Multi-camera device and image capture system including the same

Abstract

The present invention provides a multi-camera device and an image capture system including the multi-camera device, wherein the multi-camera device includes: a driving base in which a motion path is formed; at least one camera bracket, each of the at least one camera bracket includes a corresponding camera module installed therein and is configured to contact the driving base and move along the motion path; and an axis, which is arranged at the center of the driving base and coupled to the driving base, wherein each of the at least one camera bracket is connected to the axis and is configured to move in a circle along the driving base with the axis as a rotation center.

Description

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of and is based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2019-0102446 filed on August 21, 2019 in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. Technical Field

[0002] One or more embodiments relate to a multi-camera device and an image capturing system including the multi-camera device, and more particularly, to a multi-camera device capable of obtaining a clear image by preventing a camera bracket from shaking during movement and an image capturing system including the multi-camera device. Background Art

[0003] Generally, a closed circuit television (CCTV) refers to a system configured to obtain an image of a specific location by using a module type camera and transmit the obtained image to a specific receiver.

[0004] In detail, CCTV includes a modular camera installed at a specific location and a computer device that remotely exchanges monitoring information about images with the modular camera via a wired or wireless network. The modular camera can be installed in roads or alleys where security is required and is mainly used for crime prevention, as well as offices, houses, hospitals, and public buildings.

[0005] When a camera according to the prior art performs a panning operation in which the camera rotates around a rotation axis, a rotation path is formed along a guide rail on both sides of which wheels are arranged. Therefore, the camera can move on the guide rail by using the power of a drive motor installed on the rotation axis. However, since the drive motor is located on the rotation axis and the rotation radius increases, a larger torque is required, and the movement speed of the camera is significantly reduced.

[0006] Furthermore, when the camera moves on the rail, it may continuously shake, which degrades the camera's photographic quality. Summary of the invention

[0007] One or more embodiments include a multi-camera device comprising multiple camera modules that move on a motion path while maintaining a constant height, reducing a rotation radius to reduce required power, and increasing motion speed to enable rapid movement and capture.

[0008] One or more embodiments include a multi-camera device capable of preventing shaking when camera modules move, so that the quality of images captured by the camera modules is improved.

[0009] However, these purposes are examples, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0010] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments of the disclosure.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments, a multi-camera device includes: a driving base in which a motion path is formed; at least one camera bracket, each of the at least one camera bracket may include a corresponding camera module installed therein, and can be configured to contact the driving base and move along the motion path; and an axis, which is arranged at the center of the driving base and coupled to the driving base, wherein each of the at least one camera bracket can be connected to the axis and is configured to move in a circle along the driving base with the axis as the center of rotation.

[0012] The at least one camera bracket may be a plurality of camera brackets, and the plurality of camera brackets may include a plurality of camera bracket bodies, so that each camera bracket includes a corresponding camera bracket body from the plurality of camera bracket bodies, in which the corresponding camera module is installed, and the plurality of camera brackets also include a plurality of connecting parts, so that each camera bracket includes a corresponding connecting part from the plurality of connecting parts, and the corresponding connecting part is coupled to the corresponding camera bracket body of the corresponding camera bracket and connected to the axis.

[0013] The plurality of connection parts of the plurality of camera brackets may each be formed in a ring shape, may each be connected to the shaft, and may surround the shaft.

[0014] The plurality of connection portions of the plurality of camera supports may be stacked along a longitudinal center axis of the shaft.

[0015] The shaft may include: a shaft body disposed inside each of the plurality of connection parts of the plurality of camera supports; and a shaft cover having an area larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft body and coupled to an end of the shaft body.

[0016] The multi-camera device may also include: an adjustment part, which is arranged outside the shaft body to face the shaft cover, and is configured to contact at least one of the multiple connecting parts from the multiple camera brackets and adjust the positions of the multiple connecting parts of the multiple camera brackets.

[0017] The adjustment portion may have an elastic restoring force from the driving base toward the shaft cover, and may push the plurality of connection portions of the plurality of camera brackets toward the shaft cover.

[0018] The adjustment portion may include an adjustment plate disposed below the plurality of connection portions such that the plurality of connection portions are located between the shaft cover and the adjustment plate, and an elastic member configured to push the adjustment plate toward the shaft cover.

[0019] The elastic member may include a coil spring.

[0020] An insertion portion formed in the adjustment plate may protrude toward the elastic member, and the insertion portion may be inserted into the elastic member.

[0021] The multiple camera supports may also include multiple power transmission parts, so that each power transmission part is arranged in a corresponding camera support body among the multiple camera support bodies, each power transmission part may be configured to receive power from the outside and transmit the power to a corresponding camera support body among the multiple camera support bodies so as to make the corresponding camera support body among the multiple camera support bodies move on the driving base, and each of the multiple power transmission parts may include a motor.

[0022] The plurality of power delivery parts may engage with the driving base and respectively deliver the power to each of the plurality of camera support bodies so that each of the plurality of camera support bodies moves along a circumference of the driving base.

[0023] A gear may be formed along an inner circumferential surface of the driving base, and the plurality of power delivery parts may be engaged with the gear.

[0024] The multi-camera apparatus may further include a cover covering the driving base and the at least one camera bracket, wherein the cover may be coupled to the shaft.

[0025] The cover may be formed in a dome shape.

[0026] A bent portion formed in the cover may be connected to the shaft, and the bent portion may have a predetermined radius of curvature.

