proceeds to the next step S433. If not, (NO) the process ends and the event of the caller Return to the event information generation unit 420.

  S433. It is determined whether or not the status code specified value is set in the matched record. If it is set (YES), the process proceeds to step 435. If not (NO), the process proceeds to step S434.

  S434. The priority information set in the matched record is set in the event priority area in the event event information creation area, and the event event information creation area is returned to the calling event event information generation unit 420 at the same time. Deliver the contents of.

  S435. Compare the status code of the event event information creation area delivered from the event event information generation unit 420 with the status code specified value in the matched record, and the status code of the event event information creation area does not satisfy the specified condition If this is the case (NO), the process proceeds to step S436, and if the specified condition is satisfied (YES), the process proceeds to step S434. Here, the specified condition generally differs depending on the event ID, but for example, “if the generated state code is larger than the specified value, the specified condition is satisfied” can be set.

  S436. Set return information to discard the event in the event event information creation area delivered from the event event information generation unit 420, and return to the event event information generation unit 420 of the caller.

  As described above, a status code is assigned to an event that has occurred, and it is determined whether the status code satisfies a specified condition. If not, the event that has occurred is discarded and camera selection processing is not performed. With this configuration, it is possible to increase the efficiency of processing by excluding events that do not require image monitoring with a camera from being subject to image distribution processing. This can be applied, for example, when a sensor detects a snow cover state to generate an event, and when the amount of snow is not more than a predetermined amount of snow, it is excluded from camera shooting.

  FIG. 12 shows the configuration of the image distribution apparatus of the present invention.

  The event receiving unit 110 receives event information (event event information or operation event information) transmitted from the event detection device 400 or the image browsing operation terminals 200a and 200b, and delivers it to the event analysis unit 120.

  The event analysis unit 120 determines an event ID in the event information, and activates the operation event processing unit 140 when the event ID indicates predetermined operation event information.

  If the event ID is other than the event ID of the predetermined operation event information, the received event information is regarded as event event information, and the event range information in the received event event information is used as a key for the camera registered in the camera information DB 920. The camera range information is searched, and a camera capable of shooting the event range of the occurred event is extracted. Then, after storing the extracted camera identification information in the camera candidate list area, the image distribution unit 130 is activated using the camera candidate list information as a parameter.

  If a continuous event name is set in the event range information of the received event event information, the continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the continuous event name as a key, and the distribution destination facility information 912 of the hit record is referenced. To do. In the delivery destination facility information 912, discrimination information indicating whether or not the continuous event range of this record is an operation target of the image viewing operation terminal and the delivery destination facility list information are set, and the operation of the image viewing operation terminal is set. If it is the target, the received event event information is stored in the event event information storage unit 930, and the process ends. Here, the event event information stored in the event event information storage unit 930 is used for a camera selection process when an operator inputs an operation instruction later from the image browsing operation terminal.

  On the other hand, if it is not the operation target of the image browsing operation terminal, a camera capable of photographing the range indicated by the event range information is extracted for all event range information included in the event range group definition information 913 of the hit record Then, after accumulating in the camera candidate list area, the image distribution unit 130 is activated using the camera candidate list as a parameter.

  In the above, the event analysis unit 120 holds the event event information passed from the event reception unit 110 for a predetermined time (assuming a short time), and when receiving a plurality of event event information with different event IDs in the meantime, It is also possible to compare the priorities of the event event information and the subsequent event event information, discard the event event information with a lower priority, and discard the later event event information when the priorities are the same. . As a result, when multiple different types of events occur within a short period of time, only the event event information having the highest event priority is processed, and even if the occurrence of the event is congested, the predetermined priority is followed. It is possible to select an appropriate camera.

  When a plurality of pieces of event event information having the same event ID are delivered, all the event event information is processed even within the predetermined time. Thus, even when the event detection device 400 detects a continuous event and transmits a plurality of event event information related to the event group constituting the continuous event in a short time, the camera capable of capturing the continuous event range. Can be stored in the camera candidate list and passed to the image distribution unit 130.

  The image distribution unit 130 refers to the camera candidate list delivered from the event analysis unit 120. If the number of cameras stored in the camera candidate list is larger than the number of display screens prepared in the distribution destination facility, the camera information According to the camera photographing importance set in the DB 920, cameras corresponding to the number of display screens of the distribution destination equipment are extracted and set as a distribution target camera list. Further, when the number of cameras stored in the camera candidate list is smaller than the number of display screens prepared in the distribution destination equipment, the contents of the camera candidate list are directly used as the distribution target camera list.

  Thereafter, the camera is switched to the camera shown in the distribution target camera list, and the image information captured by the camera is transmitted to the distribution destination equipment.

  In this way, by assigning a shooting importance level, which is the importance level of image information to be taken, for each camera in advance and setting it in the camera information DB 920, according to the display capability (number of displayable screens) of the delivery destination equipment. The image information can be distributed in the order of importance.

  Further, when the camera-designated operation event information is delivered from the operation event processing unit 140, which will be described later, the image distribution unit 130 captures image information captured by the camera of the camera identification information set in the operation event information, Similarly, it is transmitted to the delivery destination equipment of the delivery destination equipment identification information set in the operation event information.

