Imaging device, control method for imaging device, and program

Abstract

To solve the problem in which if a genlock enabling process is executed while the angle of view is being controlled by operations such as panning and tilting, an image deteriorates, such as displaying a black image.SOLUTION: An imaging device includes synchronization control means for executing a synchronization process to synchronize a first synchronization signal for controlling the output timing of a first image generated by imaging, by imaging means, a subject with a second synchronization signal obtained from the outside, and angle of view control means for executing an angle of view control process to control the angle of view of the imaging means. The angle of view control means does not start the angle of view control process while the synchronization process is being executed, even if instructed to perform the angle of view control process.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device, a control method for an imaging device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] When switching between multiple camera images using a switcher or the like, a Genlock function is known as a function that enables switching without image distortion. Also, a camera having a pan drive unit and a tilt drive unit has a function of switching camera images while controlling the angle of view by performing pan and tilt operations. Furthermore, there is a method of outputting a black image if the Genlock enable process is unstable after executing a Genlock enable process that synchronizes a camera synchronization signal that controls the image output timing with a reference synchronization signal (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-142785 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above, if the Genlock activation process is executed while the angle of view is being controlled by panning and tilting operations, a problem occurs in which the image is degraded, such as a black image being displayed, making it impossible for the user to confirm the image.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention aims to suppress image degradation even when synchronization signal synchronization processing such as Genlock activation processing is instructed during control of the angle of view by panning and tilting operations, or even when control of the angle of view is instructed during synchronization processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve this problem, for example, an imaging device of the present invention has the following configuration: A synchronization control unit that executes a synchronization process to synchronize a first synchronization signal for controlling the output timing of a first image generated by an imaging unit by imaging a subject with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external device; a field of view control unit that executes a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging unit, the angle-of-view control means does not start the angle-of-view control process while the synchronization process is being performed, even if the angle-of-view control means is instructed to perform the angle-of-view control process; 1. An imaging device comprising: Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, even when synchronization processing of a synchronization signal is executed during control of the angle of view by a panning operation, a tilting operation, or the like, it is possible to suppress degradation of an image. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functions and hardware configuration of a system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 5 is a flowchart showing an example of processing of the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of another process of the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. [Diagram 5] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of another process of the imaging apparatus according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] 13 is a flowchart showing an example of another process of the imaging apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although the embodiments describe a number of features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any manner. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar configurations, and duplicated descriptions are omitted.

[0010] [First embodiment] The first embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of the overall configuration of an imaging system in the embodiment. The imaging system 10 in this embodiment includes a plurality of cameras 100a and 100b, a controller 120, a display 130, and a synchronization signal output device 140. In the following description, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the cameras 100a and 100b, they are referred to as cameras 100. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the controller 120 switches the image output of the two cameras 100a and 100b to display one of the images on the display 130. In addition, the cameras 100a and 100b generate a synchronization signal (hereinafter, a first synchronization signal) to synchronize the image output. The cameras 100a and 100b acquire a synchronization signal (hereinafter, a second synchronization signal) output from the synchronization signal output device 140. The cameras 100a and 100b synchronize the first synchronization signal with the second synchronization signal. The cameras 100a and 100b output images in accordance with the first synchronization signal synchronized with the input second synchronization signal. Therefore, even when the controller 120 switches the image displayed on the display 130 from the image of the camera 100b to the image of the camera 100a, no interruption of the image occurs. In the embodiment, a case where two cameras 100 are switched is described, but in a system in which three or more cameras 100 are connected, the image outputs may be synchronized by a synchronization signal and the image outputs may be switched by the controller 120.

[0011] Next, with reference to Fig. 2(A), a description will be given of the functional configuration of each device constituting the imaging system 10. Fig. 2(A) shows an example of the functional configuration of each device of the imaging system 10 in the embodiment.

[0012] Camera 100 can also be called an imaging device, a remote camera, or a network camera, and captures an image of a subject in a target area such as a monitored area to generate an image. Camera 100 includes imaging section 101, image processing section 102, system control section 103 which is an example of angle of view control means, storage section 104, pan driving section 105, tilt driving section 106, speed control section 107, mode control section 108, synchronization signal input section 109, synchronization control section 110 which is an example of synchronization control means, and communication section 112. The combination of system control section 103 and synchronization control section 110 is an example of an information processing device.

[0013] The imaging unit 101 has an optical system such as a lens, an imaging sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) and a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor), and a development processing unit. The imaging unit 101 captures an image of a subject in a shooting area and generates image data consisting of an analog image signal. The analog image signal is converted into a digital image signal and output to the image processing unit 102. The image processing unit 102 performs predetermined image processing including development processing such as debayer processing, white balance processing, and gradation conversion processing and compression encoding processing on the digital image signal output from the imaging unit 101 to generate image data and output it to the system control unit 103. In the following description, the image is described as a concept including an image and image data.

