Imaging apparatus, method for controlling imaging apparatus, program, and imaging system

Abstract

To provide an imaging apparatus capable of notifying a change of a thumbnail image at proper timing.SOLUTION: The imaging apparatus has: imaging means; notification means for notifying an information processing device outside of the imaging apparatus of first information according to a change of the first information possessed by the imaging apparatus; preset registration means for registering information indicating an imaging direction in the imaging apparatus; thumbnail generation means for generating a thumbnail image on the basis of a captured image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the preset registration means; and identification value generation means for generating an identification value for uniquely identifying the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generation means. The notification means notifies the information processing device of the identification value generated by the identification value generation means as the first information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] In recent years, image distribution systems via a network have been increasing. For example, such distribution systems are used in Internet sites that distribute the status of ski resorts or zoos. Such distribution systems are also used for monitoring stores or buildings. Furthermore, in the field of video production, video distribution and camera control via a network are used. As the network, an Internet Protocol (IP) network such as the Internet is used. As a specific example, mechanisms such as WebView or XC protocol are known.

[0003] In such a system, the imaging device can notify the client of information (camera information) indicating the current state of the imaging device in response to a request from the client. For example, Patent Document 1 describes that when the imaging device receives a request for information indicating the imaging direction from a client, the imaging device transmits this information to the client. Patent Document 2 also discloses transmitting imaging information including the imaging direction to a client device at set intervals.

[0004] Also, a preset function is known that registers the position of the image captured by the imaging device in advance. Furthermore, a function is known that generates a thumbnail image by reducing (resizing) the image captured at the preset position when registering the preset, and links it to the preset. For example, Patent Document 3 discloses that in a surveillance system consisting of a camera, a management server, and an operation terminal, the management server periodically acquires images of the preset positions from the cameras, and updates the thumbnail images of the images of the preset positions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-127499 A [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2022-70601 [Patent Document 3] JP 2008-22260 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Here, when a thumbnail image of a preset position is generated, that information may be notified to the client as camera information. In this case, if the information is simply notified as to whether the thumbnail image is saved or not, it is not possible to notify the client that the thumbnail image has been changed if it is overwritten and saved. Therefore, there is a problem in that a client waiting for a change notification cannot obtain the thumbnail image from the camera again.

[0007] To address this issue, a client that displays thumbnails for each preset can periodically check with the imaging device whether the thumbnail image has been updated, and if it is determined that the thumbnail image has been updated, the thumbnail image can be acquired from the imaging device. However, in this case, if the interval between checks for whether the thumbnail image has been updated is long, the update of the thumbnail display on the client becomes slow immediately after the update. If the interval between checks for whether the thumbnail image has been updated is short, the processing load of the imaging device, such as the network load and the CPU load of the imaging device, increases, especially as the number of clients connected to the imaging device increases.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has an object to provide an imaging device that can notify a change in thumbnail image at an appropriate timing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, an imaging device as one aspect of the present invention is an imaging device comprising: an imaging means; a notification means for notifying an information processing device external to the imaging device of first information in response to a change in first information held by the imaging device; a preset registration means for registering information indicating an imaging direction in the imaging device; a thumbnail generation means for generating a thumbnail image based on an image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the preset registration means; and an identification value generation means for generating an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generation means, wherein the notification means notifies the information processing device of the identification value generated by the identification value generation means as the first information. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to notify a change in a thumbnail image at an appropriate timing. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an imaging system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of an imaging device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an imaging apparatus and an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of each device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation sequence of the imaging device and the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 11 is a table showing the correspondence between preset numbers and identification values ​​of thumbnail images according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for the imaging apparatus according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] 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.

[0013] <Embodiment 1> 1 shows an example of the configuration of an imaging system according to this embodiment. The imaging system according to this embodiment is configured to include an imaging device 100, an information processing device 200, and an information processing device 230. The imaging device 100, the information processing device 200, and the information processing device 230 are connected to each other via a network 300. The configuration of the network 300 is not particularly limited. The imaging system may be configured by the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 200, or may be configured by the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 230. That is, the imaging system of this embodiment can be configured by the imaging device 100 and at least one information processing device.

[0014] The network 300 may be composed of multiple routers, switches, and cables that comply with a communication standard such as ETHERNET (registered trademark), etc. The network 300 may also be the Internet, a wired local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN, or a wide area network (WAN).

[0015] The imaging device 100 is a device that captures images to generate captured images. The imaging direction of the imaging device 100 may be controllable. The imaging device 100 can transmit data of the captured image to an external device such as the information processing device 200 or the information processing device 230 via the network 300. The imaging device 100 may further transmit metadata of the captured image (for example, information on the image capture date and time) or identification information for identifying the imaging device 100 to the external device such as the information processing device 200 or the information processing device 230 in association with the captured image. In addition, in this embodiment, the imaging device 100 can transmit camera information (first information) of the imaging device 100 to the external device such as the information processing device 200 or the information processing device 230.

[0016] In this specification, camera information refers to information indicating the current state of the imaging device 100 (e.g., the state of the imaging position), control information that affects the image captured by the imaging device 100, and information on various setting values ​​held by the imaging device 100.

