JP3880734B2 - Camera control system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a camera control system for operating a camera and a camera platform installed in a remote place to obtain a desired image.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, a monitoring system that monitors a remote monitoring target using a camera that outputs a video signal (hereinafter simply referred to as a camera) has been put into practical use. In order to display a monitor image of a desired monitoring target on a display unit such as a display, the operator operates the control console to control the shooting position of the camera.
[0003]
The lens of this camera is a zoom lens having a field of view from telephoto to wide-angle, and is configured so that autofocus and manual focus can be selected. This camera is attached to a pan head and is configured to be able to shoot a wide shooting range. The control of the shooting position of the camera includes the control of the shooting position of the camera platform that fixes the camera (hereinafter referred to as the camera platform control), and the operation of determining the focal length and / or field of view for the shooting target. Control (hereinafter collectively referred to as lens control). Hereinafter, the pan head control and the lens control are collectively referred to as camera control. Further, the rotation of the pan head by the pan head control is called pan head rotation, the lens operation by the lens control is called a lens operation, and the camera operation by the camera control is called a camera operation.
[0004]
Since the operator operates the pan head (hereinafter referred to as pan head control operation), the operator uses a cross key or a joystick that is provided on the control console and corresponds to the vertical and horizontal movements of the pan head. An operation for determining the shooting position is performed so as to obtain a monitor image. At this time, the pan head is rotated in the horizontal direction (hereinafter referred to as pan head horizontal rotation) to change the shooting position in the left-right direction (hereinafter referred to as pan operation), or the pan head Is rotated in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as the vertical rotation of the camera platform), and an operation for changing the shooting position in the vertical direction (hereinafter referred to as a tilt operation) is performed. Here, the pan head rotation previously defined means an operation in which the pan head horizontal rotation and the pan head vertical rotation are collectively performed.
[0005]
In addition, since the operator operates the lens (hereinafter referred to as lens control operation), the operator focuses the lens on the monitoring target by using a rotary knob provided on the control console or a volume switch manually operated in the vertical direction. Operation (hereinafter referred to as a manual focus operation), and an operation for setting an optimum magnification (hereinafter referred to as a zoom operation) so as to obtain a monitor image large enough to monitor a monitoring target. Hereinafter, the pan head control operation and the lens control operation are collectively referred to as a camera control operation. In this way, in the monitoring system, camera control is performed in accordance with the camera control operation of the operator, and the monitoring target imaged by the camera is displayed on the display unit.
[0006]
However, in the conventional monitoring system, there are four problems such as excessive camera operation due to the transmission system, inability to speed up the pan rotation, difficulty in camera control operation by monitor video, and difficulty in identifying the monitoring target. Hereinafter, four problems will be described.
[0007]
First, the camera overshoot caused by the transmission system, which is the first problem, will be described. When the operator performs camera control operations while watching the monitor video, the transmission delay of the video signal in the period from when the camera outputs the video signal to when the display unit displays the monitor video is in the transmission system from the camera to the display unit. Caused by. In addition, a transmission delay of the camera control signal in the period from the camera control operation by the operator to the start of the camera operation occurs due to the transmission system from the control console to the pan head or the lens.
[0008]
Due to the transmission delay of the video signal, the operator performs an operation while looking at the past monitor video during the transmission delay period of this video signal, and further, for the operation intended by the operator due to the transmission delay of the camera control signal. The camera operation is started and ended after being delayed by the transmission delay period of the camera control signal. When the camera operation is terminated, an excessive camera operation is performed over the video signal transmission delay period and the control signal transmission delay period, and the camera operation is terminated. Camera operation cannot be stopped at the position.
[0009]
In addition, since the operator stops the camera operation at the position intended by the operator, the operator repeatedly performs the camera control operation and then stops at the desired position. In addition to the transmission delay period of the video signal and the control signal, the period required for this repeated camera control operation is wasted, resulting in a delay longer than the actual transmission delay period.
[0010]
In addition, when signal processing is involved in the transmission system, there is a problem that further delay may occur. For example, in a video signal transmission system, A / D (Analog / Digital) conversion is performed on a video signal output from a camera to generate digital video data, and the digital video data is compressed to generate digital compressed video data. If the communication method is such that the digital compressed video data is encoded and transmitted, decoded to digital compressed video data after the transmission is completed, and the digital compressed video data is compressed and decompressed, a considerable time (maximum several seconds) is required for signal processing. ), The camera operation is further delayed. This transmission system is an existing transmission system (for example, an in-house LAN (Local Area Network) or ISDN (Integrated Service)
Digital Network). ) May not be able to improve the transmission system itself, and transmission delays are difficult to avoid.
[0011]
An example of the prior art aiming at the improvement of the operation failure caused by the transmission delay of such a transmission system is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-298680. In this publication, the delay time due to the camera control delay and the transmission delay of the captured image of the camera is calculated, the overshoot amount of the camera position or posture is calculated based on the delay time, and after the movement of the camera position or posture is stopped The prior art which corrects the position or posture of the camera by performing the return control by the overshoot amount is disclosed.
[0012]
However, the above prior art performs the operation of returning the camera when correcting the overshoot of the camera position or posture, and the overshoot caused by the delay time due to the transmission delay cannot be avoided. In addition, the operator must wait until a desired image is output over the operation period for returning the camera. In the prior art, a static image is held and displayed on the display unit in order to eliminate the operator's uncomfortable feeling due to standby, but the standby time is not shortened. Eventually, in the prior art, there is a problem that a delay is caused by combining a delay period due to overshoot caused by a transmission delay and a period for correcting the overshoot.
[0013]
Another example of the prior art aiming at improvement of operation failure caused by transmission delay is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-205015. In this publication, when the operation in the time control mode is enabled in addition to the normal control mode, and the operation in the time control mode is performed, the camera is moved by a predetermined minute amount for each button operation, Prior art for correcting the position or orientation is disclosed.
[0014]
However, in the above prior art, when operating in the normal control mode, overshoot due to transmission delay occurs. The time control mode is a mode used for fine-tuning the final stage to correct the camera position or posture that occurred in the normal control mode, and can avoid overshoot caused by delay time due to transmission delay. There wasn't. Moreover, in order to move a long distance by the operation in the time control mode, the button must be operated many times. Also, if the minute amount that the camera moves in the time control mode is too small, the number of times the fine adjustment button is pressed increases, and the minute amount that the camera moves in the time control mode is too large. As the lens is raised to the telephoto state, the movement of the projected image increases, and it is difficult to adjust to a desired position even with fine adjustment. After all, in the prior art, there is a problem that a delay is caused by a delay period due to overshoot caused by a transmission delay and a period for correcting the overshoot, and it takes time to correct the position or posture of the camera.
[0015]
Next, the second problem, incapable of speeding up the pan head rotation, will be described. As for the pan head rotation, it is required to quickly rotate to a desired position of the operator. In recent years, a pan head that can rotate at a maximum speed of 180 degrees / second has been developed. However, this rotation speed can be used only when the angle at which the pan head is aimed at (hereinafter referred to as the target angle) is determined in advance and preset control for moving to the target angle is used. It is. In the preset control, after a pan head control signal for rotating the pan head to the target angle is input from the outside, the pan head is rotated at high speed to the target angle only between the pan head and the pan head control device. It is configured.
[0016]
However, in the case of manual control of the pan head rotation by the operator's operation, it has been difficult to increase the speed. The rotation speed of the camera platform can be increased up to 180 degrees / second in the preset control, whereas it can be increased up to 15 degrees / second in the manual control. This is because manual control is not configured to control to move to the target angle, but is configured to rotate the camera platform only while the button is pressed. While the button was pressed, a control signal was transmitted, and overshoot due to a transmission delay occurred. Also, since the rotation speed is slow, for example, when rotating at 180 degrees / second, the preset control completes the movement in about 1 second, whereas in manual control the operator must keep pressing the button for about 12 seconds. It was not possible to operate quickly.
