JP2017063320A - Output control device, output control method, setting device, setting method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technique enabling easy recognition of the correspondence of a camera to information to be set to the camera.SOLUTION: In an output control device, output control means causes output means to output an output image including a layout image indicative of a camera arrangement position, and information based on a parameter to be set to the camera. The output control means also causes the output means to output an output image in which the information based on the parameter to be set to the camera is made to correspond to the camera arrangement position in the layout image. Also, in a setting device, reading means reads information indicative of a parameter value to be set to the camera. Setting means communicates with the camera and sets the parameter value read by the reading means to the camera.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique that can support setting of a camera.

  For the purpose of crime prevention and recording, a surveillance camera system is used in which a plurality of cameras are arranged and the captured images are reproduced or stored at a remote location. When constructing such a surveillance camera system, the camera placement position and camera parameter settings may be determined in advance to perform surveillance according to the purpose. Camera parameter settings include, for example, parameter settings for imaging conditions such as video resolution and frame rate, and camera imaging angle, and parameter settings for network conditions such as IP address and communication method. Here, as a technique for supporting the setting to the camera, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for setting a camera parameter using a barcode.

JP 2001-333325 A

  However, when the number of cameras increases, it becomes difficult to know which parameter is set for which camera.

  An object of this invention is to provide the technique which can make it easy to recognize the response | compatibility with a camera and the information set to the camera.

  As one means for solving the above-described problems, an output control device of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, it comprises output control means for causing the output means to output an output image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on parameters set in the camera, and the output control means includes: The output unit outputs the output image in which information based on a parameter set in the camera is associated with a position where the camera is arranged.

  Moreover, as one means for solving the above-described problems, the setting device of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a reading unit that reads information indicating a parameter value to be set in the camera, and a setting unit that communicates with the camera and sets the parameter value read by the reading unit in the camera. The information indicating the parameter value is read from a screen on which an image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on parameters set in the camera is displayed or a printed matter on which the image is printed. .

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the technique which can make it easy to recognize the response | compatibility with a camera and the information set to the camera can be provided.

Schematic diagram of surveillance camera system It is a functional block diagram which shows the information processing apparatus in 1st Embodiment, a setting apparatus, and a camera. It is a figure which shows an example of the display screen for examining the camera arrangement | positioning in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the layout of camera arrangement | positioning. It is a figure which shows an example of camera information. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process which displays camera information. It is a figure which shows the outline of the camera setting in 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the connection of the setting apparatus and camera in 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the setting process in 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of each apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of the setting item of the camera in 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the connection of the setting apparatus and camera in 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the setting process in 3rd Embodiment.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the following embodiments. For example, in the embodiment, the information processing device (output control device) 10, the output device 20, the setting device 30, and the camera 101 are separated, but any combination of these devices or all of them are configured as a single unit. May be.

  First, a surveillance camera system to which the present invention is applicable will be described with reference to FIG. A general surveillance camera system 100 includes a plurality of cameras 101, a management server 102, and a display monitor 103. Then, they are connected via the network 110 and can communicate with each other.

  The camera 101 has a communication function such as a communication interface for connecting to the network 110, and distributes captured video data to the management server 102 on the network 110. The management server 102 controls a plurality of cameras 101 on the monitoring camera system. For example, the imaging range is controlled based on the schedule. Also, based on the video data distributed from the camera 101, control is performed so as to perform recording processing, distribution of video data to a plurality of display monitors 102, and the like. The display monitor 103 displays the video imaged by the camera 101. A security guard or the like monitors the video displayed on the display monitor 102. The management server 102 and the display monitor 103 may have functions of the information processing apparatus 10 and the output apparatus 20 described later.

<First Embodiment>
Next, the information processing device (output control device) 10, the output device 20, the setting device 30, and the camera 101 in the first embodiment will be described using the block diagram shown in FIG.

  First, the camera 101 will be described. The camera 101 includes an optical lens 111, an image sensor 112, a signal processing unit 113, a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, and a control unit 116.

  The image sensor 112 receives light imaged through the optical lens 111 and converts the received light into electric charge to generate an image signal. For example, a CMOS image sensor (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Image Sensor) can be used for the image sensor 112. In addition, a CCD image sensor (Charge Coupled Device Image Sensor) may be used for the image sensor 112.

