Thermal imaging camera control method and thermal imaging camera control device

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a control method for a thermal imaging camera and a control device for a thermal imaging camera. The control method for a thermal imaging camera includes: a step of periodically correcting the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image at a first interval, and a step of periodically photographing a temperature measurement object by the thermal imaging camera at a second interval to acquire the temperature distribution image. The step of acquiring the temperature distribution image includes: photographing the temperature measurement object after a waiting time shorter than the second interval has passed since the step of correcting the displayed temperature was started.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control method for a thermal imaging camera and a control device for a thermal imaging camera. Background Art

[0002] In cameras such as thermal imaging cameras that visualize infrared rays radiated from an object, the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image acquired over time may deviate. Therefore, a method of correcting the displayed temperature is known.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an infrared image capturing device for use with a mobile body. The infrared image capturing device described in Patent Document 1 controls the timing of determining a correction coefficient based on a signal obtained based on at least one of the speed of the mobile body, a signal from a traffic light existing in the direction in which the mobile body is traveling, and the presence or absence of a detection target object in the direction in which the mobile body is traveling.

[0004] Prior Art Literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-96752 Summary of the invention

[0007] The infrared imaging device described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in that it can capture temperature distribution images with improved reliability.

[0008] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a control method of a thermal imaging camera and a control device of a thermal imaging camera capable of photographing a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0009] A control method for a thermal imaging camera according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a step of periodically correcting a display temperature of a temperature distribution image at a first interval; and a step of periodically photographing a temperature measurement object with the thermal imaging camera at a second interval to acquire a temperature distribution image.

[0010] The step of acquiring the temperature distribution image includes capturing an image of the temperature measurement object after a waiting time shorter than the second interval has elapsed since the step of starting to correct the display temperature.

[0011] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a control device for a thermal imaging camera, which includes a shooting element for shooting a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, and the control device for the thermal imaging camera includes: a correction control unit for periodically correcting the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; and a shooting control unit for causing the shooting element to shoot the temperature measurement object at a second interval.

[0012] The imaging control unit causes the imaging element to image the temperature measurement object after a waiting time shorter than the second interval has elapsed since the correction control unit starts correcting the display temperature.

[0013] A control method for a thermal imaging camera involved in one embodiment of the present invention includes: a step of obtaining input information from a user; a step of periodically correcting the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image at a first interval; a step of obtaining a temperature distribution image by photographing a temperature measurement object by a thermal imaging camera based on the input information; and a step of outputting information related to the correction of the displayed temperature.

[0014] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a control device for a thermal imaging camera, wherein the thermal imaging camera has a photographing element for photographing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, and the control device for the thermal imaging camera has: a correction control unit for periodically correcting a displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; a photographing control unit for obtaining input information input into an input unit and causing the photographing element to photograph the temperature measurement object based on the input information; and an output control unit for outputting information associated with the correction of the displayed temperature.

[0015] According to the present disclosure, a control method of a thermal imaging camera and a control device of a thermal imaging camera capable of photographing a temperature distribution image with improved reliability can be provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically showing a control device for a thermal imaging camera according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2A It shows that Figure 1 Figure of a tablet computer with a control device.

[0018] Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A Diagram of a display portion of a tablet computer.

[0019] Figure 3 Is to configure Figure 2A A magnified view of the tablet's thermal imaging camera.

[0020] Figure 4 : is a graph showing the display temperature of the temperature distribution image obtained by the thermal imaging camera without performing correction of the display temperature.

[0021] Figure 5A FIG. 4 is a graph showing the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image obtained by a thermal imaging camera when calibration is performed periodically.

[0022] Figure 5B It shows that the Figure 5AA graph showing the temperature of a temperature measurement object when the image is taken.

[0023] Figure 6 This is a diagram for explaining a method for determining the waiting time k seconds.

[0024] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing a control method of a thermal imaging camera in a control device.

[0025] Figure 8 Detailed description of the invention is a flowchart showing the control operation of the thermal imaging camera in the control device.

[0026] Fig. 9 : is a graph showing an example of the relationship between correction and shooting in the interval shooting mode.

[0027] Fig.10 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a display example of a temperature distribution image on the display unit.

[0029] Fig.12 : is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to the third embodiment.

[0030] Fig.13 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to a fourth embodiment.

[0031] Fig.14 This is a block diagram showing a control device for a thermal imaging camera according to a fifth embodiment.

[0032] Fig.15 It is shown Fig.14 Flow chart of a control method for a thermal imaging camera.

[0033] Fig.16 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to a sixth embodiment.

[0034] Fig.17 is a diagram showing an image captured by a thermal imaging camera.

[0035] Fig.18 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to a seventh embodiment.

[0036] Fig.19 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of information related to execution of imaging output to the display unit.

[0037] Fig. 20 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to an eighth embodiment.

[0038] Fig.21 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera according to a ninth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] (The process of completing this disclosure)

[0040] In a thermal imaging camera, the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image (thermogram) acquired over time may deviate. Therefore, in a thermal imaging camera, the displayed temperature is corrected periodically, so that a highly accurate temperature distribution image can be acquired.

[0041] However, during or immediately after the temperature correction is executed, a rapid change in the displayed temperature occurs. Therefore, if the image is taken during or immediately after the temperature correction is executed, there is a problem that a correct temperature distribution image cannot be obtained.

[0042] For example, in the interval shooting mode in which the thermal imaging camera periodically shoots, if shooting is performed at a given time interval and the displayed temperature is corrected at a given time interval, the timing of shooting and the timing of correcting the displayed temperature may overlap. In this case, there is a problem that the reliability of the temperature distribution image is reduced because shooting is performed at a timing when a sharp temperature change occurs during or immediately after the correction is completed.

[0043] In addition, even in the manual shooting mode in which shooting is performed at an arbitrary timing set by the user, the display temperature is corrected at a given time interval. In the manual shooting mode, the shooting timing is determined by the user, so sometimes the shooting timing and the display temperature correction timing overlap. In this case, there is also a problem that the reliability of the temperature distribution image is reduced because the shooting is performed at the timing when a sharp temperature change occurs just after the correction is completed.

[0044] Therefore, the present inventors studied to obtain an accurate temperature distribution image by controlling the timing of shooting in the interval shooting mode or to notify the user that the temperature correction is in progress in the manual shooting mode, and completed the following invention.

