JP4244361B1 - Video correction device, video correction method, and video correction program - Google Patents

Abstract

There is provided a mechanism that can improve visibility by correcting whiteout of an image without confirming whether the image is in a backlight state and without requiring a complicated mechanism.
The device acquires position information, shooting direction information, and time information of a shooting device from a positioning device, specifies solar direction information based on the position information and time information, and sets shooting direction information. And the degree of control indicating the degree of controlling the degree of brightness of the video information based on the azimuth information of the sun. In addition, the present apparatus receives video information from the imaging apparatus and controls the brightness level of the received video information based on the specified degree of control. Then, this apparatus outputs the video information whose brightness is controlled to the display device 32.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a dimming technique that controls the degree of brightness of video information transmitted from a photographing apparatus, and more specifically, predicts whether video information transmitted from a photographing apparatus is in a backlight state. The present invention relates to a video correction apparatus, a video correction method, and a video correction program that enable video to be monitored with good visibility by controlling the degree of brightness before output of video information in a backlight state.

  Conventionally, when a photographing device has photographed a scene or the like under a backlight condition directed in the direction of the light source or in a direction close to the light source, the brightness range that can be reproduced by the photographing device when high luminance light enters the photographing device. The so-called whiteout phenomenon may occur due to the limit of the so-called dynamic range, in which the captured image appears white.

  However, such a phenomenon is reassuring in the case of a function called so-called view navigation in which a navigation image linked with map information is displayed on a display superimposed on a scene image taken from a moving vehicle. -In navigation where safety is required, it is fatal that the image in front of the subject may fly due to backlighting because it may affect the steering operation of the driver's car.

  For this reason, as means for correcting such white-out portions and improving the visibility of the image, for example, image processing for converting the image with enhanced contrast using the characteristics of the luminance distribution histogram, or the sun incident on the photographing device It is known to adjust an aperture that darkens an image by limiting the amount of light. In the adjustment of the aperture, it is determined whether or not the shooting state is a backlight condition using sensors, and based on this determination, the aperture degree of the imaging device is adjusted by the backlight correction device to adjust the degree of brightness. There is also a technique for correcting the degree of backlight by decreasing the number.

In addition, by forming a signal between the camera and monitor device that greatly amplifies the change in the vicinity of the black level of the video signal and saturates and compresses the change in the vicinity of the white level, the contour and shape of the subject can be easily obtained. Means including a backlight correction circuit having an auxiliary amplifier circuit configured to form an image that can be confirmed has been proposed (see Patent Document 1).
In addition, there is also proposed a means that is provided with gradation generation means that changes the amount of light reaching the whole or a part of the image sensor stepwise so as not to be affected by the backlight state (Patent Document 2). reference).
Furthermore, by detecting an image of a specific light source having a luminance of a predetermined value or more from the captured image and using an optimal exposure time for an image excluding the image of the specific light source, the image can be recognized with high accuracy. There has also been proposed a means (see Patent Document 3).

However, all of the above-described conventional techniques deal with after confirming whether or not the video imaged by the imaging device is in the backlight state, and require a complicated mechanism.
Therefore, the current image correction means capable of correcting the whiteout of the image and improving the visibility without confirming whether or not the image is in a backlight state and without requiring a complicated mechanism, However, it has not been proposed.
Japanese Patent No. 3270341 JP 2005-123832 A JP 2007-251258 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and does not require whether a video is in a backlit state, and does not require a complicated mechanism, thereby correcting the whiteout of the video and improving visibility. It aims at providing the mechanism which can improve.

The video correction device of the present invention is a video correction device that controls the brightness level of video information transmitted from a photographing device, and stores positional information, time information, and sun direction information in association with each other. First storage means, second shooting means for storing the shooting direction information, the sun direction information, and the degree of control indicating the degree of control of the brightness level of the video information, and the shooting apparatus. Shooting position information acquisition means for acquiring position information, shooting direction information, and time information, and the first storage means with reference to the first storage means based on the position information and time information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means. Based on the solar orientation specifying means for specifying the orientation information of the camera, the imaging orientation information acquired by the imaging location information acquisition means, and the orientation information of the sun specified by the solar orientation specifying means, the second memory And a video information receiving means for receiving video information from the photographing device, and the video information receiving means based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying means. Video brightness correction means for controlling the brightness level of the received video information, output means for outputting the video information whose brightness level is controlled by the video brightness correction means, and shooting point information acquisition means The position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information acquired in the above, the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying means with reference to the first storage means, and the control degree specifying means the second storage means. A fifth storage means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to each other, and an input of a response of suitability for the degree of brightness of the video information controlled by the video brightness correction means If the response accepted by the control suitability response acquisition means and the control suitability response acquisition means is appropriate, the position information, the shooting orientation information, and the time information acquired by the shooting spot information acquisition means, and the sun Based on the azimuth information of the sun specified by the azimuth specifying unit with reference to the first storage unit, the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit with reference to the second storage unit is associated with the fifth degree. When the response received by the control degree history learning means and the control suitability response acquisition means stored in the storage means is not appropriate, the position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means On the basis of the solar azimuth information specified with reference to the first storage means by the sun azimuth specifying means with reference to the fifth storage means to specify the degree of control. Control degree correction means for transmitting control to the image brightness correction means .

  The video correction apparatus according to the present invention also includes third storage means for storing position information and road map information including building information in association with each other, and the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means. Based on the surrounding environment specifying means for specifying building information existing in the surroundings with reference to the third storage means, the building information specified by the surrounding environment specifying means, and the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying means Based on the above, the shadow area calculation means for calculating the area where the shadow of the building occurs (hereinafter referred to as “shadow area”), the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means, and the shadow area calculation means Shooting position environment determination means for determining whether or not the position information enters the shadow area based on the calculated shadow area, and the image brightness correction means is configured to specify the degree of control. And wherein the control level identified in stage, on the basis of said photographing position environment determined in the imaging position environment judgment unit may be configured to control the degree of brightness of the image information received by the video information receiving unit.

  The video correction device of the present invention is connected to a weather information providing device that provides weather information via a communication network, and associates the weather information with a control fitness indicating the degree to which the control is applied. 4th memory | storage means to memorize | store, the weather information acquisition means which acquires weather information from the said weather information provision apparatus based on the said positional information acquired by the said imaging | photography point information acquisition means, and the weather information acquired by the said weather information acquisition means And a control fitness specifying means for specifying the control fitness with reference to the fourth storage means, and the video brightness correcting means, the control degree specified by the control degree specifying means, The degree of brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving means may be controlled based on the control fitness specified by the control fitness specifying means.