[0017] The information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 are, for example, client devices such as personal computers (PCs). The imaging system according to this embodiment has one imaging device 100. The imaging system according to this embodiment may have multiple imaging devices 100. That is, the multiple imaging devices 100 may be connected to the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 via the network 300. In this case, the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 can determine which of the multiple imaging devices 100 has captured the captured image by using, for example, identification information associated with the transmitted captured image. A program for realizing the processing function described later can be installed in the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230.

[0018] A display 220 is connected to the information processing device 200. A display 240 is connected to the information processing device 230. The display 220 and the display 240 are display means capable of displaying captured images and thumbnail images transmitted from the imaging device 100. The display 220 and the display 240 are, for example, Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs). The display 220 and the display 240 may be connected to the information processing device 200 via a display cable conforming to a communication standard such as High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI (registered trademark)). Note that the display 220 and the information processing device 200, or the display 240 and the information processing device 230 may be provided in a single housing.

[0019] Next, an imaging device 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an external view of the imaging device 100 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 200 according to this embodiment.

[0020] The imaging direction of the imaging device 100 is the direction in which the optical axis of the lens 101 faces. A light beam that passes through the lens 101 forms an image on an imaging element of the imaging unit 111. The lens driving unit 102 is a driving system that drives the lens 101. The lens driving unit 102 can also change the focal length of the lens 101. The lens driving unit 102 is controlled by a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) control unit 114.

[0021] The pan driving unit 103 rotates the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 in a pan direction (horizontal direction) 105. The pan driving unit 103 has a mechanical driving system for performing a pan operation for rotating the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 in the pan direction, and a driving source such as a motor. The pan driving unit 103 is controlled by a PTZ control unit 114.

[0022] The tilt driving unit 104 rotates and drives the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 in a tilt direction (vertical direction) 106. The tilt driving unit 104 has a mechanical driving system that performs a tilt operation for rotating the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 in the tilt direction, and a driving source such as a motor. The tilt driving unit 104 is controlled by a PTZ control unit 114.

[0023] The imaging unit 111 functions as an imaging means that captures (takes) images to generate a captured image. The imaging unit 111 has an imaging element (not shown). The imaging element is, for example, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensor or a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. The imaging unit 111 photoelectrically converts the subject image formed through the lens 101 to generate an electrical signal.

[0024] The image processing unit 112 generates image data based on the electrical signal obtained from the imaging unit 111. The image processing unit 112 can convert the electrical signal obtained from the imaging unit 111 into a digital signal. The image processing unit 112 can also perform image processing such as compression encoding processing on the digital signal representing an image.

[0025] The PTZ control unit 114 controls the pan driving unit 103, the tilt driving unit 104, and the lens driving unit 102 based on instructions from the system control unit 113. Therefore, the PTZ control unit 114 in this embodiment can control the imaging conditions of the imaging device 100. For example, the PTZ control unit 114 can control the imaging direction, zoom value (angle of view), or focus of the imaging device 100. Images captured by the imaging device 100 are affected by such control by the PTZ control unit 114.

[0026] The storage unit 115 functions as a storage unit that stores (holds) various information such as camera information and preset information of the imaging device 100. The communication unit 116 communicates with the information processing device 200. The communication unit 116 can communicate via an I / F 440 described later with reference to FIG. 4. For example, the communication unit 116 can transmit data of an image captured by the imaging device 100 to the information processing device 200 via the network 300. In addition, the communication unit 116 can transmit control information of the imaging device 100 to the information processing device 200. Furthermore, the communication unit 116 can receive a control request, which is a command for controlling the imaging device 100, from the information processing device 200. The communication unit 116 can transmit the received control request to the system control unit 113.

[0027] An example of a communication protocol used by the communication unit 116 to communicate with an external device such as the information processing device 200 via the network 300 is the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). The version of HTTP is not particularly limited. For example, HTTP / 1.0, HTTP / 1.1, HTTP / 2, and HTTP / 3 can be used. In addition, communication may be performed via a Transport Layer Security (TLS) layer.

[0028] When the communication unit 116 receives an information acquisition request from the information processing device 200, the communication unit 116 may adjust the timing of returning a response in order to effectively use the network bandwidth. For example, if the information to be transmitted to the information processing device 200 has not been changed from the previously transmitted information, the communication unit 116 may withhold the response. In this case, the communication unit 116 may return a response when the information has been changed. For this purpose, multipart or Transfer-encoding:chunked in HTTP / 1.1 may be used. Also, DATAFRAME and PUSH_PROMISE in HTTP / 2 may be used.

[0029] In this embodiment, the system control unit 113 notifies (transmits) the camera information of the imaging device 100 to other external devices such as the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116. As will be described below with reference to Fig. 5, the communication unit 116 in this embodiment can notify other external devices such as the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 of the camera information in response to a change in the camera information under the control of the system control unit 113.

[0030] The system control unit 113 can control the entire imaging device 100. For example, the system control unit 113 can perform the following processing. That is, the system control unit 113 analyzes a control request for controlling the imaging device 100, which is transmitted from the communication unit 116. Then, the system control unit 113 performs processing according to such a control request. Also, the system control unit 113 instructs the PTZ control unit 114 to perform a pan-tilt-zoom operation.

[0031] Furthermore, the system control unit 113 causes the communication unit 116 to transmit the image data generated by the image processing unit 112 to the information processing device 200. At this time, the system control unit 113 can add metadata (for example, information on the image capture time) to the image data.

