Imaging apparatus, method for controlling imaging apparatus, and program

Abstract

To create a normal image without limiting a drive range of a camera even when there is a change such as a situation where an imaging apparatus body is captured in an image.SOLUTION: When receiving a request for changing an imaging area from a control unit, a system control unit issues a drive control instruction, and drives at least one of a zoom mechanism, a pan mechanism, a tilt mechanism, and a rotation mechanism to move the imaging area. When an imaging apparatus body is captured in the imaging area, the system control unit reduces an evaluation frame for setting a parameter related to imaging or image processing so as to remove an area of the imaging area where the imaging apparatus body is captured.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, imaging devices used for surveillance or video production purposes have a zoom mechanism for enlarging and reducing a subject, a pan mechanism for driving the imaging unit in the horizontal direction, and a tilt mechanism for driving in the vertical direction in order to flexibly change the shooting range. Furthermore, there are models equipped with a mechanism for rotating the imaging element itself (hereinafter referred to as a rotation mechanism).

[0003] On the other hand, in an imaging device with many drive mechanisms, since the shootable area extends over a wide range, depending on the installation environment and the drive position, a part of the instrument for installing the imaging device or the imaging device body (hereinafter referred to as the imaging device body, etc.) may be reflected in the imaging area. In many cases, since the area where the imaging device body, etc. is reflected is in a state of being shielded from light with respect to the imaging element, it becomes a uniform abnormal image as an image.

[0004] In addition, parameters related to imaging or image processing such as exposure control, focus adjustment, automatic white balance, and day / night determination are determined with reference to an evaluation frame consisting of the entire area or a partial area of the area of the captured image. Therefore, if the area where the imaging device body, etc. is reflected overlaps with the evaluation frame, these parameters cannot be set correctly, and a normal image cannot be generated. Thus, as a technique for generating a normal image, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for restricting the range of tilt drive of a camera according to the zoom position in order to prevent the occurrence of a phenomenon (vignetting) in which a lens hood or a filter is partially reflected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, since the driving range of the camera is limited, when a subject of interest exists near the area where vignetting occurs, it is not possible to perform imaging such that the subject of interest is arranged at the center of the imaging area while maintaining a wide angle of view.

[0007] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to be able to generate a normal image even when there are changes such as the imaging device body being reflected, without restricting the driving range of the camera.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The imaging device according to the present invention includes imaging means, drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area by the imaging means, setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area, and determination means for determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area that is drive-controlled and changed by the drive control means. When it is determined by the determination means that there is the predetermined change, the setting means is characterized in that it changes the evaluation frame based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to generate a normal image even when there are changes such as the imaging device body being reflected, without restricting the driving range of the camera.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

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Figure 7

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail based on the accompanying drawings. Note that the embodiments described below are examples of the implementation means of the present invention, and should be appropriately modified or changed according to the configuration and various conditions of the devices and systems to which the present invention is applied. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0012] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the imaging device 100 that constitutes the imaging system 10 according to the present embodiment. The imaging system 10 includes the imaging device 100 and a control device 170 having a UI (user interface) display unit. The imaging device 100 is connected wirelessly or wired in a state where it can communicate with the control device 170 via the IP network 160. The user can change the imaging area, imaging conditions, and various settings of the imaging device 100 by performing various operations from the control device 170.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging device 100 includes an imaging unit 110, an image processing unit 120, a system control unit 130, a drive unit 140, and a storage unit 150. The imaging unit 110 further includes an imaging optical system 111 and an image sensor 112. The imaging optical system 111 is composed of a zoom lens, a focus lens, a diaphragm mechanism, and the like. The image sensor 112 is a sensor such as a CMOS sensor or a CCD sensor that photoelectrically converts a subject image (optical image) formed through the imaging optical system 111 and outputs an electrical signal.