The operation event processing unit 140 is activated from the event analysis unit 120 when receiving event information (operation event information) having a predetermined event ID (indicating an operation instruction event from the image browsing operation terminal) The following processing is performed according to the event ID of the handed operation event information.
1). If the event ID indicates the operation event information of the distribution destination list display instruction, the continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the continuous event name set in the operation range information of the received operation event information as a key. The distribution destination list included in the distribution destination facility information 912 of the hit record is extracted and transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal.
2). When the event ID indicates the operation event information of the camera selection list display instruction, the event event information storage unit 930 uses the continuous event name set in the operation range information of the received operation event information as a key. Then, an event event information string corresponding to the continuous event name is extracted. In the event event information storage unit 930, event event information is sorted and stored according to the priority, and the extracted event event information sequence is also sorted in order of priority.

Based on the event event information sequence sorted in order of priority, a camera selection list is generated by extracting a predetermined number of cameras (the number that can be displayed by the image browsing operation terminal) that can photograph the events indicated by the event event information sequence. To the image browsing operation terminal.
3) When the event ID indicates camera-specified operation event information, the image distribution unit 130 is activated using the operation event information as a parameter.

  In 2) above, when the continuous event name set in the operation range information of the operation event information indicates the continuous event range of the linear area, the event range information of the event event information, the continuous event definition DB 910 Camera extraction from the above event event information sequence by setting a kilopost value (KP value) indicating a distance from a predetermined point in the incidental information of the event range information and the shooting range information in the camera information DB 920 In this case, by comparing the kilo-post value of the delivery destination equipment with the kilo-post value of the event event information in the event event information column, regarding the event in which the relative kilo-post value from the delivery destination equipment is within the predetermined value range, A camera selection list of cameras that can be photographed can be generated according to the priority order. This is because, for example, in a system that distributes image information such as traffic congestion on an expressway, an image display device in a service area serving as a distribution destination facility is connected to a road within a predetermined travel distance section from the point of the distribution destination facility. This is effective when you want to display an image of the driving situation taken by the camera.

  The continuous event definition DB 910 is configured to be accessible from both the event detection apparatus 400 and the image distribution apparatus 100, and since the contents thereof have been described with reference to FIG. 9, detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  The camera information DB 920 is a database that stores the range information that can be captured by the camera, and the details thereof are shown in the record configuration of the camera information DB of the present invention in FIG. Omit.

  The event event information storage unit 930 is a storage area for storing event event information related to the occurrence of events in the continuous event range that is the target of the image browsing operation terminal, and the image browsing operation terminal is stored in the event event information sequence stored here. A camera selection list required when the operator manually performs camera selection is generated and transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal.

  As described above, the image distribution apparatus 100 according to the present invention is an image to be distributed based on event event information in a predetermined format for occurrence of an event and operation event information in a predetermined format for an operation instruction of an operator. In order to extract and select a camera that captures information, the event information (event event information and operation event information) of this predetermined format is used as an interface, so that an event detection device, an image distribution device, an image browsing operation terminal, distribution The system can be constructed by flexibly arranging the previous equipment.

  FIG. 13 shows a record structure of the camera information DB of the present invention.

  Each record constituting the camera information DB 920 includes a camera ID 921, a camera name 922, control information 923, shooting range information 924, and shooting importance 925.

  The camera ID 921 is identification information of each installed camera, and the camera name 922 is name information that enables an operator of the image distribution system to easily identify the camera.

  In the control information 923, information necessary for controlling the camera is set.

  The shooting range information 924 includes center coordinates 924a, range size 924b, and accompanying information 924c. The center coordinate 924a is coordinate information indicating the center position of a range that can be captured by the camera, and the range size 924b is information indicating the size of the range that can be captured by the camera. As a typical example, the shooting range of the camera can be represented by a circular area, the center coordinate 924a can be the center coordinate of the circular area, and the range size 924b can be the radius of the circular area. In the incidental information 924c, for example, when the object of image monitoring is a linear continuous event range, and the position of the camera installation location can be expressed by a kilopost value that is distance information starting from a predetermined point, the kilopost You can set a value.

  When a certain event occurs, a camera that can shoot the generated event based on the event range information included in the event event information corresponding to the event and the shooting range information set in the camera information DB 920 It becomes possible to select.

  FIG. 14 shows the structure of the camera candidate list of the present invention.

  The camera candidate list 940 includes an event ID 941 and a camera ID list 942.

  The event ID 941 is identification information of event event information related to the event that has occurred, and the camera ID list 942 is a list that lists camera IDs of cameras that can capture the range of the event that has occurred. In this example, m camera IDs 942-1 to 942-m are listed.

  The image distribution unit 130 of the image distribution apparatus 100 selects from the camera candidate list 940 as many cameras as the number of screens that can be displayed on the distribution destination equipment, and distributes the image information captured by the selected camera to the distribution destination equipment. To do.

  FIG. 15 shows the configuration of the operation event information according to the present invention.

  The operation event information 620 is event information transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100 when an operator of the image distribution system inputs operation instruction information from the image browsing operation terminal.

  The event ID 621 is identification information of the operation event information, and an event ID different from the event event information transmitted from the event detection device 400 when an event occurs is given. In the embodiment of the present invention, three types of operation event information are used: distribution destination equipment list display, camera selection list display, and camera designation.

  The event priority 622 indicates the priority of the event information processing. Normally, this operation event information has a higher priority than the normal event event information, so that the processing for the operator's operation is given priority. Can be done automatically.

  The operation target information 623 is information indicating an operation target, and differs depending on the type of operation event information. For example, in the case of operation event information displayed in the distribution destination list, a continuous event name to be operated is set. In the case of operation event information displayed in the camera selection list, the identification information sequence and event range name of the delivery destination equipment to be operated are set, and in the case of camera-specified operation event information, the camera identification information and the delivery destination equipment identification information Is set.