  The video correction device of the present invention is further connected to an illumination device that emits light in the shooting direction, and the video brightness correction unit receives the video information reception based on the control degree specified by the control degree specification unit. It is determined whether or not the brightness level of the video information received by the means can be controlled. If the brightness level of the video information cannot be controlled, the lighting device is instructed to emit light. A light emission instruction information transmitting unit that transmits the light emission instruction information may be further provided.

Further, the image correction method of the present invention includes first storage means for storing position information, time information, and sun azimuth information in association with each other, photographing azimuth information, sun azimuth information, and video information. And a second storage means for storing the degree of control indicating the degree of brightness control in association with each other, and an image for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information transmitted from the imaging device by the video correction device A correction method comprising: a first step of acquiring position information, shooting direction information, and time information of the photographing device from the photographing device to the video correcting device; and Based on the position information and the time information, the second step of specifying the azimuth information of the sun with reference to the first storage means, and the video correction device, the acquired in the first step Based on the shadow direction information and the sun direction information specified in the second step, the third step of specifying the degree of control with reference to the second storage means; A fourth step of receiving information; and a fifth step of controlling a brightness level of the video information received in the fourth step based on the degree of control specified in the third step in the video correction device. And a sixth step of outputting the video information whose brightness level is controlled in the fifth step , wherein the video correction device acquires the position information, shooting direction information, and time information acquired in the first step. And the azimuth information of the sun specified with reference to the first storage means in the second step and the control degree specified with reference to the second storage means in the third step. A fifth storage means for storing the information in association with each other; step δ1 that receives an input of a response of suitability for the brightness level of the video information controlled in the fifth step; and the video correction device that receives an input in step δ1. If the response is suitable, based on the position information acquired in the first step, the shooting direction information, and the time information, and the sun direction information specified by referring to the first storage means in the second step The step δ2 that stores the degree of control specified with reference to the second storage means in the third step and stores them in the fifth storage means, and the response received in the step δ1 in the video correction device is suitable. If not, the position information acquired in the first step, the shooting direction information, and the time information, and the second step Based on the azimuth information of the sun specified with reference to the storage means, the control degree is specified with reference to the fifth storage means, and the video information received in the fourth step is specified based on the specified control degree. And a step δ3 for controlling the degree of brightness .

  In the image correction method of the present invention, the image correction apparatus further includes third storage means for storing the position information and the road map information including the building information in association with each other, in the first step. Based on the acquired position information, referring to the third storage means, the step α1 for identifying building information existing around the building, the building information identified in the step α1 in the video correction device, and the second step Step α2 for calculating a region where the shadow of the building is generated (hereinafter referred to as “shadow region”) based on the azimuth information of the sun specified in Step 2, and the position acquired in the first step in the video correction device A step α3 for determining whether or not the position information enters the shadow region based on the information and the shadow region calculated in the step α2, The fifth step controls the brightness level of the video information received in the fourth step based on the degree of control specified in the third step and the shooting position environment determined in the step α3. It is good as a thing.

  In the video correction method of the present invention, the video correction device is connected to a weather information providing device that provides weather information via a communication network, and the control fitness indicating the degree to which the weather information and the control degree are adapted. And a fourth storage means for storing the information in association with each other, the step β1 for obtaining weather information from the weather information providing device based on the position information obtained in the first step, and the video correction device, And a step β2 of specifying a control fitness with reference to the fourth storage means based on the weather information acquired in the step β1, and the fifth step includes the control degree specified in the third step. And the degree of brightness of the video information received in the fourth step may be controlled based on the control fitness specified in the step β2. .

In the video correction method of the present invention, the video correction device is further connected to an illumination device that emits light in the shooting direction, and the fifth step is based on the control degree specified in the third step. Step γ1 for determining whether or not the degree of brightness of the video information received in the fourth step can be controlled;
The video correction device further includes a step γ2 of transmitting light emission instruction information for instructing the illumination device to emit light when the brightness level of the video information is not controlled in the step γ1. It is also good.

In addition, the video correction program of the present invention includes a first storage unit that stores position information, time information, and sun azimuth information in association with each other, photographing azimuth information, sun azimuth information, and video information. Refer to the second storage means for storing the degree of control indicating the degree of brightness control in association with each other, the position information of the photographing apparatus, the photographing direction information, the time information, and the first storage means. And fifth storage means for storing the specified sun direction information and the control degree specified with reference to the second storage means in association with each other, and the brightness of the video information transmitted from the imaging device In order to execute the degree of control, the computer is configured to acquire the position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information of the shooting apparatus, based on the acquired position information and the time information. Means for identifying sun direction information with reference to means, means for identifying a degree of control with reference to the second storage means based on the acquired shooting direction information and the identified sun direction information, the shooting Means for receiving video information from the apparatus, means for controlling the degree of brightness of the received video information based on the specified degree of control, means for outputting the video information for which the degree of brightness has been controlled, the controlled Means for accepting input of appropriateness response to brightness level of video information, and when said received response is suitable, refer to position information, photographing direction information, time information of said photographing device, and said first storage means And means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to the second storage means in association with each other on the basis of the azimuth information of the sun specified in the fifth storage means, and the received response is If not, control is performed with reference to the fifth storage means based on the position information, the shooting orientation information, and the time information of the imaging apparatus, and the azimuth information of the sun specified with reference to the first storage means. And a function for controlling the brightness level of the video information based on the specified control level .

  The video correction program of the present invention further comprises third storage means for storing the positional information and the road map information including the building information in association with each other, and the computer is based on the positional information, Based on the means for identifying building information existing in the vicinity with reference to the third storage means, the identified building information, and the direction information of the sun (hereinafter referred to as “shadow area”) Based on the position information and the calculated shadow area, a means for determining whether or not the position information enters the shadow area, the control degree, and the determined degree Based on the shooting position environment, it may be further functioned as a means for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information.

  The video correction program of the present invention is connected to a weather information providing device that provides weather information via a communication network, and associates the weather information with a control fitness indicating the degree to which the control is applied. Fourth storage means for storing, the computer based on the position information, means for acquiring weather information from the weather information providing device, and based on the acquired weather information, referring to the fourth storage means It may be further functioned as means for specifying control fitness, and means for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information based on the control degree and the specified control fitness.