[0014] The image processing unit 120 is composed of a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other dedicated circuits, and performs various signal processes on the electrical signal input from the imaging unit 110. The system control unit 130 is composed of a CPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, etc., converts the data input from the image processing unit 120 into data that can be output to the IP network 160, and transmits it to the control device 170. In addition, the system control unit 130 inputs a change instruction for the imaging area from the control device 170 and controls the imaging unit 110, the image processing unit 120, and the drive unit 140. Further, the system control unit 130 includes an evaluation frame generation unit 131 that generates an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing. Furthermore, the system control unit 130 includes a determination unit 132 that determines an area where reflection of the imaging device main body or the like has occurred from the state of the drive unit 140 and the image data input from the image processing unit 120. Here, the reflection of the imaging device main body or the like refers to a state in which the imaging device main body or the like is imaged and appears in the imaging area. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8, when the housing of the imaging device 100 is located (exists) within the imaging angle of view 802, reflection occurs. And the area 803 (hatched portion) becomes the reflection area in the captured image.

[0015] The system control unit 130 refers to the image of the area of the generated evaluation frame to set parameters related to imaging or image processing, such as exposure control, focus adjustment, automatic white balance, and day / night determination, and performs various processes. Here, the parameters related to imaging refer to analog gain, shutter speed, focus adjustment (lens control), etc., and the parameters related to image processing refer to digital gain, white balance, day / night determination, etc. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the image processing unit 120 and the system control unit 130 are separated, but they may be configured with the same device.

[0016] The drive unit 140 includes a zoom mechanism 142 that enlarges and reduces a subject, a pan mechanism 143 that drives in the horizontal direction, a tilt mechanism 144 that drives in the vertical direction, and a rotation mechanism 145 that rotates the imaging element 112. Further, the drive unit 140 includes a drive control unit 141 composed of a motor driver or the like for controlling the zoom mechanism 142, the pan mechanism 143, the tilt mechanism 144, and the rotation mechanism 145. The drive control unit 141 performs drive control of the zoom mechanism 142, the pan mechanism 143, the tilt mechanism 144, and the rotation mechanism 145 according to a control signal from the system control unit 130. The storage unit 150 is composed of a memory device such as a Flash ROM or an EEPROM, and stores various setting information and the like. The system control unit 130 reads and rewrites the information stored in the storage unit 150 as necessary.

[0017] <Evaluation frame reduction process by reflection determination> Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, a process of determining the reflection of the main body of the imaging device 100 and reducing the evaluation frame will be described. As shown in FIG. 2(a), it is assumed that in the initial state of the imaging device 100, an imaging area 201 is set, and an evaluation frame 202 shown within the dotted line is set. Parameters related to imaging or image processing, such as exposure control, focus adjustment, automatic white balance, and day / night determination, are set based on the evaluation frame set in the captured image. However, if the main body of the imaging device is reflected in the image and the evaluation frame also includes the main body of the imaging device, a normal image cannot be generated. Therefore, in this embodiment, a process of reducing the evaluation frame is performed so that the evaluation frame does not include the main body of the imaging device or the like.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure for reducing the evaluation frame when the main body of the imaging device 100 is reflected due to tilt driving in this embodiment. This flowchart is realized by the system control unit 130 executing a program expanded in the storage unit 150. First, when the system control unit 130 receives a request to change the imaging area from the control device 170, the process starts. First, in S301, the system control unit 130 issues a drive control instruction to the drive control unit 141. In this embodiment, a case where a control instruction to drive the tilt mechanism 144 in the vertically downward direction is given will be described as an example. Then, in S302, the system control unit 130 performs drive control via the drive control unit 141 so as to change the imaging area. FIG. 2(b) shows an example of the imaging area 203 after driving the tilt mechanism 144 in the vertically downward direction.

[0019] Next, in S303, the determination unit 132 of the system control unit 130 acquires the position information of the zoom mechanism 142, pan mechanism 143, tilt mechanism 144, and rotation mechanism 145 after driving. The position information of each drive mechanism may be acquired by reading the information of position sensors provided in each drive mechanism (not shown), or may be acquired by reading the position information stored in the storage unit 150. Also, the position information of each drive mechanism may be defined by the rotation angle.