[0032] In this embodiment, the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 is determined by at least one of the pan value and tilt value of the imaging device 100. In this embodiment, the pan value indicates the angle of the imaging direction (optical axis) of the imaging device 100 in the pan direction 105. This angle is set so that the angle at one of the ends of the driving range of the pan driving unit 103 is 0°. In addition, the tilt value indicates the angle of the imaging direction (optical axis) of the imaging device 100 in the tilt direction 106. This angle is set so that the angle at one of the ends of the driving range of the tilt driving unit 104 is 0°. In addition, the zoom value of the imaging device 100 when an image is captured by the imaging device 100 is calculated from the focal length of the lens 101.

[0033] Further, the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The display control unit 201 causes the display 220 to display an image. Furthermore, the display control unit 231 causes the display 240 to display an image. For example, the display control unit 201 also functions as a display control unit capable of displaying the captured image captured by the imaging device 100 on the display 220. Furthermore, the display control unit 201 also functions as a display control unit capable of displaying the captured image captured by the imaging device 100 on the display 240. Note that the system control unit 113 of the imaging device 100 may perform the process of displaying images on the display 220 and the display 240. In this case, the system control unit 113 also functions as a display control unit.

[0034] The operation reception unit 202 and the operation reception unit 232 function as an operation unit that receives input based on a user operation via an input device (not shown) such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel.

[0035] The communication unit 204 and the communication unit 234 can communicate with the imaging device 100 via an I / F 440, which will be described later with reference to Fig. 4. For example, the communication unit 204 can transmit a setting request or a control request for the imaging device 100, transmitted from the system control unit 203, to the imaging device 100. Similarly, the communication unit 234 can transmit a setting request or a control request for the imaging device 100, transmitted from the system control unit 233, to the imaging device 100.

[0036] Furthermore, the communication unit 204 can receive image data transmitted from the imaging device 100, or a response from the imaging device 100 to a request transmitted from the information processing device 200 to the imaging device 100. Similarly, the communication unit 234 can receive image data transmitted from the imaging device 100, or a response from the imaging device 100 to a request transmitted from the information processing device 230 to the imaging device 100. The communication unit 204 can transmit the data or response received from the imaging device 100 to the system control unit 203. Similarly, the communication unit 234 can transmit the data or response received from the imaging device 100 to the system control unit 233.

[0037] The system control unit 203 can control the entire information processing device 200. Similarly, the system control unit 233 can control the entire information processing device 230. For example, the system control unit 203 and the system control unit 233 can perform the following processes. The system control unit 203 and the system control unit 233 can generate a setting request or a control request for the imaging device 100.

[0038] The system control unit 203 can generate a request based on an input from a user accepted by the operation accepting unit 202. Similarly, the system control unit 233 can generate a request based on an input from a user accepted by the operation accepting unit 232. The system control unit 203 and the system control unit 233 can generate, for example, a setting request or a control request.

[0039] Furthermore, the system control unit 203 can transmit a request to the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 204. Similarly, the system control unit 233 can transmit the generated request to the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 234. Furthermore, the system control unit 203 acquires a response from the imaging device 100 to the transmitted setting request or control request via the communication unit 204. Similarly, the system control unit 233 acquires a response from the imaging device 100 to the transmitted setting request or control request via the communication unit 234. In this manner, the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 can control the imaging device 100 via the network 300.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration that can be used to realize the functions of the imaging device 100, the information processing device 200, and the information processing device 230. For example, the imaging device 100 can have the configuration shown in FIG. 4 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 2. At least a part of the functions of the imaging device 100 shown in FIG. 3 can be realized by a processor such as the CPU 400 executing a program stored in a memory such as the RAM 410, the ROM 420, or the HDD 430. For example, the functions of the image processing unit 112, the system control unit 113, and the PTZ control unit 114 can be realized by processing executed by the CPU 400. The storage unit 115 can be realized by, for example, the RAM 410. Also, the communication unit 116 can be realized by, for example, the I / F 440.

[0041] The information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 may also have the configuration shown in Fig. 4. At least a part of the functions of the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 shown in Fig. 2 may be realized by a processor such as a CPU 400 executing a program stored in a memory such as a RAM 410, a ROM 420, or a HDD 430.

[0042] The central processing unit (CPU) 400 is a central processing unit that performs overall control of the imaging device 100. The random access memory (RAM) 410 can temporarily store computer programs executed by the CPU 400. The RAM 410 also provides a work area used when the CPU 400 executes processing. The RAM 410 can also function as a frame memory or a buffer memory.

[0043] The Read Only Memory (ROM) 420 stores a program used by the CPU 400 to control the imaging device 100. The HDD 430 is a storage device (secondary storage device) that records image data and the like. The I / F 440 communicates with an external device via the network 300. The I / F 440 can perform communication in accordance with TCP / IP, HTTP, and the like.

[0044] At least some of the functions of the imaging device 100, the information processing device 200, and the information processing device 230 may be realized by dedicated hardware. For example, a process of displaying a graphic user interface (GUI) or image data on the display 220 and the display 240 may be performed by a graphics processing unit (GPU). A process of reading program code from the ROM 420 and loading it in the RAM 410 may be performed by a direct memory access (DMA) functioning as a transfer device.