[0027] According to one or more embodiments, an image capturing system may include: a plate portion; and a multi-camera device mounted to the plate portion, wherein the plate portion may be fixed to the outside of the multi-camera device, and the multi-camera device may include: a driving base in which a motion path is formed; at least one camera bracket, each of the at least one camera bracket may include a corresponding camera module mounted therein, and may be configured to contact the driving base and move along the motion path; and an axis, the axis being disposed at the center of the driving base and coupled to the driving base, wherein each of the at least one camera bracket may be connected to the axis and configured to move in a circle along the driving base with the axis as a rotation center.

[0028] According to one or more embodiments, a multi-camera device may include: a driving base in which a motion path is formed; a camera bracket, the camera bracket including a camera module installed therein, and the camera bracket can be configured to contact the driving base and move along the motion path; and an axis, the axis is arranged at the center of the driving base and coupled to the driving base, wherein the camera bracket can be connected to the axis and is configured to move in a circle along the driving base with the axis as a rotation center, and the camera bracket may include a camera bracket body, the camera bracket body including the camera module installed therein, and the camera bracket may also include a connecting portion, the connecting portion is coupled to the camera bracket body and connected to the axis.

[0029] The connection portion of the camera bracket may be formed in a ring shape, may be connected to the shaft, and may surround the shaft.

[0030] The camera support may further include a power transmission part configured to receive power from the outside and transmit the power to the camera support body so as to move the camera support body on the driving base, and the camera support may include a motor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multi-camera device according to an embodiment;

[0033] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a multi-camera device according to an embodiment;

[0034] Figure 3 is an exploded view of a drive base, shaft, and camera bracket according to an embodiment;

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a camera bracket according to an embodiment;

[0036] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a drive base and a shaft according to an embodiment;

[0037] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing a camera bracket connected to a shaft according to an embodiment; and

[0038] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a multi-camera apparatus according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. In this regard, the present embodiment may have different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the description set forth herein. Therefore, the following descriptions of the embodiments are only described with reference to the accompanying drawings to explain the aspects of this description. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any one of the associated listed items and all combinations of two or more. When a statement such as "at least one of ... " is before a list of elements, the statement modifies the entire list of elements, rather than a single element in the list of modifications.

[0040] In the embodiments described below, the terms “first”, “second”, etc. are used only to distinguish one element from another element and are not for the purpose of limitation.

[0041] In the embodiments described below, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well.

[0042] In the embodiments described below, the terms “include” and / or “comprises” specify the presence of stated features or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or elements.

[0043] In the accompanying drawings, the size of the elements may be enlarged or reduced for ease of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each element in the accompanying drawings are arbitrarily shown for ease of explanation. Therefore, the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the drawings.

[0044] Hereinafter, a multi-camera apparatus according to an embodiment is described.

[0045] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multi-camera device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is an exploded view of a multi-camera apparatus according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is an exploded view of a drive base, shaft, and camera mount according to an embodiment. Figure 4 is a perspective view of a camera bracket according to an embodiment. Figure 5 is an exploded view of a drive base and shaft according to an embodiment. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a state in which a camera bracket is connected to a shaft according to an embodiment. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a multi-camera apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 7 , the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment may include a driving base 100 , a camera bracket 200 , a shaft 300 , an adjustment part 400 , and a cover 500 .

[0047] Reference Figures 1 to 3 and Figures 5 to 7 , the driving base 100 according to the embodiment may be coupled to an external device (eg, the plate portion 50 ), and more specifically, may be coupled to a plate body 51 of the plate portion 50 which will be described below.

[0048] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 5 , a moving path may be formed in the driving base 100, and one or more camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D that may contact the driving base 100 may move along the moving path.

[0049] The camera bracket 200 may rotate along a movement path formed in the driving base 100 in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction with the center of the driving base 100 as a rotation axis.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 7 The gear 110 may be formed along the inner circumferential surface of the driving base 100 according to the embodiment, and the gear 110 and the camera bracket 200 (more specifically, the power transmission part 250 of the camera bracket 200 (see Figure 7 )) can be engaged with each other so that the camera bracket 200 rotates in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction with the center of the driving base 100 as the rotation axis.

[0051] According to the present disclosure, the gear 110 may be formed at the inner circumferential surface of the driving base 100 toward the center of the driving base 100. However, it is not limited thereto, and the gear 110 may be formed at the outer circumferential surface of the driving base 100 to be away from the center of the driving base 100, or may be formed at both the outer circumferential surface and the inner circumferential surface.

[0052] In the multi-camera device 1 according to the embodiment, the driving base 100 and the camera support 200 are engaged with each other based on a gear method so that the camera support 200 rotates with the center of the driving base 100 as a rotation axis. However, it is not limited thereto, and various modifications may be made. For example, a roller may be formed in the camera support 200 and may move along a movement path formed in the driving base 100.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , a shaft 300 to be described below may be coupled to the driving base 100 according to the embodiment. The shaft 300 may be coupled to the driving base 100 by sharing a central axis with the driving base 100.

[0054] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The adjusting part 400 to be described below may be coupled to the driving base 100. The adjusting part 400 may include an adjusting plate 410 and an elastic member 430, wherein the adjusting plate 410 may be arranged to be spaced apart from the surface of the driving base 100, and the elastic member 430 may be formed between the adjusting plate 410 and the driving base 100.

[0055] Therefore, the elastic member 430 may be moved in a direction away from the driving base 100 (in Figure 6 The adjusting plate 410 is pushed in the upward direction in the figure so that the heights of the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D connected to the shaft 300 in a stacked manner can become constant.

[0056] Reference Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , the camera module 10 may be mounted in the camera holder 200 according to the embodiment, and the camera holder 200 may contact the driving base 100 and move on the moving path.

[0057] According to the embodiment, the camera bracket 200 may include multiple camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D, and multiple camera modules 10 may be arranged to correspond to the multiple camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D respectively and may be installed in the multiple camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D respectively.