[0020] Then, in S304, the determination unit 132 of the system control unit 130 determines whether or not there is reflection of the imaging device main body or the like based on the position information and the imaging angle of each drive mechanism acquired in S303. For example, when the tilt angle is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle (for example, 90°) and the imaging angle is equal to or greater than a predetermined angle, it is determined that the imaging device main body is reflected (the imaging device main body is imaged). Note that the relationship between the tilt angle (position information of the drive mechanism) of the tilt mechanism 144 at which the imaging device main body is reflected (the imaging device main body is imaged) and the imaging angle is stored in the storage unit 150 in advance.

[0021] As a result of this determination, if there is no reflection of the imaging device main body or the like, the process ends without changing the evaluation frame. On the other hand, if there is reflection of the imaging device main body or the like, the process proceeds to S305. Then, in S305, the evaluation frame generation unit 131 of the system control unit 130 calculates the reflection area of the imaging device main body or the like in the image data input from the image processing unit 120, and reduces the evaluation frame so as not to include the calculated reflection area, and ends the process. Note that the calculation of the reflection area is determined based on, for example, the position information (for example, the tilt angle) of the drive mechanism and the imaging angle. In the example of FIG. 2(b), since there is reflection of the imaging device main body or the like, as shown in FIG. 2(c), the evaluation frame 205 is reduced so as not to include the reflection area 204.

[0022] In the example of FIG. 3, the operation of reducing the evaluation frame when reflection occurs due to tilt driving from a state where no reflection occurs has been described. However, in the reverse case, the evaluation frame may be enlarged. For example, as shown in FIG. 2(c), when the evaluation frame 205 is set and the tilt mechanism 144 is driven vertically upward and a state where no reflection occurs as shown in FIG. 2(a) is obtained, the evaluation frame may be enlarged. Further, in the process of S305, the evaluation frame in the area other than the reflection area may be enlarged by the amount by which the evaluation frame of the reflection area is reduced.

[0023] Also, in the example of FIG. 3, the reflected area of the imaging device main body or the like is calculated from the position information of each drive mechanism to change the evaluation frame, but the evaluation frame may be changed according to other criteria. For example, the evaluation frame may be changed according to changes in the image such as when a uniformly dark area occurs in the driving direction or when the exposure is changed. Further, when the imaging device 100 is provided with a projector such as an LED illumination, the evaluation frame may be changed based on the change in the image due to the ON / OFF control of the projector. In this case, the evaluation frame is changed so as to exclude a uniformly dark area or an area that affects parameters related to imaging or image processing such as exposure control, focus adjustment, automatic white balance, and day / night determination due to exposure or illumination of the projector. Thus, when a predetermined change occurs in the imaging area such as reflection of the imaging device main body or the like, the evaluation frame is changed.

[0024] In addition, in the present embodiment, only the reduction process of the evaluation frame of the parameters related to imaging or image processing is described. However, when performing image processing such as moving object detection, an evaluation frame for image processing may be separately set. In such a case, similarly, the evaluation frame set for image processing such as moving object detection may be changed according to the occurrence of reflection. Also, in the example of FIG. 3, the process when the reflection of the imaging device main body or the like occurs by driving the tilt mechanism 144 has been described, but the same applies when the zoom mechanism 142 or the pan mechanism 143 is driven.

[0025] As described above, according to the present embodiment, when reflection of the imaging device main body or the like occurs in the imaging area, the evaluation frame is reset so as to exclude the reflected area. Thereby, the parameters related to imaging or image processing can be correctly set without being affected by the reflected area, and a normal image can be generated.