[0045] Hereinafter, the flow of processing from when the information processing apparatus issues a preset registration request to when it displays thumbnails will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0046] Fig. 5 shows an example of a sequence diagram showing a preset registration request and a thumbnail acquisition request transmitted between the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230, and responses thereto. Fig. 6 shows an example of a table showing the correspondence between preset numbers and identification values ​​of thumbnail images. In addition, the following processes (operations) can be realized by the imaging device 100, the information processing device 200, and the CPU 400 of the information processing device 200 executing a program stored in a memory such as the RAM 410, the ROM 420, or the HDD 430. In addition, by adding an S to the beginning of each process (step), the notation of the process (step) is omitted.

[0047] First, in S500, it is assumed that the user operates the operation reception unit 202 of the information processing device 200 to register the current image capturing state (current position of the imaging device 100) to preset number 1. Then, the system control unit 203 receives a preset registration instruction to preset number 1 via the operation reception unit 202. Next, the system control unit 203 transmits a preset registration request for preset number 1 to the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 204. The system control unit 203 also requests the imaging device 100 to simultaneously register a thumbnail image. During this process, the system control unit 203 also functions as a registration request unit that requests the imaging device 100 to register a thumbnail image.

[0048] Next, in S501, when the imaging device 100 receives a preset registration request, the system control unit 113 acquires an image captured by the imaging unit 111 via the image processing unit 112, and generates a thumbnail image by reducing the image. That is, the system control unit 113 generates a thumbnail image based on an image captured at an imaging position (imaging direction) in the imaging device 100 registered in preset number 1. During this process, the system control unit 114 also functions as a thumbnail generating unit. Note that the imaging device 100 receives the preset registration request for preset number 1 via the network 300 and the communication unit 116.

[0049] In this way, the preset function is a function in which information indicating the imaging direction (imaging position) in which the imaging device 100 captures an image is registered as preset information. Then, when the preset is designated by the user, the imaging direction of the imaging device 100 is changed so as to capture the imaging position indicated by the preset information. The information indicating the imaging direction in the preset in each preset registration is indicated by, for example, two-dimensional coordinates indicating the coordinates of the pan direction and the coordinates of the tilt direction. As an example, the coordinate information, the preset number, and a thumbnail image are associated with each other, and the three are registered (stored) as preset information. In addition to the information indicating the pan direction and the tilt direction, information indicating the current zoom value (magnification ratio) may also be added as preset information. In other words, information indicating the state of PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) may be included in the preset information.

[0050] Furthermore, the thumbnail image of a preset does not necessarily have to be an image captured when the preset was registered. It is sufficient if it is an image that at least corresponds to the preset information. For example, it may be a map image or an icon image that indicates the imaging direction indicated by the preset information.

[0051] In parallel with or in conjunction with the thumbnail image generation, the system control unit 113 acquires information such as image quality parameters and the current position of the PTZ via the image processing unit 112 and the PTZ control unit 114. Then, the acquired information is stored in the storage unit 115 together with the preset number as preset information. When a thumbnail image is generated, the system control unit 113 generates (calculates) a hash value as an identification value of the thumbnail image, associates it with the preset number, and stores it in the storage unit 115 as a setting value. The system control unit 113 also associates the thumbnail image with the preset number and stores it in the storage unit 115. That is, the system control unit 113 associates the hash value as an identification value of the thumbnail image and the thumbnail image with the preset number, and stores them in the storage unit 115. In this process, the system control unit 113 also functions as an identification value generating unit that generates an identification value that uniquely identifies a thumbnail image.

[0052] Here, the correspondence between the preset numbers stored in the storage unit 115 and the thumbnail image identification values ​​will be described with reference to FIG. 6. Table 600 shows the correspondence between preset numbers 601 and hash values ​​of thumbnail images as thumbnail image identification values ​​602. In table 600, thumbnail images are stored for preset numbers 1, 2, and 4 because hash values ​​are registered. However, it can be seen that no thumbnail image is stored for preset number 3 because the hash value is null. In this embodiment, a hash value of image data is used as the thumbnail image identification value 602. However, without being limited to this, other values ​​may be used as long as they can uniquely specify (identify) the thumbnail image, such as date and time information at the time of generating the thumbnail image, the PTZ value at the time of registering the preset, or a combination thereof. In S501, the generated hash value is stored in the thumbnail identification value area 603 corresponding to 1 of the preset number 601.

[0053] Next, in S502, the system control unit 113 notifies the information processing device 200 of a hash value indicating that the thumbnail of preset number 1 has been registered, together with information that the preset of preset number 1 has been registered. When notifying the information processing device 200 outside the imaging device 100 of the hash value, which is a thumbnail image identification value, the system control unit 113 also functions as a notification unit. Note that the imaging device 100 performs the above notification to the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300.

[0054] Next, in S503, the system control unit 113 notifies the information processing device 230 of a hash value indicating that the thumbnail of preset number 1 has been registered, together with information that the preset of preset number 1 has been registered. When notifying the information processing device 230 outside the imaging device 100 of the hash value, which is a thumbnail image identification value, the system control unit 113 also functions as a notification unit. Note that the imaging device 100 performs the above notification to the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. Here, it is preferable that S502 and S503 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other, as shown in FIG. Note that the processing order of S502 and S503 may be reversed.

[0055] Next, in S504, when the information processing device 200 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image, the system control unit 203 requests the imaging device 100 to transmit a thumbnail image acquisition request for preset number 1 via the communication unit 204 and the network 300. The information processing device 200 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image via the network 300 and the communication unit 204.