  The operation event information of the distribution destination list display is transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100 when the image browsing operation terminal is started or at the request of the operator, and the operator of the image browsing operation terminal selects the distribution destination equipment from the menu. A list of distribution destination facility identification information (distribution destination facility list) for enabling the transmission is transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal.

  The operation event information of the camera selection list display is transmitted to the image distribution device 100 when the operator of the image browsing operation terminal selects a distribution destination facility based on the distribution destination facility list. The image distribution apparatus 100 transmits a camera selection list for the distribution destination facility specified by the received operation event information to the image browsing operation terminal.

  The operation event information specified by the camera can be obtained when the operator of the image browsing operation terminal selects the camera based on the above camera selection list, or the operator of the image browsing operation terminal directly specifies the distribution destination equipment and the camera. When input, the image is transmitted from the image browsing operation terminal to the image distribution apparatus 100. The image delivery apparatus 100 transmits image information taken by the camera set in the received operation event information to the delivery destination equipment set in the received operation event information.

  FIG. 16 is an operation flow (1) of the image distribution apparatus according to the present invention and shows an operation flow of the entire image distribution apparatus 100 centering on the event analysis unit 120.

  S101. Event information (event event information or operation event information) is received from the event detection device 400 or the image browsing operation terminal.

  S102. Holds event information received for a short period of time, and if multiple event information of different event types are received, only the event information with the highest priority is accepted, and all event information for event information of the same event type Accept.

  S103. The event ID of the event information received in step S102 is determined. If it is operation event information (YES), the process proceeds to step S110. If the event event information is not operation event information, the process proceeds to (NO) step S104. .

  S104. It is determined whether or not the continuous event name is set in the event range information 613 of the received event event information, and if the continuous event name is set (YES), the process proceeds to the next step S105, and the continuous event If no name is set (NO), the process proceeds to step S108.

  S105. With reference to the delivery destination facility information 912 portion of the record corresponding to the continuous event name in the continuous event definition DB 910, it is determined whether or not the continuous event range is an operation target from the image browsing operation terminal. If it is an operation target (YES), the process proceeds to step S109. If it is not an operation target (NO), the process proceeds to the next step S106.

  S106. It is determined whether there is a camera that can shoot the event range indicated by the event range information 613 of the event event information. If there is a camera (YES), the process proceeds to the next step S107, and if there is no camera ( NO) End processing. If a continuous event name is set in the event range information 613, the continuous event definition DB 910 is searched using the continuous event name as a key, and any of the event ranges belonging to the hit continuous event range can be photographed ( It is similarly determined whether there is a camera that may be part of the continuous event range.

  S107. All the cameras that can capture the event range indicated by the event range information 613 of the event event information are extracted to create a camera candidate list. Here, if a continuous event name is set in the event range information 613, a camera candidate list is extracted by extracting all the cameras that can shoot somewhere in the continuous event range (or part of the continuous event range). Create

  S108. The image distribution unit 130 is activated using the camera candidate list created in step S107 as a parameter to perform camera selection and image distribution, and the process ends.

  S110. The operation event processing unit 140 is activated using the received operation event information as a parameter, the instruction information from the operator of the image browsing operation terminal is processed, and the process ends.

  FIG. 17 shows an operation flow (2) of the image distribution apparatus of the present invention, and shows an operation flow of the operation event information processing unit 140. Here, the continuous event name to be operated by the image browsing operation terminal is defined in the continuous event definition DB 910, and the continuous event range is a linear region (assuming roads, rivers, etc.), event range information, An operation flow in the case where a kilopost value indicating a distance from a predetermined starting point is set in the incidental information of the shooting range information is shown.

  S141. The event ID of the delivered operation event information is determined. If the event ID is a camera selection list display, the process proceeds to step S142. If the distribution destination equipment list is displayed, the process proceeds to step S146. Control goes to step S147.

  The event event information string corresponding to the continuous event name indicated in the operation target information 623 of the operation event information is extracted from the S142 event event information storage unit 930.

  S143 Event event information in which the difference from the kilopost value of the delivery destination facility is within a predetermined value with reference to the kilopost value set in the incidental information 613c of the event range information 613 in the extracted event event information sequence Are extracted in order of priority. At this time, when the continuous event range is, for example, a road, information for identifying the direction in which the vehicle flows (up or down) is set in the distribution destination facility information of the continuous event definition DB 910, for example, the distribution destination It is also possible to limit to event event information having event range information in a direction in which the vehicle leaves the facility. On expressways, delivery destination equipment is usually installed in the service area, and from the viewpoint of the driver who stops at the service area, it is only necessary to monitor the traffic situation in the area going forward, and the area in the direction that has already passed. This information is unnecessary, and such narrowing down of the image monitoring target is effective.

  S144 Event event information is extracted from the event event information sequence extracted in order of priority, in order of priority, and a predetermined number of cameras having the kilopost value closest to the kilopost value of the extracted event event information is selected and added to the camera selection list. Store. Here, the predetermined number is set for each priority. This is performed until the number of cameras included in the camera selection list reaches the number of displayable list items of the image browsing operation terminal or reaches the end of the event event information sequence.

  As a result, the identification information of the camera capable of photographing an event within a predetermined distance (measured in kilopost values) from the delivery destination equipment is sequentially stored in the camera selection list in the order of priority of the event.

  S145: The camera selection list created in step S145 is transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal, and the process is terminated.

  As described above, in order to fit within the limit of the number of display items in the camera selection list of the image browsing operation terminal, the cameras that shoot the events with low priority are deleted from the cameras within a predetermined distance from the distribution destination equipment. Is sent to the image browsing operation terminal.