[0017]
The first reason why the pan head rotation by manual control cannot be increased is that when the pan head is rotated at a high speed, a monitor image flows, the operator cannot grasp the monitor image, and cannot give a stop instruction. If the rotation speed is set so that the monitor image does not flow, there is a limit to the speed of rotation.
[0018]
The second reason why the speed of the pan head rotation by manual control cannot be increased is that the inertial mass of the pan head increases as the pan head rotates at high speed, and the cloud after the stop instruction of the pan head rotation by the operator is input. This is because the excessive amount of table rotation increases. When the operator stops the pan head rotation while watching the monitor image, even if the transmission delay is almost negligible, a large overshoot due to the inertial mass occurs as a result. In the case of preset control, when the target angle is approached, the rotational speed is automatically reduced so that no excessive amount is generated. For the first reason and the second reason described above, it is difficult to speed up the pan head rotation with manual control, and there is a demand for using preset control.
[0019]
Next, the third problem, that is, difficulty in camera control operations using monitor images will be described. As described above, the operator performs a pan head control operation so as to search for a desired monitoring target on the monitor video while viewing the monitor video, and performs a lens control operation so as to enlarge / reduce the monitoring target. However, when the monitoring target cannot be recognized on the monitor video, it takes time for the pan head control operation for the operator to search for the monitoring target. For example, when there is a desired monitoring target at a rear position in the direction in which the camera is currently facing (a position where the camera has been rotated 180 degrees), since the video is not displayed in the monitor video, the monitoring target is searched for. Took a lot of time to control the camera head, and placed a burden on the operator.
[0020]
In order to solve these problems, a method for identifying what the camera is photographing by displaying a plan view near the site where the camera is installed, the camera position, and the camera posture as monitor images has been put into practical use. ing. However, with this method, it is difficult to quickly determine the camera position.
[0021]
As a first reason, accurate alignment is difficult. For example, a situation is assumed in which a pan / tilt head control operation is performed in order to photograph a small object far away from the camera with a zoom lens set to a high magnification and having a long focal length. In this situation, it is highly likely that it is necessary to adjust the rotation angle of the camera platform with an accuracy of 1 degree or less. However, it is extremely difficult to adjust the rotational angle of the camera platform with an accuracy of 1 degree or less while looking at the plan view.
[0022]
As a second reason, the pan head position in the pan direction can be displayed, but the tilt direction cannot be displayed, and thus it has not been possible to confirm in which direction the camera is facing in the height direction. In this way, it is difficult to quickly determine the camera position simply by displaying a plan view. As described above, the camera control operation using the monitor image is a difficult operation.
[0023]
Next, the fourth problem that is difficult to identify the monitoring target will be described. For example, a meter, a display, etc. are mentioned as monitoring objects in a plant facility such as a power plant or a substation. However, many such meters and indicators are attached, and it is not possible to determine whether or not a desired meter is obtained simply by looking at the monitor image. Thus, it was difficult to identify the monitoring target.
[0024]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and can quickly and easily specify a desired monitoring target, avoiding excessive camera operation due to transmission delay peculiar to the system body, and quickly operating the camera. It aims at providing the camera control system which complete | finishes.
[0025]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problems, a camera control system according to claim 1 is provided.
A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A tilt operation scroll bar for setting a vertical rotation target angle for determining the position of the pan head, a pan operation scroll bar for setting a horizontal rotation target angle, and the camera enabling photographing in the vertical direction. Shooting Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base A side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with the range, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with a range;
A selection instructing unit for instructing to move the knob of the scroll bar for tilt operation and / or the knob of the scroll bar for pan operation according to the operation;
During the operation of communicating with the pan head control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit, and instructing a target angle for vertical rotation by moving a knob of a scroll bar for tilt operation of the display unit by the selection instruction unit Then, the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit is moved and displayed according to the operation, and when the target angle is selected and instructed, the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit is displayed. With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A pan head control signal for stopping the display and rotating the pan head vertically to a target angle is output to the pan head control device, and / or the panning scroll bar knob of the display unit is controlled by the selection instruction unit. In the middle of the operation to move and instruct the target angle of horizontal rotation, the shooting range of the plan view window of the display unit is moved and displayed according to the operation, and the plan view of the display unit when the target angle is selected and instructed Window shooting range With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A control device for stopping and displaying a pan head control signal for horizontally turning the pan head to a target angle to the pan head control device;
A camera control system comprising:
The pan head control device to which the pan head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the pan head so as to satisfy a target angle.
[0026]
A camera control system according to claim 2 is provided.
A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
Shooting that allows the camera to shoot vertically Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base A side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with the range, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with a range;
Depending on the operation, on the side view window and / or on the plan view window of the display unit Monitoring target A selection instruction section for instructing selection of the shooting position of
Communicating with the pan head control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit, respectively, and in the vertical direction of the pan head based on the photographing position selected and instructed on the side view window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit The target angle for determining the position is calculated, and the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A pan head control signal for causing the pan head to be displayed and rotating the pan head vertically is output to the pan head control device, and / or at a photographing position selected and designated in the plan view window of the display section by the selection instruction section. Based on this, a target angle for determining the horizontal position of the pan head is calculated, and the shooting range of the window for the plan view of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A control device that outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device for displaying and panning the pan head horizontally;
A camera control system comprising:
The pan head control device to which the pan head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the pan head so as to satisfy a target angle.
[0027]
Further, the camera control system according to claim 3 is:
A camera that outputs a video signal;
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
A video window for displaying a monitor video of the camera based on digital video data output from the video input device, and shooting that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base A side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with the range, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with a range;
Depending on the operation, on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit Monitoring target A selection instruction section for instructing selection of the shooting position of
The camera position communicates with each of the pan head control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit, and the shooting position is monitored based on the shooting position selected on the monitor image of the video window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit. The vertical and horizontal target angles of the pan head are calculated so as to be the upper center position, and the shooting ranges of the side view window and the horizontal window of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A control device that outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device for displaying and panning the pan head vertically and horizontally;
A camera control system comprising:
The pan head control device to which the pan head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and vertically rotate the pan head so as to satisfy a target angle.
[0028]
A camera control system according to claim 4 is provided.
A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
Shooting that allows the camera to shoot vertically Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base A side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with the range, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with a range;
Depending on the operation, a plurality of monitoring targets on the side view window and / or the plan view window of the display unit may be displayed. One of the monitored targets A selection instruction section for performing a selection instruction;
A storage unit which stores in advance target angles associated with a plurality of monitoring targets in the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit and captures each monitoring target;
Communicating with the pan head control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit, respectively, and storing the target angle for the monitoring target that is selected and instructed by the selection instruction unit in the side view window of the display unit Shooting range of the side view window of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target For a monitoring target that is displayed and outputs a pan head control signal that vertically rotates the pan head to the pan head control device and / or that is selected and instructed by the selection instructing unit in the plan view window of the display unit The target angle is read from the storage unit, and the photographing range of the window for the plan view of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target A control device that outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device for displaying and panning the pan head horizontally;
A camera control system comprising:
The pan head control device to which the pan head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the pan head so as to satisfy a target angle.
[0029]
The camera control system according to claim 5 is:
A camera that outputs a video signal;
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
A video window for displaying a monitor video of the camera based on digital video data output from the video input device, and shooting that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base A side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with the range, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Shooting an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with a range;
Depending on the operation, a plurality of monitoring objects on the monitor video in the video window of the display unit are displayed. One of the monitored targets A selection instruction section for performing a selection instruction;
A storage unit that stores in advance target angles that are associated with a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit, and that captures each monitoring target;
A target angle for a monitoring target that communicates with the pan head control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit, and is selected and instructed on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit Is read from the storage unit, and the shooting range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle With the bottom side of the object being monitored A control device that outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device for displaying and panning the pan head vertically and horizontally;
A camera control system comprising:
The pan head control device to which the pan head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and vertically rotate the pan head so as to satisfy a target angle.