[0014] The system control unit 103 controls the overall operation of the camera 100. Specifically, the system control unit 103 outputs an image captured by the imaging unit 101 and acquired via the image processing unit 102 to the controller 120 via the communication unit 112. The system control unit 103 receives a control command from the controller 120 via the communication unit 112, analyzes the received command, and performs processing according to the command. For example, when the system control unit 103 receives a command to set image quality adjustment for the image processing unit 102, it analyzes the command and performs image quality adjustment processing. When the system control unit 103 receives a command to set a pan operation and a tilt operation for the pan driving unit 105 and the tilt driving unit 106, it analyzes the command and performs an angle of view control process to control the angle of view including the imaging direction of the imaging unit 101 of the camera 100 by the pan operation and the tilt operation. The angle of view control process may control the angle of view by a zoom operation instead of or in addition to the pan operation and the tilt operation. When the system control unit 103 receives a command from the controller 120 instructing to enable or disable Genlock, it outputs an instruction to the synchronization control unit 110 to enable or disable Genlock, which is a synchronization process.

[0015] The storage unit 104 stores a program for controlling the camera 100, data required for executing the program, captured images, and the like. When playing back an image, the storage unit 104 outputs the stored image to the display unit 131 of the display 130 via the controller 120 or the like. The storage unit 104 can store image quality adjustment parameters, network setting values, or information on the imaging direction of the camera 100. The imaging direction information may be stored as, for example, the pan angle and tilt angle in the pan driving unit 105 and the tilt driving unit 106. The storage unit 104 may be a non-volatile storage device. In this case, the system control unit 103 can refer to the storage unit 104 to acquire the previously set value even when the camera 100 is restarted.

[0016] The pan driving unit 105, the tilt driving unit 106, and the speed control unit 107 are direction control mechanisms for controlling the imaging direction of the camera 100. The pan driving unit 105 includes a pan driving system that performs a pan operation according to a control command from the system control unit 103, and a motor as a driving source. In the pan driving unit 105, when the motor is driven, the pan driving system drives the imaging direction in the pan direction. The tilt driving unit 106 includes a tilt driving system that performs a tilt operation according to a control command from the system control unit 103, and a motor as a driving source thereof. In the tilt driving unit 106, when the motor is driven, the tilt driving system drives the imaging direction in the tilt direction. The pan driving unit 105 and the tilt driving unit 106 each have an encoder and detect the rotation speed of the pan driving system and the tilt driving system. The speed control unit 107 calculates the next driving speed to be instructed based on the current speed, the target speed, the acceleration value, or information of the acceleration / deceleration table according to a control command from the system control unit 103 or the controller 120. The speed control unit 107 instructs the pan driving unit 105 and the tilt driving unit 106 to drive at the calculated speeds.

[0017] The mode control unit 108 performs mode switching control to switch the operation mode of the camera 100 among a normal imaging mode, a standby mode, and a playback mode. Although the mode control unit 108 is described as a block separate from the system control unit 103, it may be configured as a part of the system control unit 103. The mode control unit 108 determines whether or not a switching instruction (transition instruction) to the standby mode or the normal imaging mode has been input from the controller 120 via the communication unit 112 and the system control unit 103, and sets or changes the operation mode of the camera 100. The mode control unit 108 may indicate the current operation mode by a set value of, for example, 0, 1, or 2. For example, 0 may indicate the standby mode, 1 may indicate the normal imaging mode, and 2 may indicate the playback mode.

[0018] The system control unit 103 refers to the setting value of the mode control unit 108 to determine the operation mode. In the normal imaging mode, the system control unit 103 outputs the images generated by the imaging unit 101 and the image processing unit 102 to the controller 120 via the communication unit 112. Specifically, the system control unit 103 outputs the images so as to be synchronized with the output of the images of the other cameras 100 by the first synchronization signal synchronized with the second synchronization signal. In this way, the system control unit 103 also functions as an output unit. In addition, in the normal imaging mode, panning and tilting are possible by the pan driving unit 105, the tilt driving unit 106, and the speed control unit 107. In addition, the system control unit 103 causes the storage unit 104 to store the images generated by the image processing unit 102.

[0019] In the standby mode, the system control unit 103 stops outputting images to the controller 120. Furthermore, the system control unit 103 stops the pan operation and tilt operation performed by the pan driving unit 105, the tilt driving unit 106, and the speed control unit 107.

[0020] In the playback mode, the system control unit 103 outputs an image stored in the storage unit 104 to the controller 120 via the communication unit 112. When multiple images are stored in the storage unit 104, the system control unit 103 outputs an image specified by the user to the controller 120 via the communication unit 112.