  The video correction program of the present invention is further connected to an illumination device that emits light in the shooting direction, and the computer can control the degree of brightness of the video information based on the control degree. If the degree of brightness of the video information cannot be controlled, it may be further functioned as means for transmitting light emission instruction information for instructing the lighting device to emit light.

The video correction device of the present invention acquires position information, shooting direction information, and time information of a shooting device, specifies sun direction information based on the position information and time information, and also includes shooting direction information and sun direction information. The control degree indicating the degree of controlling the degree of brightness of the video information is specified based on the above. Therefore, it is possible to predict whether or not the video information transmitted from the imaging device is in a backlight state, and to control and output the brightness level of the video information received from the imaging device based on the specified degree of control. .
Therefore, it is possible to provide a mechanism capable of correcting the whiteout of the video and improving the visibility without checking whether the video is in a backlight state or not and without requiring a complicated mechanism. .

Hereinafter, an example of a video correction device, a video correction method, and a video correction program according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
A video correction device (hereinafter referred to as “the present device”) 10 according to the present invention is a device for controlling the degree of brightness of video information transmitted from the photographing device 30. As shown in FIG. Shooting point information consisting of position information, shooting direction information, and time information transmitted from 31 is acquired. Further, the present apparatus 10 predicts, before receiving the video information, whether or not the video information transmitted from the imaging device 30 is in a backlight state based on the shooting point information, and before outputting the video information to be in the backlight state. Then, the video information is output to the display device 32 with high visibility by performing correction for controlling the brightness level of the video information.

The device 10 is a device connected to the weather information providing device 40 via the communication network NW, and controls the brightness level of the video information in consideration of the weather information acquired from the weather information providing device 40. By performing the correction, the video information is also output to the display device 32 with high visibility.
Further, the device 10 is a device that is further connected to the lighting device 50. When the brightness level of the video information cannot be controlled, the device 10 instructs the lighting device 50 to emit light, thereby obtaining the video information. It is also what outputs with respect to the display apparatus 32 with sufficient visibility.

  The imaging device 30 is a means for performing processing for generating video information, and refers to a camera that generates and outputs video information obtained by an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) via a lens. The photographing device 30 is an in-vehicle camera that photographs an outdoor scene mounted on a vehicle and traveling. Then, the imaging device 30 transmits the captured (generated) video information to the present device 10.

  The positioning device 31 is a device that acquires information such as the current position, the shooting direction, and the shooting time of the shooting device 30. Further, the present apparatus 10 and the positioning apparatus 31 are connected via a communication line such as a satellite communication network.

  The current position is measured by, for example, a GPS sensor, the shooting direction is measured by a gyro sensor or an acceleration sensor, and the shooting time is acquired from an atomic clock mounted on a GPS satellite. A GPS sensor is a so-called GPS receiver, receives a GPS signal radiated from a GPS satellite, measures a distance (pseudo distance) between the GPS satellite and the GPS receiver itself, and receives a plurality of satellites. Are simultaneously received to calculate the current position (GPS positioning solution) of the GPS receiver itself. This current position is constituted by latitude and longitude, for example. Note that the present invention does not prevent the acquisition of each information such as the current position, shooting direction, and shooting time via the input device.

  The display device 32 is a display (monitor) that outputs and displays so that video information captured by the imaging device 30 can be monitored.

  The weather information providing device 40 is a device that provides weather information that can be used to estimate a rough light amount of sunlight such as sunny, cloudy, and rainy. The device 10 and the weather information providing device 40 are connected as a communication network NW via a computer communication network such as the Internet.

  The illumination device 50 is a device that emits light in the shooting direction. Therefore, if the imaging device 30 is a vehicle-mounted camera, the illumination device 50 can be a vehicle headlight.

Next, the configuration of the apparatus 10 will be described.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the apparatus 10.
As shown in FIG. 2, the present apparatus 10 includes a solar orientation information table (TB), a control degree information table (TB), a shooting point information acquisition unit 11, a solar orientation specification unit 12, and a control degree specification unit 13. A video information receiving unit 14, a video brightness correction unit 15, and an output unit 16. The apparatus 10 may further include a map information database (DB), an ambient environment specifying unit 17, a shadow region calculating unit 18, and a shooting position environment determining unit 19. In addition, the device 10 may further include a weather information table (TB), a weather information acquisition unit 20, and a control fitness level specifying unit 21. In addition, the apparatus 10 may further include a light emission instruction information transmission unit 22. Furthermore, the present apparatus 10 may further include a learning information database (DB), a control propriety response acquisition unit 23, a control degree history learning unit 24, and a control degree correction unit 25. Reference numeral 26 in the figure is a bus for transmitting control signals, data, and the like in the apparatus 10.

The apparatus 10 may be an information processing apparatus and is realized by, for example, a personal computer. Although not shown, the apparatus 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a program storage unit, an input device such as a key button, an output device such as a display, an OS (Operating System), and the like.
The CPU is means for controlling and controlling each component of the apparatus 10 and executing program processing according to the computer program stored in the program storage unit. The program storage unit is constituted by a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), or the like, and is a means for storing various computer programs used by the apparatus 10.

The sun direction information TB is a means for storing the position information, the time information, and the sun direction information in association with each other. Here, the position information is composed of, for example, latitude and longitude information. The time information includes not only the hour / minute / second but also the year / month / day. The direction information of the sun refers to information specifying the direction in which the sun is located at a specific time, the incident direction and the height (angle) of sunlight, with reference to the position information.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the sun direction information TB.
For example, the sun direction information table shown in FIG. 3 indicates that the position information, time information, and sun direction information are associated with each other.

The control degree information TB is means for storing the shooting direction information, the sun direction information, and the control degree indicating the degree of control of the brightness level of the video information in association with each other. Here, the shooting direction information refers to information for specifying which direction is shot, the shooting direction and the height (angle) based on the position information. The degree of control refers to the adaptability of a so-called backlight filter that controls the degree of brightness of video information, and can be reproduced by the photographing device 30 with the amount of sunlight incident on the photographing device 30 during photographing. It is specified based on the brightness range (dynamic range).
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the control degree information TB.
For example, the control degree information table shown in FIG. 4 indicates that the shooting direction information, the sun direction information, and the control degree are associated with each other.

The map information DB is means for storing location information and road map information including building information in association with each other. Here, the position information is composed of, for example, latitude and longitude information. The building information includes information for specifying the size such as the height and width of the building.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the map information DB.
For example, the map information database shown in FIG. 5 indicates that the database is configured with position information (latitude, longitude) as an index and road map information as one record.