[0045] The method for controlling a thermal imaging camera includes: a step of periodically correcting the displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image at given intervals; and a step of periodically photographing a temperature measurement object at a given photographing time interval to acquire a temperature distribution image, wherein the step of acquiring the temperature distribution image includes photographing the temperature measurement object after a given standby time shorter than the given photographing time interval has passed since the start of correction.

[0046] According to this configuration, it is possible to capture a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0047] The predetermined standby time may be determined based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image before the display temperature is corrected.

[0048] According to this configuration, an appropriate waiting time can be set.

[0049] Alternatively, the thermal imaging camera includes an imaging element and a shutter disposed on a temperature measurement target side relative to the imaging element, and the step of correcting the displayed temperature is performed by closing the shutter and taking an image.

[0050] According to this configuration, the display temperature can be corrected for each pixel through correction.

[0051] The control method may further include the step of causing a display unit that displays the acquired temperature distribution image to display information indicating that the calibration is being executed, when the calibration is being executed.

[0052] According to this configuration, the user can be notified that the calibration is being executed.

[0053] The method may further include a step of changing a predetermined waiting time based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

[0054] According to this configuration, by changing the standby time according to the display temperature of the temperature distribution image, it is possible to change the timing of correction when the temperature changes suddenly, and to obtain an accurate temperature distribution image.

[0055] In the step of changing the predetermined waiting time, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image changes beyond a predetermined range, the predetermined waiting time may be shortened.

[0056] According to this configuration, by changing the standby time in accordance with a sudden change in the display temperature of the temperature distribution image, it is possible to acquire a more accurate temperature distribution image.

[0057] The method may further include changing the predetermined imaging time interval based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

[0058] According to this configuration, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image changes suddenly, the imaging frequency can be changed according to the change in temperature.

[0059] In the step of changing the predetermined imaging time interval, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the predetermined imaging time interval may be shortened.

[0060] According to this configuration, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image changes suddenly due to the occurrence of abnormality or the like, the imaging frequency can be increased.

[0061] The method may further include the step of notifying a warning message when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold value.

[0062] According to this configuration, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds the threshold value due to occurrence of abnormality or the like, the user can be notified by an alarm or the like.

[0063] The predetermined standby time may be greater than or equal to 10 seconds and less than or equal to 300 seconds.

[0064] According to this configuration, the corrected standby time can be set within a range that does not affect the imaging time interval.

[0065] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a control device for a thermal imaging camera, the thermal imaging camera having a photographing element for photographing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, the control device for the thermal imaging camera comprising: a correction control unit for periodically correcting the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a given interval; and a photographing control unit for causing the photographing element to photograph the temperature measurement object at a given photographing time interval, the photographing control unit causing the photographing element to photograph the temperature measurement object after a given standby time shorter than the given photographing time interval has elapsed since the start of correction based on the correction control unit.

[0066] According to this configuration, it is possible to capture a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0067] A control method for a thermal imaging camera involved in one embodiment of the present invention is a method for controlling a thermal imaging camera, the method comprising: a step of obtaining input information from a user; a step of periodically correcting a displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image at a given correction time interval; a step of photographing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image based on the input information; and a step of outputting information related to the correction of the displayed temperature.

[0068] According to this configuration, it is possible to capture a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0069] The step of outputting information may include: when the calibration is being executed, displaying first information indicating that the calibration is being executed on a display unit that displays the temperature distribution image.

[0070] According to this configuration, the user can be notified that calibration is being performed, and thus imaging during calibration can be avoided.

[0071] The first information may include an indicator indicating the time until the calibration is completed.

[0072] According to this configuration, the time until the calibration is completed can be visually recognized.

[0073] The step of outputting information may include, when a temperature distribution image is acquired by imaging during the calibration execution, adding second information indicating that the image is an image captured during the calibration execution to the acquired temperature distribution image.

[0074] According to this configuration, it can be recognized that the image is captured during calibration execution, and therefore it can be easily identified whether the temperature change is caused by calibration or by abnormality.

[0075] Alternatively, the step of outputting information includes: when input information is received during correction execution, outputting information associated with the execution of shooting, and the step of acquiring the temperature distribution image includes: controlling the execution of shooting based on shooting execution information input for information related to the execution of shooting.

[0076] According to this configuration, when input information instructing imaging is acquired during calibration execution, it is possible to perform control such as interruption or continuation of the temperature distribution image acquisition process.

[0077] The step of outputting information may include, when the calibration is not being executed, outputting third information indicating that the calibration is not being executed.

[0078] According to this configuration, by notifying the user that the calibration is not being executed, the user can easily recognize the timing that is suitable for photographing.

[0079] The method may further include changing the given correction time interval based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

[0080] According to this configuration, an appropriate correction time interval can be set based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

[0081] In the step of changing the predetermined correction time interval, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the predetermined correction time interval may be shortened.

[0082] According to this configuration, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds the threshold value due to occurrence of abnormality or the like, the correction time interval can be shortened, thereby enabling acquisition of a more accurate temperature distribution image.

[0083] One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a control device for a thermal imaging camera, wherein the thermal imaging camera has a photographing element for photographing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, and the control device for the thermal imaging camera includes: a correction control unit for periodically correcting a displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image at a given correction time interval; a photographing control unit for obtaining input information input into an input unit and causing the photographing element to photograph the temperature measurement object based on the input information; and an output control unit for outputting information associated with the correction of the displayed temperature.

[0084] According to this configuration, it is possible to capture a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0085] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described based on the drawings.

[0086] (Implementation Method 1)

[0087] [Overall structure]

[0088] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the control device 1 of the thermal imaging camera 2 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2A It shows that Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the appearance of a tablet computer 100 of the control device 1 . Figure 2B It is shown Figure 2A FIG. 3 is a diagram of a display unit 3 of a tablet computer 100 . Figure 3 Is to configure Figure 2A The thermal imaging camera 2 of the tablet computer 100 is an enlarged view.