[0021] The synchronization signal input unit 109 acquires the second synchronization signal input from the synchronization signal output device 140. The synchronization signal input unit 109 outputs the acquired second synchronization signal to the synchronization control unit 110.

[0022] The synchronization control unit 110 generates a first synchronization signal. The synchronization control unit 110 synchronizes the first synchronization signal with a second synchronization signal input from the synchronization signal input unit 109, and performs synchronization control of the system control unit 103 and the entire plurality of cameras 100. In this way, in the normal imaging mode, the system control unit 103 can cause the controller 120 to output an image in synchronization with the output of images from the other cameras 100, using the first synchronization signal synchronized with the second synchronization signal.

[0023] The synchronization control unit 110 controls switching between enabling and disabling Genlock. Enabling Genlock means starting and executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal (H / V synchronization signal) with a second synchronization signal, triggered by an instruction to enable Genlock received from the controller 120 via the system control unit 103, in a state where a second synchronization signal (H / V synchronization signal) is input from the synchronization signal input unit 109. Note that in this embodiment, the synchronization control unit 110 waits without starting the synchronization process during the execution of a view angle control process including a pan operation and a tilt operation, even if an instruction to enable Genlock is received. The synchronization control unit 110 starts the synchronization process after the view angle control process is completed. On the other hand, disabling Genlock means stopping the synchronization between the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal, triggered by an instruction to disable Genlock from the controller 120, and controlling with the first synchronization signal generated by the synchronization control unit 110. Genlock technology is well known, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0024] The synchronization control unit 110 has a stabilization determination unit 111. The stabilization determination unit 111 determines whether both synchronization signals are stably synchronized, that is, whether Genlock is stable or not. As a determination method, for example, the difference between a first synchronization signal generated by the synchronization control unit 110 and a second synchronization signal input from the synchronization signal input unit 109 is acquired. If the acquired difference is within ± a predetermined number of clocks for a predetermined period or more, the stabilization determination unit 111 determines that both synchronization signals are stably synchronized. On the other hand, if the difference is not within ± a predetermined number of clocks for a predetermined period or more, the stabilization determination unit 111 determines that both synchronization signals are not stably synchronized.

[0025] When the synchronization control unit 110 enables Genlock and starts synchronization processing, it takes about several seconds for the first synchronization signal to stably synchronize with the second synchronization signal input from the synchronization signal input unit 109. Therefore, the synchronization becomes unstable for about several seconds (e.g., 7 seconds) after enabling Genlock and starting synchronization processing, and it is difficult for the stabilization determination unit 111 to determine whether the synchronization is stably established. Therefore, as another determination method, the stabilization determination unit 111 may determine whether the synchronization is stably established after a predetermined time (corresponding to the above-mentioned 7 seconds) has elapsed after the synchronization control unit 110 enables Genlock and starts synchronization processing. Note that image distortion may occur during stabilization of Genlock, and image processing may be stopped for synchronization processing. Here, in the above description, as a method of enabling Genlock, a method has been described in which a synchronization signal is input to the synchronization signal input unit 109, and synchronization with the synchronization signal is started in response to a Genlock enable instruction from the controller 120. On the other hand, a method is also possible in which, after receiving a Genlock enable instruction from the controller 120, synchronization with the synchronization signal is started when the synchronization signal is input to the synchronization signal input unit 109.

[0026] A communication unit 112 processes network communications via a LAN (Local Area Network) or the like.

[0027] The controller 120 operates as a switching device, a switcher, or a display control device that switches images to be displayed on the display 130. The controller 120 includes an input unit 121, a system control unit 122, and a communication unit 123.

[0028] The input unit 121 is composed of a button, a joystick, etc., and receives various operations from the user. The operations include, for example, an operation of switching the camera 100 to output an image, an operation of switching the camera 100 between a standby mode and a normal imaging mode, an operation of enabling or disabling Genlock, and the like.

[0029] The system control unit 122 transmits a control command corresponding to an operation of the camera 100 via the communication unit 123 in response to an operation received from the user.

[0030] The communication unit 123 processes network communications via a LAN or the like.

[0031] Display 130 includes display unit 131. Display 130 receives images output from camera 100 via controller 120. Display 130 displays the received images on display unit 131. Display unit 131 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display.

[0032] The synchronization signal output device 140 includes a synchronization signal output unit 141. The synchronization signal output unit 141 generates and outputs a second synchronization signal that serves as a reference signal for synchronizing operations such as image output of a plurality of cameras 100. In this embodiment, the synchronization signal output device 140 outputs the second synchronization signal to each synchronization signal input unit 109 of the camera 100.