[0026] (Second Embodiment) Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the change of the evaluation frame when changing the imaging area using rotation drive will be described. Note that since the configurations of the imaging system and the imaging device according to this embodiment are the same as those of FIG. 1 shown in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4(a), it is assumed that in the initial state, the imaging area 401 is set in the imaging device 100 and the evaluation frame 402 shown within the dotted line is set.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure for changing the evaluation frame when the reflection of the main body of the imaging device 100 occurs due to rotation drive in this embodiment. This flowchart is realized by the system control unit 130 executing the program expanded in the storage unit 150. First, when the system control unit 130 receives a request to change the imaging area from the control device 170, the process starts. First, in S501, the system control unit 130 issues a drive control instruction to the drive control unit 141. Here, the case of issuing a control instruction to drive the rotation mechanism 145 will be described. Then, in S502, the system control unit 130 drives and controls the rotation mechanism 145 via the drive control unit 141 so as to rotate and change the imaging area. FIG. 4(b) shows an example of the imaging area 403 after driving the rotation mechanism 145.

[0028] The processes in the next S503 and S504 are the same as S303 and S304 in FIG. 3, respectively, so the description thereof will be omitted. As a result of the determination in S504, if reflection has occurred, the process proceeds to S505. Then, in S505, the evaluation frame generation unit 131 of the system control unit 130 shrinks the evaluation frame so as not to include the reflection area calculated in S503. In the example of FIG. 4(b), since reflection of the imaging device main body or the like has occurred, as shown in FIG. 4(c), the evaluation frame 405 is shrunk so as not to include the reflection area 404.

[0029] Next, in S506, the evaluation frame generation unit 131 of the system control unit 130 adds a new evaluation frame within a range that does not include the reflection area. In this process, as shown in FIG. 4(d), a new evaluation frame 406 is added to the area where the setting has been removed due to the reduction of the evaluation frame 405.

[0030] In this embodiment, the process of newly adding an evaluation frame to the imaging area where no reflection occurs has been described. However, the shape of the evaluation frame itself may be changed according to the shape of the area where no reflection occurs within the imaging area. Also, regarding the method of determining reflection, it may be performed not from the position information of each drive mechanism but from the change in the image of the imaging area as in the first embodiment.

[0031] As described above, according to this embodiment, when reflection of the imaging device main body or the like occurs in the imaging area due to rotation drive, the evaluation frame is re-set while avoiding the reflection area, and a new evaluation frame is additionally set for the area where the setting has been removed. As a result, parameters related to imaging or image processing can be set more correctly without being affected by reflection, and a normal image can be generated.

[0032] (Third Embodiment) Hereinafter, an example of setting an evaluation frame in an imaging device having a plurality of imaging units will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. Hereinafter, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, it is applicable to any of pan drive, tilt drive, zoom drive, and rotation drive.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration example of an imaging device 1000 constituting an imaging system 20 according to this embodiment. The imaging system 20 includes an imaging device 1000 and a control device, and they are connected to each other via an IP network 160. Note that the control device 170 is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0034] On the other hand, the imaging device 1000 has an imaging unit 1010 with a different imaging range, separate from the imaging unit 110 described in the first embodiment. Furthermore, it has an image processing unit 1020 and a drive unit 1040. The imaging unit 1010 has an imaging optical system 1011 and an imaging element 1012. The drive unit 1040 has a drive control unit 1041, a zoom mechanism 1042, a pan drive mechanism 1043, a tilt mechanism 1044, and a rotation mechanism 1045. Note that for the components denoted by the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1, since they are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. Also, since the configurations of the imaging unit 1010, the image processing unit 1020, and the drive unit 1040 are basically the same as those of the imaging unit 110, the image processing unit 120, and the drive unit 140, respectively, the description thereof is omitted.

[0035] The system control unit 130 converts the data input from the image processing units 120 and 1020 into data that can be output to the IP network 160, and transmits it to the control device 170. Also, the system control unit 130 inputs a change instruction for the imaging area from the control device 170, and controls the imaging units 110 and 1010, the image processing units 120 and 1020, and the drive units 140 and 1040.