  The signal processing unit 113 digitizes the imaging signal converted by the imaging element 112 to generate image data. The signal processing unit 113 may compress and encode image data and generate encoded image data.

  The control unit 116 controls the image sensor 112 to generate an imaging signal at the same cycle as the output cycle (frame rate) of the set image (frame). In addition, when the charge accumulation time in the image sensor needs to be longer than the image output cycle, the storage unit 114 is controlled so that the image data is held by the memory unit 114 during a period in which the image pickup signal cannot be output from the image sensor 112. To do. The storage unit 114 is a frame memory, for example. The storage unit 114 can be realized by a memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory).

  The communication unit 115 transmits the image data temporarily stored in the storage unit 114 to the outside under the control of the control unit 116. For example, the communication unit 115 transmits image data to the management server 102 and the display monitor 103 described above. The communication unit 115 can be realized by a network interface compliant with a standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark), for example.

<About layout images>
Next, the layout image 301 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen when examining the layout of the arrangement area in which the camera 101 is arranged. This display screen (display image) 300 is output by the output device 20, for example. In the case of FIG. 3, the output device 20 is a display device. The display device can be realized using a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The output device 20 displays the display screen 30 according to control by the output control unit 14 of the information processing device 10. The output device 20 may be a portable device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

  The display screen 300 includes a layout image (output image) 301, a camera model selection screen 302, a parameter display screen 303, a selection button group 304, and a cursor 305.

  The layout image 301 shows an arrangement area where a camera is arranged. The layout image 301 may be generated by reading an electronic image created in advance in a format such as jpg. Alternatively, the printed drawing may be scanned and the image may be used as the layout image 301. The layout image 301 may be generated by reading drawing data created by CAD.

  These electronic image data, CAD data, and the like may be recorded by the recording unit 12, or may be acquired from the outside via a network or the like.

  The layout image 301 may include information indicating room divisions, shelves, and the like in the arrangement area where the camera 101 is arranged. Further, the layout image 301 may include information indicating roads and buildings in the arrangement area where the camera 101 is arranged. That is, the layout image 301 may be information such as a floor plan of a building or a map.

  In the present embodiment, the arrangement area in which the camera 101 is arranged is described as an area indicated by a plane, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be an area composed of a plurality of floors. In that case, a plurality of images may be read and displayed while switching or simultaneously. At that time, the layout image 301 may be displayed three-dimensionally.

  The camera model selection screen 302 is used to select a camera model to be arranged in the layout image 301. For example, a list of candidate camera models is displayed.

  The parameter display screen 303 displays information such as parameters set for the cameras corresponding to the camera symbols arranged in the layout image 301 in a list.

  Here, the camera symbol is information that can identify the camera, and is, for example, text data, a symbol, a captured image, or an icon. The camera symbol may be, for example, the letters “camera” that can identify the camera. Further, it may be a symbol or icon that can identify the camera. Moreover, the captured image which imaged the external appearance of the camera may be sufficient.

  The camera symbol data may be recorded by the recording unit 12, or may be acquired from the outside via a network or the like.

  The selection button group 304 is for selecting an operation to be executed. The user selects a desired operation from among the operations displayed on the selection button group 304 through a mouse or touch panel (not shown). The input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the input, and the control unit 15 executes a process based on the input. In addition, the button in this embodiment is not a physical button but a GUI such as an icon as an example.

  The placement button 306 is selected to place a camera on the layout image 301. For example, when the user selects the placement button 306 through a mouse or touch panel (not shown) and then selects an arbitrary position in the placement area, the input reception unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 selects the user. Detect. Then, the image generation unit 13 of the information processing apparatus 10 generates a layout image 301 in which camera symbols are arranged at positions selected by the user.

  The camera information display button 307 is a button for generating camera information corresponding to the camera symbol arranged on the layout image 301 and displaying the generated camera information. This camera information generation method and its display method will be described in detail later.

  The output button 308 is selected to cause the output device 20 to output a layout image 301 including the arranged camera symbols and camera information. When the user selects the output button 308 through a mouse or touch panel (not shown), the input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the user's selection. Then, the image generation unit 13 of the information processing device 10 causes the output device 20 to output the layout image 301.