[0033] Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the camera 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2(B). Fig. 2(B) is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an imaging device in an embodiment. The camera 100 includes a CPU 201, a RAM 202, a ROM 203, a storage device 204, a communication device 205, a camera unit 206, an operation unit 207, and a bus 208. The CPU 201, the RAM 202, the ROM 203, the storage device 204, the communication device 205, the camera unit 206, and the operation unit 207 are connected via the bus 208 so as to be able to transmit and receive information to and from each other.

[0034] The CPU 201 is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit, and is an arithmetic processing device that performs overall control of the camera 100 and performs calculations, processing, and management of data. The CPU 201 implements at least some of the functions of the system control unit 103, the speed control unit 107, the mode control unit 108, and the synchronization control unit 110 by expanding a program stored in the ROM 203 or the storage device 204 into the RAM 202 that functions as a work memory and executing the program. The CPU 201 may function as the image processing unit 102 that compresses and encodes a digital image signal output from the camera unit 206 to generate image data by executing the program. Note that all or some of these functions may be implemented by a dedicated processor.

[0035] The RAM 202 is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory, and is a volatile memory used as a main memory for the CPU 201, a work area, and other temporary storage areas.

[0036] The ROM 203 is a non-volatile memory, and image data and other data, various programs for operating the CPU 201, etc. are stored in respective predetermined areas.

[0037] The storage device 204 has, for example, a magnetic disk such as an SD card, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a flash memory, and functions as the storage unit 104. The storage device 204 stores application programs, an OS, a control program, related programs, etc. The storage device 204 can read and write data under the control of the CPU 201. The storage device 204 may realize part of the functions of the RAM 202 and the ROM 203.

[0038] The communication device 205 is a communication interface for communicating with the controller 120 under the control of the CPU 201, and can function as the communication unit 112. The communication device 205 may be a wireless communication module for wireless connection. In this case, the communication device 205 has circuit mechanisms such as an antenna system, an RF transceiver, an amplifier, a tuner, an oscillator, a digital signal processor, a CODEC chipset, a subscriber identity module card, and a memory. The communication device 205 may be a wired communication module for wired connection. The wired communication module enables wired communication with other devices through one or more external ports. The external ports are connected to other devices directly via Ethernet, USB (Universal Serial Bus), IEEE1394, etc., or indirectly via a network. The communication device 205 may have various software components for processing data. The communication device 205 may be configured as a substitute for a hardware device by software that realizes the same functions.

[0039] The camera unit 206 includes the imaging section 101, a pan driver 105, and a tilt driver 106. The pan driver 105 and the tilt driver 106 include an imaging optical system and a movable head for controlling the imaging direction and angle of view of the imaging section 101. The camera unit 206 captures an image of an imaging target area, which is a monitoring area, and generates an image. The camera unit 206 converts an analog image signal obtained by photoelectric conversion using an imaging sensor into a digital image signal by A / D conversion and outputs the digital image signal to the CPU 201. The camera unit 206 may, for example, obtain multiple frames of images per second in addition to still images, and generate a moving image (live video) of the imaging target area. The frame rate of the moving image is, for example, 30 fps, which constitutes a one-second video with 30 frames of images.

[0040] The operation unit 207 includes, for example, buttons, a cross key, a touch panel, etc. The operation unit 207 accepts operation input from a user and outputs it to the CPU 201.

[0041] 2B is a hardware configuration diagram of camera 100, and the hardware configuration of controller 120 is also similar to that of FIG. 2B. In this case, camera unit 206 is excluded from the configuration of controller 120. Operation unit 207 functions as input unit 121, and may further include a keyboard and a mouse.

[0042] Next, the flow of processing in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 3. The processing corresponding to the flowchart in Fig. 3 is executed by the CPU 201 executing the corresponding program to realize the functions of the system control unit 103, the mode control unit 108, and the synchronization control unit 110. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the startup of the camera 100, the controller 120, the display 130, and the synchronization signal output device 140 has already been completed, and the controller 120 is in a state in which it is possible to accept an input operation from the user. In addition, the start condition of this flowchart may be in response to an instruction from the user, or the camera 100 may automatically determine whether or not to start after startup.

[0043] In S301, the system control unit 103 determines whether or not an operation instruction for a panning operation and a tilting operation has been received from the controller 120. If the system control unit 103 determines that an operation instruction for a panning operation and a tilting operation has been received, the system control unit 103 executes the process of S302. If the system control unit 103 does not determine that an operation instruction for a panning operation and a tilting operation has been received, the system control unit 103 continues the process of S301.

[0044] In S302, the system control unit 103 starts control of the pan operation and tilt operation. As a result, the system control unit 103 controls the pan driving unit 105, the tilt driving unit 106, and the speed control unit 107 to change the imaging direction of the imaging unit 101.

