JP2008306443A - Camera device, controller, camera control system, camera control method, program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a camera device for notifying a user of the fact that already registered preset information is not valid anymore when the posture of a camera part is changed due to the change of an installation place or the like. <P>SOLUTION: The detected result of a posture detection circuit 107 is stored as an initial posture state (hanging installation or floor installation) (S1). A present posture state is detected (S2). The initial posture state and the present posture state are compared, and whether or not it is changed from the hanging installation to the floor installation or vice versa is discriminated (S3). When the posture state is changed, an image processing part 105 is instructed to perform image inverting processing in the vertical direction so that the top and the bottom of the image output from a network interface 108 may become normal (S4). The present posture state is stored as the initial posture state (S5). In an image processing part 105, a message notifying that preset data are not valid anymore is superimposed on the image input from an imaging part 102 (S8). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a camera device, a control device, a camera control system, a camera control method, a program, and a storage medium that capture an image.

  In recent years, in cameras for surveillance applications such as network cameras and security cameras, in addition to the purpose of maintenance and surveillance, the application has expanded to the field of usage that aims to allow the surveillance person to check the video at any time. .

  The surveillance camera and the monitoring camera include a pan / tilt camera in which a camera unit is controlled by a motor in order to operate the selection of an imaging target from a remote place. A technique is known in which a specific position (monitoring position) within a range that can be photographed by this camera is stored as preset information, and a photographing position can be easily selected by selecting the stored preset information (Patent Document). 1).

  Regarding the camera installation, the camera is mounted on a camera pedestal or the like (hereinafter referred to as “floor installation”), and the camera is suspended from the ceiling and the floor installation is reversed (hereinafter referred to as “heavenly”). There are two installation methods described as “hanging installation”.

  In the case of surveillance applications, the camera installation method is often suspended from the ceiling because of the advantage that there are few shields in order to monitor people and the need to grasp the entire monitored object from above. On the other hand, in the case of monitoring applications, there is a requirement to monitor or record images at any time, but there are those that can be installed both on the ceiling and on the floor because of the expense of having to perform installation work at the installation location. It has been demanded.

In the case of a camera that requires both of these installation methods, a function for outputting the image upside down depending on the installation method is installed in order to view the correct image on the ceiling whether it is floor-mounted or ceiling-mounted. In the case of a camera that can be both floor-mounted and ceiling-mounted, the installation direction can be detected using a gyro mechanism or the like. Depending on the detection result of the installation direction, it is possible to invert the output video and to automatically change the pan / tilt drive control parameters upside down.
JP 2001-268423 A

  However, the conventional camera device has the following problems. That is, the monitoring position (preset information) designated in advance by the user is within the range (movable range) that can be driven after the installation position is changed due to the limitation of the drive mechanism that drives the camera unit when the installation position is inverted up and down There was a risk of detachment. Even when the installation location is simply shifted, the position designated by the preset and the actual position (coordinates) of the monitoring target are shifted. In such a case, the camera unit cannot be moved to the designated position, and the shooting position after the movement is not the position intended by the user.

  The present invention relates to a camera device, a control device, and a camera control system that can notify a user that registered preset information is no longer valid when the orientation of the camera unit is changed due to a change in installation location or the like. It is another object of the present invention to provide a camera control method. Another object of the present invention is to provide a program and a storage medium therefor.

  In order to achieve the above object, a camera apparatus of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and an external Communication means for communicating with a device, receiving a control signal from the external device via the communication means, and in accordance with the received control signal, the control means controls the driving means, It has been detected that preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. A superimposing unit that superimposes information relating to the preset data on a video output via the communication unit.

  The camera apparatus according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and a communication unit that communicates with an external device. A camera device that receives a control signal from the external device via the communication unit, and the control unit controls the driving unit according to the received control signal, and presets an imaging position of the imaging unit Preset storage means stored as data, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and storage contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed And an invalidating means for invalidating.

  The control apparatus according to the present invention includes: an imaging unit that captures an image; a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position; a control unit that controls the driving unit; and an imaging position of the imaging unit Preset storage means for storing as communication means and communication means for performing communication, and in accordance with a control signal received via the communication means, the control means transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving means. A control device for controlling the camera device, the display means for displaying the video output via the communication means, the posture change detection means for detecting that the posture of the imaging means has been changed, and the imaging And display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected that the attitude of the means has been changed.

  The control device of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and a communication unit that performs communication. In accordance with a control signal received via the communication means, the control means transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving means to control the camera device. Preset storage means for storing position as preset data, display means for displaying video output via the communication means, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and the imaging And display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected that the attitude of the means has been changed.

  The control device of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and a communication unit that performs communication. In accordance with a control signal received via the communication means, the control means transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving means to control the camera device. Preset storage means for storing the position as preset data, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and when the change of the attitude of the imaging means is detected, the preset storage means And an invalidating means for invalidating the stored contents.