[0030]
Further, the camera control system according to claim 6 is:
In the camera control system according to claim 4 or 5,
The control device performs control so that the name of the monitoring target is displayed on the display unit when a selection of a monitoring target is instructed by the selection instruction unit.
[0031]
A camera control system according to claim 7 is provided.
In the camera control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
A first transmission device for communication and a second transmission device are provided between the pan head control device and the control device,
The control device outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device via the first transmission device and the second transmission device.
[0032]
With the camera control system having the configuration as in claims 1 to 5, the target angle can be easily selected, and once the pan head control signal is input to the pan head control device, the pan head rotation can be performed. The end is automatically performed after the pan head is rotated to the target angle by the pan head control device, so that the overshoot due to the transmission delay can be avoided and the head can be quickly rotated to the target angle. Further, with the camera control system configured as described in claim 6, the target angle can be automatically set by confirming the name of the monitoring target, so that the operation is easy. Further, as in the camera control system having the configuration as in the seventh aspect, overshooting can be avoided even with a transmission delay due to a long-distance transmission system between the camera platform and the camera platform control device.
[0033]
In addition, the camera control system according to claim 8 is:
A camera including a lens that performs an operation of determining a focal length and / or a visual field with respect to a monitoring target;
A lens control device for controlling the operation of determining the focal length and / or field of view of the lens of the camera;
A focus operation scroll bar for setting a lens setting value for determining a focal length of the lens, a zoom operation scroll bar for setting a lens setting value for determining the lens field of view, and the camera in a vertical direction Shooting that can be taken with Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base In addition, a side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base And a display unit for displaying a plan view window representing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target,
A selection instructing unit for instructing to move the knob of the scroll bar for focus operation and / or the knob of the scroll bar for zoom operation according to the operation;
The lens control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit communicate with each other, and the selection instruction unit moves a focus operation scroll bar knob of the display unit to indicate a focal length. The shooting range of the side view window and the plan view window Base Is moved and displayed according to the operation, and when the focal length is selected, the shooting range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit is displayed. With the bottom side facing the monitoring target A lens control signal for stopping the display and adjusting the focal length of the lens is output to the lens control device, and / or the zoom indicator scroll bar knob of the display unit is moved by the selection instruction unit. During the operation to instruct, the shooting range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display section Isosceles Is moved and displayed according to the operation, and when the field of view is instructed, the shooting range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit is displayed. With the base pointed at the monitoring target and the isosceles side stopped A control device for displaying and adjusting a lens control signal for adjusting the field of view of the lens to the lens control device;
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust the focal length and / or the field of view of the lens so as to satisfy the setting value of the lens.
[0034]
A camera control system according to claim 9 is provided.
A camera equipped with a lens for determining the focal length and field of view of the monitoring target;
A lens control device for controlling the focal length and field of view of the lens of the camera;
Shooting that allows the camera to shoot vertically Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base In addition, a side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base And a display unit for displaying a plan view window representing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target,
Depending on the operation, on the side view window and / or on the plan view window of the display unit Monitoring target A selection instruction section for instructing selection of the shooting position of
A storage unit that stores in advance a set value of a lens that is associated with a plurality of monitoring targets in the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit and optimally captures each monitoring target;
The lens control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit communicate with each other, and the setting value of the lens for the monitoring target that is selected and instructed by the selection instruction unit in the side view window of the display unit. The shooting range of the side view window of the display unit so as to satisfy the set value of the lens read from the storage unit With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target and the isosceles side stopped A lens control signal for displaying and adjusting the lens is output to the lens control device and / or the setting of the lens for the monitoring target selected and instructed by the selection instruction unit in the window for the plan view of the display unit The value is read from the storage unit, and the photographing range of the window for the plan view of the display unit so as to satisfy the setting value of the lens With the bottom of the screen facing the monitoring target and the isosceles side stopped A control device that displays and outputs a lens control signal for adjusting the lens to the lens control device;
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust the focal length and field of view of the lens so as to satisfy the set value of the lens.
[0035]
A camera control system according to claim 10 is provided.
A camera that has a lens for determining a focal length and a visual field for a monitoring target, and outputs a video signal;
A lens control device for controlling the focal length and field of view of the lens of the camera;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
A video window for displaying a monitor video of the camera based on digital video data output from the video input device, and shooting that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base In addition, a side view window that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, and photography that enables the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction Imaging range of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle, the field of view as isosceles, and the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base And a display unit for displaying a plan view window representing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target,
Depending on the operation, a plurality of monitoring objects on the monitor video in the video window of the display unit are displayed. One of the monitored targets A selection instruction section for performing a selection instruction;
A storage unit that stores in advance a set value of a lens that is associated with a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit and optimally captures each monitoring target;
The lens control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit communicate with each other, and the selection instruction unit selects the lens to be monitored on the monitor image of the video window of the display unit. The set value is read from the storage unit, and the photographing range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit is set so as to satisfy the set value of the lens. With the base pointed at the monitoring target and the isosceles side stopped A control device that displays and outputs a lens control signal for adjusting the lens to the lens control device;
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust the focal length and field of view of the lens so as to satisfy the set value of the lens.
[0036]
A camera control system according to claim 11 is provided.
In the camera control system according to claim 9 or 10,
The control device controls the display unit to display the name of the monitoring target when the selection instruction unit instructs the selection of the monitoring target.
[0037]
A camera control system according to claim 12 is provided.
The camera control system according to any one of claims 8 to 11,
A first transmission device for communication and a second transmission device are provided between the lens control device and the control device,
The control device outputs a lens control signal to the lens control device via the first transmission device and the second transmission device.
[0038]
With the camera control system configured as in claims 8 to 10, the lens setting value can be easily selected, and once the lens control signal is input to the lens control device, the lens operation is terminated. Since it is automatically performed by the lens control device, it is possible to adjust the lens quickly while avoiding overshoot due to transmission delay. Further, with the camera control system having the structure as set forth in claim 11, the lens can be automatically set by confirming the name of the monitoring target, so that the operation is easy. Further, as in the camera control system having the configuration as in the twelfth aspect, it is possible to avoid overshooting even with a transmission delay caused by a long-distance transmission system between the lens and the lens control device.
[0039]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a camera control system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a system block diagram of a camera control system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The camera control system includes a camera 1, a pan head 2, a lens control device 3, a pan head control device 4, a first transmission device 5, a second transmission device 6, a computer 7, a storage unit 8, a video input device 9, a mouse 10, And a display unit 11.
[0040]
Next, the function of each part in the camera control system will be described with reference to FIG. The camera 1 includes a lens 1a and a main body 1b. The lens 1a has a zoom function and a focus function capable of selecting auto or manual. The lens 1a includes a light receiving sensor (not shown) that outputs a focus error signal. The lens 1a includes a lens position data output unit that outputs lens position data relating to the focal length or field of view of the lens. The lens position data is output to the computer 7 via the lens control device 3, the first transmission device 5, and the second transmission device 6.
[0041]
The main body 1b also converts an image of the light of the subject to be monitored input through the lens 1a into a video signal and outputs it (for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled).
Device). ). This video signal is output to the computer 7 via the first transmission device 5, the second transmission device 6, and the video input device 9. This camera 1 is fixed to a pan head 2.
[0042]
The camera platform 2 is provided so as to rotate the camera platform so that the camera can rotate vertically and horizontally, and is configured so that the camera 1 can photograph a desired monitoring target. Although not shown, the pan head 2 includes a pan head position data output unit (for example, a rotary encoder) that outputs pan head position data. This pan head position data is output to the computer 7 via the pan head control device 4, the first transmission device 5, and the second transmission device 6.
[0043]
The lens control device 3 is connected to the lens 1a of the camera 1 and performs autofocus control of the lens 1a based on a focus error signal in the case of autofocus, and the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6 in the case of manual focus. The focus control is performed based on the lens control signal output from the computer 7 via the. The lens control device 3 also instructs the zoom magnification of the lens 1 a of the camera 1 based on a lens control signal output from the computer 7 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6.