[0045] In S303, the synchronization control unit 110 determines whether or not an instruction to enable Genlock has been received from the controller 120. If the synchronization control unit 110 determines that an instruction to enable Genlock has been received, the process proceeds to S304. If the synchronization control unit 110 does not determine that an instruction to enable Genlock has been received, the system control unit 103 executes the process of S305.

[0046] In S304, the synchronization control unit 110 turns on the setting value Genlock_Flag for managing the activation of Genlock. In other words, the synchronization control unit 110 turns on the setting value Genlock_Flag without starting the process of activating Genlock during a panning operation or a tilting operation.

[0047] In S305, the system control unit 103 determines whether the pan driving unit 105 has completed the pan operation or the tilt driving unit 106 has completed the tilt operation. For example, the system control unit 103 determines whether the detected speeds of the encoders of the pan driving unit 105 and the tilt driving unit 106 have become 0. If the system control unit 103 determines that the pan operation or the tilt operation has been completed, it executes the process of step S306. If it is not determined that the pan operation or the tilt operation has been completed, the synchronization control unit 110 executes the process of step S303.

[0048] In S306, the system control unit 103 refers to a setting value Genlock_Flag indicating that a Genlock enable instruction has been received, and determines whether or not a Genlock enable instruction has been received. If the setting value Genlock_Flag is ON, the system control unit 103 determines that a Genlock enable instruction has been received, and the synchronization control unit 110 executes the process of S307. On the other hand, if the setting value Genlock_Flag is OFF, the system control unit 103 determines that a Genlock enable instruction has not been received, and ends the process of this flowchart.

[0049] In S307, the synchronization control unit 110 starts the process of enabling Genlock to synchronize the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal.

[0050] In S308, the synchronization control unit 110 determines whether the Genlock enable process has been completed. For example, the synchronization control unit 110 determines whether the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal are stably synchronized with each other by using the stabilization determination unit 111. If the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal are stably synchronized with each other, the synchronization control unit 110 determines that the Genlock enable process has been completed, and ends the process of this flowchart. If the synchronization control unit 110 does not determine that the Genlock enable process has been completed, it continues the process of S308.

[0051] As described above, the camera 100 of the first embodiment does not start the Genlock enable process during panning and tilting even if a Genlock enable instruction is input from an external device or a user. When the panning and tilting operations are completed, the camera 100 executes the Genlock enable process to synchronize the first synchronization signal with the second synchronization signal. This allows the camera 100 to avoid executing the Genlock enable process during panning and tilting. As a result, the camera 100 can reduce phenomena such as image distortion, image stop, and black image display caused by the Genlock enable process during panning and tilting operations, thereby suppressing image degradation and reducing situations in which the user cannot check the image during panning and tilting operations. In addition, the camera 100 can suppress deterioration of the accuracy of the position of the panning and tilting operations.

[0052] [Second embodiment] The second embodiment will be described below. The system configuration in this embodiment is similar to that shown in Fig. 1. Also, the functional configuration of the devices constituting the imaging system 10 is similar to that shown in Fig. 2. Therefore, by using the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment for the same components, detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified, and the description will focus on the differences from the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0053] Even if the system control unit 103 of the second embodiment receives an instruction for a pan operation or tilt operation during Genlock enable processing, the system control unit 103 sets a setting value PanTilt_Flag for managing the instruction for the pan operation and tilt operation to ON and waits without starting the pan operation or tilt operation. When the setting value PanTilt_Flag is set to ON, the system control unit 103 starts the pan operation and tilt operation after the Genlock enable processing including the synchronization processing is completed.

[0054] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in this embodiment. In Fig. 4, the order of processing from S301 to S308 is changed, but the processing contents are the same as the processing from S301 to S308 in Fig. 3, so the description here will be omitted.

[0055] If the system control unit 103 determines in step S301 that a panning and tilting instruction has been received during the Genlock activation process, then in step S401, the system control unit 103 sets a setting value PanTilt_Flag for managing panning and tilting instruction to ON.

[0056] In S402, the system control unit 103 refers to the setting value PanTilt_Flag and determines whether the setting value PanTilt_Flag is ON, which indicates that an instruction for a panning operation or a tilting operation has been received. If the system control unit 103 determines that an instruction for a panning operation or a tilting operation has been received, the system control unit 103 proceeds to the process of S302. On the other hand, if the system control unit 103 determines that the setting value PanTilt_Flag remains OFF and that an instruction for a panning operation or a tilting operation has not been received, the system control unit 103 ends the process of this flowchart.