[0056] Next, in S505, when the information processing device 230 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image, the system control unit 233 requests the imaging device 100 to acquire a thumbnail image of preset number 1 via the communication unit 234 and the network 300. The information processing device 230 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image via the network 300 and the communication unit 234. Here, it is preferable that S504 and S505 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other as shown in Fig. 5. The processing order of S504 and S505 may be reversed.

[0057] Next, in S506, when the imaging device 100 receives a thumbnail image acquisition request from the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116, the system control unit 113 acquires the thumbnail image of preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115. Then, the system control unit 113 transmits the thumbnail image to the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. When the system control unit 203 of the information processing device 200 receives the thumbnail image of preset number 1 via the communication unit 204, it instructs the display control unit 201 to redisplay the thumbnail image. Then, the display control unit 201 displays the thumbnail image on the display 220 based on the instruction from the system control unit 203. As a result, the thumbnail image of preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115 can be displayed on the display 220.

[0058] Next, in S507, when the imaging device 100 receives a thumbnail image acquisition request from the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116, the system control unit 113 acquires the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115. Then, the system control unit 113 transmits the thumbnail image to the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. When the system control unit 233 of the information processing device 230 receives the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 via the communication unit 234, it instructs the display control unit 231 to redisplay the thumbnail image. Then, the display control unit 231 displays the thumbnail image on the display 240 based on the instruction from the system control unit 233. This makes it possible to display the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115 on the display 240. Here, it is preferable that S514 and S515 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other as shown in FIG. 5. The processing order of S514 and S515 may be reversed.

[0059] Next, in S508, it is assumed that the user operates the operation reception unit 202 of the information processing device 200 to re-register the current image capturing state (current position of the imaging device 100) to preset number 1. Then, the system control unit 203 receives a preset registration instruction to preset number 1 via the operation reception unit 202. Next, the system control unit 203 transmits a preset registration request for preset number 1 to the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 204. The system control unit 203 also requests the imaging device 100 to simultaneously register a thumbnail image. During this process, the system control unit 203 also functions as a registration request unit that requests the imaging device 100 to register a thumbnail image.

[0060] Next, in S509, when the imaging device 100 receives the preset registration request, the system control unit 113 acquires the image captured by the imaging unit 111 via the image processing unit 112, and generates a thumbnail image by reducing the image. During this process, the system control unit 114 also functions as a thumbnail generating unit. The imaging device 100 receives the preset registration request via the network 300 and the communication unit 116.

[0061] In parallel with or in conjunction with the generation of thumbnail images, the system control unit 113 acquires information such as image quality parameters and the current PTZ position via the image processing unit 112 and the PTZ control unit 114. The acquired information is then stored as preset information together with the preset number in the storage unit 115. When a thumbnail image is generated, the system control unit 113 generates (calculates) a hash value as an identification value of the thumbnail image, associates it with the preset number, and stores it in the storage unit 115 as a setting value. Here, the value of the thumbnail image identification value 602 for preset number 1 in table 600 is updated and stored.

[0062] Next, in S510, the system control unit 113 notifies the information processing device 200 of a hash value indicating that the thumbnail of preset number 1 has been updated, together with information that the preset of preset number 1 has been re-registered. When notifying the information processing device 200 outside the imaging device 100 of the hash value, which is a thumbnail image identification value, the system control unit 113 also functions as a notification unit. Note that the imaging device 100 performs the above notification to the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300.

[0063] Next, in S511, the system control unit 113 notifies the information processing device 230 of a hash value indicating that the thumbnail of preset number 1 has been updated, together with information that the preset of preset number 1 has been re-registered. When notifying the information processing device 230 outside the imaging device 100 of the hash value, which is a thumbnail image identification value, the system control unit 113 also functions as a notification unit. Note that the imaging device 100 performs the above notification to the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. Here, it is preferable that S510 and S511 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other, as shown in FIG. Note that the processing order of S510 and S511 may be reversed.

[0064] Next, in S512, when the information processing device 200 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image, the system control unit 203 requests the imaging device 100 to transmit a thumbnail image acquisition request for preset number 1 via the communication unit 204 and the network 300. The information processing device 200 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image via the network 300 and the communication unit 204.

[0065] Next, in S513, when the information processing device 230 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image, the system control unit 233 requests the imaging device 100 to acquire a thumbnail image of preset number 1 via the communication unit 204 and the network 300. The information processing device 230 receives the hash value of the thumbnail image via the network 300 and the communication unit 234. Here, it is preferable that S512 and S513 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other as shown in Fig. 5. The processing order of S512 and S513 may be reversed.

[0066] Next, in S514, when the imaging device 100 receives a thumbnail image acquisition request from the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116, the system control unit 113 acquires the thumbnail image of preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115. Then, the system control unit 113 transmits the thumbnail image to the information processing device 200 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. When the system control unit 203 of the information processing device 200 receives the thumbnail image of preset number 1 via the communication unit 204, it instructs the display control unit 201 to redisplay the thumbnail image. Then, the display control unit 201 displays the thumbnail image on the display 220 based on the instruction from the system control unit 203. As a result, the thumbnail image of preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115 can be displayed on the display 220.