[0089] like Figure 1 As shown, the control device 1 is a device for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2. The control device 1 includes a shooting control unit 11 and a correction control unit 12. The thermal imaging camera 2 includes a shooting element 21 and a shutter 22. In this embodiment, the control device 1 and the thermal imaging camera 2 are mounted on Figure 2A as well as Figure 2B The tablet computer 100 shown. In addition, the control device 1 enables Figure 2B The display unit 3 of the tablet computer 100 shown displays the captured temperature distribution image.

[0090] <Control device>

[0091] The control device 1 controls the photographing of the temperature measurement object by the thermal imaging camera 2 and the correction of the displayed temperature. In the present embodiment, the control device 1 controls the interval photographing mode in which the thermal imaging camera 2 periodically photographs at a given interval. The so-called displayed temperature is the displayed temperature in the temperature distribution image obtained by photographing the temperature measurement object by the thermal imaging camera 2. The control device 1 periodically performs the correction of the displayed temperature.

[0092] The control device 1 includes an imaging control unit 11 and a correction control unit 12 .

[0093] The shooting control unit 11 controls the shooting element 21 of the thermal imaging camera 2. Specifically, the shooting control unit 11 causes the shooting element 21 of the thermal imaging camera 2 to shoot the temperature measurement object (not shown in the figure) at a given shooting time interval. In this way, a temperature distribution image is acquired. The acquired temperature distribution image is stored in the storage unit of the control device 1 (not shown in the figure). In addition, the so-called given shooting time interval is a shooting cycle in the interval shooting mode, which is an example of the second interval. For example, if the shooting time interval is 10 minutes, the control device 1 causes the thermal imaging camera 2 to perform shooting every 10 minutes when the interval shooting mode is started. The shooting time interval can be set to a range of more than 1 minute and less than 180 minutes, for example.

[0094] The photographing control unit 11 causes the photographing element 21 to photograph the temperature measurement object after a given waiting time has passed since the calibration by the calibration control unit 12 was started. The so-called temperature measurement object is an object whose temperature is measured by the thermal imaging camera 2. For example, by performing interval photographing of factory machinery or the like as the temperature measurement object, it is possible to monitor the change in the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image and detect abnormalities. The given waiting time is shorter than the given shooting time interval. The given waiting time is determined based on the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image before the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image is corrected by the calibration control unit 12.

[0095] The correction control unit 12 corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image. The correction control unit 12 periodically corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a predetermined interval (an example of a first interval).

[0096] The control device 1 can be composed of, for example, a CPU, an MPU, a DSP, an FPGA, an ASIC, etc. The functions of the control device 1 can be realized by hardware alone or by combining hardware and software. The control device 1 performs various calculations by reading data and programs stored in a storage area (not shown) in the control device 1, thereby realizing a given function. The control device 1 can also be composed of a CPU or the like mounted on an electronic device such as a PC or a tablet computer.

[0097] <Thermal Imaging Camera>

[0098] The thermal imaging camera 2 acquires the surface temperature of the temperature measurement object to generate a temperature distribution image. For example, the thermal imaging camera 2 is a camera that generates a temperature distribution image by detecting infrared energy radiated from the temperature measurement object and converting the detected infrared energy into temperature.

[0099] The thermal imaging camera 2 includes an imaging element 21 and a shutter 22 .

[0100] The imaging element 21 captures an image of the temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image. For example, the imaging element 21 is an imaging element using an infrared sensor. The imaging element 21 can detect and capture infrared rays radiated from the temperature measurement object.

[0101] The shutter 22 is a mechanical shutter that blocks infrared rays directed to the imaging element 21 except when photographing. The shutter 22 is arranged on the temperature measurement target side of the imaging element 21. In addition, in this embodiment, as described later, infrared rays directed to the imaging element 21 are blocked by the shutter 22 even when temperature correction is performed.

[0102] In this embodiment, if Figure 2A as well as Figure 3 As shown, the thermal imaging camera 2 is arranged on the back side (the side opposite to the display unit 3) of the tablet computer 100. By arranging the thermal imaging camera on the back side of the tablet computer 100, it is possible to take pictures while checking the image on the display unit 3.

[0103] <Display>

[0104] The display unit 3 is, for example, a display panel such as a liquid crystal display, and in the present embodiment, is mounted on the tablet computer 100. The temperature distribution image captured by the thermal imaging camera 2 can be displayed on the display unit 3.

[0105] <Calibration of Display Temperature>

[0106] Figure 4 It is a graph showing the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image obtained by the thermal imaging camera 2 when the displayed temperature is not corrected. Even if the actual temperature of the temperature measurement object is fixed, the detected displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image will gradually decrease if the displayed temperature is not corrected. This is due to the influence of the deviation in the sensitivity of each pixel of the imaging element 21, the change in ambient temperature, etc. In addition, according to the thermal imaging camera 2, there is also a situation where the displayed temperature gradually rises. In addition, the deviation condition is different for each pixel, and the following situation may occur, that is, a deviation of 5°C occurs in a certain pixel and a deviation of 10°C occurs in other pixels. Therefore, the control device 1 periodically corrects the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image.

[0107] In this embodiment, the display temperature is corrected by periodically closing the shutter 22 and photographing the shutter 22. This is because by periodically closing the shutter 22, a shutter surface with a uniform temperature is photographed and corrected. By photographing the shutter 22, the deviation of the temperature of each pixel can be corrected simultaneously. The correction of the display temperature is performed periodically at intervals of, for example, 3 to 5 minutes.

[0108] Figure 5A: is a graph showing the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image obtained by the thermal imaging camera 2 when calibration is performed periodically. Figure 5B It shows that the Figure 5A A temperature distribution image showing the temperature curve when the temperature measurement object is photographed. Figure 5A In the example, the first calibration starts at time 0, and then the calibration is periodically started every T seconds. Figure 5A As shown in FIG. 1 , when the calibration just starts, the temperature rises suddenly temporarily. If the waiting time k seconds has passed after the calibration starts, the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image stabilizes. Therefore, in this embodiment, the image is taken after the given waiting time k seconds has passed after the calibration starts. Figure 5B As shown in FIG. 1 , if the camera is photographed after a waiting time of k seconds has passed since the start of calibration, the image can be obtained. Figure 5A The temperature distribution image in the curve graph shows the rapid change of temperature.