  The camera control system of the present invention includes: an imaging unit that captures an image; a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position; a control unit that controls the driving unit; and an imaging position of the imaging unit Preset storage means for storing as data, display means for displaying video captured by the imaging means, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and attitude of the imaging means being changed And a display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected.

  The camera control system of the present invention includes: an imaging unit that captures an image; a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position; a control unit that controls the driving unit; and an imaging position of the imaging unit Preset storage means stored as data, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and storage contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed And an invalidating means for invalidating.

  The camera control method of the present invention includes an imaging step in which an imaging unit captures an image, a driving step in which a driving unit drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, and a control step in which the control unit controls the driving unit. A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging unit in the preset storage unit as preset data, a display step in which the display unit displays the video imaged by the imaging unit, and a posture change detection unit of the imaging unit. A posture change detecting step for detecting that the posture of the image has been changed, and a display control step for causing the display means to display information on the preset data when the display control means detects that the posture of the imaging means has been changed. It is characterized by having.

  The camera control method of the present invention includes an imaging step in which an imaging unit captures an image, a driving step in which a driving unit drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, and a control step in which the control unit controls the driving unit. A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging unit in the preset storage unit as preset data, an attitude change detection step in which the attitude change detection unit detects that the attitude of the imaging unit has been changed, and invalidation And a disabling step of invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when the means detects that the attitude of the imaging means is changed.

  The program according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and an imaging position of the imaging unit as preset data. Preset storage means for storing, display means for displaying video captured by the imaging means, attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and attitude of the imaging means have been changed A program for causing a computer to execute a camera control method of a camera control system comprising display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when the camera control method is detected. An imaging step in which the imaging unit captures an image, and a drive in which the driving unit drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position A control step in which the control means controls the driving means; a preset storage step in which the imaging position of the imaging means is stored as preset data in the preset storage means; and the display means is photographed by the imaging means. A display step for displaying the captured image, a posture change detection step for detecting that the posture change detection means has changed the posture of the imaging means, and a display control means for changing the posture of the imaging means. And a display control step for displaying information on the preset data on the display means.

  The program according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, a driving unit that drives the imaging unit to change an imaging position, a control unit that controls the driving unit, and an imaging position of the imaging unit as preset data. The preset storage means for storing, the attitude change detecting means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed, and the contents stored in the preset storage means are invalidated when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. A program for causing a computer to execute a camera control method of a camera control system including a disabling unit for enabling an image capturing step in which the image capturing unit captures an image, and the drive unit to A driving step for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position; a control step for controlling the driving means by the control means; A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data in a preset storage means; an attitude change detection step in which the attitude change detection means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed; And an invalidating step of invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when the invalidating means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed.

  According to the camera device of the first aspect of the present invention, when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging unit is changed, the information related to the preset data is superimposed on the video output through the communication unit. Therefore, when the orientation of the camera unit (imaging means) is changed due to a change in the installation location or the like, the user can be notified that the information regarding the registered preset data is no longer valid. As a result, it can be recognized that an operation for redesignation occurs.

  According to the camera device of the second aspect, it is possible to notify that the information regarding the preset data is no longer valid when the installation position in the vertical direction is changed.

  According to the camera device of the third aspect, the information about the preset data can be notified only when the installation position is changed upside down and the coordinate value of the imaging position is out of the movable range.

  According to the camera device of the fourth aspect, the user can recognize that the stored contents of the preset storage means have been invalidated, and can start setting preset data again as necessary.

  According to the camera device of the fifth aspect, the user can recognize that the stored content of the preset storage unit is no longer valid, and can invalidate the preset data setting again as necessary.

  According to the camera device of the sixth aspect, the setting of the preset data can be invalidated when the installation position in the vertical direction is changed.

  According to the camera device of the seventh aspect, the setting of the preset data can be invalidated again only when the installation position in the vertical direction is changed and the coordinate value of the imaging position is out of the movable range.

  According to the control device of the eighth aspect, when the posture of the imaging unit is changed, it is possible to notify the user that the information regarding the registered preset data is no longer valid. As a result, it can be recognized that an operation for redesignation occurs.

  According to the control device of the ninth aspect, the user can recognize that the stored contents of the preset storage means in the control device are no longer valid, and start setting the preset data again as necessary. be able to.

  According to the control device of the tenth aspect, it is possible to notify that the information regarding the preset data is no longer valid when the installation position in the vertical direction is changed.

  According to the control device of the eleventh aspect, information about the preset data can be notified only when the installation position is changed upside down and the coordinate value of the imaging position is out of the movable range.

  According to the control device of the twelfth aspect, when the posture of the camera unit (imaging unit) is changed, the stored contents of the preset storage unit can be invalidated.

  According to the control device of the thirteenth aspect, the user can invalidate the stored contents of the preset storage unit as necessary.

  According to the control device of the fourteenth aspect, the setting of the preset data can be invalidated when the installation position in the vertical direction is changed.

  According to the control device of the fifteenth aspect, only when the installation position is changed upside down and the coordinate value of the imaging position is outside the movable range, the user invalidates the stored contents of the preset storage unit as necessary. The preset data setting can be started again.