[0067] Next, in S515, when the imaging device 100 receives a thumbnail image acquisition request from the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116, the system control unit 113 acquires the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115. Then, the system control unit 113 transmits the thumbnail image to the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300. When the system control unit 233 of the information processing device 230 receives the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 via the communication unit 234, it instructs the display control unit 231 to redisplay the thumbnail image. Then, the display control unit 231 displays the thumbnail image on the display 240 based on the instruction from the system control unit 233. This makes it possible to display the thumbnail image of the preset number 1 stored in the storage unit 115 on the display 240. Here, it is preferable that S514 and S515 are executed in parallel or in conjunction with each other as shown in FIG. 5. The processing order of S514 and S515 may be reversed.

[0068] Here, if the thumbnail image information simply uses information on whether or not the thumbnail image is saved, when the thumbnail image is overwritten and saved, the change notification cannot be sent in S510 and S511. Therefore, the information processing device cannot obtain the thumbnail image from the imaging device at the timing of updating the thumbnail image, and therefore cannot re-display the thumbnail image on the display at the appropriate timing.

[0069] However, according to the imaging device 100 of this embodiment, by using a hash value of an image as thumbnail image information, it is possible to transmit a change notification of the thumbnail image to the target information processing device at the timing when the thumbnail image is updated in S510 and S511. The information processing device that receives the change notification can use this as a trigger to acquire the thumbnail image from the imaging device, so that the thumbnail image can be redisplayed on the display without a time lag from when the thumbnail image was updated.

[0070] Next, a control method performed by the system control unit 113 of the imaging device 100 of this embodiment will be described in more detail below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method of the imaging device 100 according to this embodiment. Each of the following processes (operations) is realized by the system control unit 113 (CPU 400) of the imaging device 100 expanding a program stored in the ROM 420 into the RAM 410 (storage unit 115) and executing it. Each process (step) is represented with an S at the beginning to omit the representation of the process (step). The process according to the flowchart of FIG. 7 starts when the imaging device 100 receives a preset registration request from the information processing device 200.

[0071] First, in S700, the system control unit 113 determines whether the request received via the communication unit 116 is a preset registration request. If the determination result indicates that the received request is not a preset registration request, the process of this flowchart ends. On the other hand, if the received request is a preset registration request, the process proceeds to S701.

[0072] Next, in S701, the system control unit 113 determines whether the preset registration request received in S700 includes a thumbnail registration or thumbnail deletion command. If the result of the determination is that the preset registration request does not include a thumbnail registration or thumbnail deletion command, the process proceeds to S702. On the other hand, if the preset registration request includes a thumbnail registration or thumbnail deletion command, the process proceeds to S704. During this process, the system control unit 113 also functions as a determination unit.

[0073] Next, in S702, the system control unit 113 acquires information such as image quality parameters and the current position of the PTZ (position of the imaging device 100) via the image processing unit 112 and the PTZ control unit 114, and stores the information together with the preset number as preset information in the storage unit 115. During this process, the system control unit 113 also functions as a preset registration unit that registers information indicating at least the imaging direction of the imaging device 100.

[0074] Next, in S703, the system control unit 113 notifies the information processing device 200 and the information processing device 230 via the communication unit 116 and the network 300 of information that the preset has been registered.

[0075] Next, in S704, the system control unit 113 determines whether the command related to the thumbnail included in the preset registration request received in S700 is thumbnail registration. If the result of the determination is that the command related to the thumbnail included in the preset registration request is thumbnail registration, the process proceeds to S705. On the other hand, if the command related to the thumbnail included in the preset registration request is not thumbnail registration, the process proceeds to S707. During this process, the system control unit 113 also functions as a determination unit. Here, if the command related to the thumbnail is thumbnail deletion, the system control unit 113 determines that the command related to the thumbnail included in the received preset registration request is not thumbnail registration.

[0076] Next, in S705, the system control unit 113 acquires the image captured by the imaging unit 111 via the image processing unit 112, and generates a thumbnail image by reducing the image. That is, the system control unit 113 generates a thumbnail image based on the image registered in the specified preset number (predetermined preset number) included in the preset registration request.

[0077] Next, in S706, when a thumbnail image is generated, the system control unit 113 generates (calculates) a hash value as an identification value of the thumbnail image, associates the generated hash value with the preset number, and stores the associated value as a setting value in the storage unit 115. The system control unit 113 also associates the thumbnail image with the preset number and stores the associated value in the storage unit 115. That is, the system control unit 113 associates the preset number, hash value, and thumbnail image with each other and stores the associated value in the storage unit 115. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S702 and S703, where similar processes are performed, and the process of this flowchart ends.

[0078] Next, in S707, the system control unit 113 deletes from the storage unit 115 the thumbnail image having the preset number specified in the command related to the thumbnail included in the preset registration request.

[0079] Next, in S708, the system control unit 113 deletes the hash value of the thumbnail image associated with the preset number specified by the thumbnail-related command included in the preset registration request from the storage unit 115, and sets the identification value to a null value. After that, the process proceeds to S702 and S703, and the same process is performed, and the process of this flowchart ends. Note that when the process proceeds from S708 to S702 and S703, the system control unit 113 may notify the information processing device that the identification value associated with the thumbnail image of the preset number specified by the thumbnail-related command is null. In this case, the system control unit 113 may also notify the information processing device that the thumbnail image of the preset number specified by the thumbnail-related command has been deleted, and that the identification value associated with the thumbnail image is null.