[0109] The given waiting time k seconds is predetermined for each thermal imaging camera 2. The waiting time k seconds is determined based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image before the display temperature is corrected. For example, the waiting time k seconds can be determined by photographing a reference object with a fixed surface temperature by the thermal imaging camera 2. As the reference object, for example, a black body furnace can be used. That is, the so-called reference object can be an object different from the temperature measurement object. Figure 6 : is a graph for explaining the method of determining the waiting time k seconds.

[0110] exist Figure 6 In the process, the thermal imaging camera 2 obtains the average temperature x°C when photographing the reference object from time 0 when the temperature measurement starts to time t1 when the correction starts. The average temperature x°C can be obtained, for example, by acquiring multiple temperature distribution images until time t1 when the correction starts and calculating the average value of the displayed temperature of each image. Then, the elapsed time from time t1 when the correction is performed to time t2 is measured, and the time t2 is the time when the average temperature when the black body furnace is photographed converges to a given range from the average temperature x°C before the correction. The elapsed time from t1 to t2 is the standby time k seconds. In addition, the given range mentioned here is determined according to the average temperature x°C or the characteristics of the thermal imaging camera 2. Repeat the above steps to determine the optimal value of the standby time k seconds.

[0111] [Control method]

[0112] Reference Figure 7 A control method of the thermal imaging camera 2 is described. Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating a control method of the thermal imaging camera 2 .

[0113] First, the interval photography mode is started by the photography control unit 11 (step S101). The interval photography is started based on, for example, an input from a user. In the present embodiment, the given photography time interval of the interval photography is described as N seconds.

[0114] When the interval photography starts, the correction control unit 12 corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image (step S102 ).

[0115] After the display temperature correction is started, the image capturing control unit 11 captures the temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image (step S103). In step S103, the temperature measurement object is captured after a predetermined waiting time (k seconds) shorter than a predetermined image capturing time interval (N seconds) has elapsed since the display temperature correction in step S102 was started (step S104).

[0116] After photographing the temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, the photographing control unit 11 determines whether to end the interval photography mode (step S105). The photographing control unit 11 determines to end the interval photography mode, for example, when a given number of photographs is exceeded or when the user inputs a stop to photography. If the photographing control unit 11 determines that the interval photography mode is not to be ended ("No" in step S105), the photographing control unit 11 returns to step S102 after Nk seconds have passed since the photographing in step S103, and starts to calibrate the display temperature again. If the photographing control unit 11 determines that the interval photography mode is to be ended ("Yes" in step S105), the processing ends.

[0117] Thus, the control method periodically corrects the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image at a given interval in the interval shooting mode, and periodically shoots the temperature measurement object at a given shooting time interval (N seconds) to acquire the temperature distribution image. In addition, acquiring the temperature distribution image includes shooting the temperature measurement object after a given standby time (k seconds) shorter than the given shooting time interval (N seconds) has passed since the start of the correction.

[0118] [action]

[0119] Reference Figure 8 as well as Fig. 9 The control action of the thermal imaging camera 2 executed by the control device 1 is described. Figure 8 2 is a flowchart showing the control operation of the thermal imaging camera 2 in the control device 1 . Fig. 9 : is a graph showing an example of the relationship between correction and shooting in the interval shooting mode.

[0120] In the present embodiment, the acquisition of the temperature distribution image is performed in a so-called interval shooting mode which is periodically executed at a predetermined shooting time interval (N seconds interval). In addition, the predetermined waiting time from the start of calibration is k seconds.

[0121] The interval shooting mode is started based on the input information from the user (step S111). The input information from the user may include the shooting time interval, shooting period, or number of shots, etc. The input information is input via an input device (not shown) such as a touch panel, keyboard, or button of the tablet computer 100.

[0122] When the interval shooting starts, the correction control unit 12 starts the correction of the display temperature (step S112). Fig. 9 As shown, if the interval shooting mode is started, the correction starts at time c0. The correction of the displayed temperature is performed by closing the shutter 22 of the thermal imaging camera 2 and photographing the surface of the shutter 22 with a uniform temperature. When the shutter 22 is closed, the deviation of the temperature of each pixel of the imaging element 21 is corrected. That is, after the shooting control unit 11 closes the shutter 22, the imaging element 21 photographs the shutter 22 to obtain a temperature distribution image of the shutter 22. Here, the shooting control unit 11 periodically closes the shutter 22 at a given interval, and the shutter 22 is photographed by the imaging element 21. The temperature distribution image of the shutter 22 is different from the temperature distribution image of the temperature measurement object outside the thermal imaging camera 2, and it can be considered to have a relatively uniform temperature distribution. Therefore, the correction control unit 12 periodically corrects the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image of the temperature measurement object based on the temperature distribution image of the shutter 22, thereby automatically and appropriately correcting the deviation of each pixel of the imaging element 21.

[0123] The imaging control unit 11 waits until the waiting time k seconds have passed since the calibration of the display temperature was started (step S113). If the waiting time k has passed, the imaging control unit 11 controls the thermal imaging camera 2 so that the imaging element 21 images the temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image (step S114). Fig. 9 As shown, the photographing is performed at time t0 after k seconds have passed from time c0.

[0124] The shooting control unit 11 determines whether to end the interval shooting (step S115). The end of the interval shooting is determined, for example, based on the acquisition of the input information of the end of shooting from the user, the acquisition of a given number of temperature distribution images, or the reaching of the shooting end time of the timer. In the case where the shooting control unit 11 determines that the interval shooting is not to be ended ("No" in step S115), the correction control unit 12 waits until Nk seconds have passed since the shooting (step S116). After waiting for Nk seconds, the process returns to step S112, and the correction control unit 12 starts to calibrate the display temperature.

[0125] When the imaging control unit 11 determines that the interval imaging is to be terminated (YES in step S115 ), the processing is terminated.

[0126] exist Fig. 9 In the example, if the interval shooting mode is started, the display temperature correction starts at time c0. Then, after a waiting time of k seconds has passed since the start of the correction, the temperature measurement object is photographed at time t0. Furthermore, after a waiting time of Nk seconds, the second correction is started. In this way, the shooting is performed after a given waiting time of k seconds has passed since the start of the correction, thereby making it possible to stagger the timing of the shooting and the timing of the correction. In addition, as Fig. 9 As shown, in the present embodiment, the predetermined interval for correcting the displayed temperature is N seconds, which is the same as the predetermined imaging time interval for imaging the temperature measurement object.