  S146 A predetermined distribution destination equipment list corresponding to the image viewing operation terminal that has transmitted the operation event information is generated and transmitted to the image viewing operation terminal, and the process ends.

  The image distribution unit 130 is activated using the distribution destination facility identification information and the camera identification information set in the operation target information of the S147 operation event information as parameters, and the process is terminated.

In step S144 above, in the operation flow,
FIG. 18 is an operation flow (3) of the image distribution apparatus of the present invention, and shows an operation flow of the image distribution unit 130.

  S131. Compare the number of cameras included in the delivered camera candidate list with the number of display screens of the distribution destination equipment. If the number of cameras is larger than the number of display screens, the process proceeds to the next step S132 and the number of cameras is displayed. If the number is less than the number of screens, the process proceeds to step S133.

  S132. Cameras are selected from the cameras in the camera candidate list in descending order of photographing importance, and cameras exceeding the number of display screens of the distribution destination equipment are deleted from the list.

  S133. The adjusted camera candidate list is set as a distribution target camera list.

  S134. The camera is switched so that the image information taken by the camera in the distribution target camera list is distributed to the distribution destination facility.

  FIG. 19 is an image diagram of the operation panel of the image browsing operation terminal according to the present invention.

  The operation panel 210 includes a distribution destination equipment list display unit 220, a camera selection list display unit 230, and an image information display unit 240.

  The delivery destination equipment list display unit 220 displays a list of delivery destination equipment that can be operated from the image browsing operation terminal 200 as a button. Here, an example is shown in which two delivery destination equipments are displayed as buttons. The operator can select the delivery destination equipment to be operated this time by pressing the button from the delivery destination equipment names displayed on the buttons 220a and 220b.

  The camera selection list display unit 230 displays, in order of priority, names of cameras that can distribute the photographed images to the distribution destination equipment selected by pressing the button of the distribution destination equipment list display unit 220. For example, by pressing and selecting the button displaying the name of the camera to be selected, the image information captured by the selected camera is distributed to the distribution destination facility specified in the distribution destination facility list display unit 220. The

  The image information display unit 240 displays and confirms in parallel the same image information as the image information selected and distributed to the distribution destination equipment by the operation of the distribution destination equipment list display unit 220 and the camera selection list display unit 230 described above. Is.

  FIG. 20 shows the configuration of the image browsing operation terminal of the present invention.

  The image browsing operation terminal 200 includes an image information reception display unit 201, a distribution destination facility list reception display unit 202, a distribution destination facility selection input unit 203, a camera selection list reception display unit 204, and a camera selection input unit 205.

  The image information reception display unit 201 displays the image information transmitted from the image distribution device 100 on the image information display unit 240.

  The distribution destination equipment list reception display unit 202 receives the distribution destination equipment list transmitted from the image distribution apparatus 100, and outputs and displays the contents on the distribution destination equipment list display unit 220.

  The delivery destination equipment selection input unit 203 receives input information about the delivery destination equipment selected by the operator from the delivery destination equipment list displayed in the delivery destination equipment list display unit 220, and operates an operation event for displaying the camera selection list. Information is generated and transmitted to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  The camera selection list reception display unit 204 receives the camera selection list transmitted from the image distribution apparatus 100, and outputs and displays the contents on the camera selection list display unit 230.

  The camera selection input unit 205 receives input information about the camera selected by the operator from the camera selection list displayed on the camera selection list display unit 230, generates operation event information specified by the camera, and generates the image distribution apparatus 100. Send to.

  FIG. 21 is a data transfer sequence of the image browsing operation terminal according to the present invention, and shows a data transfer sequence between the devices in the image browsing operation terminal 200 by the operator.

  S01. Activation of the image browsing operation terminal 200 or an operator inputs a display request for a distribution destination equipment list.

  S02. The image browsing operation terminal 200 generates operation event information on the distribution destination equipment list display and transmits it to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S03. The image distribution apparatus 100 generates a distribution destination equipment list and transmits it to the image browsing operation terminal 200.

  S04. The image browsing operation terminal 200 displays the received delivery destination equipment list on the delivery destination equipment list display unit 220.

  S05. The operator selects a delivery destination facility by operating a button on the delivery destination facility list display unit 220.

  S06. The image browsing operation terminal 200 generates operation event information for displaying the camera selection list and transmits the operation event information to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S07. Based on the distribution destination facility identification information set in the operation target information of the received operation event information in the camera selection list display, the image distribution apparatus 100 selects a camera that can distribute the captured image information to the distribution destination facility. A camera selection list arranged in order of priority is generated and transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal 200.

  S08. The image browsing operation terminal 200 displays the camera names on the camera selection list display unit 230 in the order of the received camera selection list.

  S09. The operator selects a camera from the camera list displayed in order of priority on the camera selection list display unit 230.

  S10. The image browsing operation terminal 200 generates operation event information designated by the selected camera and transmits it to the image distribution apparatus 100.

  S11. The image distribution apparatus 100 switches the camera so that it is connected to the camera of the camera identification information included in the operation target information of the received camera-specified operation event information. The photographed image information of the switched camera is transmitted to the image distribution device 100 and further distributed to the image browsing operation terminal 200 and the distribution destination equipment. The operator can check the image information distributed by the image information display unit 240 of the image browsing operation terminal 200.

  As described above, in the image distribution system of the present invention, even when the operator manually selects a camera by operating the image browsing operation terminal, the camera name to be selected is selected by the camera selection list for each distribution destination facility. It is possible to display in order of priority in this form and select from among them, and it is possible to improve the convenience of the operator when managing the image distribution system.

