Image management system and image management method

Abstract

To reduce a risk of losing image data in managing the image data by a plurality of devices.SOLUTION: An image management system comprises a plurality of cameras and a server device. Each of the cameras comprises an imaging unit and a storage unit. Identical image data is stored by the respective storage units of the two or more cameras, and all of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating a correspondence of stored image data and device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image management system and an image management method. [Background technology]

[0002] Image data may be managed by multiple devices. For example, Patent Document 1 describes encrypting and dividing unit images of a moving image, and distributing and storing and managing the data of the encrypted and divided unit images of the moving image across multiple node terminals and node servers. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-013298 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When managing image data across multiple devices, it is preferable to be able to reduce the risk of losing image data.

[0005] An example of an object of the present disclosure is to provide an image management system and an image management method that can solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an image management system includes a plurality of cameras and a server device, each of which includes an image capturing unit and a memory unit, and the same image data is stored in the memory units of two or more cameras, and all of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an image management system includes a plurality of storage devices and a server device, in which the same image data is stored in two or more storage devices, and all of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an image management method includes an image management system comprising a plurality of cameras and a server device, each of the cameras comprising an imaging unit and a memory unit, wherein the memory units of two or more cameras store the same image data, and all of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an image management method includes an image management system having a plurality of storage devices and a server device, in which two or more storage devices store the same image data, and all of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, when image data is managed by multiple devices, the risk of losing image data can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a camera configuration according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an outline of a processing procedure performed by an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example overview of the operation of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 5]FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing procedure in an image management system when a camera captures an image according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an example of the operation of an image management system when a camera captures an image in accordance with at least one embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in an image management system when a server device according to at least one embodiment acquires image data. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the image management system when a server device acquires image data according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a configuration of a storage device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing procedure in an image management method according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing procedure in an image management method according to at least one embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The following describes embodiments of the present invention, but the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention as claimed. Furthermore, not all of the combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the invention.

[0013] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Fig. 1, the image management system 1 includes a plurality of cameras 100 and a server device 200. The server device 200 and a client terminal device 300 are also connected for communication.

[0014] The image management system 1 captures images and manages the captured images. The camera 100 takes an image and stores the taken image. The camera 100 also stores backups of images taken by other cameras 100. Furthermore, the camera 100 shares management information with other cameras 100 and the server device 200. The management information is information that indicates which device (camera 100 and server device 200) stores which image data.

[0015] The server device 200 collects image data stored in the camera 100. When the server device 200 references the management information and detects that there is image data newly captured by the camera 100, the server device 200 acquires the image data.

[0016] The client terminal device 300 functions as a terminal device used by a user. The client terminal device 300 accesses the server device 200 and refers to image data. The client terminal device 300 may be configured as a part of the image management system 1 or may be configured external to the image management system 1. Furthermore, the number of client terminal devices 300 that access the server device 200 is not limited to a specific number, as long as it is one or more.

[0017] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of camera 100. In the configuration shown in FIG. The photographing unit 110 photographs an image and generates new image data. The communication unit 120 communicates with other devices, particularly with other cameras 100 or the server device 200, and transmits and receives image data.

[0018] The form of the camera 100 is not limited to a specific form. For example, the camera 100 may be a mobile camera, such as one mounted on a drone. Alternatively, the camera 100 may be installed as a fixed camera. The camera 100 may be configured using a computer with an imaging function.

[0019] The communication method used by the communication unit 120 is not limited to a specific method. For example, the communication unit 120 may perform communication via a wired network. Alternatively, the communication unit 120 may perform communication via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). Alternatively, the communication unit 120 may perform communication using the Internet or a mobile communication network. The communication unit 120 may perform communication using a combination of multiple types of communication networks.

[0020] The storage unit 130 stores various types of data. In particular, the storage unit 130 stores image data and management information. The image management system 1 may manage the management information using a blockchain, and each storage unit 130 may store part of the management information. The storage unit 130 may store certificates for use in the blockchain. The processing unit 140 controls each unit of the camera 100 to execute various processes.

[0021] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an outline of the procedure of the processing performed by the image management system 1. As shown in FIG. In the process of FIG. 3, when the camera 100 captures an image and generates new image data, it copies the generated image data to another camera 100 (step S11).

[0022] For example, the camera 100 that took the image may divide the image data at regular intervals and transmit copies of the divided image data to other cameras 100. This allows the image data to be multiplexed, preventing loss of image data. In dividing the image data, the image of the image data may be divided at regular intervals, and image data may be generated for each divided partial image.

[0023] Furthermore, the camera 100 and the server device 200 may be mesh-connected. In particular, each device (the camera 100 and the server device 200) may be configured to be communicatively connected to two or more other devices. This allows communication to be performed using another path even if a failure occurs in the communication path between the two devices.