The weather information TB is a means for storing the weather information and the control fitness indicating the degree of adaptation of the control in association with each other. Here, the weather information refers to a predicted state of the atmosphere at a specific time or a certain period in a specific place such as sunny, cloudy, and rainy. The control fitness refers to the degree to which the brightness of the image is controlled in accordance with the amount of sunlight that changes depending on the weather.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the weather information TB.
For example, the weather information table shown in FIG. 6 indicates that the weather information is associated with the control fitness.

The learning information DB includes the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11, shooting direction information, and time information, the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12, and the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 21. Are stored in association with each other.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in the learning information DB.
For example, the learning information database shown in FIG. 7 indicates that the database is configured with position information as an index, shooting direction information, time information, sun direction information, and control degree as one record.

  The shooting point information acquisition unit 11 performs processing for acquiring position information, shooting direction information, and time information of the shooting device 30. This shooting direction information includes information on the shooting direction and height (angle), which direction is taken based on the position information, and also considers the case where the shooting height (angle) is changed due to the road gradient. Has been. The imaging point information acquisition unit 11 transmits the acquired position information and time information to the solar orientation specifying unit 12 and transmits the acquired imaging orientation information to the control degree specifying unit 13. The shooting point information acquisition unit 11 has a function of transmitting the acquired position information to the surrounding environment identification unit 17, the shooting position environment determination unit 19, the weather information acquisition unit 20, and the control degree history learning unit 24.

  The solar azimuth specifying unit 12 performs processing for specifying the azimuth information of the sun with reference to the solar azimuth information TB based on the position information and time information acquired by the imaging point information acquisition unit 11. The sun direction specifying unit 12 transmits the specified sun direction information to the control degree specifying unit 13. In addition, the sun direction specifying unit 12 has a function of transmitting the specified sun direction information to the shadow region calculating unit 18.

  The control degree specifying unit 13 specifies the control degree with reference to the control degree information TB based on the shooting direction information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12. Process. The control degree specifying unit 13 transmits information on the specified control degree to the video brightness correction unit 15.

  The video information receiving unit 14 performs processing for receiving video information from the imaging device 30.

  The video brightness correction unit 15 performs a process of controlling the brightness level of the video information received by the video information receiving unit 14 based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 13. The control of the brightness level is performed by a backlight correction filter in which the brightness of the region corresponding to the portion for adjusting the brightness changes. The video brightness correction unit 15 transmits video information in which the degree of brightness is controlled to the output unit 16. In addition, the video brightness correction unit 15 transmits the control result of the brightness level of the video information based on the control degree to the light emission instruction information transmission unit 22.

  The video brightness correction unit 15 also determines the brightness of the video information received by the video information reception unit 14 based on the control degree specified by the control degree specification unit 13 and the shooting position environment determined by the shooting position environment determination unit 19. It has a function to control the degree of thickness. Here, the brightness level of the video information is controlled, for example, when the shooting point based on the position information enters the shadow area, the brightness level of the video information is not controlled. When it does not enter the area, the brightness level of the video information is controlled.

  The video brightness correction unit 15 also determines the brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving unit 14 based on the control level specified by the control level specifying unit 13 and the control fitness level specified by the control fitness level specifying unit 21. It has a function to control the degree.

  The output unit 16 performs processing for outputting the video information whose brightness level is controlled by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display device 32.

  The surrounding environment specifying unit 17 performs processing for specifying building information existing in the surroundings with reference to the map information DB based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11. The surrounding environment identification unit 17 transmits the identified building information to the shadow area calculation unit 18.

  The shadow area calculation unit 18 is an area in which a shadow of a building occurs (hereinafter referred to as “shadow area”) based on the building information specified by the surrounding environment specifying unit 17 and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12. ) Is calculated. The shadow area calculation unit 18 transmits the calculated shadow area information to the imaging position environment determination unit 19.

  Based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 and the shadow area calculated by the shadow area calculation unit 18, the shooting position environment determination unit 19 determines whether or not this position information enters the shadow area. Processing to determine is performed.

  The weather information acquisition unit 20 performs a process of acquiring weather information from the weather information providing device 40 based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. The weather information acquisition unit 20 transmits the acquired weather information to the control fitness level specifying unit 21.

  Based on the weather information acquired by the weather information acquiring unit 20, the control fitness specifying unit 21 performs a process of specifying the control fitness with reference to the weather information TB.

  The light emission instruction information transmission unit 22 cannot control the brightness level of the video information received by the video information reception unit 14 based on the control degree specified by the control degree specification unit 13 by the video brightness correction unit 15. In this case, a process of transmitting light emission instruction information for instructing the lighting device 50 to emit light is performed.

  The control suitability response acquisition unit 23 performs a process of receiving an input of a suitability response to the brightness level of the video information controlled by the video brightness correction unit 15. The control suitability response acquisition unit 23 transmits the received response result to the control degree history learning unit 24 or the control degree correction unit 25.

  When the response received by the control suitability response acquisition unit 23 is appropriate, the control degree history learning unit 24 acquires the position information, shooting direction information, and time information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11, and the sun direction specifying unit 12. The degree of control specified by the degree-of-control specifying unit 13 is associated with each other and stored in the learning information DB based on the direction information of the sun specified in step (b).

  When the response received by the control propriety response acquisition unit 23 is not appropriate, the control degree correction unit 25 uses the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11, shooting direction information, and time information, and the sun direction specifying unit 12. Based on the specified sun direction information, the control information is specified with reference to the learning information DB, and the specified control degree is transmitted to the video brightness correction unit 15.

  The control unit includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and controls and controls each component of the apparatus 10 according to a program stored in the program storage unit, and executes a program process.

<First Embodiment>
Next, an example of a basic operation of the apparatus 10 that performs the above-described video correction method will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the video correction process in the apparatus 10. In the present embodiment, an in-vehicle camera mounted on a vehicle is used as an imaging device 30, and a scene outside the vehicle in the traveling direction is imaged by the in-vehicle camera 30. Then, when it is predicted that the captured video is in a backlight state in the device 10, after processing for controlling the brightness level of the captured video is output to the display, which is the display device 32 included in the view navigation device. An example of display will be described. Therefore, the present apparatus 10 is mounted on the vehicle together with the photographing apparatus 30.