  Embodiments of a camera device, a control device, a camera control system, a camera control method, a program, and a storage medium according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The camera device of this embodiment is applied to a network camera system.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the network camera system in the first embodiment. The network camera system includes a network camera 1, a control device 2 that controls the network camera 1 and displays an image, and a network 3. In the present embodiment, the network camera 1 can be installed in a ceiling installation (reverse installation) or a floor installation (normal installation), and is a control that is an external device via the network 3 that is a wired network or a wireless network. The device 2 is connected. A dedicated line may be used instead of the network.

  The network camera 1 includes a CPU 101, an imaging unit 102, a housing 103, a driving unit 104, an image processing unit 105, a preset memory 106, an attitude detection circuit 107, and a network I / F 108. The CPU 101 performs various controls of the network camera 1. The CPU 101 has an internal timer 101a. The imaging unit 102 includes a lens, a CCD, and the like. The housing 103 covers the imaging unit 102. The drive unit 104 causes the housing 103 to perform a pan / tilt operation by a motor mechanism.

  The image processing unit 105 converts the video output from the imaging unit 102 into digital image data and performs processing. The image processing unit 105 can also generate character data and image data in accordance with instructions from the CPU 101 and superimpose them on the digital image data.

  In the preset memory 106, the pan / tilt coordinate position where the housing 103 is operated by the drive unit 104 is stored as preset data. The attitude detection circuit 107 detects whether the installation state is a ceiling installation (reverse position installation) or a floor installation (normal position installation). The network interface 108 communicates captured image data and control signals with the control device 2.

  The control device 2 controls the network camera 1 and includes a CPU 109, a network interface 110, an image processing unit 111, a display unit 112, and an operation unit 113. The CPU 109 performs various controls of the control device 2. The network interface 110 is connected to the network camera 1 via the network 3 and communicates with the network camera 1. The image processing unit 111 generates character data and image data in accordance with processing of image data received via the network interface 110 and instructions from the CPU 109. The display unit 112 displays the image data output from the image processing unit 111. The operation unit 113 inputs an operation from the user.

  The operation of the network camera system having the above configuration will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 101 and is executed by the CPU 101 at the time of activation. First, the CPU 101 stores the detection result of the posture detection circuit 107 as an initial posture state (ceiling installation or floor installation) in a memory inside the CPU (step S1). Subsequently, the CPU 101 detects the current posture state using the posture detection circuit 107 (step S2).

  The CPU 101 compares the initial posture state stored in step S1 with the current posture state, and determines whether or not the posture state is changed from the ceiling installation to the floor installation or from the floor installation to the ceiling installation. (Step S3). When the posture state is changed, the CPU 101 instructs the image processing unit 105 to perform the image reversal process in the vertical direction so that the top and bottom of the image output from the network interface 108 is normal (step S4). ). Note that the determination result that the current posture state is detected using the posture detection circuit 107 in step S2 and the posture state is changed in step S3 corresponds to posture change detection means.

  The CPU 101 clears the initial posture state stored in step S1, and stores the current posture state detected in step S2 as the initial posture state (step S5). The CPU 101 resets the internal timer 101a (step S6). The internal timer 101a is activated at the start of this process, and the internal timer 101a is set as an initial value for a time longer than a predetermined time described later.

  After the process of step S6 or when the posture state has not been changed in step S3, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the value of the internal timer 101a exceeds a specified time set in advance in the CPU 101 (step S7). ). When the value of the internal timer 101a does not exceed the specified time, the CPU 101 superimposes a message on the image input from the imaging unit 102 by the image processing unit 105 (step S8). The content of the message notifies that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is no longer valid because the installation of the network camera 1 has been changed upside down. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9.

  On the other hand, if the value of the internal timer 101a exceeds the specified time in step S7, the CPU 101 does not superimpose a message on the image. Therefore, the message is superimposed on the image only within the specified time after the posture change is detected in step S103. The For example, when the specified time is set to 1 minute, the message is superimposed only for 1 minute after the network camera 1 is installed upside down. The CPU 101 outputs the image data finally processed by the image processing unit 105 to the network 3 via the network interface 108 (step S9). Thereafter, the CPU 101 returns to the process of step S2.

  The control device 2 processes the image data received from the network camera 1 via the network interface 110 by the image processing unit 111 and then displays the image data on the display unit 112.

  As described above, in the network camera system of the first embodiment, the image data on which the above-described message is superimposed is received for a specified time after the top and bottom of the network camera 1 is installed. Accordingly, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is no longer valid, and can start setting the preset data again as necessary.

[Second Embodiment]
In the network camera system of the second embodiment, a preset memory is provided on the control device side, which is an external device, as compared to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the network camera system in the second embodiment. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. The network camera 4 is not provided with a preset memory, and instead, the control device 5 is provided with a preset memory 114. Other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 4. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 101 of the network camera 4 and is executed by the CPU 101 at the time of activation. First, the CPU 101 stores the detection result of the posture detection circuit 107 in an internal memory as an initial posture state (ceiling installation or floor installation) (step S21). Subsequently, the CPU 101 detects the current posture state using the posture detection circuit 107 (step S22).