[0044]
The pan head control device 4 is connected to the pan head 2 and controls the pan head rotation based on a pan head control signal output from the computer 7 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. The pan head control device 4 is configured to perform preset control. Preset control is configured to rotate to the target angle only between the pan head and the pan head control device after the pan head control signal for rotating the pan head to the target angle is input from the outside. In this control, the pan head is rotated without causing overshoot even at a high rotation speed of 180 degrees / second at the maximum.
[0045]
The first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6 perform bidirectional signal communication. This signal communication can be considered in various ways. For example, if it is an analog signal, it may be a signal communication that is modulated on the output side and demodulated on the input side. In the case of a digital signal, it may be signal communication in which encoding is performed on the output side and decoding is performed on the input side. Further, if it is an analog signal, A / D (Analog / Digital) conversion may be performed on the output side to communicate as a digital signal, and D / A (Digital / Analog) conversion may be performed on the output side. Further, in the case of a digital signal, it may be signal communication in which encoding or error correction encoding processing is performed on the output side and decoding or error correction decoding processing is performed on the input side. Alternatively, signal communication may be used in which a digital signal is compressed on the output side and compressed and decompressed on the input side. Further, it may be a signal communication in which a digital signal is D / A converted on the output side and communicated as an analog signal, and A / D converted on the input side and output as a digital signal.
[0046]
As such signal communication, for example, an analog telephone line, a digital telephone line such as ISDN, a mobile communication line, an in-house dedicated line such as a LAN (Local Area Network), an optical communication line, or these lines described above Signal communication using a plurality of combinations can be assumed. Communication is appropriately selected, and the present invention can be implemented in any case.
[0047]
The computer 7 performs various arithmetic processes, and takes in the lens position data output from the lens control device 3 and the pan head position data from the pan head control device 4 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. Further, the computer 7 outputs a lens control signal to the lens control device 3, and outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device 4. In the present embodiment, the computer 7 is described as a control device. However, the control device is not limited to a so-called personal computer, and various forms such as a board-shaped computer and a computer incorporated in a control console are possible. is there.
[0048]
The storage unit 8 is used by the computer 7 to generate the lens control signal and the pan head control signal, and stores the target angle and the lens setting value stored in association with the equipment, the latest lens output from the lens control device 3. The position data and the latest head position data output from the head control device 4 are stored. The computer 7 appropriately writes and reads the lens position data and the pan head position data, and grasps the latest state of the pan head 2 and the lens 1a. As the storage unit 8, it is possible to use a device having a function of writing and reading data such as a hard disk and a magneto-optical disk in addition to a normal memory.
[0049]
The video input device 9 converts the video signal of the subject output from the camera 1 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6 into digital video data that can be processed by the computer 7 and outputs the digital video data to the computer 7. Device. A specific example of the video input device 9 is video capture.
[0050]
The mouse 10 is a so-called pointing device and is connected to the computer 7. The mouse 10 is an embodiment of the selection instruction unit. For example, a light pen, a trackball, a digitizer, or a touch screen can be used as the selection instruction unit in addition to the mouse. The selection instruction unit may be any device that has a function of instructing on a monitor image on the display unit 11 to be described later.
[0051]
The display unit 11 is connected to the computer 7 and is a device for displaying a monitor video. As the display unit 11, for example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a liquid crystal display, or the like can be used. In addition, a device having a display function can be used.
[0052]
Next, the operation of the operator in the camera control system and the operation of the camera control system will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a monitor image in the camera control system according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are explanatory diagrams for explaining a monitor image for displaying a name character frame for a facility name registered in advance. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the photographing range of the monitor video. FIG. 6, FIG. 7, or FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the pan / tilt operation through the monitor video. FIG. 9 or FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the zoom operation of the lens via the monitor video. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the manual focus operation of the lens via the monitor video.
[0053]
On the monitor image of the display unit 11, as shown in FIG. 2, a plan view window (hereinafter simply referred to as a plan view window) 11 a for displaying a plan view of the vicinity of the camera installation location and the monitoring target, a camera installation location. An installation location name character frame (hereinafter simply referred to as an installation location name character frame) 11b, a side view window (hereinafter simply referred to as a side view window) 11c that displays a side view of the vicinity of the camera installation location and the monitoring target. A video window 11d to be monitored (hereinafter simply referred to as a video window), a character name frame 11e displayed on the video window, a scroll bar 11f for tilt operation, a scroll bar 11g for pan operation, and a zoom operation Scroll bar 11h, focus operation scroll bar 11i, and autofocus setting button 11 To display.
[0054]
In the plan view window 11a, a plan view in the vicinity of the camera installation location is displayed. The photographing range including the camera 1, all equipment that can be photographed as an image by the camera 1, and the focal length and field of view of the camera 1 is displayed. The isosceles triangle of the plane is displayed. The plan view in the plan view window 11a is obtained by storing image data photographed using a digital camera or the like, drawing data by computer graphics, or the like in the storage unit 8, and using these image data and drawing data. The By looking at the plan view window 11a, the operator can easily grasp the state of the plane in the vicinity of the installation location of the camera 1.
[0055]
As shown in FIG. 3A, the operator operates the mouse 10 to select one facility 11k from among a plurality of facilities displayed on the plan view window 11a, and a mouse cursor 11l on the facility 11k. Is moved, the computer 7 opens the character frame 11m for equipment name which displays the name of the equipment 11k. This is stored in advance by associating the coordinate data of the equipment 11k displayed on the plan view window 11a with the text data of the equipment name, and the coordinate data of the equipment 11k in the plan view window 11a and the mouse cursor 11l indicate When the coordinate data matches, the computer 7 displays the equipment name character frame 11m and the text data of the equipment name on the plan view window 11a.
[0056]
As shown in FIG. 2, an installation location name character frame 11b is displayed on the upper side of the plan view window 11a so that the installation location of the camera 1 can be determined. The reason for this is that if there is only one camera 1, the installation location can be easily grasped, but if the camera 1 is installed over a plurality of installation locations, the displayed plan view window 11 a is displayed. This is because it is unclear which installation location is displayed. Therefore, the name of the installation location of the camera 1 is displayed in the character box 11b for the installation location name so that the installation location can be easily grasped.
[0057]
In the side view window 11c, a side view in the vicinity of the camera installation location is displayed, and the camera 1, the side of all equipment that can be photographed as an image, the photographing range including the focal length and field of view of the camera 1 The isosceles triangles on the side of are displayed. By looking at the side view window 11 c, the operator can easily grasp the side situation near the installation location of the camera 1.
[0058]
When the operator operates the mouse 10 to select one facility 11k from among a plurality of facilities displayed on the side view window 11c as shown in FIG. 3B, the mouse cursor 11l is moved upward. Similarly to the plan view window 11a, the computer 7 opens the equipment name character frame 11m for displaying the name of the equipment 11k. This is stored in advance by associating the coordinate data of the equipment 11k displayed on the side view window 11c and the text data of the equipment name, and the coordinate data of the equipment 11k in the side view window 11c and the mouse cursor 11l indicate When the coordinate data matches, the computer 7 displays the equipment name character frame 11m and the equipment name text data on the side view window 11c.
[0059]
The computer 7 uses the digital video data output from the video input device 9 to control the monitor video to be monitored on the video window 11d of the display unit 11 as shown in FIG. Further, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, when the mouse cursor 11l is moved over the equipment displayed on the video window 11d, the computer 7 displays the equipment name for displaying the equipment name. The text data of the equipment name is output to the character frame 11e.
[0060]
The computer 7 stores in advance the coordinate data of the imaging range frame of the camera, the coordinate data of the center of the imaging range, and the coordinate data obtained to display the isosceles triangles in the plane window 11a and the side view window 11c. The equipment position coordinate data has already been calculated. The coordinate data of the equipment in the video window 11d can be calculated by comparing these coordinate data with the coordinate data of the shooting range frame of the video window 11d, the coordinate data of the center of the shooting range, and the like. When the coordinate data of the equipment in the video window 11d matches the coordinate data indicated by the mouse cursor 11l, the computer 7 outputs the text data of the equipment name to the equipment name character frame 11e, thereby displaying an arbitrary equipment name. Can be realized.