[0024] Furthermore, all cameras 100 and server device 200 share management information (step S12). As described above, management information is information that indicates which device stores which image data. Information regarding copying image data and sharing it with other devices is also recorded in the management information.

[0025] The method by which the image management system 1 shares management information is not limited to a particular method. For example, the image management system 1 may manage the management information using a blockchain. In this way, by mutually checking the management information among all devices, the legitimacy of the management information can be guaranteed, and for all image data, it is possible to know which device stores that image data. Alternatively, each device in the image management system 1 may store management information with the same content.

[0026] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an outline of the operation of the image management system 1. Fig. 4 shows an example in which the image management system 1 is equipped with six cameras 100, namely, camera 100-1 to camera 100-6. In the example of FIG. 4, the image management system 1 operates as follows.

[0027] (1) Camera 100-1 takes a photograph and generates new image data, and then transmits copies of the new image data to cameras 100-2 and 100-3 for storage. As described above, the new image data here may be an image obtained by dividing the image data of the captured image. Specifically, the new image data may be image data generated for each partial image obtained by dividing the captured image at regular intervals. In this way, when the new image data is generated as multiple pieces of image data, the camera 100 may store each piece of image data in a different camera 100.

[0028] The intervals at which the captured image is divided can be determined taking into consideration the quality of communication between the cameras 100, the storage capacity of each camera 100, etc. The intervals at which the captured image is divided may be determined by the camera 100 when capturing an image. Alternatively, the intervals at which the captured image is divided may be determined in advance.

[0029] The number of cameras 100 to which copies of image data are to be sent and the method for determining the target cameras are not limited to a specific method. For example, the camera 100 that took the image may determine the number of cameras 100 to which copies of the image data are to be sent based on the importance of the image data and the storage capacity of each camera 100 .

[0030] Furthermore, the camera 100 that took the photograph may transmit a copy of the image data to a camera 100 that is close in terms of network or distance. Alternatively, the camera 100 that took the photograph may randomly select a camera 100 to which to transmit a copy of the image data.

[0031] (2) All cameras 100 and server device 200 share management information that has been updated to indicate the cameras 100 that store new image data. For example, the camera 100 that took the photograph may update the management information so that it indicates its own camera 100 and the camera 100 to which the copy is to be sent as the camera 100 that will store the new image data. The updated management information may then be shared by the blockchain. Alternatively, the camera 100 that took the image and the camera 100 that received a copy of the image data may each update the management information.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in the image management system 1 when the camera 100 captures an image. In the process of FIG. 5, the photographing unit 110 of the camera 100 takes a photograph and generates new image data, and the storage unit 130 stores the generated new image data (step S21).

[0033] Next, the new image data is copied from the camera 100 that took the photograph to the other cameras 100 (step S22). As described above, the camera 100 that took the photograph transmits the new image data generated by the photograph to one or more other cameras 100. The camera 100 that received the new image data stores the received image data in the storage unit 130.

[0034] Next, the camera 100 that took the image updates the management information, and all cameras 100 and server devices 200 share the updated management information (step S23). After step S23, the image management system 1 ends the processing of FIG.

[0035] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the image management system 1 when the camera 100 captures an image. Fig. 6 shows an example in which the image management system 1 is equipped with three cameras 100, cameras 100-1 to 100-3. In the example of FIG. 6, the image management system 1 operates as follows.

[0036] (1) Camera 100-1 takes a photograph and generates new image data. (2) Camera 100-1 transmits new copies of image data to cameras 100-2 and 100-3. Cameras 100-2 and 100-3 each store the image data received from camera 100-1. (3) Camera 100-1 updates the management information to indicate the camera 100 that has stored the new image, and all cameras 100 and server device 200 share the management information.

[0037] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in the image management system 1 when the server device 200 acquires image data. 7, the server device 200 refers to the management information and detects new image data (step S31). Specifically, the server device 200 detects that there is image data that the server device 200 does not have, and detects which camera 100 stores that image data.

[0038] Next, the server device 200 acquires and stores a copy of the new image data from the camera 100 that has the new image data (step S32). Next, the server device 200 updates the management information to indicate that the server device 200 has acquired new image data, and shares the updated management information with all cameras 100 and the server device 200 itself (step S33). The camera 100 that has stored the new image data reads from the management information that the server device 200 has acquired the image data, and identifies that the image data can be deleted.

[0039] Next, the camera 100 that stores the image data already acquired by the server device 200 deletes the image data (step S34). The timing at which camera 100 deletes image data that has been acquired by server device 200 can be set to any timing. For example, camera 100 may periodically determine whether or not any of the image data stored in camera 100 itself has already been acquired by server device 200, and delete the corresponding image data. Alternatively, when the storage capacity of camera 100 is insufficient, camera 100 may detect image data that has been acquired by server device 200 from the image data stored in camera 100 itself, and delete the corresponding image data.