  The CPU 101 compares the initial posture state stored in step S21 with the current posture state, and determines whether or not the posture state is changed from the ceiling installation to the floor installation or from the floor installation to the ceiling installation. (Step S23). When the posture state is changed, the CPU 101 instructs the image processing unit 105 to perform the image inversion processing in the vertical direction so that the top and bottom of the image output from the network interface 108 is normal (step S24). ).

  The CPU 101 clears the initial posture state stored in step S21, and stores the current posture state detected in step S22 as the initial posture state (step S25). CPU101 transmits the signal which notifies that the attitude | position state was changed with respect to the control apparatus 2 via the network interface 108 (step S26).

  After the process of step S26 or when the posture state has not been changed in step S23, the CPU 101 outputs the image data finally processed by the image processing unit 105 to the network 3 via the network interface 108 (step S23). S27). Thereafter, the process returns to step S22.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 5. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 109 of the control device 5 and is executed by the CPU 109 at startup. First, the CPU 109 determines whether image data has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 110 (step S31). When the image data is received, the CPU 109 processes the received image data by the image processing unit 111 and then displays it on the display unit 112 (step S32). On the other hand, if the image data has not been received, the CPU 109 proceeds to the process of step S33 as it is.

  The CPU 109 determines whether or not a posture state change notification has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 3 (step S33). When the posture state change notification is received, the CPU 109 instructs the image processing unit 111 to display a message on the display unit 112 (step S34). The image processing unit 111 displays a message on the display unit 112 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 109. The content of the message notifies that the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 is no longer valid because the installation of the network camera 4 has been changed upside down. Note that the process in which the image processing unit 111 displays a message on the display unit 112 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 109 in step S34 corresponds to a display control unit. Thereafter, the CPU 109 returns to the process of step S31. On the other hand, if the CPU 109 has not received the posture state change notification, the CPU 109 directly returns to the process of step S31.

  According to the network camera system of the second embodiment, when the network camera 4 is installed upside down, the control device 5 displays a message on the display unit 112 by receiving a posture state change notification from the network camera 4. It can be performed. Therefore, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 is no longer valid, and can start setting the preset data again as necessary.

[Third Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system of the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1 in the third embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 101 of the network camera 1 and is executed by the CPU 101 at startup. About the same step process as the said 1st Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same step number.

  If the CPU 101 detects that the posture state has been changed in step S3, the CPU 101 stores the current posture state as the initial posture state in step S5, and then stores the coordinate data of the preset data stored in the preset memory 106. Invert (step S5A).

  Here, the coordinates of the preset will be described. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing preset coordinates. A frame 201 in FIG. 5A is a frame indicating a range (movable range) in which the network camera 1 can be panned and tilted in the case of floor-mounted installation. Further, the position that is the origin of each of the pan position and tilt position of the network camera 1 is defined as a center position (0, 0).

  The network camera 1 of the present embodiment can pan from +180 degrees to −180 degrees with the right direction as a plus from the center position described above, and can tilt from +90 degrees to −25 degrees with the upward direction as a plus. It shall be. In FIG. 4A, in the case of floor-standing installation, two preset data (coordinate data) are stored in the preset memory 106. In preset 1, coordinates of 160 degrees in the right direction and 70 degrees in the upward direction are registered, and in preset 2, coordinates of 130 degrees in the left direction and 18 degrees in the downward direction are registered.

  On the other hand, the frame 202 in FIG. 5B is changed so that the network camera 1 in FIG. 4A is suspended from the ceiling so that the subject at the center position when installed on the floor matches the center position when installed on the ceiling. This is a frame showing a range (movable range) in which shooting is possible by pan / tilt operation when adjusted to. In addition, the dashed-dotted line in a figure shows the frame in the case of floor-standing installation for a comparison. Since the installation was changed from the floor installation to the ceiling installation, the right direction and the upward direction are negative coordinates. For this reason, in FIG. 5B, the preset 1 located at the upper right in FIG. 10A is located at the lower left, and the preset 2 located at the lower left in FIG.

  That is, after changing to the ceiling installation, the preset coordinates that match the subject positions of preset 1 and preset 2 are preset 1a and preset 2a, respectively, and the horizontal and vertical coordinates of preset 1 and preset 2 are forward and backward, respectively. The coordinates are reversed.

  As described above, when the upside down direction is installed, in order to make the preset position coincide with the subject position, it is necessary to invert the coordinates of the existing preset data. For this reason, when it is detected that the posture state has been changed, the coordinate data of the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is inverted in the process of step S5A. Note that the process of reversing the coordinate values of the preset data in the forward and reverse directions corresponds to coordinate value reversing means.

  Thereafter, the CPU 101 determines whether the coordinates of the preset data obtained by inverting the coordinate data are within the movable range of the pan operation and the tilt operation of the network camera 1 (step S5B). Since the coordinates of the preset 2 are the coordinates (+130, +80) of the preset 2a after conversion, they are within the frame 202 of the movable range. On the other hand, the coordinates of the preset 1 are the coordinates (−160, −70) of the preset 1 a after conversion, and thus deviate from the movable range frame 202.