[0058] Reference Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 7 The camera module 10 according to the embodiment can obtain an image about the area in which the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment is installed. The camera module 10 can operate in response to a signal applied from the outside, and can rotate, change the photographed area, and photograph an image of the photographed area.

[0059] The camera module 10 according to the embodiment may include a lens unit, an imaging device, and an image processor. The camera modules 10 may all be cameras. The lens unit (not shown) may receive a light source, the imaging device (not shown) may convert the light source into an electrical signal, and the image processor (not shown) may process the signal generated by the imaging device to generate image data. The image processor may include at least one processor and a memory including computer instructions. The computer instructions may be configured to cause the image processor to perform its functions when executed by at least one processor.

[0060] The lens section according to the embodiment may be rotated on its axis in the camera module 10 , and thus the lens section according to the embodiment may flexibly adjust an area that may be photographed.

[0061] Although not shown, the camera module 10 may further include a controller that supplies power, communicates with the outside, and controls the operation of the camera module 10. The controller may include at least one processor and a memory including computer instructions. The computer instructions, when executed by at least one processor, may be configured to cause the controller to perform its functions.

[0062] Other configurations may be provided for mounting the camera module 10 in the camera holder body 210. For example, any conventional configuration for mounting a camera module may be used, and a description thereof is omitted.

[0063] Reference Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , each of the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D of the camera support 200 according to the embodiment may include a cable 205 , a camera support body 210 , a connection portion 230 , and a power transmission portion 250 .

[0064] The cable 205 can supply power to the camera holder body 210 or the camera module 10 from a power supply unit (not shown), which can be installed in the board portion 50 or the driving base 100 and can be installed in each of the multiple camera holders 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D.

[0065] The plurality of cables 205 may be electrically connected to the controller, and thus, the plurality of cables 205 may individually transmit electrical signals to the plurality of camera support bodies 210 and the camera modules 10 .

[0066] The cables 205 may be arranged inside the shaft 300 to be described below (in detail, may be arranged in the shaft body 310). In addition, the cables 205 may be arranged to be separated from each other in the shaft body 310 coupled to the driving base 100 by having a common central axis with the driving base 100, and thus, the cables 205 of the camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D may be prevented from being tangled or twisted.

[0067] Each cable 205 may be connected to a separate connection portion so as to be electrically connected to a circuit substrate (not shown) installed in the driving base 100 .

[0068] Reference Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 7 , for each of the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D, the camera module 10 may be mounted in the camera support body 210 according to the embodiment, and the camera module 10 may be tilted on the camera support body 210 .

[0069] Therefore, the camera module 10 can be mounted on the camera support body 210 in the vertical direction (in Figure 4 (in) rotates and captures the external environment. Figure 4 Only the camera bracket 200A is shown, but the camera brackets 200B, 200C, and 200D may have the same or similar configuration as the camera bracket 200A.

[0070] Reference Figures 2 to 4 , the camera holder body 210 according to the embodiment may be disposed on the driving base 100. In detail, the camera holder body 210 may be disposed on a moving path formed in the driving base 100.

[0071] Therefore, the power transmission part 250 (see FIG. Figure 7 ) can be engaged with a movement path formed on the driving base 100 (more specifically, can be engaged with the gear 110 of the driving base 100), and the camera support body 210 can move on the driving base 100.

[0072] Due to the power delivery part 250 of each of the plurality of camera support bodies 210 , each camera support body 210 may perform a panning operation of rotating 360 degrees around the center of the driving base 100 and the shaft 300 as a rotation axis.

[0073] Each power transmission part 250 may be connected to a controller (not shown), and the controller may control the operation of each power transmission part 250 so that the camera support bodies 210 do not collide with each other. The controller may include at least one processor and a memory including computer instructions. The computer instructions may be configured to cause the controller to perform its functions when executed by the at least one processor.

[0074] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 , the connection part 230 may be connected to the camera support body 210 according to the embodiment. The connection part 230 connected to the plurality of camera support bodies 210 may be located in different positions of the camera support body 210.

[0075] For details, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 6 When the plurality of camera support bodies 210 are on the same plane, the connection parts 230 respectively connected to the plurality of camera support bodies 210 may have different heights.

[0076] Therefore, when the camera support body 210 has the same height, the plurality of connection parts 230 may be stacked and arranged at the shaft 300 (more specifically, may be stacked and arranged at the shaft body 310 of the shaft 300 ) which is installed at the center of the driving base 100 .

[0077] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to the embodiment, each of the camera holder bodies 210 can be fastened together with the corresponding connecting portion 230 by a fastening member (such as a bolt, etc.), and the position of each connecting portion 230 can be adjusted on the corresponding camera holder body in the camera holder bodies 210.

[0078] Reference Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 , each of the connection parts 230 according to the embodiment may be coupled to a corresponding one of the camera holder bodies 210 , and may be connected to the shaft 300 .

[0079] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 According to an embodiment, the connection portion 230 may be coupled to the camera support body 210 at different positions of the camera support body 210 , and the connection portions 230 respectively coupled to a plurality of camera support bodies 210 may be connected to the shaft 300 by sharing a rotation axis with the shaft 300 .

[0080] The connection portion 230 may be formed in a ring shape, and may be connected to the shaft 300 (more specifically, to the shaft body 310 of the shaft 300 ) by surrounding the shaft 300 (in detail, by surrounding the shaft body 310 ). Figure 6 According to the embodiment, the plurality of connection parts 230 may be stacked in the longitudinal direction of the shaft 300 (more specifically, may be stacked in the longitudinal direction of the shaft body 310 of the shaft 300 ).