[0061]
Next, an isosceles triangle displayed in front of the camera in the plan view window 11a and the side view window 11c and indicating the range of the field of view of the camera will be described with reference to FIG. The angle AH in FIG. 5A represents the horizontal field angle of the lens, and the angle AV in FIG. 5B represents the vertical field angle. The horizontal angle of view and the vertical angle of view are changed depending on the zoom magnification. f represents the focal length of the lens (the distance to the in-focus position). A quadrangle formed by the base of the isosceles triangle in FIG. 5A and the base of the isosceles triangle in FIG. 5B is the shooting range of the camera.
[0062]
Such values of AH, AV, and f are output from the lens 1a and input to the computer 7 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6 according to lens position data relating to the focal length or field of view of the lens. Calculated. Alternatively, the computer 7 may calculate based on the lens magnification and focal length set by the operator's operation. The direction of the isosceles triangle is calculated from the pan position data output from the pan head 2 and input to the computer 7 through the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. Alternatively, the computer 7 may calculate using a target angle set by an operator's operation.
[0063]
As shown in FIG. 2, the tilt operation scroll bar 11 f is perpendicular to the monitor image so as to coincide with the vertical rotation direction of the camera platform 2, and the pan operation scroll bar 11 g is horizontal to the camera platform 2. They are arranged in the horizontal direction on the monitor image so as to coincide with the rotation direction. The scroll bar 11f for tilt operation and the scroll bar 11g for pan operation select and instruct the photographing position by dragging the scroll knob or scroll arrow with the mouse 10.
[0064]
The zoom operation scroll bar 11h is provided to set the zoom magnification of the lens, and is set by dragging a scroll knob or scroll arrow with the mouse 10. The focus operation scroll bar 11i is provided to move the focal length in the manual focus operation, and is moved by dragging a scroll knob or scroll arrow with the mouse 10. The auto focus setting button 11j is provided for setting whether the lens 1a is set to auto focus or manual focus.
[0065]
Next, the operator's pan operation using the scroll bar in the camera control system and the operation of the camera control system will be described with reference to FIGS. The knob of the pan operation scroll bar 11g represents the current position of the pan head 2 in the pan direction. The current position of the pan head 2 that rotates in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction is represented by an absolute angle. When the knob of the scroll bar is dragged and moved with the mouse 10, the knob moves in the dragged direction, and as shown in FIG. 6A, the camera and the isosceles triangle on the plan view window 11a are Move accordingly.
[0066]
While moving by dragging, as shown in FIG. 6B, the camera and isosceles triangle at the current position are displayed as solid lines, and the camera and isosceles triangle corresponding to the dragged knob are displayed as dotted lines. The operator operates the mouse 10 to drop the knob at a position where the isosceles triangle faces the desired monitoring target while looking at the plan view window 11a. At this time, although not shown in FIG. 2, absolute angles in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction may be displayed. Note that the pan head 2 itself does not rotate during dragging.
[0067]
When the knob is dropped, the computer 7 sets the absolute angle as a target angle, generates a pan head control signal based on the target angle, and sends the pan head control device via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. 4 is transmitted. In this way, the operator can easily select the target angle by selecting an optimal shooting position so that the monitoring target falls within the shooting range. The pan head control device 4 controls the pan head 2 so as to perform a pan operation with the scroll bar to the position. At this time, the operating speed of the camera platform 2 is horizontally rotated at the maximum speed that the camera platform 2 can have, but since the target has already been set, the target position is reached even if an image flows. Has no effect. Rather, it is desirable to set the maximum speed so as to reach the set position as soon as possible.
[0068]
When the pan head 2 finishes the pan operation, as shown in FIG. 6C, the camera 1 displayed with a solid line and the display of the isosceles triangle which is the shooting range of the camera 1 are erased and displayed with a dotted line. The camera 1 and the isosceles triangle indicating the shooting range of the camera 1 are displayed by changing them to solid lines so that the panning operation can be easily recognized. Thereafter, image data and drawing data relating to the side view of the monitoring target changed by the pan operation of the camera 1 are read from the side view database stored in advance in the storage unit 8, and a new side view is displayed in the side view window 11c. To do. The data stored in the side view database is, for example, a side view of each of four monitoring objects illustrated on the plan view window 11a of FIG. In this way, the side views of all the monitoring targets are stored, and the side views of the monitoring targets selected in the plan view window 11a are displayed.
[0069]
The scroll arrow buttons arranged at both ends of the scroll bar are used to perform a pan operation for a predetermined distance. Here, one arrow is called a single arrow, and two arrows are called double arrows. When this single arrow button is clicked, the panning operation is performed for a quarter of the displayed image, and when the double arrow button is clicked, the panning operation is performed for only one screen. In this operation, since the actual rotation angle varies depending on the zoom magnification of the lens, the computer 7 calculates the angle to be rotated from the zoom magnification of the lens 1a, generates a lens control signal, and sends it to the lens control device 3. Output.
[0070]
Next, the tilt operation of the operator using the scroll bar in the camera control system and the operation of the camera control system will be described. The operator's tilt operation using the scroll bar is basically the same as the operator's pan operation using the scroll bar. However, the moving depiction of the isosceles triangle indicating the photographing range of the camera 1 and the camera 1 is performed in the side view window 11c. Further, while the mouse 10 is being dragged, the shape of the isosceles triangle on the plan view window 11a also changes. At this time, the camera platform 2 rotates vertically.
[0071]
Thus, in the tilt operation / pan operation of the operator using the scroll bar, the operator looks at the plan view window 11a of the display unit 11 in the pan operation, and for the side view of the display unit 11 in the tilt operation. While looking at the window 11c, the direction is set with the knob of the scroll bar.
[0072]
Next, an operator's pan operation, tilt operation, and operation of the camera control system using the plan view window 11a, the side view window 11c, or the video window 11d in the camera control system will be described. An operator's pan operation and tilt operation using the plan view window 11a or the side view window 11c is a map designating method, and an operator pan operation and tilt operation using the video window 11d is an image designating method. First, the map designation method will be described.
[0073]
In the map designation method, as shown in FIG. 7A, the mouse cursor 11l is moved to an arbitrary shooting position on the plan view window 11a or the side view window 11c, and the mouse 10 is double-clicked at the desired shooting position. When doing so, the computer 7 calculates the target angle of the camera platform 2. Since the direction of the isosceles triangle on the drawing and the target angle are configured to correspond to each other, the target angle can be easily obtained. Then, a pan head control signal is output to the pan head control device 4 so as to rotate the pan head to the target angle. When the shooting position is specified on the plan view window 11a, only the panning operation is performed, and when the shooting position is specified on the side view window 11c, only the tilt operation is performed.
[0074]
However, when the equipment coordinate data in the plan view window 11a or the side view window 11c matches the data indicated by the mouse cursor 11l, as shown in FIG. 3, the computer 7 uses the equipment name character frame 11m. To display the text data of the equipment name. When the operator double-clicks with the mouse 10 when the name of the equipment is displayed, the computer 7 reads out the horizontal and vertical target angles of the camera platform 2 stored in the storage unit 8 in advance, The camera 1 generates a pan head control signal for directing the direction to the target angle, and transmits the pan head control signal to the pan head control device 4 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. The pan head 2 performs pan operation and tilt operation in a lump so that the camera 1 is directed to the designated equipment.