  If the preset coordinates outside the movable range of the network camera 1 are detected in step S5B, the CPU 101 resets the internal timer 101a of the CPU 101 in step S6. The subsequent operation is the same as that of the first embodiment. The message is superimposed on the image only within a specified time after the posture change is detected in step S3 and at least one preset coordinate outside the movable range is detected in step S5B. On the other hand, if all the preset coordinates within the movable range of the network camera 1 are detected in step S5B, the process proceeds to step S7 as it is.

  On the other hand, the control device 2 displays an image on which the message is superimposed. Thereby, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is no longer valid, and can start setting the preset data again as necessary.

  According to the network camera system of the third embodiment, the message is displayed only when the installation of the network camera 1 is changed upside down and at least one preset coordinate is outside the movable range of the panning and tilting operations of the network camera. Can be announced.

  Note that the content of the message may indicate only preset coordinates that are no longer valid among a plurality of preset coordinates, and in this case, the user can reset only the preset data.

  The network camera system of the present embodiment is configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, but is configured in the same network camera system as in the second embodiment in which a preset memory is provided on the control device side. The same processing is possible.

[Fourth Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1 in the fourth embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 101 of the network camera 1 and is executed by the CPU 101 at startup. About the same step process as the said 1st Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same step number.

  If the CPU 101 detects that the posture state has been changed in step S3, the CPU 101 resets the internal timer 101a of the CPU 101 in step S6, and then initializes the preset data recorded in the preset memory 106 (step S6A). ).

  In step S7, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the value of the internal timer 101a exceeds a preset specified time. If the value of the internal timer 101a does not exceed the specified time, the image processing unit 105 A message is superimposed on the input image (step S8A). The contents of this message notify that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 has been initialized because the installation of the network camera 1 has been changed upside down.

  If the internal timer value exceeds the specified time in step S7, the CPU 101 does not superimpose a message on the image. That is, the message is superimposed on the image only within the specified time after the posture change is detected in step S3. For example, when the specified time is set to 1 minute, the message is superimposed only for 1 minute after the preset memory 106 of the network camera 1 is initialized.

  On the other hand, the control device 2 displays the image data received via the network interface 110 on the display unit 112 after the image processing unit 111 processes the image data. The control device 2 receives the image data on which the above-described message is superimposed for a specified time after the preset memory 106 of the network camera 1 is initialized.

  According to the network camera system of the fourth embodiment, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory has been initialized, and starts setting the preset data again as necessary. be able to.

[Fifth Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1 in the fifth embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 101 of the network camera 1 and is executed by the CPU 101 at startup. About the same step process as the said 1st Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same step number.

  First, the CPU 101 stores the detection result of the posture detection circuit 107 as an initial posture state (ceiling installation or floor installation) in a memory inside the CPU (step S1). Subsequently, the CPU 101 detects the current posture state using the posture detection circuit 107 (step S2).

  The CPU 101 compares the initial posture state stored in step S1 with the current posture state, and determines whether or not the posture state has been changed from the ceiling installation to the floor installation or from the floor installation to the ceiling installation. (Step S3). When the posture state is changed, the CPU 101 instructs the image processing unit 105 to perform the image reversal process in the vertical direction so that the top and bottom of the image output from the network interface 108 is normal (step S4). ).

  The CPU 101 clears the initial posture state stored in step S1, and stores the current posture state detected in step S2 as the initial posture state (step S5). The CPU 101 resets the internal timer 101a of the CPU 101 (step S6). The internal timer 101a is activated at the start of this process, and the internal timer 101a is set as an initial value for a time longer than a predetermined time described later. Furthermore, the CPU 101 sets an internal flag indicating that a change in posture state has been detected (step S6B).

  After the process of step S6B or when the posture state is not changed in step S3, the CPU 101 determines whether or not an internal flag is set (step S6C). If the internal flag is not set, the CPU 101 outputs the image data finally processed by the image processing unit 105 to the network 3 via the network interface 108 (step S9A). Thereafter, the CPU 101 returns to the process of step S2.

  On the other hand, when the internal flag is set in step S6C, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the value of the internal timer 101a exceeds a specified time set in advance in the CPU 101 (step S7). When the value of the internal timer 101a exceeds the specified time, the CPU 101 resets the internal flag (step S7A). The CPU 101 outputs the image data finally processed by the image processing unit 105 in step S9A to the network 3 via the network interface 108. When the internal flag is reset in step S7A, the process proceeds from the process in step S6C to the process in step S9A, so that the message is superimposed on the image only for a specified time at most after the detection of the posture state change. For example, when the specified time is set to 1 minute, the message is superimposed only for 1 minute after the network camera 1 is installed upside down.