[0127] [Effect]

[0128] According to the above-mentioned embodiments, a control method of a thermal imaging camera and a control device of a thermal imaging camera capable of photographing a temperature distribution image with improved reliability can be provided.

[0129] By performing imaging after a waiting time of k seconds has elapsed since the correction of the display temperature was started, it is possible to avoid temperature fluctuations caused by the correction and to obtain a more accurate temperature distribution image.

[0130] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the control device 1 is described as being mounted on the tablet computer 100, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The control device 1 may also be mounted on an information processing device other than the tablet computer. Alternatively, the control device 1 may also be a control unit such as a CPU of the thermal imaging camera 2.

[0131] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, an example in which the thermal imaging camera 2 is provided with the shutter 22 is described, but the shutter 22 is not a necessary structure. In the case where the thermal imaging camera 2 does not include the shutter 22, for example, the temperature fluctuation of each pixel is corrected according to a correction table related to the display temperature of the temperature distribution image and the ambient temperature prepared in advance, thereby performing correction by the correction control unit 12.

[0132] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the black body furnace is photographed as a reference object to determine the waiting time k seconds, but the method for determining the waiting time is not limited to this. The waiting time may also be determined by a method different from the above-mentioned method according to the camera characteristics or the correction method (shutter correction or no shutter correction). Alternatively, the waiting time may also be automatically determined according to the temperature fluctuation during the shooting.

[0133] (Implementation Method 2)

[0134] Reference Fig.10 as well as Fig.11 Embodiment 2 will be described. In Embodiment 2, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 2, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 1 will be omitted.

[0135] Fig.10 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 according to the second embodiment. Fig.11 It is a diagram showing a display example of a temperature distribution image on the display unit 3 .

[0136] The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the second embodiment includes a step (step S123) in which the imaging control unit 11 displays information indicating that the calibration is being executed on the display unit 3 from the time when the calibration control unit 12 starts the calibration until a predetermined waiting time k seconds has elapsed. Fig.10 Steps S121 to S122 and steps S124 to S126 are the same as steps S101 to S102 and S103 to S105 in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

[0137] In step S123, when the calibration is in progress, Fig.11 As shown, a message 33 indicating that "temperature correction is being performed" is displayed on the display unit 3. The state of being corrected indicates the period from when the correction control unit 12 starts the correction of the display temperature in step S122 to when the waiting time k seconds has passed.

[0138] The information 33 may be characters or symbols displayed on the display unit 3. Alternatively, the information 33 may be notified by sound or light. Fig.11 In the display unit 3, a temperature distribution image 31 obtained by the thermal imaging camera 2 is displayed on the left, and an image 32 obtained by a visible light camera (not shown) is displayed on the right. The display position of the information 33 can be as follows: Fig.11 In this way, it may be displayed on the image 32, it may be displayed on the temperature distribution image 31, or it may be displayed on both the images 31 and 32. Only the temperature distribution image 31 may be displayed on the display unit 3.

[0139] The message 33 is displayed on the display unit 3 during the period from when the calibration in step S122 is started until the waiting time k seconds has elapsed.

[0140] [Effect]

[0141] According to the above embodiment, by notifying that calibration is in progress during the period from the start of calibration to the elapse of the waiting time k seconds, it is possible to avoid photographing during a period of rapid temperature change after calibration starts. Therefore, it is possible to photograph a temperature distribution image with improved reliability.

[0142] In the above embodiment, the information 33 is displayed on the display unit 3 from the start of calibration until the waiting time k seconds have passed, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the information 33 may be displayed for a period exceeding the waiting time k seconds from the start of calibration.

[0143] (Implementation 3)

[0144] Reference Fig.12 Embodiment 3 will be described. In Embodiment 3, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 3, descriptions overlapping with those in Embodiment 1 are omitted.

[0145] Fig.12 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 according to the third embodiment.

[0146] In the third embodiment, the following steps (steps S135 and S136) are further included, that is, when the shooting control unit 11 shoots the temperature measurement object to obtain the temperature distribution image, the standby time k is changed based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image. In addition, steps S131 to S134 and step S137 are the same as steps S101 to S104 and step S105 of the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0147] In step S135, the imaging control unit 11 determines whether the change in the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given range. For example, the average value of the displayed temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image is calculated, and the change in the average value exceeds the given range, so that the change in the displayed temperature exceeds the given range. Alternatively, the average value of the displayed temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image for a certain period of time exceeds the given range, so that the change in the displayed temperature exceeds the given range. The average value in a certain period of time can be, for example, the average value of the displayed temperature of a specific part of the temperature measurement object in the past 1 minute. Instead of the average value, the maximum value, the central value, or the minimum value of the displayed temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image may be used. Alternatively, the displayed temperature of a specific part of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image may be used. For example, when there is a temperature change of 10°C or more compared with the previous imaging, the imaging control unit 11 determines that the temperature change exceeds the given range. When it is determined that the temperature change exceeds the given range ("Yes" in step S135), the imaging control unit 11 shortens the standby time k seconds (step S136).

[0148] The waiting time k seconds can be changed within a range of not less than 10 seconds and not more than 300 seconds.

[0149] [Effect]

[0150] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, it is possible to shoot with improved reliability of the temperature distribution image. In addition, depending on the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image, the time until the rapid change in temperature after the correction starts stabilizes sometimes varies, so by changing the standby time based on the displayed temperature change of the temperature distribution image, it is possible to obtain a more accurate temperature distribution image.

[0151] In the above-described embodiment, the waiting time is changed so as to be shortened by k seconds. However, when the temperature change exceeds a given range, the waiting time may be changed so as to be extended by k seconds.

[0152] (Implementation 4)

[0153] Reference Fig.13 Embodiment 4 will be described. In Embodiment 4, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 4, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 1 will be omitted.