First, the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the position information and time information of the shooting device 30 from the GPS which is the positioning device 31 as shooting point information, and the traveling direction, that is, the in-vehicle camera 30 takes a shot from the acceleration sensor of the vehicle. It is determined whether or not the shooting direction information to be acquired has been acquired (S11).
As a result, when the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the shooting point information (Y), the solar direction is continuously determined based on the position information and time information acquired by the sun direction specifying unit 12 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. The sun direction information is specified with reference to the information TB (S12).
On the other hand, when the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 has not acquired shooting spot information (N), the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 repeats the determination of whether or not the shooting spot information has been acquired (S11).

  Next, the control degree specifying unit 13 refers to the control degree information TB based on the shooting direction information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11 and the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying unit 12 to obtain the control degree. Specify (S13).

Subsequently, it is determined whether the video information receiving unit 14 has received video information from the imaging device 30 (S14).
As a result, when the video information receiving unit 14 receives the video information (Y), the video brightness correcting unit 15 receives the video information based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 13. A process for controlling (correcting) the brightness level of the video information is performed (S15).
On the other hand, when the video information receiving unit 14 has not received the video information (N), the video information receiving unit 14 repeatedly determines whether the video information has been received (S14).

Then, the output unit 16 outputs the video information whose brightness is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display 32 (S16).
Thereby, a series of operation | movement with this apparatus 10 is complete | finished.
Note that a series of these processes is executed by the control control in the control unit.

As described above, in the present embodiment, by specifying the position of the sun and the shooting direction, it is predicted whether or not the video information transmitted from the shooting device is in a backlight state, and based on this prediction, the video information The control degree that controls the degree of brightness is specified. Then, the degree of brightness of the video information received from the photographing apparatus is controlled based on the specified degree of control and output.
Therefore, it is possible to improve visibility by correcting the whiteout of the image without checking whether the image captured by the image capturing device is in a backlight state or not and without requiring a complicated mechanism. Become. In addition, the apparatus can be developed and provided at a low cost without requiring a complicated mechanism.

<Second Embodiment>
Further, according to the present invention, not only the position based on the azimuth information of the sun but also the surrounding environment in which the vehicle travels can be taken into account, and the degree of brightness of the video information can be accurately controlled. That is, this embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above in that it includes means for specifying the surrounding environment and controlling the degree of brightness of the video information based on the surrounding environment.
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the apparatus 10 that implements the video correction method according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the video correction process in the apparatus 10. In other embodiments described below, the description will focus on parts that are different from the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. Unless otherwise specified, the same components are assumed to be the same.

First, the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the position information and time information of the shooting device 30 from the GPS which is the positioning device 31 as shooting point information, and the traveling direction, that is, the in-vehicle camera 30 takes a shot from the acceleration sensor of the vehicle. It is determined whether or not the shooting direction information to be acquired has been acquired (S21).
As a result, when the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the shooting point information (Y), the solar direction is continuously determined based on the position information and time information acquired by the sun direction specifying unit 12 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. The sun direction information is specified with reference to the information TB (S22).
On the other hand, when the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 has not acquired shooting spot information (N), the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 repeats the determination of whether or not the shooting spot information has been acquired (S21).
The processing so far is the same as in the first embodiment described above.

Next, the surrounding environment specifying unit 17 specifies size information such as the height and width of buildings existing in the surroundings with reference to the map information DB based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11 (S23). .
Subsequently, based on the building information specified by the surrounding environment specifying unit 17 and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12, the shadow region calculating unit 18 generates a shadow of the building (hereinafter, “shadow region”). Is calculated) (S24).
Further, based on the position information and shooting direction information acquired by the shooting position environment determination unit 19 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 and the shadow region calculated by the shadow region calculation unit 18, the shooting point of the shooting device 30 is a shadow region. Whether or not to enter the shooting position environment is determined (S25).

As a result, when the shooting position environment determination unit 19 determines that the shooting point of the shooting device 30 does not fall within the shadow area (Y), the shooting direction information acquired by the control point identification unit 13 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 Based on the azimuth information of the sun specified by the solar azimuth specifying unit 12, the control degree is specified with reference to the control degree information TB (S26).
On the other hand, when the shooting position / environment determination unit 19 determines that the shooting point of the shooting device 30 falls within the shadow area (N), this apparatus does not perform the process of controlling (correcting) the brightness level of the video information. The series of operations at 10 is finished (end) as it is.

Subsequently, the video information receiving unit 14 determines whether or not video information has been received from the imaging device 30 (S27).
As a result, when the video information receiving unit 14 receives the video information (Y), the video brightness correcting unit 15 receives the video information based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 13. A process for controlling (correcting) the brightness level of the video information is performed (S28).
On the other hand, when the video information receiving unit 14 has not received the video information (N), the video information receiving unit 14 repeatedly determines whether the video information has been received (S27).

Then, the output unit 16 outputs the video information whose brightness level is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display 32 (S29).
Thereby, a series of operation | movement with this apparatus 10 is complete | finished.
Note that a series of these processes is executed by the control control in the control unit.

As described above, in the present embodiment, by specifying the position of the sun and the environment (shadow region) around the shooting point, it is predicted whether the video information transmitted from the shooting device is in a backlight state, It is possible to determine whether or not to control the brightness level of the video information by determining whether or not the shooting point enters the shadow area.
Therefore, the accuracy of the control of the brightness level of the video information based on the control degree based only on the prediction of the backlight condition is improved, and the control of the brightness level of the video information is appropriately considered in consideration of the surrounding environment where the vehicle travels. Can be performed.

<Third Embodiment>
In the present invention, the brightness level of the video information is accurately controlled in consideration of not only the position based on the sun direction information and the surrounding environment in which the vehicle travels but also the weather information of the region in which the vehicle travels. You can also That is, this embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in that it includes means for acquiring weather information and controlling the degree of brightness of video information based on the weather information.
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the present apparatus 10 that implements the video correction method according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the video correction process in the apparatus 10.

First, the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the position information and time information of the shooting device 30 from the GPS which is the positioning device 31 as shooting point information, and the traveling direction, that is, the in-vehicle camera 30 takes a shot from the acceleration sensor of the vehicle. It is determined whether or not the shooting direction information to be acquired has been acquired (S31).
As a result, when the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the shooting point information (Y), the solar direction is continuously determined based on the position information and time information acquired by the sun direction specifying unit 12 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. The sun direction information is specified by referring to the information TB (S32).
On the other hand, when the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 has not acquired shooting spot information (N), the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 repeats the determination of whether or not the shooting spot information has been acquired (S31).