[0080] Although an example of the processing between the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 200 is shown in FIG. 7, the same processing can be performed in the case of the information processing device 230 as well.

[0081] As described above, according to the imaging system including the imaging device 100 of this embodiment, it is possible to immediately notify each information processing device of camera information including an identification value at an appropriate timing, such as when a thumbnail image is re-registered or deleted. That is, even if a thumbnail image is overwritten and saved in a preset in which a thumbnail image is already saved, it is possible to notify an external device such as an information processing device of this fact. Therefore, each information processing device can re-display the corresponding thumbnail image at an appropriate timing.

[0082] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, the system control unit 113 generates a thumbnail image based on a captured image captured by the imaging device 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the system control unit 113 may generate a thumbnail image based on an arbitrary image different from the captured image, or by resizing an arbitrary image.

[0083] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, the thumbnail image is linked to the preset number, but the same processing may be performed on thumbnail images that are not linked to the preset number. For example, this embodiment can be applied at any timing, such as when a thumbnail image is generated appropriately in a trace function that stores the trajectory of a specific PTZ position. The trace function is a function in which a user changes the imaging direction of an imaging device over a predetermined period of time and stores the trajectory of the change in the imaging direction at that time. When the user specifies the information of the trajectory, the imaging direction can be changed in a similar manner according to the information of the trajectory.

[0084] Also, according to the above embodiment, the thumbnail image identification value 602 is notified to each information processing device as a change notification from the previous time. However, without being limited to this, the thumbnail image identification value may be notified as part of the camera information currently held by the imaging device 100 in response to a request from each information processing device. That is, the camera information currently held by the imaging device 100 includes a hash value that is the thumbnail image identification value 602, and the system control unit 113 notifies each information processing device of the camera information including the hash value in response to a request from each information processing device. Note that only the hash value may be notified as the camera information. In other words, the hash value that is the thumbnail image identification value 602 may be notified to the information processing device as the camera information in response to a request from each information processing device.

[0085] Also, information on the hash value may be included as metadata in association with the thumbnail image. In this way, the imaging device or the information processing device can quickly compare the notified hash value with the hash value of the acquired thumbnail image.

[0086] 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.

[0087] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

[0088] In addition, the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments are not only realized by the computer reading and executing the program code, but also include an operating system (OS) running on the computer performing all or part of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program code.

[0089] Furthermore, the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by the following method: Program code read from a recording medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion card inserted into a computer or a function expansion unit connected to a computer. Then, based on the instructions of the program code, a CPU or the like provided in the function expansion card or function expansion unit performs some or all of the actual processing.

[0090] When the present invention is applied to the above-mentioned recording medium, the recording medium stores program codes corresponding to the respective flowcharts described above.

[0091] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration, method, program, and system.

[0092] (Configuration 1) 1. An imaging device, comprising: An imaging means; a notification means for notifying an information processing device outside the imaging device of a change in first information held by the imaging device; a preset registration means for registering information indicating an imaging direction of the imaging device; a thumbnail generating means for generating a thumbnail image based on a captured image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the preset registration means; an identification value generating means for generating an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generating means, the notification means notifies the information processing device of the identification value generated by the identification value generation means as the first information. 1. An imaging device comprising:

[0093] (Configuration 2) 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the identification value is a hash value of the thumbnail image.

[0094] (Configuration 3) 3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the identification value is date and time information when the thumbnail image is generated.

[0095] (Configuration 4) The imaging device according to configuration 3, further comprising a storage unit that stores the thumbnail image and the identification value in association with a preset number.

[0096] (Configuration 5) 5. The imaging device according to configuration 4, further comprising a determination unit that determines whether a command included in a request transmitted from the information processing device is related to thumbnail registration.

[0097] (Configuration 6) the thumbnail generating means generates a thumbnail image when the determining means determines that the command is related to thumbnail registration; The imaging device described in configuration 5, wherein the identification value generation means, when the determination means determines that the command is not related to thumbnail registration, deletes the thumbnail image having the preset number specified by the command from the storage means.

[0098] (Configuration 7) The imaging device according to configuration 6, wherein the identification value generating means, when deleting the thumbnail image from the storage means, nullifies the identification value associated with the thumbnail image to be deleted.

[0099] (Configuration 8) 8. The imaging device according to configuration 7, wherein the notification means notifies the information processing device that the identification value associated with the thumbnail image is null.

[0100] (Configuration 9) 9. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, wherein the thumbnail generating means generates the thumbnail image based on the captured image after receiving a request for preset registration from the information processing device.

[0101] (Configuration 10) The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the thumbnail generating means generates the thumbnail image based on an arbitrary image different from the captured image, or by resizing the arbitrary image.

[0102] (Configuration 11) 11. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the thumbnail image includes at least a hash value as metadata.

[0103] (Configuration 12) 12. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the thumbnail generating means generates the thumbnail image at any timing.

[0104] (Configuration 13) 13. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, further comprising a display control means for displaying the thumbnail images on a display means.

[0105] (Configuration 14) The imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 13, characterized in that the first information includes at least one of information indicating a current state of the imaging device, control information of the imaging device, and information on setting values ​​of the imaging device.