  For example, when the output device 20 is a display device, the output control unit 14 causes the output device 20 to display a layout image 301. When the output device 20 is a printing device, the output control unit 14 causes the output device 20 to print the layout image 301.

  The operations that can be selected with the selection button group 304 are not limited to the items described above. For example, a button for selecting an electronic image to be displayed on the layout image 301 may be displayed.

  A cursor 305 represents a position currently pointed on the layout image 301. The display screen 300 can be moved by a user operation through a mouse or a touch panel, and is used when an operation or instruction target is specified. Note that the cursor 305 is not necessarily displayed when the user can perform an operation through the touch panel.

  Further, the layout image 301, the camera model selection screen 302, the parameter display screen 303, and the selection button group 304 may be displayed superimposed on the display screen 300. Further, the layout image 301, the camera model selection screen 302, the parameter display screen 303, and the selection button group 304 may be deleted or switched for display by a user operation such as a right click on the mouse, for example. Good.

<Placement of camera symbol on layout image>
A method for arranging camera symbols on the layout image 301 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

  Note that the process of arranging camera symbols in the layout image 301 is mainly performed by the information processing apparatus 10. The information processing apparatus 10 includes an input reception unit 11, a recording unit 12, an image generation unit 13, an output control unit 14, and a control unit 15.

  In FIG. 4, the output control unit 14 causes the output device 20 to display three items of the camera model 1, the camera model 2, and the camera model 3 on the camera model selection screen 302. On the camera model selection screen 302, a model name or the like may be displayed as an item.

  The user selects the item of the model to be laid out from the list on the displayed camera model selection screen 302. In the case where the model name is specified, the performance of the model is stored in the storage unit 12 in advance.

  On the camera model selection screen 302, for example, a user operation such as that specified by the cursor 305 is double-clicked on an arbitrary item in the camera model list or an arbitrary camera model is dragged on the camera model selection screen. Done. Thereafter, the position where the camera symbol is to be placed is designated by the user by an operation such as further clicking or dropping on the layout image 301. The input receiving unit 11 detects the above user operations. When the input reception unit 11 detects the above user operation, the image generation unit 13 generates a layout image 301 in which the camera symbol 401 is arranged at a position on the layout image 301 designated by the user.

  As an example, the camera symbol 401 includes a rectangular portion and a fan shape, the rectangular portion represents the camera body, and the fan shape represents the imaging range of the camera. The camera symbol 401 can be arbitrarily moved and rotated by a user operation such as drag and drop, for example, so that the position of the camera in the arrangement area, the imaging range of the camera, and the like can be visually recognized. Yes.

<Parameter display screen>
Next, details of the parameter display screen 303 displayed on the output device 20 according to the control by the output control unit 14 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the parameter display screen 303 displays information (parameter information and the like) related to the camera corresponding to the camera symbol arranged on the layout image 301. In particular, information (for example, parameter values) indicating parameters (coordinates, camera orientation, image quality, FPS, IP address) set in the camera is displayed in a list format in association with information (ID and model) for specifying the camera. . These pieces of information are recorded by the recording unit 12.

  Here, the information regarding the camera displayed on the parameter display screen 303 will be described for each item.

  “ID” is a number that is automatically added every time a camera symbol is added so that the camera can be identified.

  The “camera name” is a camera name that can be arbitrarily specified by the user. Unless otherwise specified, the system may add a default name in advance.

  “Model” represents the model of the corresponding camera.

  “Coordinates” represent the arrangement position on the layout image 301 of the camera. Here, it is expressed as a relative position with the upper left of the arrangement area as the origin.

  “Camera orientation” represents the angle at which the camera is facing. Here, a three-dimensional angle in the actual arrangement region is shown. The horizontal angle (pan angle) and the vertical angle (tilt angle) when the camera is actually arranged in the real area are shown. Specifically, the horizontal direction angle with the upper direction of the layout image 301 as the origin and the vertical direction angle with the horizontal direction in the actual space of the arrangement area as the origin are displayed. These angles may be expressed as relative angles from the home position, which is a reference position when the camera is installed.