  On the other hand, if the value of the internal timer 101a does not exceed the specified time in step S7, the CPU 101 superimposes a message on the image input from the imaging unit 102 by the image processing unit 105 (step S8). The CPU 101 outputs the image data finally processed by the image processing unit 105 to the network via the network interface 108 (step S9B). The content of this message inquires the user whether or not to initialize the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 because the installation of the network camera has been changed upside down.

  After outputting the image on which the message is superimposed in step S9B, the CPU 101 determines whether or not an acceptance control signal indicating permission for initialization is received from the control device 2 (step S10). . If not received, the CPU 101 returns to the process of step S2. On the other hand, if the acceptance control signal indicating that the initialization is permitted is received, the CPU 101 resets the internal flag (step S11) and then initializes the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 (step S11). S12). Thereafter, the CPU 101 returns to the process of step S2.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 2. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 109 of the control device 2, and is executed by the CPU 109 at startup.

  First, the CPU 109 determines whether image data has been received from the network interface 110 (step S31). If received, the CPU 109 processes the received image data with the image processing unit 111, and then displays it on the display unit 112 (step S32). On the other hand, if no image data has been received in step S31, the CPU 109 proceeds directly to the process in step S32A.

  The CPU 109 determines whether or not an acceptance operation has been performed by the operation unit 113 from the user (step S32A). If the acceptance operation has been performed, the CPU 109 transmits an acceptance control signal to the network camera 1 (step S32B). Thereafter, the CPU 109 returns to the process of step S31. On the other hand, when the acceptance operation is not performed in step S32A, the CPU 109 returns to the process of step S31 as it is.

  In the network camera system of the fifth embodiment, when the top and bottom of the network camera 1 are installed upside down, a message is superimposed on the image output from the network camera 1. The control device 2 displays the message on the display unit 112. In response to the message, the user performs an acceptance operation using the operation unit 113. Thus, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is no longer valid, and can initialize the preset data setting again as necessary.

[Sixth Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system in the sixth embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1 in the sixth embodiment. The same step numbers are assigned to the same step processes as those in the first, third, and fifth embodiments, and the description thereof is omitted. The operation of the control device 2 in the sixth embodiment is the same as the operation of the control device in the fifth embodiment.

  If the CPU 109 detects that the posture state has been changed in step S3, the CPU 109 stores the current posture state as the initial posture state in step S5, and then stores the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 in step S5A. Invert the coordinate data.

  The CPU 109 determines whether or not the coordinate data inverted in step S5B is within the movable range, and when a preset coordinate outside the movable range is detected, described in the fifth embodiment after step S6. Process. On the other hand, when the preset coordinates within the movable range are detected, the process proceeds to step S6C.

  As described above, in the network camera system of the sixth embodiment, the message is displayed only when the installation of the network camera 1 is changed to the upside down and the preset coordinates are out of the movement range of the panning and tilting operations of the network camera. Can be notified. In addition, the user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 106 is no longer valid, and can initialize the preset data setting again as necessary.

[Seventh Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system in the seventh embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment. The operation of the network camera 4 is the same as that shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 in the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 5 according to the seventh embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 109 of the control device 5 and is executed by the CPU 109 at startup.

  First, the CPU 109 determines whether image data has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 110 (step S31). When the image data is received, the CPU 109 processes the received image data by the image processing unit 111 and then displays it on the display unit 112 (step S32). On the other hand, if the image data has not been received, the CPU 109 proceeds to the process of step S33 as it is.

  The CPU 109 determines whether or not a posture state change notification has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 3 (step S33). When the posture state change notification is received, the CPU 109 instructs the image processing unit 111 to display a message on the display unit 112 (step S34A). The contents of this message notify that the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 is to be initialized because the installation of the network camera 4 has been changed upside down.

  After displaying this message, the CPU 109 initializes the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 (step S35). Thereafter, the CPU 109 returns to the process of step S31. On the other hand, if the CPU 109 has not received the posture state change notification, the CPU 109 directly returns to the process of step S31.

  According to the network camera system in the seventh embodiment, when the top of the network camera 4 is installed upside down, the control device 5 receives the posture state change notification from the network camera 4. In response to this reception, the control device 5 displays the message on the display unit 112 and initializes the preset data that is no longer valid. The user can recognize that the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 is no longer valid, and can start setting the preset data again as necessary.

[Eighth Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system in the eighth embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment. The operation of the network camera 4 is the same as that shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 in the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure of the control device 5 according to the eighth embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 109 of the control device 5 and is executed by the CPU 109 at startup.

  First, the CPU 109 determines whether image data has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 110 (step S31). When the image data is received, the CPU 109 processes the received image data by the image processing unit 111 and then displays it on the display unit 112 (step S32). On the other hand, if the image data has not been received, the CPU 109 proceeds to the process of step S33 as it is.

  The CPU 109 determines whether or not a posture state change notification has been received from the network camera 4 via the network interface 3 (step S33). When the posture state change notification is received, the CPU 109 instructs the image processing unit 111 to display a message on the display unit 112 (step S34B). The content of this message inquires the user whether or not to initialize the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 because the installation of the network camera 4 has been changed upside down.