[0081] Therefore, the distance between the center of the driving base 100 and the multiple camera support bodies 210 in which the multiple camera modules 10 are respectively installed can be the same, and the multiple camera support bodies 210 can be rotated 360 degrees along the motion path formed in the driving base 100 by making the center of the driving base 100 (i.e., the center of the shaft 300) as the same rotation axis.

[0082] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 7The connection part 230 according to the embodiment may be connected to the camera support body 210 to have a fixed position, and the connection parts 230 respectively coupled to the plurality of camera support bodies 210 are connected to the shaft 300 in a stacked structure. Therefore, the height of the camera support body 210 moving on the driving base 100 may become constant.

[0083] In addition, the camera holder body 210 can rotate at a predetermined height based on the center of the driving base 100, and thus the camera module 10 installed in the camera holder body 210 can stably capture images and the camera holder 200 can be prevented from shaking due to a height error.

[0084] Reference Figure 7 According to the embodiment, the power transmission part 250 can be installed in the corresponding camera support body in the camera support body 210, and can receive power from the outside and transmit the power to the camera support body 210 respectively, so that the camera support body 210 can move on the driving base 100.

[0085] The power delivery parts 250 may each include a motor generating a rotational power, so that the camera bracket body 210 may move on the driving base 100 by using the rotational power generated by a corresponding one of the motors.

[0086] Each of the power delivery parts 250 according to the embodiment may include a gear member to engage with the gear 110 formed in the driving base 100 .

[0087] Therefore, the gear member of each of the power transmission parts 250 can engage with the gear 110 on the driving base 100 to allow the corresponding camera holders 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D to perform a panning operation (more specifically, allow the corresponding camera holder bodies in the camera holder bodies to perform a panning operation). In the panning operation, such camera holder (more specifically, the camera holder body 210 of such camera holder) rotates 360 degrees around the center of the driving base 100 as the rotation axis.

[0088] When the camera stand according to the prior art performs a panning operation on the driving base, the power transmission part is arranged at the center of the driving base, and the motion path is formed in the shape of a track on the driving base. In addition, wheels are arranged on both sides of the track, and the camera stand body moves on the track by the rotational power of the power transmission part.

[0089] In this prior art, the rotation center for panning operation corresponds to the center of the driving base, and a motor or the like is installed at the center of the driving base. In addition, the camera support body can move on the moving track by using the torque of the motor (the torque of the motor is the rotational power). However, a large torque is required due to the distance between the center of the driving base and the position of the moving path where the camera support body is located.

[0090] In addition, since the wheels contact each other while moving on both sides of the moving path, the friction area may increase and the rotational power of the motor may be consumed.

[0091] In addition, since the motor or the like that transmits driving power to the camera support body is located at the center of the driving base, the rotation radius of the camera support body moving on the moving path is relatively increased, and the power is inversely proportional to the rotation radius under the same torque. Therefore, there is a limit to increasing the speed.

[0092] Therefore, the movement speed of the camera stand body moving on the driving base is reduced, and a quick panning operation is impossible.

[0093] However, according to an embodiment, the power transmission part 250 can be installed in the corresponding camera support body in the camera support body 210, and can be positioned to directly engage with the movement path on the driving base 100 (more specifically, can be positioned to directly engage with the gear 110 of the driving base 100).

[0094] Therefore, compared to the rotation radius in the case of the panning method of the camera support body according to the related art, the rotation radius of the power transmission part 250 can be reduced, and therefore, the power can be increased under the same torque, and the camera support 200 can move quickly on the motion path formed on the driving base 100 at a relatively high speed.

[0095] Reference Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7 The shaft 300 according to the embodiment may be located at the center of the driving base 100 and may be coupled to the driving base 100. The shaft 300 may include a shaft body 310 and a shaft cover 330.

[0096] Reference Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7 , the shaft body 310 according to the embodiment may be connected to the camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D. In detail, the shaft body 310 may be disposed inside the connection part 230 coupled to the plurality of camera bracket bodies 210 .

[0097] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 6 , the shaft body 310 according to the embodiment may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and the connection part 230 may be connected to the shaft body 310 by surrounding the shaft body 310 .

[0098] The connection parts 230 respectively coupled to the plurality of camera holder bodies 210 may be connected to the shaft body 310 in a stacked structure by surrounding the shaft body 310 .

[0099] Therefore, the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D may have the same rotation radius, and may perform a panning operation moving on a moving path of the driving base 100 .

[0100] In addition, the connection parts 230 of the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D may be stacked by having heights different from each other, and thus the camera supports 200 moving on the moving path may maintain a constant height.

[0101] In addition, the shaft 310 can be arranged at the center of the driving base 100 to prevent light entering any camera bracket 200 (for example, camera bracket 200A) among the camera brackets 200 arranged outside the center of the driving base 100 or light emitted from any camera bracket 200 (for example, camera bracket 200A) among the camera brackets 200 arranged outside the center of the driving base 100 from entering another camera bracket 200 (for example, camera bracket 200B) or being reflected from another camera bracket 200 (for example, camera bracket 200B), and to enable the camera bracket 200 to obtain a clear image.

[0102] Reference Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7 , the shaft cover 330 according to the embodiment may have an area relatively larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft body 310, and may be coupled to the end portion of the shaft body 310 ( Figure 3 middle).

[0103] Since the shaft cover 330 has a relatively larger area than the cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft body 310, the camera bracket 200 can be prevented from tilting upward ( Figure 3 ) is disengaged (more specifically, the connection portion 230 connected to the shaft body 310 is prevented from moving upward ( Figure 3 )detach).

[0104] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 5 to 7 , the adjusting part 400 according to the embodiment may face the shaft cover 330 and may be disposed outside the shaft body 310. The adjusting part 400 may adjust the positions of the plurality of connecting parts 230 connected to the shaft body 310.