  “Image quality” represents the maximum resolution that can be captured by the camera. For example, in the case of VGA, it is 640 × 480 pixels. Other typical sizes are 1920 × 1080 for full HD, 1280 × 720 for HD, and 320 × 240 for QVGA. As described above, the “image quality” may be represented by a standard name or may be represented by the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. Further, when the image quality setting that can be taken by the camera has a plurality of discrete values instead of an arbitrary value less than or equal to the maximum value, it may have a plurality of settable values in addition to the maximum resolution. In addition, you may make it display the resolution which is set to an actual camera instead of the maximum resolution which a camera can image.

  “FPS” represents a frame rate that is the number of frames per second of an image captured by the camera. That is, the frame rate to be set for the actual camera is displayed.

  Note that the information is not limited to resolution and FPS, and may be information related to the image quality of an image captured by the camera set in the camera.

  Next, the “IP address” represents an IP address assigned for the camera corresponding to the camera symbol to communicate with the outside via the network. Here, an IPv4 address is shown, but any information relating to communication set in the camera may be used, and an IPv6 address may be used.

  Information about all the cameras arranged on the layout image 301 may not be displayed on the parameter display screen 303, and at least a part of the information may be displayed. For example, it may be moved by a scroll bar or the like so that all information can be confirmed.

  Here, FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a case where a plurality of cameras are arranged on the layout image 301. When a plurality of cameras are arranged, the camera name may be displayed in the vicinity of the camera symbol 401 (camera symbol 401a, camera symbol 401, camera symbol 401...) In order to identify the camera. In FIG. 4B, six cameras are arranged, but information for three cameras is displayed on the parameter display screen 303. Information on other cameras can be displayed by moving the scroll bar on the right side of the parameter display screen 303 by a user operation.

  As shown in FIG. 4B, the camera symbol 401 may be capable of identifying a specific camera among a plurality of cameras. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, characters such as a, b, c, d... May be attached to each camera. Further, letters such as 1, 2, 3, 4. The camera symbol 401 may be a symbol or icon having a different shape for each camera. Further, the camera symbol 401 may be capable of identifying the camera model. For example, characters such as model a, model b, model c, model d..., Model 1, model 2, model 3, model 4. The camera symbol 401 may be a symbol or icon having a different shape for each camera model.

<Camera parameter setting process>
Next, processing for recording camera parameter information in association with a camera ID or the like by the information processing apparatus 10 will be described. In the display screen 300, information indicating parameters relating to imaging (such as resolution and frame rate) and parameters relating to network settings (such as IP addresses) is recorded in association with the camera symbol 401 arranged on the layout image 301. I can do it. By making each item of information displayed on the parameter display screen 303 editable, the user can input an arbitrary value. Some items may be selected from a plurality of predetermined candidates instead of an arbitrary value.

  First, the user selects an item to be changed from items displayed on the parameter display screen 303 through a mouse or a touch panel. The input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the input. The control unit 15 makes the selected item editable according to the operation input detected by the input receiving unit 11.

  Thereafter, the user inputs a numerical value or the like for the item that can be edited through the keyboard or the touch panel. The input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the input. The control unit 15 changes the parameter value of the item to be edited according to the input from the user. Specifically, the output control unit 15 controls the output device 20 to display the changed parameter value on the parameter display screen 303. Further, the control unit 15 causes the recording unit 12 to record the changed parameter value in association with information (for example, ID) that specifies the camera to be edited. In this way, each piece of information shown on the parameter display screen 303 is recorded in the recording unit 12.

<Display camera information>
The user can display the camera information 501 (camera information 501a, camera information 501b, camera information 501c...) On the output device 20 by selecting the camera information display button 307 of the selection button group 304. The camera information 501 is generated by the image generation unit 13 based on a value set in the above-described procedure or a preset value.

  When the camera information display button 307 is selected by the user, the input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the input. When the input receiving unit 11 detects that the camera information display button 307 is selected, the control unit 15 causes the image generation unit 13 to generate camera information 501. The image generation unit 13 generates camera information 501 based on the parameter information recorded in the recording unit 12.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display screen after the camera information 501 is displayed. The output control unit 14 displays the generated camera information 501a, b, c, d, e, f, and g in the vicinity of the corresponding camera symbols 401a, b, c, d, e, f, and g, respectively. .