[0075]
As shown in FIG. 8, the video designation system is a pan head so that an arbitrary point on the video window 11d is double-clicked with the mouse 10 as a photographing position so that the designated photographing position becomes the center position of the video. 2 is controlled to rotate the pan head. The computer 7 stores in advance the coordinate data of the imaging range frame of the camera, the coordinate data of the center of the imaging range, and the coordinate data obtained to display the isosceles triangles in the plane window 11a and the side view window 11c. The equipment position coordinate data has already been calculated. The absolute angle corresponding to the coordinate data selected in the video window 11d is calculated by comparing these coordinate data with the coordinate data of the frame of the shooting range of the video window 11d, the coordinate data of the center of the shooting range, and the like. With this absolute angle as a target angle, it is possible to display isosceles triangles and generate a pan head control signal in the plane window 11a and the side view window 11c. When the shooting position is designated on the video window 11d, the pan operation and the tilt operation are performed simultaneously.
[0076]
However, when the coordinate data of the equipment in the video window 11d and the data indicated by the mouse cursor 11l match, as shown in FIG. 4, the computer 7 displays the equipment name character frame 11e for displaying the name of the equipment. Display the text data of the equipment name. When the operator double-clicks with the mouse 10 when the name of the equipment is displayed, the computer 7 reads out the target angle relating to the new photographing position of the camera platform 2 stored in the storage unit 8 in advance, and this target angle A pan head control signal for moving to the pan head is generated and transmitted to the pan head control device 4 via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. The pan / tilt head 2 performs a pan operation and a tilt operation so that the camera 1 points the camera 1 toward the designated facility. This video designation method is performed for fine adjustment of positioning by pan operation / tilt operation using a scroll bar.
[0077]
Thus, by the map designation method and the video designation method, for the operator, the monitoring target displayed in the plan view window 11a and the side view window 11c is displayed in the equipment name character frame 11m or in the video window 11d. Since the monitored object can be directly selected while confirming with the facility name character frame 11e, the operability is good. Also, by registering in advance the target angle related to the optimal photographing position of the monitoring target, the optimal target angle can be obtained immediately. Instead of deciding the target angle while observing the moving monitor image as in the past, the target angle is first determined and a control signal to move to the target angle is transmitted, and thereafter the complete control system Since the control by the preset control is performed between a certain pan head 2 and the pan head control device 4, an overshoot due to a transmission delay caused by the transmission system is avoided and the operability is good.
[0078]
Next, the lens zoom operation of the operator using the scroll bar of the camera control system will be described. The zoom scroll bar knob indicates the current zoom magnification. However, the maximum wide angle is normalized and displayed with a zoom magnification of 1. When the knob of the scroll bar is dragged with the mouse 10 and the knob is moved to change the magnification, the computer 7 changes the horizontal angle of view and the vertical angle of view, and as shown in FIG. The isosceles triangle shape indicating the range of the lens photographing field of view on the side view window 11c is changed and displayed. As the shape changes, the values of the horizontal field angle AH and the vertical field angle AV also change. At this time, the isosceles triangle indicating the current photographing range is represented by a solid line, and the isosceles triangle corresponding to the dragged knob is represented by a dotted line.
[0079]
When the zoom scroll bar knob moves in the telephoto direction, as shown in FIG. 10, a rectangle indicating the shooting range corresponding to the position of the dragged knob on the monitor video on the video window 11d is indicated by a dotted line. Illustrated. When the knob is dropped by the mouse 10, the computer 7 generates a lens control signal having a set magnification corresponding to the knob of the scroll bar, and the lens is transmitted via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. The data is transmitted to the control device 3.
[0080]
The lens control device 3 performs a zoom operation so that the magnification set by the zoom scroll bar is obtained. At this time, the zoom operation of the lens 1a is performed at the maximum speed. The reason is the same as described for the pan operation using the scroll bar. When the lens 1a finishes the zoom operation, the isosceles triangle indicating the imaging range displayed by the initial solid line is erased, the isosceles triangle displayed by the dotted line is changed to a solid line, and the zoom operation is completed. . The quadrilateral displayed with the dotted line displayed on the video window 11d disappears when the zoom operation is started.
[0081]
The scroll arrow buttons arranged at the upper and lower ends of the zoom scroll bar are for performing a certain zoom operation. When the scroll arrow button is clicked, movement in the telephoto direction or wide-angle direction is performed so that a predetermined zoom magnification is obtained. For example, an equivalent magnification setting such as 1 ×, 1.4 ×, or 2 × is set. The reason why it does not operate equally as 1 ×, 2 ×, and 3 × is that the change in the monitor image is large at the low magnification, whereas the change is small at the high magnification, and the operation is uncomfortable. Because.
[0082]
Next, the lens zoom operation using the plan view window 11a, the side view window 11c, or the video window 11d in the camera control system and the operation of the camera control system will be described. For the equipment name in the map designating method for panning / tilting operation by the operator using the plan view window 11a or the side view window 11c and the video designating method for panning / tilting operation using the video window 11d described above. When the monitoring target is specified in a state where the character frame 11m or the equipment name character frame 11e is displayed, the computer 7 stores the lens which is stored in the storage unit 8 and is the zoom magnification of the lens 1a set for the monitoring target. The lens control device 3 outputs a lens control signal to the lens control device 3 so as to adjust the lens 1a so that the zoom magnification according to the set value is obtained. The lens control device 3 adjusts the lens so that the lens 1a has a predetermined zoom magnification.
[0083]
As described above, the map designation method and the image designation method allow the operator to select the zoom magnification by simply selecting the object to be monitored while checking the object to be monitored with the equipment name character frame 11e or the equipment name character frame 11m. Good sex. Also, by registering in advance the zoom magnification related to the optimum photographing position of the monitoring target, the optimum zoom magnification can be obtained immediately. Instead of deciding the zoom magnification while observing the moving monitor image as in the past, the zoom magnification is set first, and a control signal is sent to adjust the zoom magnification. Since control by the preset control is performed between the lens 1 and the lens control device 3 that are the control system, overshooting due to transmission delay is avoided and operability is good. This lens zoom operation is simpler and quicker if it is performed together with pan operation and tilt operation using the plan view window 11a, the side view window 11c, or the video window 11d.
[0084]
Next, the lens focus operation of the camera control system will be described. The focus operation of the lens is standard for autofocus, and the lens control device 3 controls the lens 1a so as to always focus on the monitoring target. The auto focus operation is controlled only between the lens 1a and the lens control device 3 because the lens control device 3 detects a focus error signal output from the camera 1 and the lens control device 3 performs focus control of the lens 1a. A system is formed, and the computer 7 does not perform control related to autofocus.
[0085]
When the mouse 10 clicks the knob or scroll arrow of the focus operation scroll bar 11i during the autofocus operation, for example, the autofocus setting button 11j is reversed to indicate that the manual focus operation is in progress. Then, the auto focus operation is switched to the manual focus operation. The operator can adjust the focal length of the lens by dragging the knob or scroll arrow of the focus operation scroll bar 11i with the mouse. The knob of the focus operation scroll bar 11i indicates the position of the current focal length in both cases of auto focus and manual focus.
[0086]
When the dragged knob of the focus operation scroll bar 11i moves, as shown in FIG. 11, the bases of the isosceles triangles indicating the shooting ranges on the plan view window 11a and the side view window 11c also move. . At this time, the base indicating the current focal length is displayed with a solid line, and the base corresponding to the dragged knob is displayed with a dotted line. When the knob is dropped by the mouse 10, the computer 7 generates a lens control signal that has a focal length corresponding to the knob of the scroll bar, and the lens via the first transmission device 5 and the second transmission device 6. The data is transmitted to the control device 3. When the operator finishes the manual focus operation of the lens 1a, the base of the isosceles triangle indicating the initial photographing range displayed by the solid line is erased, the base displayed by the dotted line is changed to the base of the solid line, and the focus operation Indicates that is finished.