[0105] The adjustment part 400 according to the embodiment may push the plurality of connection parts 230 on the shaft body 310 toward the shaft cover 330 .

[0106] Therefore, it is possible to prevent Figure 6 A gap is generated between the shaft body 310, the shaft cover 330 and the connecting portion 230 in the longitudinal direction thereof, and the connecting portion 230 and the camera support body 210 to which the connecting portion 230 is combined can be arranged at the same height.

[0107] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 5 to 7 , the adjustment part 400 according to the embodiment may include an adjustment plate 410 and an elastic member 430 .

[0108] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the adjustment plate 410 may be arranged below the connection portion 230 (at Figure 6 ), so that the plurality of connection parts 230 are arranged between the shaft cover 330 and the adjustment plate 410. The adjustment plate 410 may be arranged outside the shaft body 310 and may be formed to be flat.

[0109] Since the adjustment plate 410 is formed flat, the surface of the adjustment plate 410 may contact the surface of the lowermost connection portion 230 among the plurality of connection portions 230 ( Figure 6 The bottom surface in the middle), therefore, the squeezing force can be evenly distributed.

[0110] Reference Figure 6 , the adjustment plate 410 according to the embodiment may be disposed to be spaced apart from the driving base 100 , and the elastic member 430 may be disposed between the driving base 100 and the adjustment plate 410 .

[0111] The elastic member 430 according to the embodiment may include an elastic material, and may push the adjustment plate 410 toward the shaft cover 330. Therefore, the plurality of connection parts 230 contacting the shaft cover 330 may maintain a constant height.

[0112] The elastic member 430 may be provided in plural numbers and may be arranged at equal angles based on the center of the driving base 100 .

[0113] According to the present disclosure, the elastic member 430 may include three elastic members and may be arranged at equal angles based on the centers of the driving base 100 and the shaft body 310 . In addition, the elastic member 430 may contact the adjustment plate 410 and press the adjustment plate 410 toward the shaft cover 330 .

[0114] However, it is not limited thereto, and a single elastic member may surround the shaft body 310 and may have a surface in contact with the adjustment plate 410 so as to press the adjustment plate 410 and the plurality of connection parts 230 arranged between the adjustment plate 410 and the shaft cover 330 toward the shaft cover 330. Various modified embodiments like this may be feasible.

[0115] The elastic member 430 according to the embodiment may include one or more coil springs. When the elastic member 430 includes a plurality of elastic members, the elastic members may be arranged at equal angles outside the center of the drive base 100 and the shaft body 310. In the case where the elastic member 430 includes a plurality of elastic members, the insertion portion 411 may include a corresponding insertion portion for each of the plurality of elastic members.

[0116] In addition, when only one elastic member 430 is formed, the elastic member 430 may surround the outside of the shaft body 310 and face the shaft cover 330 (at Figure 6 The adjusting plate 410 and the plurality of connecting parts 230 arranged between the adjusting plate 410 and the shaft cover 330 are pressed in the upward direction.

[0117] Reference Figure 6 , the insertion portion 411 may be formed at the adjustment plate 410 according to the embodiment to extend in a direction toward the elastic member 430 ( Figure 6 , and the insertion portion 411 may be inserted into the elastic member 430.

[0118] Reference Figure 6 , the insertion part 411 according to the embodiment may be inserted into the elastic member 430. However, it is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible. For example, the elastic member 430 may be arranged in the insertion part 411 formed as a cavity.

[0119] Since the insertion portion 411 according to the embodiment is formed to protrude outward from the adjustment plate 410 , the elastic member 430 may be disposed outside or inside the insertion portion 411 , and the elastic member 430 may be prevented from being separated from a path for pressing the adjustment plate 410 .

[0120] In addition, since at least one elastic member 430 is directed upward (in Figure 6 ) The pressing adjustment plate 410 is pressed, so the plurality of connection parts 230 can be attached to the shaft cover 330 and can be continuously arranged at a constant height.

[0121] Since the plurality of connection parts 230 are arranged at a constant height, the plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D can move along the movement path of the driving base 100 at the same height.

[0122] In addition, when multiple camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D are engaged with the gear 110 formed on the moving path of the driving base 100 (more specifically, when the power transmission part 250 is engaged with the gear 110 formed on the moving path of the driving base 100), the multiple camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D (more specifically, the power transmission part 250) can be stably engaged with the gear 110 along a defined path.

[0123] In addition, the connecting portion 230 can be arranged at a preset position between the shaft 300 and the adjusting portion 400 (more specifically, can be arranged at a preset position between the shaft cover 330 and the adjusting plate 410), thereby preventing jitter on the motion path and enabling precise position control.

[0124] According to an embodiment, the elastic member 430 pushes the adjustment plate 410 upward. However, it is not limited thereto, and the elastic restoring force may be downward (at Figure 3 (in) operation to pull the adjustment plate 410. Various modified embodiments similar to this case may be feasible.

[0125] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the cover 500 according to the embodiment may cover the driving base 100 and the camera bracket 200, and may be coupled to the shaft 300. The cover 500 may include a transparent material.

[0126] The cover 500 according to the embodiment may include a cover body 510 and a connection cover 530. The cover body 500 may be coupled to the board body 51 or the driving base 100.

[0127] Reference Figure 2 The cover 500 according to the embodiment may be coupled to the plate body 51 or the driving base 100 by a screw fastening method using bolts, etc., but is not limited thereto. Various modifications may be made within the technical scope that the position of the cover 500 may be fixed in the plate body 51 or the driving base 100.

[0128] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the cover body 510 according to the embodiment may include a transparent material so that the camera bracket 200 installed therein can photograph the external situation. In addition, the cover body 510 may be formed in a dome shape.