  In this embodiment, the camera information 501 is expressed as a QR code (registered trademark). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a barcode or other code form may be used. The camera information 501 may be a character indicating parameter information or a URL from which parameter information can be acquired. The camera information 501 may be information that displays parameter information in a list format.

  The position where the camera information 501 is displayed may not overlap the camera symbol 401a as indicated by the camera symbol 401a in FIG. However, depending on the position where the camera symbol 401 is arranged, a plurality of cameras may be arranged in a close place. In that case, as indicated by the camera symbol 401b in FIG. 5, the output control unit 14 may display the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 in an overlapping manner. In this way, the correspondence between the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 can be easily understood. In any case, the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 may be displayed in correspondence with each other.

<Camera information display processing>
Next, processing for displaying the camera information 501 on the layout image 301 will be described using the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 can be executed by the CPU performing processing based on the program read into the memory.

  In step S601, the control unit 15 of the information processing apparatus 10 determines whether there is a camera symbol 401 that does not display the camera information 501. The determination can be simplified if flag management is performed such as setting a display flag for the camera symbol 401 displaying the camera information 501.

  If the control unit 15 determines in step S601 that the corresponding camera symbol 401 does not exist, the process ends.

  If the control unit 15 determines in step S601 that the corresponding camera symbol 401 exists, the process proceeds to step S602.

  In step S602, the control unit 15 acquires one camera ID corresponding to the camera symbol 401 for which the camera information 501 is not displayed.

  In the next step S603, the control unit 15 acquires parameter information corresponding to the acquired camera ID.

  Here, the information acquired in step S602 and step S603 will be described using the information of the camera having the camera ID “1” and the camera name “a” as an example.

  The information acquired in step S602 and step S603 is the following information. That is, “ID: 1, camera name: a, model: camera model 1, coordinates: (2, 5), camera orientation: (180, 30), image quality: VGA, FPS: 1, IP address: 192.168 .. The information is “0.100”.

  Here, the parameter information set by the user is a character string in which pairs of item names and values are listed for each item. The content of the camera information is not limited to this format, and may be another character string expression. Furthermore, in a case where the character string cannot be stored in one code, for example, the setting itself may be stored in an external server, and a URL to be accessed may be stored as a character string.

  In step S604, the image generation unit 13 generates a code indicating the information acquired in steps S602 and S603. For example, the image generation unit 13 generates a QR code (registered trademark) or bar code image indicating the acquired information as the camera information 501. In addition, the image generation unit 13 may generate characters indicating parameter information as the camera information 501.

  Thereafter, in step S605, the output control unit 14 displays the generated camera information 501 in association with the camera symbol 401 corresponding to the acquired camera ID. As an example, the output control unit 14 displays the camera information 501 in the vicinity of the position of the camera symbol 401 on the layout image 301.

  Then, it returns to step S601 and repeats a process. For the purpose of clarifying the correspondence between the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501, the corresponding camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 may be connected with a line or expressed in the same color.

  Although not particularly described in the flowchart, when the camera information display button 307 is repeatedly selected, processing such as deleting the camera information displayed so far before entering the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is appropriately performed. You may go.

  Through the above processing, the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 can be displayed on the output device 20 in association with each other.

  Note that the printing device may be the output device 20. The output control unit 14 causes the output device 20 to print at least the layout image 301 in the display screen (display image) 300.

  When the user wants to print the layout image 301, the user selects the output button 308 of the selection button group 304 through the mouse or the touch panel. The input receiving unit 11 of the information processing apparatus 10 detects the input. When the output control unit 15 detects that the output button 308 has been selected by the input receiving unit 11, the output control unit 15 causes the output device 20 to print the layout image 301. On the printed matter output by the output device 20, the camera symbol 401 and the camera information 501 are printed in the area where the camera is arranged.