  FIG. 22 shows an example (1) of the camera selection process using SQL as an example of a technique for realizing the camera selection method of the present invention using SQL (Structured Query Language), which is a standard language for operating a relational database. The extremely simplified event range and shooting range models are expressed on a plane represented by coordinate values on the X axis and the Y axis orthogonal to each other.

  Here, the event range and shooting range that occurred are expressed as a rectangular area identified by four vertices, and for a linear area, two vertices of the four vertices of the rectangular area are the same as the other vertices. The triangular area is expressed by assuming that one of the four vertices of the rectangular area is the same as the other vertices.

  In other words, if the coordinate value on the plane is represented by the symbol “(X coordinate value, Y coordinate value)”, the event range E01 that occurred is a square area whose vertex coordinates are (1,1), (10,1) , (10,10), (1,10), and the shooting range C01 of camera A is a square area whose vertex coordinates are (0,0), (20,0), (20,20 ), (0,20), and the shooting range C02 of camera B is a linear region whose vertex coordinates are (20,20), (40,20), (40,20), ( 20,20) is represented as a rectangular area, and the shooting range C03 of camera C is a triangular area whose vertex coordinates are from (30,30), (40,30), (40,20), (30,30) The shooting range C04 of the camera D is a linear region, and its vertex coordinates are (15,15), (15,15), (35,35), (35,35) It is expressed as

  FIG. 23 shows an example (2) of the camera selection process by SQL, and an example of description by SQL for extracting a camera capable of photographing the occurred event when the range model shown in FIG. 22 is assumed. Show.

  “Camera_db” is an example showing the camera information database of the present invention, and “event_db” is a simplified example of event event information of the present invention.

For example, when the event area that occurred is an arbitrary point area, to extract a camera that can capture the event, the coordinate of the point area is (38, 28).
“Select * from camera-db where '(38,28)' :: point @ area;”
By describing like this, the camera shooting region C03 containing the point region (38, 28), that is,
((30,30), (40,30), (40,20), (30,30)) is selected, and a camera C (cameraC) corresponding to C03 is extracted.

If the generated event area is the event range E01 shown in FIG. 22, the event area is defined as “event_db” in FIG. 23 in the SQL language, and a camera extraction process capable of photographing the event area is performed. Is
“Select * from camera_db where (select area from event_db where name = 'event') :: polygon @ area:”
The camera shooting area C01 that includes the area of the event range E01, that is, ((10,10), (20,10), (20,20), (10,20)) is selected. Then, camera A (camera A) corresponding to C01 is extracted.

  Various modifications can be made to the configuration of the apparatus, the configuration of data, and the operation flow shown in the embodiment of the present invention described in detail above, but the essence of the present invention is not affected thereby.

  The image information of the present invention is not particularly limited, and various formats such as a moving image and a still image can be considered, but the present invention can be similarly applied.

  Further, as the event range information, the event range in the circular area has been described as an example for convenience of explanation, but various other shapes are possible, and the present invention can be similarly applied.

  The number and connection form of the event detection apparatus, image distribution apparatus, image browsing operation terminal, and distribution destination facility shown in the embodiments are only one example, and various numbers and forms of connection are possible. Applicable. In addition, the event detection device, the image distribution device, the image browsing operation terminal, and the distribution destination facility do not need to be physically separated as devices, and a plurality of devices may be integrated into one device.