[0129] A curved portion 511 having a predetermined radius of curvature may be formed at a central portion of the cover body 510 according to an embodiment. The curved portion 511 may be formed along an outer circumferential surface of the cover body 510 to be curved toward the central portion of the cover body 510.

[0130] Since the curved portion 511 is formed on the cover 510 , the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the present disclosure can reduce diffuse reflection caused by light incident into the multi-camera apparatus 1 , compared to a case where the cover 510 is formed in a hemispherical shape without a curved portion.

[0131] The bent portion 511 formed on the cover body 510 according to the embodiment may be connected to a connection cover 530 to be described below. The connection cover 530 may directly or indirectly cover the shaft 300 (more specifically, the shaft cover 330 that may directly or indirectly cover the shaft 300).

[0132] Therefore, the shaft 300 (more specifically, the shaft body 310) can be arranged on the reflection path of the light reflected from the inner surface of the cover body 510, and the light can be prevented from being reflected from the inner peripheral surface of the cover body 510 facing any one of the camera supports 200 (for example, the camera support 200A) toward the inner surface of the cover body 510 facing another camera support 200 (for example, the camera support 200B). Therefore, diffuse reflection can be prevented.

[0133] Since diffuse reflection is prevented, the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment can obtain a clear image with respect to a photographing area.

[0134] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the connection cover 530 according to the embodiment may be connected to the cover body 510 (more specifically, may be connected to the inner end of the bent portion 511 formed at the central portion of the cover body 510).

[0135] The connection cover 530 may be connected to the shaft 300 (more specifically, to the shaft cover 330 ), and since the connection cover 530 is disposed on a reflection path of light incident to one side based on the center of the cover 500 , the light may be prevented from moving toward the other side.

[0136] Therefore, light can be prevented from being reflected from the inner peripheral surface of the cover body 510 facing any one of the camera supports 200 (for example, camera support 200A) toward the inner surface of the cover body 510 facing another camera support 200 (for example, camera support 200B), thereby preventing diffuse reflection.

[0137] The operation principle and effects of the multi-camera device 1 according to the embodiment are described.

[0138] Reference Figures 1 to 7 , the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment may include a driving base 100 , a camera bracket 200 , a shaft 300 , an adjustment part 400 , and a cover 500 .

[0139] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The driving base 100 according to the embodiment may be coupled to a plate portion 50, the position of which is fixed to the outside, such as a ceiling 5 (see Figure 7 ) etc. In detail, the driving base 100 may be coupled to the plate body 51 .

[0140] The movement path may be formed in the driving base 100. In detail, the gear 110 may be formed along the inner circumferential surface of the driving base 100, and the gear 110 may be formed to engage with the power transmission part 250 connected to the camera bracket 200 (in detail, may be formed to engage with the power transmission part 250 connected to the camera bracket body 210).

[0141] The camera support 200 may include a camera support body 210, a connection part 230, and a power transmission part 250. The connection part 230 may be fixed to a corresponding camera support body in the camera support body 210, and may be connected to the shaft 300 (more specifically, to the shaft body 310 of the shaft 300).

[0142] The connection portion 230 may be connected to the shaft body 310 , and may be formed to be rotatable along an outer circumferential surface of the shaft body 310 located at the center of the driving base 100 .

[0143] Therefore, the camera support body 210 in which the camera module 10 can be installed and coupled to the corresponding connecting part 230 in the connecting part 230 can receive power from the corresponding power transmission part 250 engaged with the gear 110, and can perform a panning operation. In the panning operation, the camera support body 210 can rotate in a clockwise direction or counterclockwise direction around the center of the driving base 100 and the shaft body 310 as the rotation center.

[0144] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 According to an embodiment, the camera bracket 200 may include a plurality of camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D, and the plurality of camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D may be arranged to be separated from each other along a motion path on the driving base 100 based on the center of the driving base 100 and the shaft 300.

[0145] The connection parts 230 respectively connected to the plurality of camera holder bodies 210 may be connected to the shaft 300 by having heights different from each other, and thus the camera holders 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D may have the same rotation radius.

[0146] Reference Figure 6 , the connection parts 230 respectively connected to the plurality of camera support bodies 210 may be connected to the shaft body 310 in a stacked structure in the longitudinal direction of the shaft body 310 , and thus the camera support bodies 210 may be located at the same height.

[0147] Reference Figure 2 and Figures 5 to 7 According to an embodiment, the shaft 300 may include a shaft body 310 and a shaft cover 330, and the area of ​​the shaft cover 330 may be relatively larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft body 310, thereby preventing the connecting portion 230 connected to the shaft body 310 by contacting the outer circumferential surface of the shaft body 310 from detaching from the shaft body 310.

[0148] Reference Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 7, the adjustment part 400 according to the embodiment may share a center with the driving base 100 and the shaft 300 , and may be mounted on the driving base 100 .

[0149] The adjustment part 400 may include an adjustment plate 410 and an elastic member 430, and a plurality of connection parts 230 may be connected to the shaft body 310 in a manner stacked between the adjustment plate 410 and the shaft 300 (in detail, may be connected to the shaft body 310 in a manner stacked between the adjustment plate 410 and the shaft cover 330).

[0150] The adjusting portion 400 can press the connecting portion 230 upward (at Figure 6 ), therefore, the plurality of connection parts 230 are attached to each other, and irregular gaps may not be generated between the shaft cover 330, the plurality of connection parts 230, and the adjustment plate 410.

[0151] In addition, since no gap is formed between the shaft cover 330, the connecting portion 230 and the adjustment plate 410, the movement path of the driving base 100 (more specifically, the gear 110) can be stably engaged with the camera support 200 (more specifically, the power transmission portion 250), and therefore, the camera support body 210 can move smoothly on the movement path without tilting.