<Camera setting process>
Next, processing for setting the camera 101 by the setting device 30 using the output result of the output device 20 will be described. The output result of the output device 20 is a display screen on which the layout image 301 is displayed or a printed matter on which the layout image 301 is printed. The setting device 30 includes a reading unit 31 and a setting unit 32. The setting device 30 may be realized by a smartphone or a tablet terminal.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an outline from the output result of the output device 20 until the setting device 30 reads the setting. Setting is performed by reading the camera information 501 corresponding to each camera symbol 401 described in the output result of the output device 20 by the reading means 31 of the setting device 30.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a communication connection between the setting device 301 and the camera 101. The setting unit 32 of the setting device 30 has a function of communicating with the communication unit 115 of the camera 101. Communication between the setting unit 32 and the communication unit 115 may be performed by wire or wirelessly.

  Communication between the setting unit 32 and the communication unit 115 can be realized by a communication method via a network that conforms to standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark) and wireless LAN. In addition, communication between the setting unit 32 and the communication unit 115 may be performed directly without using a network. For example, such communication can be realized by a known near field communication technology such as BlueTooth (registered trademark) or NFC (Near Field Communication).

<Camera settings>
The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating processing in which the setting device 30 sets parameter information in the camera 101. Note that the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 can be executed by the CPU performing a process based on the program read into the memory.

  In step S <b> 901, the reading unit 31 of the setting device 30 reads camera information 501 as an output result of the output device 20 in accordance with an operation by the user. When the camera information 501 is a code, the reading unit 31 reads the code by a code reading function compliant with each code. When the camera information 501 is character information, the reading unit 31 may read camera information by a character recognition function using an image sensor or the like. When the camera information 501 is character information, the user may input the character (for example, a numerical value) to the setting device 30. In addition, when using near field communication, the user moves to the place where the camera 101 to be set is actually installed together with the setting device 30.

  Next, in step S902, the setting unit 32 derives parameter information from the contents of the read camera information.

  “ID: 1, camera name: a, model: camera model 1, coordinates: (2, 5), camera orientation: (180, 30), image quality: VGA, FPS: 1, IP address: Information to be set is extracted from information such as “192.168.0.100”. For example, when an IP address is set, information “192.168.0.100” is extracted.

  Subsequently, in step S903, the setting unit 115 establishes communication connection with the setting target camera. The position of the setting target camera 101 is indicated in the layout image 301 by the camera symbol 401. Therefore, if the user actually moves to the position of the setting target camera 101, for example, the user may select the strongest radio wave intensity (communication intensity) of near field wireless communication. This selection may be automatically performed by the setting unit 32.

  In the next step S904, the setting unit 32 sets the extracted parameter information in the connected camera 101 and ends the process. The setting to the camera may be executed using a setting protocol provided in the camera, an API provided by the SDK for developing a camera cooperation application, a library, or a tool. Here, the SDK is a Software Development Kit. API is Application Programming Interface. The setting unit 32 may simply transmit the parameter information to the communication unit 115 and perform setting by the control unit 116 of the camera 101.

  For example, when setting the IP address, the IP address is set for the setting information of the communication function via the network in the communication unit 115.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to easily recognize the correspondence between a camera and information to be set in the camera. In addition, the setting work can be simplified.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 10 according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The setting device 30 can also be realized with a similar hardware configuration. Further, configurations other than the optical lens 111 and the image sensor 112 of the camera 101 can also be realized with a similar hardware configuration. The management server 102 and the display monitor 103 in the monitoring camera system 100 can also be realized with the same hardware configuration.

  The information processing apparatus 10 can be realized by a CPU 201, a memory 202, an HDD 203, an input unit 204, a display unit 205, and a system bus 206 that interconnects them.

  The CPU 201 controls the entire apparatus. The memory 202 is used for temporarily storing data related to the processing of the apparatus. The HDD 203 is a non-volatile storage device. The HDD 203 stores a program code that defines the processing of the apparatus, a preset value for operating the program code, and the like. The input unit 204 detects and accepts an input from outside the apparatus. As an example, it is realized by a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like, and enables input from the user. The display unit 205 displays the processing result of the apparatus so that it can be recognized outside the apparatus. As an example, a screen visually recognizable to the user is displayed by a liquid crystal display device or the like.