[0154] Fig.13 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0155] In the fourth embodiment, the difference from the first embodiment is that the following steps (steps S145 to S147) are further included, that is, the step of changing the shooting time interval based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image when the shooting control unit 11 shoots the temperature measurement object to obtain the temperature distribution image, and the step of notifying the warning information. In addition, steps S141 to S144 and step S149 are the same as steps S101 to S104 and step S105 of the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0156] In step S145, the shooting control unit 11 determines whether the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold. For example, the average value of the display temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image is calculated, and the average value exceeds the given threshold, so that it can be determined that the display temperature exceeds the given threshold. Alternatively, the average value of the display temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image for a certain period of time exceeds the threshold, so that it can be determined that the change of the display temperature exceeds a given range. The average value in a certain period of time can be, for example, the average value of the display temperature of a specific part of the temperature measurement object in the past minute. Instead of the average value, the maximum value, the central value, or the minimum value of the display temperature of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image can be used. Alternatively, the display temperature of a specific part of the temperature measurement object in the temperature distribution image can also be used. The given threshold can use a value input by the user. Alternatively, the given threshold can also be a pre-set value. The given threshold can be set to 140° C., for example. According to the thermal imaging camera 2, if the display temperature of the temperature distribution image becomes high temperature, it will be changed to high temperature mode, and sometimes the temperature accuracy guarantee temperature will be changed. Therefore, when the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds the threshold and becomes high temperature, the shooting control unit 11 shortens the shooting time interval N seconds (step S146). In this way, when the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold, a more accurate temperature transition can be obtained by increasing the shooting frequency.

[0157] In addition, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds the threshold and becomes high temperature, the shooting control unit 11 notifies the warning information (step S147). The warning information can be notified by displaying the warning information on the display unit 3, for example. The warning information can be notified by displaying characters or symbols on the display unit 3, or by sound or light. Alternatively, an alarm can be sent to an external device through a wireless communication module mounted on the tablet computer 100.

[0158] [Effect]

[0159] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, it is possible to perform shooting with improved reliability of the temperature distribution image. In addition, by changing the shooting time interval based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image, a more accurate temperature distribution image can be obtained. In addition, when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold and becomes high temperature, a warning message is notified, thereby notifying the user of the occurrence of an abnormality.

[0160] In the above embodiment, when the display temperature exceeds a given threshold, the imaging time interval is changed and the warning information is notified. However, both the imaging time interval and the warning information need not be both performed, and either one may be performed.

[0161] (Implementation method 5)

[0162] Reference Fig.14 Embodiment 5 will be described. In Embodiment 5, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 5, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 1 will be omitted.

[0163] Fig.14 1 is a block diagram showing a control device 1 a of a thermal imaging camera 2 a according to a fifth embodiment.

[0164] In implementation mode 5, if Fig.14 As shown, the difference from the first embodiment is that the control device 1a further includes an output control unit 13. The output control unit 13 controls the output of information (first information) related to the correction of the display temperature described later. In addition, the difference from the first embodiment is that the thermal imaging camera 2a does not include a shutter.

[0165] In addition, in the present embodiment, the control device 1a controls the manual shooting mode in which the thermal imaging camera 2a shoots at an arbitrary timing set by the user. Furthermore, the correction control unit 12 periodically corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a given correction time interval. The given correction time interval is predetermined according to the characteristics of the thermal imaging camera 2a, etc.

[0166] When the output control unit 13 obtains input information from the user during the correction execution, it generates and outputs information related to the correction of the display temperature. In the present embodiment, as the information related to the correction of the display temperature, the first information is generated and output. The first information is information indicating that the correction is being executed. The first information can be displayed, for example, by characters or symbols, or notified by sound or light. In the present embodiment, the display unit 3 is connected to the control device 1a, so the first information can be displayed on the display unit 3 in the form of characters or symbols.

[0167] In addition, the control device 1a is connected to an input unit 4 such as a keyboard, a button, or a touch panel, and obtains input information from the input unit 4. The input information can include information such as shooting timing (real-time shooting or timed shooting) and the number of shots. The shooting control unit 11 causes the thermal imaging camera 2a to shoot the temperature measurement object based on the input information to obtain a temperature distribution image. That is, in this embodiment, unlike the interval shooting mode in which shooting is performed periodically, the shooting of the temperature measurement object and the acquisition of the temperature distribution image are performed based on the input information from the user.

[0168] The control device 1a and the thermal imaging camera 2a may also be mounted on a tablet computer (not shown) similarly to the first embodiment.

[0169] [action]

[0170] Reference Fig.15 A control method of the thermal imaging camera 2a executed by the control device 1a will be described. Fig.15 It is shown Fig.14 Flow chart of a control method of a thermal imaging camera 2a.

[0171] First, the manual shooting mode is started by a user input (step S201 ) At this time, the correction control unit 12 periodically corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a given correction time interval (step S202 ).

[0172] The shooting control unit 11 determines whether the correction control unit 12 is in the process of performing correction of the display temperature (step S203). In the case of the period from the start of the correction of the display temperature by the correction control unit 12 to the lapse of the given standby time k seconds, the shooting control unit 11 determines that the correction is being performed ("Yes" in step S203). In the case where the shooting control unit 11 determines that the correction is being performed, the output control unit 13 outputs information related to the correction of the display temperature (step S204). The step of outputting information includes the step of outputting the first information indicating that the correction is being performed (step S205). In the present embodiment, as in Fig.11 As described in , the output control unit 13 outputs the first information to the display unit 3 through a character string such as "temperature correction". When a given waiting time k seconds has passed since the correction control unit 12 started to display the temperature correction, the shooting control unit 11 determines that the correction is not being executed ("No" in step S203), and proceeds to the next step.

[0173] The first information is not limited to a character string, and may be a symbol, etc. Alternatively, it may be an indicator showing the time from the start of calibration to the elapse of a given waiting time, that is, until the end of calibration.

[0174] Then, the imaging control unit 11 determines whether the input information from the user is obtained (step S206). If it is determined that the input information is obtained ("Yes" in step S206), the imaging control unit 11 controls the thermal imaging camera 2 so that the imaging element 21 images the temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image (step S207). If it is determined that the input information is not obtained ("No" in step S206), the process proceeds to step S208.

[0175] Next, the shooting control unit 11 determines whether to end the manual shooting mode (step S208). The shooting control unit 11 determines to end the manual shooting mode, for example, when the user inputs a switch to another mode or when a given number of shots is exceeded. If the shooting control unit 11 determines not to end the manual shooting mode ("No" in step S208), the process returns to step S202. If the shooting control unit 11 determines to end the manual shooting mode ("No" in step S208), the process ends.