[0036] Subsequently, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, a process of referring to and applying the evaluation frame of the imaging unit that is performing imaging in an imaging area without reflection in an imaging device having a plurality of imaging units will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure for reducing the evaluation frame when reflection occurs in the imaging device 100 main body in the present embodiment. This flowchart is realized by the system control unit 130 executing a program developed in the storage unit 150. First, when the system control unit 130 receives a change request for the imaging area of the imaging unit 1010 from the control device 170, the process starts.

[0037] First, the processes of S701 to S704 each target the imaging unit 1010 and the drive unit 1040 for control. Since each of these processes is the same as S301 to S304 in FIG. 3, the description thereof is omitted. As a result of the determination in S704, if reflection occurs, the process proceeds to S705. Then, in S705, the determination unit 132 of the system control unit 130 determines whether reflection of the imaging device main body or the like has occurred in the imaging area of the other imaging unit 110. As a result of this determination, if no reflection has occurred in the imaging area of the imaging unit 110, the process proceeds to S706. Then, in S706, the system control unit 130 performs a process of changing the parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging unit 1010 to be set based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging unit 110. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in S705, if reflection has also occurred in the imaging area of the imaging unit 110, the process ends as it is.

[0038] Note that in this embodiment, in S706, the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging unit 110 is directly referred to, but a new evaluation frame may be added. For example, a new evaluation frame may be added as a complement in an area of the imaging area of the imaging unit 110 that is close to the imaging area of the imaging unit 1010, and the reference may be made in a state where the added evaluation frame is included. Also, in this embodiment, an imaging device having two imaging units has been described as an example, but when there are three or more imaging units, the process is performed as follows. For example, in S705, it is determined whether reflection has occurred in the imaging area of at least one imaging unit. Then, if there is an imaging unit in which no reflection has occurred in the imaging area, in S706, the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging unit that is physically closest among the imaging units in which no reflection has occurred in the imaging area is referred to.

[0039] As described above, according to the present embodiment, in an imaging device having a plurality of imaging units, even when reflection of the imaging device body or the like occurs in the imaging area of one imaging unit, parameters related to imaging or image processing are set based on the evaluation frames of other imaging units without reflection. As a result, parameters related to imaging or image processing can be set more correctly without being affected by reflection, and a normal image can be generated.

[0040] (Other Embodiments) In each of the above-described embodiments, an example has been described in which the imaging unit is driven by receiving a request to change the imaging area from the control device 170. On the other hand, when the imaging unit is driven by a tracking function that captures and drives a target subject, or when the imaging unit is driven to change the imaging area according to a preset route, the processing in each embodiment may be similarly applied. Further, in the first and second embodiments, the shape of the evaluation frame is changed so as not to overlap the reflection area, but the shape of the evaluation frame may be left as it is, and the reference method when setting parameters related to imaging or image processing may be changed. For example, when setting parameters related to imaging or image processing, the evaluation frame may be changed so as to reduce the weighting of the information in the reflection area. Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, as an object that reflects, an instrument for installing the imaging device or the imaging device body has been exemplified, but other objects may also be targeted.

[0041] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0042] The disclosure of the present embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, and programs.

[0043] (Configuration 1) Imaging means, Drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, Setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area, Determination means for determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and changed by the drive control means, having, When it is determined by the determination means that there is the predetermined change, the setting means changes the evaluation frame based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred. An imaging device characterized by this.

[0044] (Configuration 2) The imaging device according to Configuration 1, wherein the determination means determines whether a predetermined object appears as the predetermined change based on the position information of the mechanism. (Configuration 3) The imaging device according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein the determination means determines whether there is the predetermined change based on a change in an image in the imaging area. (Configuration 4) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein the setting means changes the evaluation frame so as to exclude the area where the predetermined change has occurred. (Configuration 5) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein the setting means changes the evaluation frame so as to reduce the weighting of information in the area where the predetermined change has occurred when setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means. (Configuration 6) The imaging device according to Configuration 4, wherein the setting means changes the shape of the evaluation frame so as to exclude the area where the predetermined change has occurred and adds a new evaluation frame.