The embodiment of the present invention described above is as follows.
(Supplementary note 1) In an image distribution method for distributing image information obtained by taking a photograph of an event that has occurred to a destination facility,
Maintains a camera information database containing shooting range information indicating the range that each camera can shoot,
When the event occurs, generate event event information including event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred,
Based on the shooting range information held in the camera information database and the event range information included in the event event information, extract the camera capable of shooting the generated event,
Distributing image information taken by the extracted camera to the distribution destination facility,
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 2) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 1,
The event event information includes event identification information indicating a type of the event that has occurred, and priority information indicating a priority of processing of the event,
Based on the shooting range information held in the camera information database and the event range information, event identification information, and priority information included in the event event information, a camera capable of shooting the generated event is extracted. ,
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 3) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 2,
Maintaining a continuous event definition database consisting of continuous event definition records that define a plurality of events that may occur in association with each other based on event range information of the plurality of events as one continuous event,
When a continuous event including the generated event is defined in the continuous event definition database, each event belonging to the defined continuous event has event identification information indicating a type of the generated event Event event information in which the event range information of the event range information is set for each event belonging to the defined continuous event,
When a plurality of event event information having the same event identification information is generated within a predetermined time, extract a camera that can capture one of the ranges indicated by the event range information of the plurality of event event information, Selecting a camera that captures the image information to be distributed;
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Appendix 4) In the image delivery method described in Appendix 2,
When a plurality of event event information having different event identification information is generated within a predetermined time, the event information indicating the highest priority is set as the processing target.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Appendix 5) In the image delivery method described in Appendix 2,
A continuous event definition database comprising continuous event definition records in which a plurality of events that may occur in association with each other are assigned and associated with a continuous event name based on the event range information of the plurality of events. Hold and
When a continuous event including the generated event is defined in the continuous event definition database, it has event identification information indicating the type of the generated event, and is assigned to the defined continuous event Event event information in which the continuous event name is set in the event range information,
When the continuous event name is set in the event range information of the generated event event information, the event of each event constituting the continuous event by searching the continuous event definition database based on the continuous event category Get range information,
Extracting a camera capable of photographing any of the ranges indicated by the acquired event range information;
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 6) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 5,
It has an image browsing operation terminal for the operator to input instruction information,
The image browsing operation terminal generates operation event information including the input instruction information when the instruction information is input from the image browsing operation terminal,
Based on the instruction information included in the generated operation event information, information is output to the image browsing operation terminal, and a camera that captures the image information to be distributed is selected.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 7) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 6,
The image browsing operation terminal generates camera-designated operation event information that is instruction information for distributing image information of a camera designated by an operator's input,
When the camera-designated operation event information is generated, the delivery destination equipment included in the camera-designated operation event information includes image information captured by the camera having the camera identification information contained in the camera-designated operation event information. Delivering the identification information to the delivery destination facility;
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 8) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 7,
The continuous event definition record held in the continuous event definition database includes distribution destination facility information that is information about the distribution destination facility when the operation target is the image browsing operation terminal,
When the event range information of the generated event event information is the continuous event name and the continuous event definition record corresponding to the continuous event name includes the delivery destination facility information, the generated event event information is Accumulate in the event event information storage part in order of priority,
When operation event information for requesting display of a camera selection list is generated by the image browsing operation terminal, identification information for a predetermined number of cameras is included based on event event information stored in the event event storage unit. A camera selection list is generated and transmitted to the image browsing operation terminal,
The image browsing operation terminal displays information of the camera selection list,
The operator of the image browsing operation terminal selects a camera based on the displayed camera selection list information,
The image browsing operation terminal generates the camera designation operation event information for designating the selected camera;
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 9) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 8,
The delivery destination facility information included in the continuous event definition record, the event range information, and the imaging range information held in the camera information database include a kilopost value indicating a distance from a predetermined starting point as supplementary information. ,
When the camera selection list is generated, if the direction identification information included in the delivery destination facility information indicates an upward direction from the predetermined starting point, the event event information stored in the event event information storage unit The event event information having a kilopost value included in the event event information larger than the kilopost value included in the distribution destination facility information is extracted from the event event information, and the direction identification information included in the distribution destination facility information is the predetermined information When indicating a downward direction from the starting point, the event event information is stored in the event event information in which the kilopost value included in the event event information is smaller than the kilopost value included in the delivery destination facility information. Extract and
The extracted event event information is sequentially selected in order of priority, and an event corresponding to the selected event event information can be photographed, and the kilopost value included in the photographing range information in the camera information database and the delivery destination Select a camera whose difference from the kilopost value of the facility information is within a predetermined range and add it to the camera selection list,
The addition to the camera selection list is performed until the same number of cameras as the number of screens that can be displayed on the distribution destination equipment are selected, and the camera selection list is generated.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary Note 10) In the image delivery method according to Supplementary Note 1,
The camera information held in the camera information database includes photographing importance information indicating importance of image information photographed by the camera,
The extraction of the camera is performed by extracting the same number of cameras as the number of displayable screens of the distribution destination equipment in the order of the photographing importance included in the camera information from the cameras capable of photographing the occurred event.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 11) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 1,
If a status code indicating a detailed status of the event is given to the generated event, event event information is generated for an event whose value of the status code satisfies a predetermined condition.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 12) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 1,
The event range information includes center coordinate information of a region where an event may have occurred and range size information indicating the size of the region range,
The photographing range information includes center coordinate information of a region that can be photographed by the camera and range size information indicating the size of the region range.
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Supplementary note 13) In the image distribution method according to supplementary note 12,
The region where the event may have occurred is regarded as a circle region, the center coordinate information of the event range information is set as the center coordinate of the circle region, and the range size information of the event range information is the circle region. With a radius of
The area that can be imaged by the camera is regarded as a circular area, the central coordinate information of the imaging range information is the central coordinate of the circular area, and the range size information of the imaging range information is the radius of the circular area,
An image delivery method characterized by the above.
(Additional remark 14) In the event detection apparatus which produces | generates and transmits the information for selecting the camera which can image | photograph the said event in response to generation | occurrence | production of an event,
A continuous event definition database consisting of continuous event definition records in which a plurality of events that may occur in association are associated with each other by assigning a continuous event name as one continuous event based on the event range information of the plurality of events; ,
Means for generating event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred, when the event occurs;
Means for generating event identification information indicating the type of the event that has occurred;
Means for generating priority information indicating the priority of processing the event;
Means for generating and transmitting event event information including the generated event range information, event identification information, and priority information;
When a continuous event range including the event range information of the event event information to be generated is defined in the continuous event definition database when the event occurs, the event identification information indicating the type of the generated event is included. And means for generating event event information in which the continuous event name given to the defined continuous event is set in the event range information.
An event detection device characterized by that.
(Supplementary note 15) In the event detection device according to supplementary note 14,
In the case where a status code indicating a detailed status of the event is assigned to the event that has occurred, the event code information is provided for an event in which the value of the status code does not satisfy a predetermined condition,
An event detection device characterized by that.
(Additional remark 16) In the image delivery apparatus which selects the camera which image | photographs the event which generate | occur | produced based on the event event information transmitted from an event detection apparatus, and delivers image information to a delivery destination installation,
A continuous event definition database consisting of continuous event definition records in which a plurality of events that may occur in association are associated with each other by assigning a continuous event name as one continuous event based on the event range information of the plurality of events; ,
Means for receiving said event event information;
A camera information database including shooting range information indicating a range in which the camera is capable of shooting;
Means for extracting the camera capable of shooting the generated event based on the shooting range information held in the camera information database and the event range information included in the received event event information;
Means for selecting a camera that captures image information to be distributed from the extracted cameras;
Means for transmitting image information taken by the selected camera to the delivery destination equipment;
An image distribution apparatus characterized by that.
(Supplementary note 17) In the image distribution device according to supplementary note 16,
The continuous event definition record held in the continuous event definition database includes distribution destination facility information regarding the distribution destination facility to be operated by the image browsing operation terminal,
Means for acquiring continuous event definition information by searching the continuous event definition database based on a continuous event name included in the generated event event information at the time of occurrence of the event;
When the event range information of the generated event event information is the continuous event name and the continuous event definition record corresponding to the continuous event name includes the delivery destination facility information, the generated event event information is Means for storing in the event event information storage unit in order of priority;
When operation event information for requesting display of a camera selection list is generated by the image browsing operation terminal, identification information for a predetermined number of cameras is included based on event event information stored in the event event storage unit. Means for generating a camera selection list and transmitting it to the image browsing operation terminal;
Means for transmitting, when receiving camera designation operation event information for designating a camera transmitted from the image browsing operation terminal, image information taken by the camera included in the camera designation operation event information to the distribution destination equipment;
The delivery destination facility information included in the continuous event definition record, the event range information, and the imaging range information held in the camera information database include kilopost information indicating a distance from a predetermined starting point as supplementary information. When the camera selection list is generated, if the direction identification information included in the distribution destination facility information indicates an upward direction as viewed from the predetermined starting point, the event event stored in the event event information storage unit The event event information in which the kilopost value included in the event event information is larger than the kilopost value included in the delivery destination facility information is extracted from the information, and the direction identification information included in the delivery destination facility information is the predetermined information In the case of indicating the downward direction from the starting point of the event, the key included in the event event information is included in the accumulated event event information. Means for post value is extracted kilo post value smaller than said event event information included in the destination facility information,
The extracted event event information is selected in order of priority, and a camera capable of shooting an event corresponding to the selected event event information is selected from the kilopost value and the delivery destination facility information included in the shooting range information in the camera information database. A predetermined number is selected based on the camera information database and added to the camera selection list in ascending order of difference from the kilopost value of, and the addition to the camera selection list is the same as the number of screens that can be displayed on the distribution destination equipment Means for generating the camera selection list by performing until a number of cameras are selected,
An image distribution apparatus characterized by that.
(Supplementary Note 18) In an image browsing operation terminal that generates and transmits instruction information to an image distribution apparatus in response to an input operation from an operator,
Means for generating operation event information that is instruction information for requesting transmission of a distribution destination equipment list that is a list of distribution destination equipment that is a distribution destination of image information, and transmitting the operation event information to the image distribution apparatus;
Means for displaying the distribution destination equipment list transmitted from the image distribution device;
Instruction information for requesting transmission of a camera selection list, which is camera list information for selecting a camera that captures image information to be distributed to the distribution destination facility selected by the operator from the displayed distribution destination facility list. Means for generating certain operation event information and transmitting it to the image distribution device;
Means for receiving and displaying the camera selection list transmitted from the image distribution device;
Means for generating camera designation operation event information, which is instruction information for preferentially selecting a camera selected by an operator based on information of the displayed camera selection list, and transmitting the camera designation operation event information to the image distribution apparatus;
An image browsing operation terminal characterized by that.