  After displaying this message, the CPU 109 determines user input made from the operation unit 113 in response to this message (step S34C). When the user selects initialization of preset data by this user input, the CPU 109 initializes preset data stored in the preset memory 114 (step S35). Thereafter, the CPU 109 returns to the process of step S31. On the other hand, if the CPU 109 has not received the posture state change notification, the CPU 109 directly returns to the process of step S31.

  According to the network camera system of the eighth embodiment, when the network camera 4 is installed upside down, the control device 5 receives the posture state change notification from the network camera 4. In response to this reception, the control device 5 can display the message on the display unit 112, and the user can initialize the preset memory 114 as necessary and start setting again.

[Ninth Embodiment]
The configuration of the network camera system in the ninth embodiment is the same as that in the second embodiment. The operation of the network camera 4 is the same as that shown in the flowchart of FIG. 4 in the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 5 according to the ninth embodiment. This processing program is stored in a ROM (not shown) in the CPU 109 of the control device 5 and is executed by the CPU 109 at startup. About the same step process as the said 8th Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same step number.

  First, when the CPU 109 receives the posture state change notification from the network camera 4 via the network interface 3 in step S33, the CPU 109 inverts the coordinate data of the preset data stored in the preset memory 114 (step S33A). The CPU 109 determines whether or not the inverted coordinate data is within the movable range (step S33B). When the preset coordinates outside the movable range are detected, the CPU 109 performs the processing from step S34B onward as in the eighth embodiment. On the other hand, when the preset coordinates within the movable range are detected, the process returns to step S31.

  According to the network camera system of the ninth embodiment, the message is displayed only when the installation of the network camera 1 is changed to the upside down and the preset coordinates are outside the movement range of the panning and tilting operations of the network camera. It can be carried out. The user can initialize the preset memory 114 as necessary and start setting the preset data again.

  The present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and any configuration can be used as long as the functions shown in the claims or the functions of the configuration of the present embodiment can be achieved. Is also applicable.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the message is superimposed on the captured image data (video). However, the information related to the preset data superimposed on the image data is not limited to the message, and a predetermined mark indicating each state, It may be a symbol or the like.

  In the fourth to ninth embodiments, initialization is performed to invalidate the stored contents of the preset memory, but specific data indicating invalidity may be written.

  The object of the present invention is achieved by executing the following processing. That is, a storage medium that records a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus is stored in the storage medium. This is the process of reading the code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.

  Moreover, the following can be used as a storage medium for supplying the program code. For example, floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM or the like. Alternatively, the program code may be downloaded via a network.

  Further, the present invention includes a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by executing the program code read by the computer. In addition, based on the instruction of the program code, an OS (operating system) running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing. Is also included.

  Furthermore, a case where the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized by the following processing is also included in the present invention. That is, the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. Thereafter, based on the instruction of the program code, the CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the network camera system in 1st Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 1. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the network camera system in 2nd Embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the network camera 4. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 5. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the network camera 1 in 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the coordinate of a preset. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the network camera 1 in 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the network camera 1 in 5th Embodiment. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of the control device 2. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the network camera 1 in 6th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the control apparatus 5 in 7th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the control apparatus 5 in 8th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement procedure of the control apparatus 5 in 9th Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1, 4 Network camera 2, 5 Control apparatus 102 Image pick-up part 104 Drive part 106, 114 Preset memory 107 Posture detection circuit 112 Display part

Claims (22)