[0045] (Configuration 7) Imaging means, Drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, Setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; Determination means for determining whether the imaging device main body exists in the captured image captured by the imaging means; having; When the determination means determines that the imaging device main body exists in the captured image, the setting means changes the evaluation frame based on the area corresponding to the imaging device main body. An imaging device characterized by that.

[0046] (Configuration 8) A plurality of imaging means; Drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of each of the plurality of imaging means; Setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area for each of the plurality of imaging means; Determination means for determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and changed by the drive control means; When the determination means determines that there is the predetermined change in one imaging area among the plurality of imaging means, in the imaging area where the predetermined change is determined, among the plurality of imaging means Control means for controlling to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area where the predetermined change has not been determined; An imaging device characterized by having.

[0047] (Configuration 9) The control means controls to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging means that is physically closest among the plurality of imaging means in the imaging area where the predetermined change is determined. The imaging device according to Configuration 8, characterized by that. (Configuration 10) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 9, wherein the drive control means performs drive control of at least one of a pan mechanism, a tilt mechanism, a zoom mechanism, and a rotation mechanism that rotates the imaging means.

[0048] (Method 1) A control method for an imaging device including an imaging means and a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, the method comprising: a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; a determination step of determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area that has been driven and changed by the drive control means; and having When it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred. A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that.

[0049] (Method 2) A control method for an imaging device including an imaging means and a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, the method comprising: a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; a determination step of determining whether the imaging device main body exists in an imaging image captured by the imaging means; and having When it is determined in the determination step that the imaging device main body exists in the imaging image, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area corresponding to the imaging device main body. A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that.

[0050] (Method 3) A control method for an imaging device including a plurality of imaging means and a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of each of the plurality of imaging means, the method comprising: In the imaging area, a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means for each of the plurality of imaging means; A determination step of determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and controlled by the drive control means and changed; In one imaging area among the plurality of imaging means, when it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change, in the imaging area where it is determined that there is the predetermined change, based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area among the plurality of imaging means where it is determined that there is no such predetermined change, a control step of controlling to set parameters related to imaging or image processing; A control method for an imaging device, characterized by comprising the above.

[0051] (Program 1) A program for controlling an imaging device including imaging means and drive control means for driving and controlling a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, In the imaging area, a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means; A determination step of determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and controlled by the drive control means and changed; Causing a computer to execute, When it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change, in the setting step, the program is characterized in that the evaluation frame is changed based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred.

[0052] (Program 2) A program for controlling an imaging device including imaging means and drive control means for driving and controlling a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, In the imaging area, a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means; A determination step of determining whether or not the imaging device main body exists in the captured image captured by the imaging means; Causing a computer to execute, A program characterized in that, when it is determined in the determination step that the imaging device main body exists in the captured image, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the region corresponding to the imaging device main body.

[0053] (Program 3) A program for controlling an imaging device including a plurality of imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging regions of each of the plurality of imaging means, A setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in each of the plurality of imaging means in the imaging region; A determination step of determining whether or not there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging region that is driven, controlled, and changed by the drive control means; In one imaging region among the plurality of imaging means, when it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change, in the imaging region in which it is determined that there is the predetermined change, control is performed to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging region among the plurality of imaging means in which it is not determined that there is the predetermined change; A program for causing a computer to execute.

Explanation of Signs

[0054] 110 Imaging unit, 130 System control unit, 131 Evaluation frame generation unit, 132 Determination unit, 141 Drive control unit

Claims

1. An imaging means, a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, a setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area, a determination means for determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area that has been driven, controlled, and changed by the drive control means, having, when the determination means determines that there is the predetermined change, the setting means changes the evaluation frame based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred. An imaging device characterized by this.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the determination means determines whether a predetermined object appears as the predetermined change based on the position information of the mechanism.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the determination means determines whether there is the predetermined change based on a change in an image in the imaging area.