[0152] Reference Figure 6 , the insertion portion 411 can be formed in a protruding manner on the adjustment plate 410 facing the elastic member 430, and the insertion portion 411 can be inserted into the elastic member 430, so the adhesion between the adjustment plate 410 and the elastic member 430 can be improved, and the elastic member 430 can have a constant central axis.

[0153] Since the central axis of the elastic member 430 is constant, the plurality of elastic members may uniformly press the adjustment plate 410 .

[0154] Reference Figure 3 The connection parts 230 respectively included in the plurality of camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D may be connected to the shaft 300 (more specifically, may be connected to the shaft body 310 ), and may be arranged on the adjustment part 400 installed at the center of the driving base 100 .

[0155] The shaft 300 and the driving base 100 may be coupled to each other by a screw fastening method, etc. However, it is not limited thereto, and various modified embodiments are possible within a technical range in which the position of the shaft 300 can be fixed on the driving base 100 .

[0156] Reference Figure 2, a plurality of camera brackets 200A, 200B, 200C and 200D, a shaft 300 and an adjustment portion 400 may be combined on a driving base 100, and the driving base 100 may be mounted on a plate portion 50 (more specifically, may be mounted on a plate body 51 of the plate portion).

[0157] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the cover 500 according to the embodiment may cover the driving base 100 , the camera bracket 200 , the shaft 300 , and the adjusting portion 400 , and may be coupled to the driving base 100 or the plate portion 50 (in detail, may be coupled to the plate body 51 ).

[0158] The cover 500 may include a cover body 510 and a connection cover 530. The cover body 510 may be formed of a transparent material and may be formed in a dome shape. A curved portion 511 having a predetermined radius of curvature may be formed at a central portion of the cover body 510 such that the central portion is formed in a concave shape.

[0159] Compared to a case where the cover 500 has only a hemispherical shape, diffuse reflection of light that may occur at the inner surface of the cover 500 may be reduced through the curved portion 511 .

[0160] In addition, the cover 500 according to the embodiment (more specifically, the inner end of the bent portion 511 ) may be connected to the connection cover 530 , and the connection cover 530 may be connected to the shaft 300 (in detail, may be connected to the shaft cover 330 ).

[0161] Therefore, light entering the cover body 510 on one side based on the center of the cover 500 can be prevented from being reflected by the inner surface of the cover body 510 and moving to the other side facing the side, and diffuse reflection by the inner surface of the cover body 510 can be reduced. Therefore, the camera module 10 installed in the camera holder body 210 can obtain a clear image.

[0162] Hereinafter, the configuration, operation principle, and effects of the image capturing system according to the embodiment are described.

[0163] Reference Figures 1 to 7 , the image capturing system according to the embodiment may include a board portion 50 and a multi-camera device 1. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the multi-camera device 1 (more specifically, the driving base 100) may be mounted on the plate portion 50 according to the embodiment, and the position of the plate portion 50 may be fixed to the outside, such as the ceiling 5 (see Figure 7 )wait.

[0164] The plate portion 50 according to the embodiment may include a plate body 51 and a plate cover 53. The plate body 51 may contact the ceiling 5 or the like, and may be fastened by using a fastening member such as a bolt or the like to have a fixed position.

[0165] The multi-camera apparatus 1 (more specifically, the driving base 100 ) may be mounted on the board body 51 according to the embodiment. In addition, a circuit part (not shown) such as a printed circuit board (PCB) substrate may be mounted on the board body 51 .

[0166] The circuit part such as a PCB substrate may be mounted not only on the board body 51 but also on the driving base 100. Various modified embodiments like this are possible.

[0167] In addition, the camera bracket 200 (more specifically, the cable 205, etc.) may be connected to the board body 51 to receive power from the outside.

[0168] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 , the board cover 53 according to the embodiment may be coupled to the board body 51 , and may be coupled to the board body 51 by surrounding the multi-camera apparatus 1 (more specifically, may be coupled to the board body 51 by surrounding the cover 500 ).

[0169] A fastening member such as a bolt or the like may penetrate the plate cover 53 to be fastened to the plate body 51 , an outer end of the cover 500 may be arranged between the plate body 51 and the plate cover 53 , and due to the fastening member, the plate body 51 , the cover 500 and the plate cover 53 may be stacked sequentially.

[0170] Furthermore, the cover 500 coupled to the driving base 100 may be prevented from being detached from the driving base 100 .

[0171] Reference Figures 1 to 7 , the multi-camera apparatus 1 according to the embodiment may include a driving base 100 , a plurality of camera supports 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D, a shaft 300 , an adjustment portion 400 , and a cover 500 .

[0172] The configuration of the multi-camera device 1 is the same as that described above. Therefore, the same aspects will not be described in detail.

[0173] The image capturing system according to the embodiment can push the shaft 300 toward the shaft cover 330 by using the adjustment part 400 (more specifically, can push the connection part 230 connected to the shaft body 310 toward the shaft cover 330 by using the adjustment part 400), so that the positions of the plurality of connection parts 230 are fixed.

[0174] In addition, since the adjustment portion 400 is on one side ( Figure 3 The camera support 200 is pushed in the direction of the upper side (more specifically, since the adjustment portion 400 is on one side ( Figure 3The connecting portion 230 is pushed in the direction of the upper side (in the middle), so that the gap generated between the connecting portions 230 can be minimized, and the space between the connecting portions 230, the space between the connecting portion 230 and the adjustment plate 410, and the space between the connecting portion 230 and the shaft cover 330 can become tight to prevent the camera support body 210 moving along the moving path on the driving base 100 from shaking.