[0176] [Effect]

[0177] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, in the manual shooting mode, information related to the correction of the display temperature is output. Specifically, when the correction is being executed, the first information indicating that the correction is being executed is displayed on the display unit 3. By outputting the first information to the display unit 3, the user can easily recognize that the correction is being executed, and can avoid shooting during the correction. Therefore, it is possible to shoot with improved reliability of the temperature distribution image.

[0178] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, an example is described in which the thermal imaging camera 2a does not include a shutter, but the thermal imaging camera 2a may also include a shutter.

[0179] In the above embodiment, the information on correction of the display temperature is described as the first information indicating that correction is being executed, but the information on correction of the display temperature is not limited to the first information. For example, it may include information indicating that correction is not being executed.

[0180] (Implementation method 6)

[0181] Reference Fig.16 as well as Fig.17 Embodiment 6 will be described. In Embodiment 6, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 6, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted.

[0182] Fig.16 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 a according to the sixth embodiment. Fig.17 2 is a diagram showing an image captured by the thermal imaging camera 2 a .

[0183] In implementation mode 6, Fig.16 As shown in the figure, the processing performed by the imaging control unit 11 after determining that the calibration is being executed is different from that in the fifth embodiment. In the present embodiment, as information related to the calibration of the display temperature, in addition to the first information, the second information is added to the temperature distribution image. The second information is information indicating that the temperature distribution image is an image acquired during the calibration. In addition, steps S211 to S213, steps S214 to S215, and step S220 are different from those in the fifth embodiment. Fig.16 Steps S201 to S203, steps S206 to S207, and step S208 are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0184] After the output control unit 13 outputs the first information (step S216), the imaging control unit 11 determines whether the input information is acquired (step S217). When the imaging control unit 11 determines that the input information is acquired ("Yes" in step S217), it captures the temperature measurement object to acquire a temperature distribution image (step S218). Then, the output control unit 13 adds the second information indicating that the correction is being executed to the temperature distribution image acquired in step S218 (step S219).

[0185] like Fig.17 As shown, the second information is displayed as a character string 53 of "temperature correction" in the acquired image 5. The second information may be a symbol or the like in addition to the character string. Fig.17 In the image 5 shown, a temperature distribution image 51 obtained by the thermal imaging camera 2a and an image 52 obtained by the visible light camera are displayed side by side. The position where the second information is displayed is not limited to Fig.17 The position shown can be displayed at any position. In addition, the second information can be added to the file name of the acquired image, metadata, etc. in addition to being displayed on the image.

[0186] [Effect]

[0187] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, when a temperature distribution image is acquired by photographing during calibration execution, second information indicating that the image is photographed during calibration execution is added to the acquired temperature distribution image. Thus, even during calibration execution, the temperature distribution image can be photographed and acquired. In addition, by adding the second information indicating that calibration is being executed to the photographed image, it is possible to easily recognize that the acquired image is photographed during calibration execution.

[0188] In addition, the step of outputting the first information in step S216 may not be performed.

[0189] (Implementation 7)

[0190] Reference Fig.18 as well as Fig.19 Embodiment 7 will be described. In Embodiment 7, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 7, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted.

[0191] Fig.18 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 a according to the seventh embodiment. Fig.19 It is a diagram showing an example of information related to execution of imaging outputted to the display unit 3 .

[0192] In the seventh embodiment, the difference from the sixth embodiment is that when the input information is acquired during the calibration execution, the output control unit 13 outputs the information related to the execution of the photographing (step S228). In addition, the difference from the sixth embodiment is that the execution of the photographing is controlled based on the photographing execution information input for the information related to the execution of the photographing (steps S229 and S230). In addition, steps S221 to S227 and step S231 are the same as steps S211 to S217 and step S220 of the sixth embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[0193] If the imaging control unit 11 determines that the input information is acquired during the calibration ("Yes" in step S227), the output control unit 13 outputs information related to the execution of imaging. Fig.19 As shown, information related to the execution of photographing can be output to the display unit 3a. The photographing control unit 11 obtains the photographing execution information input for the output information related to the execution of photographing, and executes photographing based on the acquired photographing execution information. For example, the user can select the information related to the execution of photographing through buttons 41 to 43 of the touch panel (input unit 4). The photographing control unit 11 performs the following control, that is, if button 41E is selected, the photographing continues, if button 42 is selected, the photographing is terminated, or if button 43 is selected, the photographing is executed after the calibration is completed. The photographing execution information input for the output information related to the execution of photographing can also be input from a keyboard or the like in addition to the touch panel.

[0194] If button 41 or button 43 is selected, the imaging control unit 11 determines to execute imaging ("Yes" in step S229). If button 42 is selected, in step S230, the imaging control unit 11 waits until calibration is completed and then executes imaging. If button 42 is selected, the imaging control unit 11 determines not to execute imaging ("No" in step S229).

[0195] [Effect]

[0196] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, when input information is received during calibration execution, information related to the execution of shooting is output, and the execution of shooting is controlled based on the shooting execution information input for the information related to the execution of shooting. Thus, even when the shooting control unit 11 obtains input information from the user during calibration execution, it is possible to select to interrupt shooting, continue execution, or continue execution after calibration is completed, thereby improving user convenience.

[0197] (Implementation 8)

[0198] Reference Fig. 20 Embodiment 8 will be described. In Embodiment 8, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 8, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted.

[0199] Fig. 20 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 a according to the eighth embodiment.

[0200] In the eighth embodiment, the difference from the fifth embodiment is that, as information related to the correction of the display temperature, when the correction is not being executed, the third information indicating that the correction is not being executed is output (step S245). In addition, steps S241 to S243 and steps S246 to S248 are the same as steps S201 to S203 and steps S246 to S248 of the fifth embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[0201] When the shooting control unit 11 determines that the calibration is not being executed ("No" in step SS243), the output control unit 13 outputs the third information indicating that the calibration is not being executed (step S245). Regarding the output of the third information, for example, a character string or a symbol indicating that the calibration is not being executed can be displayed on the display unit 3. Alternatively, notification can also be made by sound or the like. By outputting the third information, the user can confirm that the calibration is not being executed and then input the input information. If the shooting control unit 11 obtains the input information (step S246), the shooting control unit 11 executes shooting based on the input information (step S247).