4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the setting means changes the evaluation frame so as to exclude the area where the predetermined change has occurred.

5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the setting means changes the evaluation frame so as to reduce the weighting of information in the area where the predetermined change has occurred when setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means.

6. The imaging device according to claim 4, wherein the setting means changes the shape of the evaluation frame so as to exclude the area where the predetermined change has occurred and adds a new evaluation frame.

7. An imaging means, a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, a setting means for setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area, a determination means for determining whether the imaging device main body exists in the captured image captured by the imaging means, having, when the determination means determines that the imaging device main body exists in the captured image, the setting means changes the evaluation frame based on the area corresponding to the imaging device main body. An imaging device characterized by this.

8. A plurality of imaging means, a drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of each of the plurality of imaging means, Setting means for setting, for each of the plurality of imaging means, an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; Determination means for determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and controlled by the drive control means and changed; Control means for controlling to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging means among the plurality of imaging means that has not been determined to have the predetermined change when it is determined by the determination means that there is the predetermined change in one imaging area among the plurality of imaging means; An imaging device characterized by comprising:

9. The control means controls to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area of the imaging means that is physically closest among the plurality of imaging means in the imaging area determined to have the predetermined change. The imaging device according to claim 8.

10. The drive control means performs drive control of at least one of a pan mechanism, a tilt mechanism, a zoom mechanism, and a rotation mechanism for rotating the imaging means. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A control method for an imaging device including imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, A setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; A determination step of determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and controlled by the drive control means and changed; Comprising: When it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred. A control method for an imaging device.

12. A control method for an imaging device including imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing an imaging area by the imaging means, A setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; A determination step of determining whether the imaging device main body exists in the captured image captured by the imaging means; comprising: When it is determined in the determination step that the imaging device main body exists in the captured image, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area corresponding to the imaging device main body. A control method for an imaging device characterized by this.

13. A control method for an imaging device including a plurality of imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of each of the plurality of imaging means, a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in each of the plurality of imaging means in the imaging area; a determination step of determining whether there has been a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and changed by the drive control means; In one imaging area among the plurality of imaging means, when it is determined in the determination step that there has been the predetermined change, in the imaging area where it is determined that there has been the predetermined change, the plurality of imaging means A control step of controlling to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on an evaluation frame set in an imaging area in which it is not determined that there has been the predetermined change; A control method for an imaging device, characterized by comprising:

14. A program for controlling an imaging device including an imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of the imaging means, a setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; a determination step of determining whether there has been a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and changed by the drive control means; to be executed by a computer, When it is determined in the determination step that there has been the predetermined change, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area where the predetermined change has occurred. A program characterized by this.

15. A program for controlling an imaging device including an imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of the imaging means, A setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means in the imaging area; A determination step of determining whether the imaging device main body exists in the captured image captured by the imaging means; Causing a computer to execute; A program, characterized in that, when it is determined in the determination step that the imaging device main body exists in the captured image, in the setting step, the evaluation frame is changed based on the area corresponding to the imaging device main body.

16. A program for controlling an imaging device including a plurality of imaging means and drive control means for performing drive control of a mechanism for changing the imaging area of each of the plurality of imaging means, A setting step of setting an evaluation frame for setting parameters related to imaging or image processing by the imaging means for each of the plurality of imaging means in the imaging area; A determination step of determining whether there is a predetermined change that affects the setting of the parameters in the imaging area driven and changed by the drive control means; A control step of controlling to set parameters related to imaging or image processing based on the evaluation frame set in the imaging area where no such predetermined change has been determined among the plurality of imaging means, in the imaging area where it is determined in the determination step that there is the predetermined change among the plurality of imaging means; A program for causing a computer to execute.

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