An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
A communication means for communicating with an external device,
A camera device that receives a control signal from the external device via the communication unit, and the control unit controls the driving unit according to the received control signal,
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
And a superimposing unit that superimposes information related to the preset data on a video output via the communication unit when it is detected that the posture of the imaging unit is changed. The imaging means can be installed in a normal position or a reverse position in the vertical direction,
The camera apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the posture change detection unit detects that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed when detecting that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed. When it is detected that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed, the coordinate value inversion is performed so as to invert the coordinate value of the imaging position of the imaging unit stored in the preset storage unit as the preset data. With means,
The superimposing unit superimposes information on the preset data when the coordinate value reversed by the coordinate value reversing unit deviates from the movable range of the imaging unit driven by the driving unit. Item 3. The camera device according to Item 2. An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
A communication means for communicating with an external device,
A camera device that receives a control signal from the external device via the communication unit, and the control unit controls the driving unit according to the received control signal,
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A camera apparatus, comprising: an invalidating means for invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the posture of the imaging means has been changed. When it is detected that the posture of the image pickup unit has been changed, a message to invalidate the stored contents of the preset storage unit is superimposed on the video output via the communication unit as information on the preset data. Superimposing means for
5. The invalidation means, when receiving a control signal permitting invalidation from the external device via the communication means, invalidates the storage contents of the preset storage means. Camera device. The imaging means can be installed in a normal position or a reverse position in the vertical direction,
The camera apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the posture change detection unit detects that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed when detecting that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed. When it is detected that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed, the coordinate value that performs the process of reversing the coordinate value of the imaging position of the imaging unit stored in the preset storage unit as the preset data With inversion means,
When the coordinate value inverted by the coordinate value inverting means deviates from the movable range of the imaging means driven by the driving means, the invalidating means invalidates the stored contents of the preset storage means. The camera device according to claim 6. An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Communication means for performing communication,
In accordance with a control signal received via the communication unit, the control unit transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving unit, and controls the camera device.
Display means for displaying video output via the communication means;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A control apparatus comprising: display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
Communication means for performing communication,
In accordance with a control signal received via the communication unit, the control unit transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving unit, and controls the camera device.
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Display means for displaying video output via the communication means;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A control apparatus comprising: display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. The imaging means can be installed in a normal position or a reverse position in the vertical direction,
The control device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the posture change detection unit detects that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed when detecting that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed. When it is detected that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed, the coordinate value inversion is performed so as to invert the coordinate value of the imaging position of the imaging unit stored in the preset storage unit as the preset data. With means,
When the coordinate value reversed by the coordinate value reversing means deviates from the movable range of the imaging means driven by the driving means, the display control means causes the display means to display information on the preset data. The control device according to claim 10. An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
Communication means for performing communication,
In accordance with a control signal received via the communication unit, the control unit transmits the control signal to a camera device that controls the driving unit, and controls the camera device.
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A control apparatus comprising: an invalidating means for invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the posture of the imaging means has been changed. User input means for receiving input from the user;
A display means for displaying a message asking whether to invalidate the stored contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the orientation of the imaging means has been changed,
13. The control device according to claim 12, wherein the invalidation means invalidates the stored contents of the preset storage means when invalidation is selected by the user input means. The imaging means can be installed in a normal position or a reverse position in the vertical direction,
The control device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the posture change detection unit detects that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed when detecting that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed. When it is detected that the installation direction of the imaging unit has been changed, the coordinate value inversion is performed so as to invert the coordinate value of the imaging position of the imaging unit stored in the preset storage unit as the preset data. With means,
When the coordinate value inverted by the coordinate value inverting means deviates from the movable range of the imaging means driven by the driving means, the invalidating means invalidates the stored contents of the preset storage means. The control device according to claim 14, characterized in that: An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Display means for displaying the video imaged by the imaging means;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A camera control system comprising: display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means when it is detected that the posture of the imaging means has been changed. An imaging means for capturing images;
Driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position;
Control means for controlling the drive means;
Preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data;
Attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed;
A camera control system comprising: an invalidating means for invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when it is detected that the posture of the imaging means has been changed. An imaging step in which the imaging means captures an image;
A driving step in which the driving means drives the imaging means to change the imaging position;
A control step in which the control means controls the driving means;
A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging means in the preset storage means as preset data;
A display step in which the display means displays the video imaged by the imaging means;
A posture change detecting step in which the posture change detecting means detects that the posture of the imaging means has been changed;
And a display control step of causing the display means to display information relating to the preset data when the display control means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. An imaging step in which the imaging means captures an image;
A driving step in which the driving means drives the imaging means to change the imaging position;
A control step in which the control means controls the driving means;
A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging means in the preset storage means as preset data;
A posture change detecting step in which the posture change detecting means detects that the posture of the imaging means has been changed;
A camera control method comprising: an invalidation step of invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when the invalidation means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. Imaging means for photographing video, driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position, control means for controlling the driving means, preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data, When detecting that the display means for displaying the video imaged by the imaging means, the attitude change detection means for detecting that the attitude of the imaging means is changed, and the attitude of the imaging means are changed, A program for causing a computer to execute a camera control method of a camera control system comprising display control means for displaying information on the preset data on the display means,
The camera control method includes:
An imaging step in which the imaging means captures an image;
A driving step in which the driving means drives the imaging means to change an imaging position;
A control step in which the control means controls the driving means;
A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging unit as preset data in the preset storage unit;
A display step in which the display means displays the video imaged by the imaging means;
A posture change detection step in which the posture change detection means detects that the posture of the imaging means has been changed;
A display control step of causing the display means to display information relating to the preset data when the display control means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed. Imaging means for photographing video, driving means for driving the imaging means to change the imaging position, control means for controlling the driving means, preset storage means for storing the imaging position of the imaging means as preset data, , A posture change detecting unit for detecting that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed, and an invalidating unit for invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage unit when it is detected that the posture of the imaging unit has been changed. A program for causing a computer to execute a camera control method of a camera control system comprising:
The camera control method includes:
An imaging step in which the imaging means captures an image;
A driving step in which the driving means drives the imaging means to change an imaging position;
A control step in which the control means controls the driving means;
A preset storage step of storing the imaging position of the imaging unit as preset data in the preset storage unit;
A posture change detection step in which the posture change detection means detects that the posture of the imaging means has been changed;
A program comprising: an invalidation step of invalidating the stored contents of the preset storage means when the invalidation means detects that the attitude of the imaging means has been changed.   A computer-readable storage medium storing the program according to claim 20 or 21.

Images