[0202] [Effect]

[0203] According to the above-described embodiment, when the calibration is not being executed, the third information indicating that the calibration is not being executed is outputted. This allows the user to easily recognize whether the calibration is being executed, thereby improving convenience.

[0204] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example is described in which the third information indicating that the calibration is not being executed is output as information related to the calibration, but the first information and / or the second information may be output in addition to the third information.

[0205] (Implementation method 9)

[0206] Reference Fig.21 Embodiment 9 will be described. In Embodiment 9, the same or equivalent components as those in Embodiment 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals and described. In Embodiment 9, the description overlapping with that in Embodiment 5 will be omitted.

[0207] Fig.21 1 is a flowchart showing a method for controlling the thermal imaging camera 2 a according to the ninth embodiment.

[0208] The ninth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the correction time interval is changed based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image (steps S258 to S259). Steps S251 to S257 and step S260 are the same as steps S201 to S207 and step S208 of the fifth embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

[0209] When the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image acquired by the shooting control unit 11 exceeds a given threshold, the temperature measurement object may be abnormal. Therefore, based on the displayed temperature, if the shooting control unit 11 determines that the displayed temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold ("Yes" in step S258), the correction control unit 12 changes the correction time interval (step S259). Regarding the change of the correction time interval, for example, the correction time interval can be shortened to increase the frequency of correction. By increasing the frequency of correction, a more accurate temperature distribution image can be obtained.

[0210] When it is determined that the display temperature of the temperature distribution image is lower than or equal to the threshold value (No in step S258 ), the correction time interval is not changed and the process proceeds to step S260 .

[0211] [Effect]

[0212] According to the above-described embodiment, the correction time interval can be changed according to the change in the display temperature of the temperature distribution image, so a more accurate temperature distribution image can be acquired.

[0213] Industrial Applicability

[0214] The present disclosure can be widely applied to a control method for a thermal imaging camera and a control device for a thermal imaging camera.

[0215] Explanation of symbols

[0216] 1.1a: Control device;

[0217] 2.2a: Thermal imaging camera;

[0218] 3: Display unit;

[0219] 4: Input part;

[0220] 11: Shooting control unit;

[0221] 12: Correction control unit;

[0222] 13: Output control unit;

[0223] 21: Photo element;

[0224] 22: Shutter.

Claims

1. A control method for a thermal imaging camera, comprising: a step of periodically correcting the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; and The step of periodically photographing the temperature measurement object with the thermal imaging camera at a second interval to obtain the temperature distribution image, The step of acquiring the temperature distribution image comprises: after a waiting time shorter than the second interval has elapsed since the step of starting the correction of the displayed temperature, photographing the temperature measurement object; The control method of the thermal imaging camera also includes: A step of changing the waiting time based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

2. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1, wherein: Before the step of correcting the displayed temperature, the waiting time is determined based on a displayed temperature of a temperature distribution image of a reference object different from the temperature measurement object.

3. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The thermal imaging camera comprises: a shooting element; and a shutter, arranged at a position closer to the temperature measurement object than the imaging element, The step of correcting the displayed temperature comprises: closing the shutter; photographing the shutter by the photographing element to acquire a temperature distribution image of the shutter; and The display temperature is corrected based on a temperature distribution image of the shutter.

4. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Also includes: A step of displaying the temperature distribution image and information indicating that the calibration is being executed on a display unit during the step of calibrating the displayed temperature.

5. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1, wherein: The step of changing the standby time includes: When the amount of change in the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given range, the standby time is shortened.

6. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Also includes: A step of changing the second interval based on the display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

7. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 6, wherein: The step of changing the second interval includes: When the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second interval is shortened.

8. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 7, wherein: Also includes: The step of notifying a warning message when the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds the given threshold.

9. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The standby time is greater than or equal to 10 seconds and less than or equal to 300 seconds.

10. A control device for a thermal imaging camera, the thermal imaging camera comprising an imaging element for capturing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, The control device of the thermal imaging camera has: a correction control unit that periodically corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; and an imaging control unit that causes the imaging element to image the temperature measurement object at a second interval, the imaging control unit causes the imaging element to image the temperature measurement object after a waiting time shorter than the second interval has passed since the correction control unit starts correcting the display temperature, The imaging control unit changes the waiting time based on a display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

11. A method for controlling a thermal imaging camera, comprising: Steps for obtaining input information from a user; a step of periodically correcting the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; Based on the input information, the thermal imaging camera photographs the temperature measurement object to obtain the temperature distribution image; a step of changing the first interval based on a display temperature of the temperature distribution image; and The step of outputting information related to the correction of the display temperature.

12. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 11, wherein: The step of outputting the information comprises: During the step of correcting the displayed temperature, the temperature distribution image and first information indicating that the correction is being executed are displayed on a display unit.

13. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 12, wherein: The first information includes an indicator indicating a time until the step of correcting the displayed temperature is completed.

14. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The step of outputting the information comprises: When the temperature distribution image is acquired during the step of correcting the display temperature, second information indicating that the image is captured during the correction is added to the acquired temperature distribution image.

15. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The step of outputting the information comprises: When the input information is received during the step of correcting the display temperature, information related to the execution of the photographing is output, The step of acquiring the temperature distribution image comprises: Based on the imaging execution information inputted with respect to the information regarding the execution of the imaging, the execution of the imaging of the temperature measurement object is controlled.

16. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: The step of outputting the information comprises: While the display temperature is not being corrected, third information indicating that the correction is not being executed is output.

17. The control method of a thermal imaging camera according to claim 11, wherein: The step of changing the first interval includes: When the display temperature of the temperature distribution image exceeds a given threshold, the first interval is shortened.

18. A control device for a thermal imaging camera, the thermal imaging camera comprising an imaging element for capturing a temperature measurement object to obtain a temperature distribution image, The control device of the thermal imaging camera has: a correction control unit that periodically corrects the display temperature of the temperature distribution image at a first interval; an imaging control unit that acquires input information input to the input unit and causes the imaging element to image a temperature measurement object based on the input information; and an output control unit that outputs information related to the correction of the display temperature, The imaging control unit changes the first interval based on a display temperature of the temperature distribution image.

Images