Next, the surrounding environment specifying unit 17 specifies size information such as the height and width of buildings existing in the surroundings with reference to the map information DB based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11 (S33). .
Subsequently, based on the building information specified by the surrounding environment specifying unit 17 and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12, the shadow region calculating unit 18 generates a shadow of the building (hereinafter, “shadow region”). Is calculated (S34).
Further, based on the position information and shooting direction information acquired by the shooting position environment determination unit 19 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 and the shadow region calculated by the shadow region calculation unit 18, the shooting point of the shooting device 30 is a shadow region. It is determined whether or not the shooting position environment is entered (S35).
The processing so far is the same as in the second embodiment described above.

As a result, when the shooting position environment determination unit 19 determines that the shooting point of the shooting device 30 does not enter the shadow region (Y), the weather information acquisition unit 20 adds the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 to the position information. Based on the weather information providing device 40, the weather information is acquired (S36).
On the other hand, when the shooting position / environment determination unit 19 determines that the shooting point of the shooting device 30 falls within the shadow area (N), this apparatus does not perform the process of controlling (correcting) the brightness level of the video information. The series of operations at 10 is finished (end) as it is.

Subsequently, the control fitness level identifying unit 21 identifies the control fitness level with reference to the weather information TB based on the weather information acquired by the weather information acquisition unit 20 (S37).
Furthermore, the control degree specifying unit 13 refers to the control degree information TB based on the shooting direction information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11 and the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying unit 12 to obtain the control degree. Specify (S38).

Subsequently, it is determined whether the video information receiving unit 14 has received video information from the imaging device 30 (S39).
As a result, when the video information receiving unit 14 receives the video information (Y), the video brightness correcting unit 15 further specifies the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 13 and the control fitness specifying part 21. Based on the control adaptability, processing for controlling (correcting) the degree of brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving unit 14 is performed (S40).
On the other hand, when the video information receiving unit 14 has not received the video information (N), the video information receiving unit 14 repeatedly determines whether or not the video information has been received (S39).

Then, the output unit 16 outputs video information whose brightness is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display 32 (S41).
Thereby, a series of operation | movement with this apparatus 10 is complete | finished.
Note that a series of these processes is executed by the control control in the control unit.

As described above, in the present embodiment, by specifying the position of the sun and the weather at the shooting point, it is predicted whether or not the video information transmitted from the shooting device is in a backlight state, and the weather condition at the shooting point is also determined. By determining, it is possible to determine whether or not to control the brightness level of the video information.
Therefore, the accuracy of control of the degree of brightness of the video information by the degree of control based only on the prediction of the backlight state or the degree of control taking into account the surrounding environment is further improved, and the vehicle controls the degree of brightness of the video information. It is possible to appropriately carry out in consideration of the weather information of the traveling area (shooting point).

<Fourth embodiment>
Further, in the present invention, it is possible to cope with the case where the brightness level of the video information cannot be appropriately controlled. That is, this embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in that the headlight which is the illumination device 50 that emits light in the photographing direction is provided with means for instructing light emission.
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the apparatus 10 that performs the video correction method according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the video correction process in the apparatus 10.

First, the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the position information and time information of the shooting device 30 from the GPS which is the positioning device 31 as shooting point information, and the traveling direction, that is, the in-vehicle camera 30 takes a shot from the acceleration sensor of the vehicle. It is determined whether or not the shooting direction information to be acquired has been acquired (S51).
As a result, when the shooting point information acquisition unit 11 acquires the shooting point information (Y), the solar direction is continuously determined based on the position information and time information acquired by the sun direction specifying unit 12 by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. The sun direction information is specified with reference to the information TB (S52).
On the other hand, when the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 has not acquired shooting spot information (N), the shooting spot information acquisition unit 11 repeats the determination of whether or not the shooting spot information has been acquired (S51).

Next, the control degree specifying unit 13 refers to the control degree information TB based on the shooting direction information acquired by the shooting point information acquiring unit 11 and the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying unit 12 to obtain the control degree. Specify (S53).
The processing so far is the same as in the first embodiment described above.

Subsequently, the light emission instruction information transmitting unit 22 controls the brightness level of the video information received by the video information receiving unit 14 in the video brightness correcting unit 15 based on the control level specified by the control level specifying unit 13. Is determined (whether brightness control is impossible) (S54).
As a result, when the light emission instruction information transmitting unit 22 determines that the brightness cannot be controlled (Y), the light emission instruction information transmitting unit 22 further instructs the vehicle headlight 50 to emit light. Information is transmitted (S55). As a result, the headlight 50 emits light to adjust the exposure, and the video brightness correction unit 15 can control the degree of brightness of the video information.

Next, after the light emission instruction information transmission unit 22 transmits the light emission instruction information to the headlight 50, and when the light emission instruction information transmission unit 22 determines that the brightness can be controlled (N), the video information The receiving unit 14 determines whether video information is received from the imaging device 30 (S56).
As a result, when the video information receiving unit 14 receives the video information (Y), the video brightness correcting unit 15 receives the video information based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit 13. A process for controlling (correcting) the brightness level of the video information is performed (S57).
On the other hand, when the video information receiving unit 14 has not received the video information (N), the video information receiving unit 14 repeatedly determines whether or not the video information has been received (S56).

Then, the output unit 16 outputs the video information whose brightness is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correcting unit 15 to the display 32 (S58).
Thereby, a series of operation | movement with this apparatus 10 is complete | finished.
Note that a series of these processes is executed by the control control in the control unit.

As described above, in the present embodiment, it is possible to control the brightness level of video information by confirming whether the brightness level of video information can be controlled in the video brightness correction unit. Even if it is not possible, it is possible to appropriately cope with the problem by causing the headlight to emit light in the shooting direction.
Accordingly, it is possible to reliably and widely perform control of the brightness level of the video information based on the control level based on the prediction of the backlight state.

<Fifth embodiment>
Furthermore, in the present invention, a learning history for controlling the degree of brightness of video information performed in the past is acquired, and the brightness level of video information is controlled efficiently and optimally based on this learning history. You can also do it. That is, this embodiment acquires and stores the control information of the brightness level of the video information performed in the past, and the brightness level of the video information based on the control information. The difference is that a means for performing the control is provided.
Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the apparatus 10 that performs the image correction method according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating another example of the video correction process in the apparatus 10.