[0087]
The scroll arrows arranged at both ends of the scroll bar are configured such that the focal distance moves by a movement amount of a predetermined distance. When the scroll arrow is clicked, the computer 7 outputs to the lens control device 3 a lens control signal for controlling the lens 1a so that the focal length moves. The amount of movement varies depending on the zoom magnification. This is because the depth of field is different between the telephoto side and the wide-angle side, the movement depth is small because the depth of field is shallow at the telephoto side, and the movement amount is large because the depth of field is deep at the wide angle, Improve operability.
[0088]
Next, the manual focus operation using the plan view window 11a, the side view window 11c, or the video window 11d in the camera control system and the operation of the camera control system will be described. In the operator's panning or tilting operation according to the map designation method or the video designation method described above, when the monitoring target is designated in a state where the equipment name character frame 11m or the equipment name character frame 11e is displayed, the computer 7 The lens setting value which is stored in advance in the storage unit 8 in association with the monitoring target and is the focal length of the lens 1a set for the monitoring target is read, and the lens control device 3 adjusts the focal length of the lens 1a. The lens control signal is output to the lens control device 3. The lens control device 3 performs control so as to adjust the focal length of the lens 1a.
[0089]
As described above, the map designation method and the video designation method are displayed on the upper side of the facility name character frame 11m or the video window 11d displayed on the plan view window 11a and the side view window 11c for the operator. Since the optimum focal length can be set by directly selecting while confirming with the equipment name character frame 11e, the operability is good. In addition, by registering in advance the focal length related to the optimum photographing position of the monitoring target, the optimum focal length can be obtained immediately. Also, instead of deciding the focal length while observing the moving monitor image as in the past, a focal point is first specified and a lens control signal is sent to adjust the focal length, and then the process is completed. Since preset control is performed between the lens 1a, which is the control system, and the lens control device 3, overshooting due to transmission delay is avoided, and operability is good. This manual focus operation is easier and quicker if it is performed collectively with pan operation, tilt operation, and lens zoom operation using the plan view window 11a, the side view window 11c, or the video window 11d in the camera control system. Become.
[0090]
In the description of the camera control system according to the embodiment of the present invention, it is assumed that there is one camera, but a camera control system using a plurality of cameras may be used. In the case of a camera control system using a plurality of cameras, a selection button for selecting a camera installation location to be displayed on the display unit 11 is added to an arbitrary position, and the installation location name character frame 11b is used to confirm the camera installation location. However, if the configuration is selected, a desired monitoring target installation location can be easily specified.
[0091]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the camera control system of the present invention, it is possible to quickly and easily specify a desired monitoring target, avoid the overshoot of the camera operation due to the transmission delay peculiar to the system body, and end the camera operation quickly. A camera control system can be provided. Further, the pan head can be rotated at high speed without hindering the operation of the operator. In addition, it is possible to provide a camera control system that can easily search and identify a monitoring target.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a system block diagram of a camera control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a monitor image in the camera control system according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a monitor image displaying a character frame for name of an equipment name.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a monitor video displaying a name character frame for an equipment name.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a photographing range of a monitor video.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a pan / tilt operation through a monitor image.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a pan / tilt operation through a monitor image.
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a pan / tilt operation through a monitor image.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a zoom operation of a lens via a monitor image.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a zoom operation of a lens via a monitor image.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a lens focusing operation via a monitor image;
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Camera
2 pan head
3 Lens control device
4 pan head controller
5 First transmission device
6 Second transmission device
7 Computer
8 storage unit
9 Video input device
10 mice
11 Display

Claims (12)

A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A tilt operation scroll bar for setting a vertical rotation target angle for determining the position of the pan head, a pan operation scroll bar for setting a horizontal rotation target angle, and the camera enabling photographing in the vertical direction. A window for a side view representing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, together with an imaging area of an isosceles triangle with the angle of view as the apex angle and the base of the vertical length of the image at the focal length ; and The angle of view that the camera can shoot in the horizontal direction is the apex angle, and the isosceles triangle shooting range with the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base, and the vicinity of the camera installation location and the monitoring target A display unit for displaying a plan view window representing the plan view;
A selection instructing unit for instructing to move the knob of the scroll bar for tilt operation and / or the knob of the scroll bar for pan operation according to the operation;
During the operation of communicating with the pan head control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit, and instructing a target angle for vertical rotation by moving a knob of a scroll bar for tilt operation of the display unit by the selection instruction unit Then, the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit is moved and displayed according to the operation, and when the target angle is selected and directed , the bottom of the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit is directed to the monitoring target And a pan head control signal for causing the pan head to rotate vertically to a target angle and outputting the pan head control device to the pan head control device. In the middle of the operation of instructing the target angle for horizontal rotation, the shooting range of the plan view window of the display unit is moved and displayed according to the operation, and the target angle is selected The panhead controller universal head control signal for horizontally rotating the target angle the camera platform together with displaying stopped with the bottom towards monitored shooting range for a flat view window of the display unit when it is A control device that outputs to
A camera control system comprising:
The camera platform control apparatus to which the camera platform control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the platform to satisfy a target angle. A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
The angle of view that the camera can shoot in the vertical direction is the apex angle, and the isosceles triangle shooting range with the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base, and the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side of the monitoring target A side view window representing a figure, and an imaging of an isosceles triangle having an imaging angle of view that allows the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction and an apex angle, and a horizontal length of the image at the focal length as a base. A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with the range;
A selection instruction unit for instructing selection of a shooting position of a monitoring target on the side view window of the display unit and / or the plan view window according to an operation;
The pan head controller, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit communicate with each other, and the vertical direction of the pan head is determined based on the photographing position selected and instructed on the side view window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit. A target angle for determining the position is calculated, and the bottom of the photographing range of the side view window of the display unit is displayed in a state facing the monitoring target so as to satisfy the target angle, and the pan head is vertically rotated. A pan head control signal to be output to the pan head control device and / or a horizontal position of the pan head based on a photographing position selected and designated in the plan view window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit calculating a target angle for determining the cloud along with displaying the base of the shooting range for a flat view window of the display unit so as to satisfy the target angle being directed to the monitored A controller for outputting a camera platform control signal to the camera platform control unit for the horizontal pivot,
A camera control system comprising:
The camera platform control apparatus to which the camera platform control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the platform to satisfy a target angle. A camera that outputs a video signal;
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
A video window for displaying a monitor image of the camera by digital video data output from the video input device, a shooting angle of view that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction, and an image at a focal length. A side view window showing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, as well as an isosceles triangular shooting range with the vertical length as the base, and a shooting angle of view that enables the camera to take a picture in the horizontal direction. A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view showing an angle and an imaging area of an isosceles triangle whose base is the horizontal length of the image at the focal length, and a plan view of a monitoring target,
A selection instruction unit for instructing selection of a shooting position of a monitoring target on a monitor image of the video window of the display unit according to an operation;
The camera position communicates with the pan head control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit, and the shooting position is monitored based on the shooting position selected on the monitor image of the video window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit. The vertical and horizontal target angles of the pan head are calculated so as to be the upper center position, and the bottom of the shooting range of the side view window and the horizontal window of the display unit is set so as to satisfy the target angle. A control device for displaying a head toward the monitoring target and outputting a pan head control signal for vertically and horizontally pivoting the pan head to the pan head control device;
A camera control system comprising:
The camera head control apparatus to which the camera head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and vertically rotate the camera platform so as to satisfy a target angle. A camera,
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and / or a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
The angle of view that the camera can shoot in the vertical direction is the apex angle, and the isosceles triangle shooting range with the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base, and the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side of the monitoring target A side view window representing a figure, and an imaging of an isosceles triangle having an imaging angle of view that allows the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction and an apex angle, and a horizontal length of the image at the focal length as a base. A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target together with the range;