[0175] In addition, compared with the rotation radius of the case where the power transmission part is located at the center of the driving base 100, the rotation radius of the power transmission part 250 of the corresponding camera support body that engages with the gear 110 formed on the driving base 100 and transmits power to the camera support body 210 can be relatively reduced. Therefore, the torque required for the power transmission part 250 can be reduced, and the camera support body 210 can move relatively quickly on the movement path formed on the driving base 100 under the same torque.

[0176] In addition, the adjusting portion 400 may be directed toward the shaft cover 330 (at Figure 3 The plurality of connection parts 230 connected to the shaft body 310 are pushed upwardly (in the middle), so that the plurality of connection parts are attached to each other, and thus, the connection parts 230 and the camera bracket bodies respectively coupled to the connection parts 230 can maintain a constant height.

[0177] In addition, the shaft 300 connected to the connection portion 230 may be arranged at the center of the driving base 100, and a plurality of camera holder bodies 210 may be arranged outside the driving base 100. Therefore, the moving path of light reflected from the inner peripheral surface of the cover body 510 and moving through the center of the driving base 100 may be blocked, and reflection of light of the camera module 10 mounted in the camera holder body 210 may be reduced.

[0178] In addition, the bent portion 511 may be formed in the cover 500 (more specifically, may be formed in the cover body 510). Therefore, compared with the case where the cover body 510 is formed in a hemispherical shape, diffuse reflection of light reflected from the inner surface may be reduced.

[0179] According to one or more embodiments described above, a plurality of camera supports may be connected to a shaft and may maintain a constant height while moving on a driving base, and thus, shaking of the camera module may be prevented.

[0180] Furthermore, since shaking of the camera module is prevented, the quality of an image captured by the camera module can be improved.

[0181] In addition, the rotation radius of the power transmission part can be reduced to reduce the required power, and a relatively large amount of power can be transmitted with the same torque compared to the case where the rotation radius is large, and the movement speed of the camera module can be increased so that the camera module moves quickly on the movement path on the driving base.

[0182] Furthermore, a gap generated between the connection parts can be minimized by the adjustment part, and shaking of the camera holder body moving on the moving path can be prevented.

[0183] Furthermore, a bent portion may be formed on the cover, and thus, diffuse reflection of light reflected from an inner surface may be reduced compared to a case where the cover is formed in a hemispherical shape.

[0184] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation. The description of features or aspects in each embodiment should generally be considered to be applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments. Although one or more embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-camera device, comprising: a drive base having a motion path formed therein; at least one camera mount, each of the at least one camera mount including a respective camera module mounted therein and configured to contact the drive base and move along the motion path; as well as a shaft disposed at the center of the drive base and coupled to the drive base, wherein each of the at least one camera bracket is connected to the shaft and is configured to move along the circumference of the driving base with the shaft as a rotation center, The at least one camera bracket is a plurality of camera brackets, The plurality of camera supports include a plurality of camera support bodies, such that each camera support includes a corresponding camera support body from the plurality of camera support bodies, the corresponding camera module being installed in the corresponding camera support body, and The plurality of camera supports further include a plurality of connections, such that each camera support includes a respective connection from the plurality of connections coupled to the respective camera support body of the respective camera support and connected to the shaft, The plurality of connection parts of the plurality of camera supports are each formed in a ring shape, are each connected to the shaft, and surround the shaft.

2. The multi-camera device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the at least one camera bracket includes a power transmission part that generates rotational power, Each of the at least one camera mount is in contact with the driving base through the power transmission portion.

3. The multi-camera device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of connecting portions of the plurality of camera supports are stacked along a longitudinal center axis of the shaft.

4. The multi-camera device according to claim 3, wherein: The shaft comprises: a shaft body disposed inside each of the plurality of connecting portions of the plurality of camera brackets; and A shaft cover has an area larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft body and is coupled to an end of the shaft body.

5. The multi-camera device according to claim 4, further comprising: An adjusting portion, which is arranged outside the shaft body to face the shaft cover, is configured to contact at least one of the plurality of connecting portions from the plurality of camera supports and adjust positions of the plurality of connecting portions of the plurality of camera supports.

6. The multi-camera device according to claim 5, wherein: The adjustment portion has an elastic restoring force from the driving base toward the shaft cover, and pushes the plurality of connection portions of the plurality of camera brackets toward the shaft cover.

7. The multi-camera device according to claim 6, wherein: The adjustment unit comprises: an adjusting plate disposed below the plurality of connecting portions so that the plurality of connecting portions are located between the shaft cover and the adjusting plate; and An elastic member is configured to urge the adjustment plate toward the shaft cover.

8. The multi-camera device according to claim 7, wherein: The elastic member includes a coil spring.

9. An image capturing system, comprising: Plate Department; as well as A multi-camera device mounted to the board, Wherein, the plate portion is fixed outside the multi-camera device, and the multi-camera device comprises: a drive base having a motion path formed therein; at least one camera support, each of the at least one camera support including a respective camera module mounted therein and configured to contact the drive base and move along the motion path; and a shaft disposed at the center of the drive base and coupled to the drive base, wherein each of the at least one camera bracket is connected to the shaft and is configured to move along the circumference of the driving base with the shaft as a rotation center, The at least one camera bracket is a plurality of camera brackets, The plurality of camera supports include a plurality of camera support bodies, such that each camera support includes a corresponding camera support body from the plurality of camera support bodies, the corresponding camera module being installed in the corresponding camera support body, and The plurality of camera supports further include a plurality of connections, such that each camera support includes a respective connection from the plurality of connections coupled to the respective camera support body of the respective camera support and connected to the shaft, The plurality of connection parts of the plurality of camera supports are each formed in a ring shape, are each connected to the shaft, and surround the shaft.

Images