First, the processing in each embodiment described above is performed until the output unit 16 outputs the video information whose brightness level is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display 32 (S61). It is the same.
Next, the control suitability response acquisition unit 23 receives an input of a suitability response to the light amount of the video information controlled by the video brightness correction unit 15, and determines whether the received response has a suitable degree of brightness of the video information. (S62).
As a result, when the control suitability response acquisition unit 23 receives a response in which the degree of brightness of the video information is appropriate (N), the control degree history learning unit 24 continues to acquire the shooting point information acquisition unit 11. Based on the position information, the shooting direction information, the time information, and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying unit 12, the control degrees specified by the control degree specifying unit 13 are associated with each other and stored in the learning information DB (S65). ).
Thereby, a series of operation | movement with this apparatus 10 is complete | finished.
Note that a series of these processes is executed by the control control in the control unit.

On the other hand, when the control propriety response acquisition unit 23 receives a response in which the degree of brightness of the video information is not appropriate (Y), the control propriety response acquisition unit 23 acquires the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit 11, Based on the shooting azimuth information and time information and the sun azimuth information specified by the sun azimuth specifying unit 12, the past appropriate control degree is specified with reference to the learning information DB. The specified degree of control is transmitted to the video brightness correction unit 15 (S63).
Then, the video brightness correction unit 15 performs a process of controlling (correcting) the degree of brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving unit 14 based on the degree of control (S64).

  After that, similarly to the processing in each of the embodiments described above, the output unit 16 outputs the video information whose brightness level is controlled (corrected) by the video brightness correction unit 15 to the display 32. .

As described above, in the present embodiment, by acquiring the learning history of the control of the degree of brightness of the video information performed in the past, the control of the degree of brightness of the video information is performed based on the result of the learning history. Correction can be performed.
Therefore, it is possible to efficiently and optimally control the degree of brightness of video information based on the degree of control based on the prediction of the backlight state.

  In any of the above-described embodiments, when the vehicle-mounted camera 30 captures a scene outside the vehicle in the traveling direction and it is predicted that the captured image is in a backlight state, a process for controlling the brightness level of the captured image is performed. After that, the case where output / display is performed on the display, which is the display device 32 included in the view navigation device, has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to images such as broadcasts and movies. It is.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention is industrially useful in an industry that deals with a backlight correction system that improves visibility by correcting whiteout of a captured image, and particularly displays navigation in cooperation with an electronic map superimposed on the image. It is also useful in the market for electrical appliances such as view navigation devices.

It is a figure which shows the outline | summary of the video correction system using the video correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a block block diagram which shows an example of embodiment of the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is an example of the table structure memorize | stored in the solar orientation information storage part with which the video correction device concerning the present invention is provided. It is an example of the table structure memorize | stored in the control degree information storage part with which the video correction apparatus which concerns on this invention is provided. It is an example of the database structure memorize | stored in the map information storage part with which the video correction apparatus which concerns on this invention is provided. It is an example of the table structure memorize | stored in the weather information storage part with which the video correction apparatus which concerns on this invention is provided. It is an example of the database structure memorize | stored in the learning information storage part with which the video correction apparatus which concerns on this invention is provided. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the image correction process in the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the image correction process in the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the image correction process in the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the image correction process in the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows another example of the image correction process in the image correction apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image correction apparatus (this apparatus), 30 imaging | photography apparatus (camera), 31 positioning apparatus (GPS), 32 display apparatus (display), 40 weather information provision apparatus, 50 illumination apparatus (light).

Claims (12)