A selection instructing unit for instructing selection of one monitoring target from a plurality of monitoring targets on the side view window and / or the plan view window of the display unit according to an operation;
A storage unit which stores in advance target angles associated with a plurality of monitoring targets in the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit and captures each monitoring target;
Communicating with the pan head control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit, respectively, and storing the target angle for the monitoring target that is selected and instructed by the selection instruction unit in the side view window of the display unit A pan head control signal for displaying the bottom of the photographing range of the side view window of the display unit facing the monitoring target and rotating the pan head vertically so as to satisfy the target angle. Output to the table control device and / or read from the storage unit the target angle for the monitoring target selected by the selection instruction unit in the window for plan view of the display unit, and so as to satisfy the target angle the tripod head control signal for horizontally rotating the pan head with display in a state with its base shooting range for a flat view window of the display unit on the monitored clouds A control unit for outputting to the controller,
A camera control system comprising:
The camera platform control apparatus to which the camera platform control signal is input performs control to horizontally and / or vertically rotate the platform to satisfy a target angle. A camera that outputs a video signal;
A camera platform that performs a vertical rotation and a horizontal rotation to determine the shooting position of the camera;
A pan head control device for controlling the position operation of the pan head;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
A video window for displaying a monitor image of the camera by digital video data output from the video input device, a shooting angle of view that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction, and an image at a focal length. A side view window showing the vicinity of the camera installation location and the side view of the monitoring target, as well as an isosceles triangular shooting range with the vertical length as the base, and a shooting angle of view that enables the camera to take a picture in the horizontal direction. A display unit for displaying a window for a plan view showing an angle and an imaging area of an isosceles triangle whose base is the horizontal length of the image at the focal length, and a plan view of a monitoring target,
A selection instructing unit for instructing selection of one monitoring target from a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit according to an operation;
A storage unit that stores in advance target angles that are associated with a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit, and that captures each monitoring target;
A target angle for a monitoring target that communicates with the pan head control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit, and is selected and instructed on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit Is read from the storage unit and displayed with the bottom of the photographing range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit facing the monitoring target so as to satisfy the target angle, and the pan head is rotated vertically And a control device for outputting a pan head control signal for horizontal rotation to the pan head control device,
A camera control system comprising:
The camera head control apparatus to which the camera head control signal is input performs control to horizontally and vertically rotate the camera platform so as to satisfy a target angle. In the camera control system according to claim 4 or 5,
The control device controls the display unit to display the name of the monitoring target when the selection instruction unit instructs to select the monitoring target. In the camera control system according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
A first transmission device for communication and a second transmission device are provided between the pan head control device and the control device,
The camera control system, wherein the control device outputs a pan head control signal to the pan head control device via the first transmission device and the second transmission device. A camera including a lens that performs an operation of determining a focal length and / or a visual field with respect to a monitoring target;
A lens control device for controlling the operation of determining the focal length and / or field of view of the lens of the camera;
A focus operation scroll bar for setting a lens setting value for determining a focal length of the lens, a zoom operation scroll bar for setting a lens setting value for determining the lens field of view, and the camera in a vertical direction The field of view of the camera and the area to be monitored, as well as the shooting range of an isosceles triangle with the vertical angle of view, the isosceles field of view, and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base . A side view window representing a side view, and an imaging angle of view that allows the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction, an apex angle, a field of view is an isosceles side, and a horizontal length of an image at a focal length is a base side A display unit that displays a plan view window that represents the camera installation location and the plan view of the monitoring target, together with the imaging range of the isosceles triangle ;
A selection instructing unit for instructing to move the knob of the scroll bar for focus operation and / or the knob of the scroll bar for zoom operation according to the operation;
The lens control device, the display unit, and the selection instruction unit communicate with each other, and the selection instruction unit moves a focus operation scroll bar knob of the display unit to indicate a focal length. movement is displayed in accordance with the bottom of the shooting range of a side view window and a plan view window on the operation, the bottom of the shooting range of the display unit a window for a side view window and a plan view of when the focal length is selected instruction And a lens control signal for adjusting the focal length of the lens is output to the lens control device, and / or the zoom bar of the display unit is operated by the selection instruction unit. In the middle of the operation of pointing the field of view by moving the knob, the side view window and the plan view window of the display section are displayed. Movement is displayed in accordance with an operation of the isosceles shooting range of the dough, towards the bottom of the imaging range of the side view window and a plan view window of the display unit to be monitored when the field is selected and instructed, and two A control device for displaying a lens control signal for adjusting the field of view of the lens while displaying the same side in a stopped state ; and
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust a focal length and / or a field of view of the lens so as to satisfy a setting value of the lens. A camera equipped with a lens for determining the focal length and field of view of the monitoring target;
A lens control device for controlling the focal length and field of view of the lens of the camera;
Camera installation location along with an isosceles triangular imaging range with the vertical angle of view, the isosceles field of view, and the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base, allowing the camera to shoot in the vertical direction A side view window that represents the vicinity and a side view of the monitoring target, and an image angle of view that allows the camera to shoot in the horizontal direction, an apex angle, a field of view isosceles, and a horizontal image at a focal length A display unit that displays a window for a plan view that represents the vicinity of the camera installation location and a plan view of a monitoring target, together with a shooting range of an isosceles triangle having a base in the direction length ;
A selection instruction unit for instructing selection of a shooting position of a monitoring target on the side view window of the display unit and / or the plan view window according to an operation;
A storage unit that stores in advance a set value of a lens that is associated with a plurality of monitoring targets in the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit and optimally captures each monitoring target;
The lens control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit communicate with each other, and the setting value of the lens for the monitoring target that is instructed by the selection instruction unit in the side view window of the display unit. Read from the storage unit and adjust the lens so that the bottom of the shooting range of the side view window of the display unit is directed to the monitoring target and the isosceles side is stopped so as to satisfy the setting value of the lens A lens control signal to be output to the lens control device and / or reading from the storage unit the setting value of the lens for the monitoring target selected and specified in the plan view window of the display unit by the selection instruction unit the bottom of the imaging range of the display unit a window for a plan view of a so as to satisfy the set value of the lens toward the monitored, and the isosceles A controller for outputting a lens control signal for adjusting the lens causes display to the lens control device in a state in which sealed,
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust the focal length and field of view of the lens so as to satisfy the set value of the lens. A camera that has a lens for determining a focal length and a visual field for a monitoring target, and outputs a video signal;
A lens control device for controlling the focal length and field of view of the lens of the camera;
A video input device for converting a video signal output from the camera into digital video data and outputting the digital video data;
Video window for displaying the monitor image of the camera by the digital video data output from the video input device, the shooting angle of view that enables the camera to shoot in the vertical direction , the field of view is isosceles, A side view window representing a camera installation location and a side view of the monitoring target, as well as an isosceles triangular shooting range with the vertical length of the image at the focal length as the base , and the camera can shoot in the horizontal direction The field of view to be monitored , the isosceles field of view, the isosceles field of view, and the isosceles triangle shooting range with the horizontal length of the image at the focal length as the base, and the plan view of the monitoring target A display unit for displaying a plan view window,
A selection instructing unit for instructing selection of one monitoring target from a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit according to an operation;
A storage unit that stores in advance a set value of a lens that is associated with a plurality of monitoring targets on the monitor video of the video window of the display unit and optimally captures each monitoring target;
The lens control device, the display unit, the selection instruction unit, and the storage unit communicate with each other, and the selection instruction unit selects the lens to be monitored on the monitor image of the video window of the display unit. The setting value is read from the storage unit , and the bottom side of the photographing range of the side view window and the plan view window of the display unit is directed to the monitoring target and the isosceles side is stopped so as to satisfy the setting value of the lens And a control device that outputs a lens control signal for adjusting the lens to the lens control device.
A camera control system comprising:
The lens control device to which the lens control signal is input performs control to adjust the focal length and field of view of the lens so as to satisfy the set value of the lens. In the camera control system according to claim 9 or 10,
The control device controls the display unit to display the name of the monitoring target when the selection instruction unit instructs the selection of the monitoring target. The camera control system according to any one of claims 8 to 11,
A first transmission device for communication and a second transmission device are provided between the lens control device and the control device,
The camera control system, wherein the control device outputs a lens control signal to the lens control device via the first transmission device and the second transmission device.

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