Outline of image distribution system of the present invention (1) Outline of image distribution system of the present invention (2) Data transfer sequence when event of the present invention occurs Neighboring camera determination method when single event of the present invention occurs Neighboring camera determination method when a continuous event occurs according to the present invention Configuration of the event detection apparatus of the present invention Record structure of event filter DB of the present invention Structure of event event information of the present invention Record structure of continuous event definition DB of the present invention Operation flow of event detection apparatus of the present invention Operation Flow of Event Filter Unit of Event Detection Device of the Present Invention Configuration of image distribution apparatus of the present invention Record structure of camera information DB of the present invention Configuration of camera candidate list of the present invention Configuration of operation event information of the present invention Operation Flow (1) of Image Distribution Device of the Present Invention Operation Flow (2) of Image Distribution Device of the Present Invention Operation Flow (3) of Image Distribution Device of the Present Invention The image figure of the operation panel of the image browsing operation terminal by this invention Configuration of image browsing operation terminal of the present invention Data transfer sequence of image viewing operation terminal of the present invention Example of camera selection processing by SQL (1) Example of camera selection processing by SQL (2) Overview of conventional image distribution system

Explanation of symbols

1a, 1b, 1c circular area
2a, 2b, 2c center coordinates
3,3-1 to 3-11 Event range
4 Event range group
4a, 4b, 4c radius
10a, 10b Image distribution device (prior art)
12a, 12b Camera information DB (conventional technology)
20a, 20b Image browsing operation terminal (prior art)
30a, 30b Destination facilities
50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e, 50f, 50g, 50h, 50i, 50j, 50k camera
60a, 60b, 60c, 60d, 60e, 60f, 60g, 60h, 60i, 60j, 60k sensor
70a, 70b Image distribution network
80a, 80b, 800 network
100,100a, 100b Image distribution device
110 Event receiver
120 Event analysis section
130 Image Distribution Department
140 Operation event processing section
200,200a, 200b Image browsing operation terminal
210 Control panel
220 Delivery facility list display
220a, 220b selection button
230 Camera selection list display
240 Image information display
400,400a, 400b Event detector
410 Event information receiver
420 Event event information generator
430 Event filter section
440 Event event transmitter
450 Event Filter DB
451 event ID
452 Status code default value
453 priority
460 coordinate information DB
610 Event event information
611 Event ID
612 event priority
613 Event range information
613a center coordinates
613b range size
613c incidental information
614 Status code
620 Operation event information
621 Event ID
622 event priority
623 Target information
910 Continuous Event Definition DB
911 continuous event name
912 Delivery facility information
913 Event range group definition information
913-1 to 913-n Event range information
920 Camera information DB
921 Camera ID
922 Camera name
923 Control information
924 Shooting range information
925 Importance
930 Event event information storage
940 Camera candidate list
941 Event ID
942 Camera ID list
942-1 to 942-m Camera ID