A video correction device that controls the degree of brightness of video information transmitted from a photographing device,
First storage means for storing position information, time information, and sun direction information in association with each other;
Second storage means for storing the shooting direction information, the sun direction information, and the degree of control indicating the degree of control of the brightness level of the video information in association with each other;
Shooting point information acquisition means for acquiring position information, shooting direction information, and time information of the shooting device;
Based on the position information and the time information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means, a solar direction specifying means for specifying solar direction information with reference to the first storage means;
A control degree specifying means for specifying a control degree with reference to the second storage means based on the shooting direction information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means and the sun direction information specified by the sun direction specifying means; ,
Video information receiving means for receiving video information from the imaging device;
Video brightness correction means for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving means based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying means;
Output means for outputting the video information in which the degree of brightness is controlled by the video brightness correction means;
The position information, shooting direction information, and time information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit, the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying unit with reference to the first storage unit, and the control degree specifying unit Fifth control means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to the second storage means in association with each other;
Control propriety response acquisition means for receiving an input of a propriety response to the brightness level of the video information controlled by the video brightness correction means;
If the response received by the control suitability response acquisition unit is appropriate, the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit, the shooting direction information, the time information, and the sun direction specifying unit are stored in the first memory. Control degree history in which the degree of control specified by the control degree specifying means with reference to the second storage means is associated with each other and stored in the fifth storage means based on the azimuth information of the sun specified with reference to the means Learning means,
When the response received by the control suitability response acquisition unit is not appropriate, the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition unit, the shooting direction information, the time information, and the sun direction specifying unit are stored in the first memory. Control degree correction for specifying a control degree with reference to the fifth storage means based on the sun direction information specified with reference to the means and transmitting the specified control degree to the image brightness correction means Means,
An image correction apparatus comprising: Third storage means for storing location information and road map information including building information in association with each other;
Based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means, the surrounding environment specifying means for specifying building information existing around with reference to the third storage means;
Based on the building information specified by the surrounding environment specifying unit and the sun direction information specified by the solar direction specifying unit, a shadow region for calculating a region where the shadow of the building is generated (hereinafter referred to as “shadow region”). A calculation means;
A shooting position environment for determining whether or not the position information enters the shadow area based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means and the shadow area calculated by the shadow area calculation means. A determination means;
Further comprising
The video brightness correction unit is configured to control the video information received by the video information receiving unit based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying unit and the shooting position environment determined by the shooting position environment determining unit. Control the degree of brightness,
The image correction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Connected with a weather information providing device that provides weather information via a communication network,
Fourth storage means for storing weather information and control fitness indicating the degree to which the control is applied, in association with each other;
Weather information acquisition means for acquiring weather information from the weather information providing device based on the position information acquired by the shooting point information acquisition means;
Control fitness identifying means for identifying control fitness with reference to the fourth storage means based on the weather information obtained by the weather information obtaining means;
Further comprising
The video brightness correction means is based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying means and the control fitness specified by the control fitness specifying means, and the brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving means. Control the degree of thickness,
The video correction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the video correction apparatus is a video correction apparatus. It is further connected to a lighting device that emits light in the shooting direction,
Determining whether the video brightness correction means can control the degree of brightness of the video information received by the video information receiving means based on the control degree specified by the control degree specifying means; If the degree of brightness of the video information cannot be controlled, light emission instruction information transmitting means for transmitting light emission instruction information for instructing the lighting device to emit light,
The video correction apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: The first storage means for storing the positional information, the time information, and the sun azimuth information in association with each other, the shooting azimuth information, the sun azimuth information, and the degree of brightness control of the video information are indicated. And a second storage means for storing the degree of control in association with each other, and a video correction method for controlling the degree of brightness of video information transmitted from the imaging device by the video correction device,
A first step of acquiring position information, shooting direction information, and time information of the shooting device from the shooting device to the video correction device;
In the image correction device, based on the position information and the time information acquired in the first step, a second step of specifying sun direction information with reference to the first storage unit;
In the video correction device, a control degree is specified with reference to the second storage unit based on the shooting direction information acquired in the first step and the sun direction information specified in the second step. Steps,
A fourth step of receiving video information from the photographing device in the video correction device;
A fifth step of controlling a brightness degree of the video information received in the fourth step based on the control degree specified in the third step in the video correction device;
A sixth step of outputting the video information in which the degree of brightness is controlled in the fifth step ,
The image correction device includes the position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information acquired in the first step, the sun direction information specified by referring to the first storage unit in the second step, and the third step. A fifth storage means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to the second storage means in the step in association with each other;
A step δ1 for receiving an input of a response of suitability for the brightness level of the video information controlled in the fifth step;
In the video correction apparatus, when the response received in the step δ1 is appropriate, the position information, shooting direction information, and time information acquired in the first step, and the first storage means in the second step are referred to. Step δ2 for storing the degree of control specified in the third step with reference to the second storage unit in association with each other on the basis of the specified azimuth information of the sun and storing the degree of control in the fifth storage unit;
In the video correction device, if the response received in step δ1 is not suitable, the position information acquired in the first step, the shooting direction information, and the time information, and the first memory in the second step. Based on the azimuth information of the sun specified with reference to the means, the control degree is specified with reference to the fifth storage means, and the brightness of the video information received in the fourth step is determined based on the specified control degree. A video correction method , further comprising: a step δ3 for controlling the degree of roughness . The video correction device further includes third storage means for storing the position information and the road map information including the building information in association with each other,
Based on the position information acquired in the first step, referring to the third storage means to identify building information existing around, α1,
In the image correction apparatus, an area where the shadow of the building occurs (hereinafter referred to as a “shadow area”) is calculated based on the building information specified in step α1 and the sun direction information specified in the second step. Step α2,
In the video correction device, a step of determining a shooting position environment based on the position information acquired in the first step and the shadow area calculated in the step α2 whether or not the position information enters the shadow area. α3,
Further including
The fifth step controls the degree of brightness of the video information received in the fourth step based on the control degree specified in the third step and the photographing position environment determined in the step α3. ,
The video correction method according to claim 5 , wherein: The video correction apparatus is connected to a weather information providing apparatus that provides weather information via a communication network, and stores weather information and a control fitness indicating a degree to which the control is applied in association with each other. A storage means,
Step β1 for acquiring weather information from the weather information providing device based on the position information acquired in the first step;
In the video correction device, based on the weather information acquired in the step β1, a step β2 for specifying a control fitness with reference to the fourth storage unit;
Further including
The fifth step controls the degree of brightness of the video information received in the fourth step based on the control degree specified in the third step and the control fitness specified in the step β2.
The video correction method according to claim 5 or 6 , The video correction device is further connected to a lighting device that emits light in the shooting direction,
In the fifth step, based on the degree of control specified in the third step, a step γ1 for determining whether or not the brightness level of the video information received in the fourth step can be controlled;
In the video correction device, when the brightness level of the video information is not controlled in the step γ1, the step γ2 of transmitting light emission instruction information for instructing the lighting device to emit light;
The video correction method according to claim 5 , further comprising: The first storage means for storing the positional information, the time information, and the sun azimuth information in association with each other, the shooting azimuth information, the sun azimuth information, and the degree of brightness control of the video information are indicated. Second storage means for storing the degree of control in association with each other , position information of the photographing apparatus, photographing azimuth information, and time information, sun direction information specified with reference to the first storage means, Fifth control means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to the second storage means in association with each other, and controlling the degree of brightness of the video information transmitted from the photographing apparatus Computer for
Means for acquiring position information of the photographing apparatus, photographing direction information, and time information;
Means for identifying the azimuth information of the sun with reference to the first storage means based on the acquired position information and time information;
Means for specifying a degree of control with reference to the second storage means based on the acquired shooting direction information and the specified sun direction information;
Means for receiving video information from the imaging device;
Means for controlling the degree of brightness of the received video information based on the specified degree of control;
Means for outputting the video information in which the degree of brightness is controlled;
Means for receiving an input of a response of suitability with respect to the brightness level of the controlled video information;
When the received response is suitable, the second storage unit is based on the position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information of the shooting device, and the sun direction information specified with reference to the first storage unit. Means for storing the degree of control specified with reference to each other in the fifth storage means,
If the received response is not suitable, the fifth storage means based on the position information, the shooting direction information, and the time information of the shooting apparatus, and the sun direction information specified with reference to the first storage means Means for controlling a brightness degree of the video information based on the specified control degree,
A video correction program characterized by functioning as A third storage means for storing the location information and the road map information including the building information in association with each other;
The computer,
Means for identifying building information existing in the surroundings with reference to the third storage means based on the position information;
Means for calculating a region where a shadow of the building occurs (hereinafter referred to as a “shadow region”) based on the identified building information and the sun direction information;
Means for determining a shooting position environment based on the position information and the calculated shadow area, whether or not the position information enters the shadow area;
Means for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information based on the degree of control and the determined shooting position environment;
The video correction program according to claim 9 , further functioning as: A fourth storage means connected to a weather information providing apparatus for providing weather information via a communication network, and storing the weather information and a control fitness indicating the degree of adaptation of the control in association with each other; ,
The computer,
Means for obtaining weather information from the weather information providing device based on the position information;
Means for specifying control fitness with reference to the fourth storage means based on the acquired weather information;
Means for controlling the degree of brightness of the video information based on the control degree and the specified control fitness;
The video correction program according to claim 9 or 10 , further functioning as: It is further connected to a lighting device that emits light in the shooting direction,
The computer,
Based on the degree of control, it is determined whether or not the brightness level of the video information can be controlled, and if the brightness level of the video information cannot be controlled, the lighting device emits light. Means for transmitting light emission instruction information to instruct;
The video correction program according to claim 9 , further functioning as:

Images