[0057] As described above, the camera 100 of the second embodiment does not start a panning operation or a tilting operation during the Genlock enabling process, even if an input instructing a panning operation or a tilting operation is made from an external device or a user. The camera 100 executes a panning operation or a tilting operation when the Genlock enabling process is completed. This allows the camera 100 to avoid executing a panning operation or a tilting operation during the Genlock enabling process. As a result, the camera 100 can reduce phenomena such as image distortion, image freeze, and black image display caused by the Genlock enabling process during the panning operation or the tilting operation, thereby suppressing image degradation and reducing situations in which the user cannot check the image. The camera 100 can also suppress a decrease in accuracy of the panning operation and the tilting operation.

[0058] [Third embodiment] The third embodiment will be described below. The system configuration in this embodiment is similar to that shown in Fig. 1. The functional configuration of the devices constituting the imaging system 10 is similar to that shown in Fig. 2. Therefore, by using the same reference numerals as those in the above-mentioned embodiment for the same components, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and differences from the above-mentioned embodiment will be mainly described.

[0059] The synchronization control unit 110 of the third embodiment does not start the Genlock enable process even if it receives an instruction to enable Genlock during panning and tilting operations performed manually by the user, that is, while the angle of view is being changed manually by the user. In this case, the synchronization control unit 110 sets the setting value Genlock_Flag to ON. When the panning and tilting operations performed manually are completed and the setting value Genlock_Flag is ON, the synchronization control unit 110 starts the Genlock enable process. On the other hand, even if a panning and tilting operation is being performed, if the operation is not performed manually by the user, the synchronization control unit 110 starts the Genlock enable process without waiting for the completion of the panning and tilting operations. Note that the manual operation by the user is, for example, an operation in which a panning and tilting operation is performed based on a user operation input from the operation unit 207 of the camera 100 or the input unit 121 of the controller 120, and the angle of view is changed. Therefore, even if a user instructs to start angle of view control, if pan and tilt operations are performed based on preset information to change the angle of view, this is not considered a manual operation, and the Genlock activation process is executed.

[0060] A flowchart corresponding to an example of processing in this embodiment is shown in Fig. 5. Since the processing from S301 to S308 in Fig. 5 is similar to the processing from S301 to S308 in Fig. 3, the description here will be omitted or simplified.

[0061] In step S501, the system control unit 103 performs a process of determining the pan operation and tilt operation mode. Here, the system control unit 103 determines whether or not the mode is a mode in which the pan operation and tilt operation are performed by manual operation of the user (manual operation mode). If the system control unit 103 determines that the mode is the manual operation mode, the synchronization control unit 110 executes the process of S304. On the other hand, if the system control unit 103 determines that the mode is not the manual operation mode, the synchronization control unit 110 proceeds to the process of S305. Here, if it is determined that the mode is not the manual operation mode, it is considered that the mode is either a mode in which the pan mechanism and the tilt mechanism return to the initial position (also called the home position) (pan initialization mode and tilt initialization mode), or a mode in which preset pan operation and tilt operation are automatically and repeatedly processed (pan operation auto mode and tilt operation auto mode).

[0062] Thereafter, in step S305, when the system control unit 103 determines that the panning and tilting operations are completed, the synchronization control unit 110 executes the processes in and after step S306 to execute the process of enabling Genlock.

[0063] As described above, in the camera 100 of the third embodiment, in the manual operation mode in which the user actually performs panning and tilting while viewing an image, the Genlock enabling process is performed after the panning and tilting are completed. This allows the camera 100 to avoid the Genlock enabling process being performed during the panning and tilting performed manually. As a result, the camera 100 can reduce phenomena such as image distortion, image freeze, and black image display caused by the Genlock enabling process during the panning and tilting, thereby suppressing image degradation and reducing situations in which the user cannot check the image. Furthermore, the camera 100 can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of the panning and tilting operations.

[0064] Camera 100 can execute Genlock enable processing during panning and tilting when the user does not need to actually perform panning and tilting while watching the video, such as in the pan initialization mode and tilt initialization mode, and when panning and tilting based on preset information, i.e., when there is little impact from image distortion, etc. This allows camera 100 to suppress delays in Genlock enable processing.

[0065] When the panning and tilting operations are automatically and repeatedly processed and there is no period during which the panning and tilting operations end, such as in an auto mode for the panning and tilting operations, the camera 100 can execute the Genlock enable process during the panning and tilting operations.