  The CPU 201 uses various data and commands stored in the HDD 203 by transferring them to the memory 202 as necessary, and stores the input received by the input unit 204 and the control processing result in the HDD 203. The content of the information processing apparatus 200 as a whole can be varied depending on the data and instructions stored in the HDD 203.

  Each element in FIG. 10 can be replaced with another kind of element having the same function. For example, other processors such as a DSP may be used instead of the CPU. Further, a flash memory may be used instead of the HDD.

Second Embodiment
In the first embodiment, the example in which the items displayed on the parameter display screen 303 are edited has been described. However, the number of items to be displayed on the parameter display screen 303 is limited in consideration of the visibility of the display screen. If you want to. In that case, it is conceivable to display another screen so that items not displayed on the parameter display screen 303 can be edited. Such an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the part which is common in other embodiment, and it demonstrates focusing on a difference.

  FIG. 11 shows setting items for various camera conditions in this embodiment. Compared to the parameter display screen 303 of FIG. 4, “video distribution method” and “moving image method” are added as an example. Note that only the same items as those in FIG. 4 are displayed on the parameter display screen 303.

  The “video distribution method” is a communication method for distributing video captured by a camera to other information processing apparatuses. For example, there are HTTP distribution, RTP communication using UDP, RTP distribution using TCP, and the like. Of course, the present invention is not limited to this, and other distribution methods and combinations may be selected.

  The “moving image method” is an encoding method for converting a video captured by a camera into a digital moving image. For example, M-JPEG and H.264. H.264, MP4, and the like exist. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other known encoding methods may be selected and input.

  The output control unit 14 causes the selection button group 304 to display a button (for example, a setting input button) for calling a UI screen for enabling input of “video distribution method” or “moving image method”. When the user selects the setting input button, the output control unit 14 may display a UI screen for setting the “video distribution method” or the “moving image method”. The items to be added are not limited to “video distribution method” and “moving image method”, and other items may be added.

  Thereby, it is possible to edit items that are not displayed on the parameter display screen 303.

<Third Embodiment>
The first and second embodiments have been described assuming a situation where the setting process is performed after the camera 101 is actually arranged. On the other hand, when a new surveillance camera system or the like is constructed, it is conceivable that the setting is performed in advance before the camera 101 is arranged at the actual arrangement location. Such a case will be described as a third embodiment. In addition, description is abbreviate | omitted about the part which is common in other embodiment, and it demonstrates focusing on a difference.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the camera 101 and the setting device 30 in the case where the prior setting is performed before being placed at the actual placement location. It is assumed that the camera 101 is not arranged at an actual arrangement location. Therefore, the camera 101 and the setting device 30 may be connected by a wired connection using a LAN cable or the like instead of the proximity wireless communication described in other embodiments, for example.

  Further, when a plurality of cameras 101 and the setting device 30 are connected via a network switch, it is possible to connect to the setting target camera 101 by turning off the power other than the target camera.

  With reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 13, processing for setting a camera before placement at an actual placement location will be described. Note that the flowchart shown in FIG. 13 can be executed by the CPU performing processing based on the program read into the memory.

  Steps S1301 to S1303 correspond to steps S901 to S903 and will not be described.

  Note that in the case of a wired connection, the connection in step S1303 may be such that only the target camera is connected.

  In step S <b> 1304, the setting unit 32 acquires information indicating the camera model of the camera 101 from the connected camera 101. This treatment may be performed using a protocol for obtaining settings provided in the camera.

  In step S <b> 1305, the setting unit 32 determines whether the camera model acquired from the camera 101 matches the camera model in the information read by the reading unit 31. If they do not match, it is determined that the setting target camera is different, and the process ends without doing anything. At this time, information indicating that it is incorrect may be displayed on a display device or the like.

  On the other hand, if the camera model acquired from the camera 101 matches the camera model in the information read by the reading unit 31 in step S1305, the process proceeds to the next step S1306.

  In step S1306, the same process as in step S904 is performed, and the process ends. In the case of pre-setting, it is possible to set only the minimum necessary setting without performing all setting. For example, only an IP address may be set. This is because it is conceivable that a detailed set value is determined while performing fine adjustment after the actual location.