[0106] (Configuration 15) A method for controlling an imaging device having an imaging means, comprising: a notification step of notifying an information processing device external to the imaging device of a change in first information held by the imaging device; a preset registration step of registering information indicating an imaging direction of the imaging device; a thumbnail generating step of generating a thumbnail image based on an image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered in the preset registration step; an identification value generating step of generating an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated in the thumbnail generating step, In the notification step, the identification value generated in the identification value generation step is notified to the information processing device as the first information. 23. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus comprising the steps of:

[0107] (Configuration 16) A program for causing a computer to execute a control method for an imaging device having an imaging means, the program comprising: a notification step of notifying an information processing device external to the imaging device of a change in first information held by the imaging device; a preset registration step of registering information indicating an imaging direction of the imaging device; a thumbnail generating step of generating a thumbnail image based on an image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered in the preset registration step; an identification value generating step of generating an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated in the thumbnail generating step; In the notification step, the identification value generated in the identification value generation step is notified to the information processing device as the first information. A program characterized by:

[0108] (Configuration 17) An imaging system including an imaging device and at least one information processing device communicably connected to the imaging device, The imaging device includes: An imaging means; a first information notifying means for notifying the information processing device of a change in first information held by the imaging device; a preset registration means for registering information indicating an imaging direction of the imaging device; a thumbnail generating means for generating a thumbnail image based on an image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the preset registration means; an identification value generating means for generating an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generating means; an identification value notifying means for notifying the information processing device of the identification value as the first information, The information processing device includes: an operation means for receiving an operation for registering information indicating the imaging direction; a display control means for displaying the thumbnail images; a registration request means for requesting the imaging device to register the thumbnail image, 1. An imaging system comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 100 Imaging device 113 System control section 114 PTZ control unit 116 Communications Department 200 Information processing device 230 Information processing equipment 203 System Control Unit 233 System Control Unit

Claims

1. An imaging device having an imaging means, A registration means for registering information indicating the imaging direction in the imaging device, A thumbnail generation means generates a thumbnail image based on the captured image taken by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the registration means, An identification value generation means that generates an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generation means, The system includes a notification means for notifying an external information processing device of the imaging device of the identification value generation means that the identification value generated by the identification value generation means, The notification means notifies the identification value in response to the change in the thumbnail image corresponding to the imaging direction. An imaging device characterized by the following features.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the identification value is the hash value of the thumbnail image.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the identification value is the date and time information at the time of thumbnail image generation.

4. The imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that it has a storage means for storing the thumbnail image and the identification value, respectively, in association with a preset number.

5. The imaging device according to claim 4, further comprising a determination means for determining whether a command included in a request transmitted from the information processing device relates to thumbnail registration.

6. If the determination means determines that the command was related to thumbnail registration, the thumbnail generation means generates a thumbnail image. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the identification value generation means deletes the thumbnail image of the preset number specified by the command from the storage means when the determination means determines that the command was not related to thumbnail registration.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that when the identification value generation means deletes the thumbnail image from the storage means, the identification value associated with the thumbnail image to be deleted is set to an empty value.

8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the notification means notifies the information processing device that the identification value associated with the thumbnail image is empty.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the thumbnail generation means generates the thumbnail image based on the captured image after receiving a request for preset registration from the information processing device.

10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the thumbnail generation means generates the thumbnail image based on an arbitrary image different from the captured image, or by resizing the arbitrary image.

11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the thumbnail image includes at least a hash value as metadata.

12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the thumbnail generation means generates the thumbnail image at any time.

13. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising a display control means for displaying the aforementioned thumbnail image on a display means.

14. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the notification means notifies at least one of the following: information indicating the current state of the imaging device, control information of the imaging device, and information on the set values ​​of the imaging device.

15. A control method for an imaging device having an imaging means, A registration step for registering information indicating the imaging direction in the imaging device, A thumbnail generation step, which generates a thumbnail image based on the image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered in the registration step, An identification value generation step generates an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated in the thumbnail generation step, The system includes a notification step of notifying an external information processing device of the identification value generated in the identification value generation step, In the notification step, the identification value is notified in response to the generation of the thumbnail image. A control method for an imaging device, characterized by the following:

16. A program for causing a computer to execute a control method for an imaging device having an imaging means, wherein the program causes the computer to: A registration step for registering information indicating the imaging direction in the imaging device, A thumbnail generation step, which generates a thumbnail image based on the image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered in the registration step, An identification value generation step generates an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated in the thumbnail generation step, The process involves a notification step in which the identification value generated in the identification value generation step is notified to an information processing device outside the imaging device, and then executing the following steps: In the notification step, the identification value is notified in response to the generation of the thumbnail image. A program characterized by the following features.

17. An imaging system comprising an imaging device and at least one information processing device that is communicatively connected to the imaging device, The imaging device is Imaging means, A registration means for registering information indicating the imaging direction in the imaging device, A thumbnail generation means generates a thumbnail image based on an image captured by the imaging means in the imaging direction registered by the registration means, An identification value generation means that generates an identification value that uniquely identifies the thumbnail image generated by the thumbnail generation means, The system includes a notification means that notifies an information processing device outside the imaging device of the identification value generated by the identification value generation means in response to the generation of the thumbnail image, The aforementioned information processing device is An operating means for receiving an operation to register information indicating the imaging direction, Display control means for displaying the aforementioned thumbnail image, The imaging device has registration request means for requesting the registration of the thumbnail image, An imaging system characterized by the following features.

Images