[0066] [Fourth embodiment] The fourth embodiment will be described below. The system configuration in this embodiment is similar to that shown in Fig. 1. Also, the functional configuration of the devices constituting the imaging system 10 is similar to that shown in Fig. 2. Therefore, by using the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment for the same components, detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted, and the description will focus on the differences from the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0067] Even if the system control unit 103 of the fourth embodiment receives an instruction for a panning operation or tilting operation by a manual operation from a user, if the Genlock enabling process is in progress, the system control unit 103 sets the setting value PanTilt_Flag to ON and does not start the panning operation or tilting operation. When the Genlock enabling process is completed and the setting value PanTilt_Flag is ON, the system control unit 103 starts the panning operation or tilting operation by manual operation. On the other hand, if the system control unit 103 receives an instruction for a panning operation or tilting operation that is not a manual operation, the system control unit 103 starts the panning operation or tilting operation even if the Genlock enabling process is in progress.

[0068] Fig. 6 shows a flowchart corresponding to an example of the processing in this embodiment. The processing from S301 to S308, the processing from S401 to S402, and the processing from S501 in Fig. 6 are similar to the processing from S301 to S308 in Fig. 3, the processing from S401 to S402 in Fig. 4, and the processing from S501 in Fig. 5. In this embodiment, the respective processing is combined and the order is changed. Therefore, the description here is omitted or simplified.

[0069] In this embodiment, as shown in steps S301 to S308, even if the system control unit 103 receives an instruction for a pan operation or tilt operation during Genlock enable processing, in the case of manual operation, the system control unit 103 does not execute the pan operation or tilt operation until the Genlock enable processing is completed. Then, as shown in steps S308 and after, the system control unit 103 executes the manual pan operation and tilt operation after the Genlock enable processing is completed.

[0070] On the other hand, as shown in steps S501 and S308, even if the system control unit 103 receives an instruction for a pan operation and a tilt operation during the Genlock activation process, if the operation is not manual, for example, in the pan initialization mode and tilt initialization mode, or in the auto mode for the pan operation and tilt operation, the system control unit 103 executes the pan operation and tilt operation.

[0071] As described above, in the camera 100 of the fourth embodiment, in the case of a manual operation mode in which the user actually performs panning and tilting while viewing an image, the camera 100 executes the Genlock activation process after the panning and tilting are completed. This allows the camera 100 to avoid executing the Genlock activation process during panning and tilting. As a result, the camera 100 can reduce phenomena such as image distortion, image freeze, and black image display caused by the Genlock activation process during panning and tilting, thereby suppressing image degradation and reducing situations in which the user cannot check the image. Furthermore, the camera 100 can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of the panning and tilting operations.

[0072] In the pan initialization mode and tilt initialization mode, when the user does not need to actually perform panning and tilting while watching the video, that is, when there is little influence of image distortion, the camera 100 can execute the Genlock enable process during the panning and tilting. This enables the camera 100 to suppress delays in the Genlock enable process.

[0073] When the panning and tilting operations are automatically and repeatedly processed and there is no period during which the panning and tilting operations end, such as in an auto mode for the panning and tilting operations, the camera 100 can execute the Genlock enable process during the panning and tilting operations.

[0074] The above-described embodiments may be combined. For example, the first embodiment and the second embodiment may be combined. In this case, if the system control unit 103 is in the process of enabling Genlock, the system control unit 103 does not start the panning operation or the tilting operation even if it receives an instruction for the panning operation or the tilting operation. On the other hand, if the synchronization control unit 110 is in the process of enabling Genlock, the synchronization control unit 110 does not start the process of enabling Genlock, including the synchronization process, even if it receives an instruction for enabling Genlock. In other words, the system control unit 103 and the synchronization control unit 110 exclusively control the panning operation or the tilting operation and the process of enabling Genlock, including the synchronization process.

[0075] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the angle-of-view control process has been described as a process using a pan operation, a tilt operation, and a zoom operation, but the angle-of-view control process may include any one of these operations.