  In this way, the setting unit 32 acquires information from the camera 101, compares the acquired information with information read by the reading unit 31, and is read by the reading unit 31 according to the comparison result. It is determined whether to set the parameter value.

  With the above processing, it is possible to simplify the setting work and reduce camera mistakes and misconfigurations when performing pre-setting before placing the camera 101 at the actual placement location.

(Other examples)
The present invention supplies a program that realizes one or more functions of each embodiment to a system or apparatus via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or apparatus read and execute the program It can also be realized by processing. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

  The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, you may combine each embodiment.

10 Information processing device (output control device)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Input reception part 12 Recording part 13 Image generation part 14 Output control part 15 Control part 30 Setting apparatus 31 Reading part 32 Setting part 101 Camera 111 Optical lens 112 Image pick-up element 113 Signal processing part 114 Storage part 115 Communication part 116 Control part

Claims (22)

An output control means for causing the output means to output an output image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on parameters set in the camera;
The output control unit causes the output unit to output the output image in which information based on a parameter set in the camera is associated with a position where the camera is arranged in the layout image. The camera can communicate with other devices via a network,
Information based on parameters set in the camera includes information related to communication.
The output control apparatus according to claim 1. The output control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the information related to communication is information indicating an IP address. The information based on the parameters set for the camera includes information related to the image quality of the image captured by the camera.
The output control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The output control apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the information on the image quality is information indicating at least one of a resolution and a frame rate. 6. The output control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information based on the parameter set for the camera is text data indicating the parameter set for the camera. The output control device according to claim 1, wherein the output control unit displays a symbol indicating the camera on a display unit in correspondence with a position where the camera is arranged. . The output control apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the symbol is text data, a symbol, a captured image, or an icon. 9. The output control unit according to claim 7, wherein the output control unit outputs the output image in which information based on a parameter set in the camera is associated with a position where a symbol indicating the camera is arranged. Output control device. The output control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information based on a parameter set in the camera is a code that can be read by a code reading unit. The output means is a display means;
The output control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output control unit displays the output image on the display unit. The output means is a printing means;
The output control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output control unit causes the printing unit to print the output image. The output control means causes the output means to output an output image including the layout image, information based on parameters set for the camera, and a list indicating at least a part of the parameters set for the camera. The output control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12. Reading means for reading information indicating parameter values to be set in the camera;
A setting unit that communicates with the camera and sets the parameter value read by the reading unit in the camera;
The reading unit is configured to output the parameter value from a screen on which an image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on a parameter set in the camera is displayed or a printed matter on which the image is printed. A setting device that reads information indicating The image is an image in which information based on parameters set in the camera is associated with a position where the camera is arranged in the layout image.
The setting device according to claim 14. The reading means is a code reading means,
The information based on the parameters set in the camera is a code that can be read by a code reading means.
The setting device according to claim 15. The setting device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the setting means sets a parameter value read by the reading means to a camera having the highest communication strength. The setting means acquires information from the camera,
18. The information acquired from the camera is compared with the information read by the reading unit, and the parameter value read by the reading unit is set according to the comparison result. The setting device according to any one of the above. An output control step of causing the output means to output an output image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is disposed and information based on parameters set in the camera;
In the output control step, the output unit outputs the output image in which information based on a parameter set in the camera is associated with a position where the camera is arranged in the layout image. A reading process for reading information indicating parameter values to be set in the camera;
A setting step of communicating with the camera and setting the parameter value read by the reading means in the camera;
In the reading step, the parameter is obtained from a screen on which an image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on a parameter set in the camera is displayed or a printed matter on which the image is printed. A setting method characterized by reading information indicating a value. Computer
Function as output control means for causing the output means to output an output image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on parameters set in the camera;
The output control means causes the output means to output the output image in which information based on a parameter set in the camera is associated with a position where the camera is arranged in the layout image. Computer
Reading means for reading information indicating parameter values set in the camera,
Communicating with the camera, causing the parameter value read by the reading means to function as a setting means for setting the camera,
The reading unit is configured to output the parameter value from a screen on which an image including a layout image indicating a position where the camera is arranged and information based on a parameter set in the camera is displayed or a printed matter on which the image is printed. A program characterized by reading information indicating.

Images