Claims (5)

In an image distribution method for distributing image information obtained by taking a photograph of an event that has occurred to a destination facility,
Maintains a camera information database containing shooting range information indicating the range that the camera can shoot,
When the event occurs, generate event event information including event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred,
Based on the shooting range information held in the camera information database and the event range information included in the event event information, extract the camera capable of shooting the generated event,
Distributing image information taken by the extracted camera to the distribution destination facility,
An image delivery method characterized by the above. In an event detection device that generates and transmits information for selecting a camera that can capture the event in response to the occurrence of the event,
A continuous event definition database consisting of continuous event definition records in which a plurality of events that may occur in association are associated with each other by assigning a continuous event name as one continuous event based on the event range information of the plurality of events; ,
Means for generating event range information indicating a range of positions where the event may have occurred, when the event occurs;
Means for generating event identification information indicating the type of the event that has occurred;
Means for generating priority information indicating the priority of processing the event;
Means for generating and transmitting event event information including the generated event range information, event identification information, and priority information;
When a continuous event range including the event range information of the event event information to be generated is defined in the continuous event definition database when the event occurs, the event identification information indicating the type of the generated event is included. And means for generating event event information in which the continuous event name given to the defined continuous event is set in the event range information.
An event detection device characterized by that. In an image distribution apparatus that selects a camera that captures an event that occurs based on event event information transmitted from an event detection apparatus and distributes image information to a distribution destination facility.
A continuous event definition database consisting of continuous event definition records in which a plurality of events that may occur in association are associated with each other by assigning a continuous event name as one continuous event based on the event range information of the plurality of events; ,
Means for receiving said event event information;
A camera information database including shooting range information indicating a range in which the camera is capable of shooting;
Means for extracting the camera capable of shooting the generated event based on the shooting range information held in the camera information database and the event range information included in the received event event information;
Means for selecting a camera that captures image information to be distributed from the extracted cameras;
Means for transmitting image information taken by the selected camera to the delivery destination equipment;
An image distribution apparatus characterized by that. The image distribution apparatus according to claim 3.
The continuous event definition record held in the continuous event definition database includes distribution destination facility information regarding the distribution destination facility to be operated by the image browsing operation terminal,
Means for acquiring continuous event definition information by searching the continuous event definition database based on a continuous event name included in the generated event event information at the time of occurrence of the event;
When the event range information of the generated event event information is the continuous event name and the continuous event definition record corresponding to the continuous event name includes the delivery destination facility information, the generated event event information is Means for storing in the event event information storage unit in order of priority;
When operation event information for requesting display of a camera selection list is generated by the image browsing operation terminal, identification information for a predetermined number of cameras is included based on event event information stored in the event event storage unit. Means for generating a camera selection list and transmitting it to the image browsing operation terminal;
Means for transmitting, when receiving camera designation operation event information for designating a camera transmitted from the image browsing operation terminal, image information taken by the camera included in the camera designation operation event information to the distribution destination equipment;
The delivery destination facility information included in the continuous event definition record, the event range information, and the imaging range information held in the camera information database include kilopost information indicating a distance from a predetermined starting point as supplementary information. When the camera selection list is generated, if the direction identification information included in the distribution destination facility information indicates an upward direction as viewed from the predetermined starting point, the event event stored in the event event information storage unit The event event information in which the kilopost value included in the event event information is larger than the kilopost value included in the delivery destination facility information is extracted from the information, and the direction identification information included in the delivery destination facility information is the predetermined information In the case of indicating the downward direction from the starting point of the event, the key included in the event event information is included in the accumulated event event information. Means for post value is extracted kilo post value smaller than said event event information included in the destination facility information,
The extracted event event information is selected in order of priority, and a camera capable of shooting an event corresponding to the selected event event information is selected from the kilopost value and the delivery destination facility information included in the shooting range information in the camera information database. A predetermined number is selected based on the camera information database and added to the camera selection list in ascending order of difference from the kilopost value of, and the addition to the camera selection list is the same as the number of screens that can be displayed on the distribution destination equipment Means for generating the camera selection list by performing until a number of cameras are selected,
An image distribution apparatus characterized by that. In an image browsing operation terminal that generates and transmits instruction information to an image distribution device in response to an input operation from an operator,
Means for generating operation event information that is instruction information for requesting transmission of a distribution destination equipment list that is a list of distribution destination equipment that is a distribution destination of image information, and transmitting the operation event information to the image distribution apparatus;
Means for displaying the distribution destination equipment list transmitted from the image distribution device;
Instruction information for requesting transmission of a camera selection list, which is camera list information for selecting a camera that captures image information to be distributed to the distribution destination facility selected by the operator from the displayed distribution destination facility list. Means for generating certain operation event information and transmitting it to the image distribution device;
Means for receiving and displaying the camera selection list transmitted from the image distribution device;
Means for generating camera designation operation event information, which is instruction information for preferentially selecting a camera selected by an operator based on information of the displayed camera selection list, and transmitting the camera designation operation event information to the image distribution apparatus;
An image browsing operation terminal characterized by that.

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