[0077] The disclosure of this specification includes the following imaging device, a control method for an imaging device, and a program. (Item 1) a synchronization control means for executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control unit that executes a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging unit, the angle-of-view control means does not start the angle-of-view control process while the synchronization process is being performed, even if the angle-of-view control means is instructed to perform the angle-of-view control process; 1. An imaging device comprising: (Item 2) a synchronization control means for executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control unit that executes a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging unit, the synchronization control means does not start the synchronization process during the execution of the angle of view control process even when the execution of the synchronization process is instructed. 1. An imaging device comprising: (Item 3) the synchronization control means does not start the synchronization process during the execution of the angle of view control process even when the execution of the synchronization process is instructed. 2. The imaging device according to item 1, (Item 4) 4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the angle-of-view control unit starts the angle-of-view control process after the synchronization process is completed. (Item 5) 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means starts the synchronization process after the angle-of-view control process is completed. (Item 6) 4. The imaging device according to item 3, wherein the angle-of-view control means and the synchronization control means exclusively control the angle-of-view control process and the synchronization process. (Item 7) The imaging device according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that the synchronization control means does not start the synchronization control means while the angle of view control process is being executed if the change in the angle of view in the angle of view control process is due to a manual operation by a user. (Item 8) The imaging device according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that when the change in the angle of view control process is a process of returning the angle of view to an initial position, the synchronization control means starts the synchronization control means regardless of whether the angle of view control process is being executed. (Item 9) The imaging device according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that when the change in the angle of view in the angle of view control process is due to a preset operation, the synchronization control means starts the synchronization control means regardless of the execution of the angle of view control process. (Item 10) 4. The imaging device according to any one of items 1 to 3, further comprising an output unit that outputs the first image in synchronization with a second image of another device based on the first synchronization signal. (Item 11) 11. The imaging device according to item 10, wherein the other device acquires the second synchronization signal. (Item 12) 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means determines whether the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal are stably synchronized. (Item 13) 13. The imaging device according to item 12, wherein the synchronization control means determines whether or not synchronization is stable based on a difference between the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal. (Item 14) The imaging device according to item 12, characterized in that the synchronization control means determines whether or not the synchronization is stable after a predetermined time has elapsed since starting synchronization processing between the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal. (Item 15) a synchronization control step of executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control step of executing a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging means, In the angle-of-view control step, even if an instruction to perform the angle-of-view control process is given, the angle-of-view control process is not started during the execution of the synchronization process. 23. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus comprising the steps of: (Item 16) A program that, when read and executed by a computer, causes the computer to execute each step of the method for controlling an imaging device according to item 15. (Item 17) a synchronization control step of executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control step of executing a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging means, Even if the synchronization control step is instructed to perform the synchronization process, the synchronization process is not started during the execution of the angle of view control process. 23. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus comprising the steps of: (Item 18) A program that, when read and executed by a computer, causes the computer to execute each step of the method for controlling an imaging device according to item 17.

[0078] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 10 ... imaging system, 100, 100a, 100b ... camera, 101 ... imaging unit, 103 ... system control unit, 105 ... pan driving unit, 106 ... tilt driving unit, 110 ... synchronization control unit, 140 ... synchronization signal output device

Claims

1. a synchronization control means for executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control unit that executes a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging unit, the angle-of-view control means does not start the angle-of-view control process while the synchronization process is being performed, even if the angle-of-view control means is instructed to perform the angle-of-view control process; 1. An imaging device comprising:

2. a synchronization control means for executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control unit that executes a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging unit, the synchronization control means does not start the synchronization process during the execution of the angle of view control process even when the execution of the synchronization process is instructed.

1. An imaging device comprising:

3. the synchronization control means does not start the synchronization process during the execution of the angle of view control process even when the execution of the synchronization process is instructed.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1 .

4. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the angle-of-view control means starts the angle-of-view control process after the synchronization process is completed.

5. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means starts the synchronization process after the angle-of-view control process is completed.

6. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the angle-of-view control means and the synchronization control means exclusively control the angle-of-view control process and the synchronization process.

7. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means is configured not to start the synchronization control during execution of the angle-of-view control process when the angle-of-view control process is performed by a manual operation by a user.

8. 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means starts the synchronization control process regardless of whether the angle of view control process is being executed, when the change in the angle of view control process is a process of returning the angle of view to an initial position.

9. 4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means starts the synchronization control means regardless of the execution of the angle-of-view control process when the change in the angle of view in the angle-of-view control process is due to a preset operation.

10. 4. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising an output unit that outputs the first image in synchronization with a second image of another device based on the first synchronization signal.

11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the other device acquires the second synchronization signal.

12. 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the synchronization control means determines whether or not the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal are stably synchronized.

13. 13. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the synchronization control means determines whether or not synchronization is stable based on a difference between the first synchronization signal and the second synchronization signal.

14. 13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the synchronization control means determines whether or not the first and second synchronization signals are stably synchronized after a predetermined time has elapsed since starting a synchronization process between the first and second synchronization signals.

15. a synchronization control step of executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control step of executing a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging means, In the angle-of-view control step, even if an instruction to perform the angle-of-view control process is given, the angle-of-view control process is not started during the execution of the synchronization process.

23. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus comprising the steps of:

16. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the method for controlling an imaging apparatus according to claim 15 by reading and executing the program.

17. a synchronization control step of executing a synchronization process for synchronizing a first synchronization signal for controlling an output timing of a first image generated by the imaging means by imaging an object with a second synchronization signal obtained from an external source; a field of view control step of executing a field of view control process for controlling the field of view of the imaging means, Even if the synchronization control step is performed when an instruction to perform the synchronization process is received, the synchronization process is not started during the execution of the angle of view control process.

23. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus comprising the steps of:

18. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the method for controlling an imaging apparatus according to claim 17 by reading and executing the program.

Images