[0040] Next, the camera 100 that deleted the image data updates the management information to indicate that the camera 100 itself does not store the image data, and shares the updated management information with all cameras 100 and the server device 200 itself (step S35). After step S35, the image management system 1 ends the processing of FIG.

[0041] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the image management system 1 when the server device 200 acquires image data. Fig. 8 shows an example in which the image management system 1 is equipped with three cameras 100, cameras 100-1 to 100-3. In the example of FIG. 8, the image management system 1 operates as follows.

[0042] (1) The server device 200 refers to the management information and detects that there is new image data (image data that the server device 200 itself does not store) and that the image data is stored in the cameras 100-1, 100-2, and 100-3. (2) The server device 200 acquires a copy of new image data from the camera 100-2.

[0043] Here, server device 200 can obtain a copy of image data from any camera 100 among cameras 100-1, 100-2, and 100-3. For example, server device 200 may randomly determine the camera 100 from which to obtain image data. Alternatively, server device 200 may determine the source of image data according to a predetermined criterion, such as determining the camera 100 with the smallest communication load as the source of image data.

[0044] In the example of FIG. 8, the server device 200 acquires image data from the camera 100-2. For example, server device 200 specifies new image data to camera 100-2 and requests the camera 100-2 to transmit the image data. In response to the request from server device 200, camera 100-2 transmits the requested image data to server device 200. Server device 200 receives and stores the image data from camera 100-2.

[0045] (3) Cameras 100-1 to 100-3 and server device 200 share management information that has been updated to indicate that server device 200 has acquired new image data. Each of cameras 100-1 to 100-3 can refer to the management information to know that server device 200 can delete the image data that it has acquired.

[0046] When communication between one camera 100 and another camera 100 is interrupted, if the camera 100's own photographing function is normal, the camera 100 continues to photograph and update the management information. Then, when communication with the other cameras 100 is restored, the camera 100 copies new image data for backup and shares management information with the other cameras 100.

[0047] As a result, as long as there is no disruption to the photographing function of camera 100, photographing can continue using the available space in memory unit 130 of camera 100, and as soon as communication is restored, the storage and management of image data can be automatically restored. This makes it possible to keep records even during periods when communication with other cameras is interrupted.

[0048] Alternatively, if communication with one or more of the other cameras 100 is possible, the camera 100 that took the photograph may transmit a copy of the new image data to the camera 100 with which communication is possible and store the copy.

[0049] As described above, the same image data is stored in the respective storage units 130 of two or more cameras 100. Furthermore, all cameras 100 and server devices 200 share management information that indicates the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0050] According to the image management system 1, the same image data is stored in each of two or more cameras 100, which reduces the risk of losing image data when managing image data on multiple devices.

[0051] Furthermore, when each of the cameras 100 acquires new image data captured by the photographing unit 110, the camera 100 stores the new image data in its own memory unit 130 and transmits the new image data to one or more other cameras 100 to store it in the memory unit 130 of the other camera. Furthermore, all cameras 100 and server device 200 share management information updated to indicate the device that stores the new image data.

[0052] According to the image management system 1, the storage status of images can be grasped relatively easily because each device shares management information.

[0053] Each of the cameras 100 and the server device 200 is communicatively connected to a plurality of the cameras 100 and the server device 200. According to the image management system 1, even if a failure occurs in the communication path between two devices, communication can be performed using another path.

[0054] In addition, management information is managed on a blockchain. According to the image management system 1, the management information can be cross-checked among all devices to ensure the validity of the management information, and for all image data, it is possible to know which device is storing that image data. Furthermore, the image management system 1 can detect any falsification or loss of data.

[0055] Furthermore, when the server device 200 detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device 200 itself has not acquired, it acquires that image data. According to the image management system 1, the server device 200 can automatically acquire image data that the server device 200 has not acquired by itself through the relatively simple process of referencing management information. A user can use, for example, a client terminal device 300 to refer to the image data acquired by the server device 200.

[0056] Furthermore, when the server device 200 acquires image data that it has not acquired itself, the management information updated to indicate that the image data has been acquired by the server device 200 itself is shared between all the cameras 100 and the server device 200 itself. The camera 100 can refer to the management information to know which image data can be deleted.

[0057] Furthermore, the camera 100 deletes, from among the image data stored in the camera 100 itself, image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device. The camera 100 can refer to the management information to identify and delete image data that can be deleted, thereby securing free space for storing image data and the like.

[0058] Furthermore, one or more of the cameras 100 may be configured to be movable, such as by using a drone. This allows data to be physically transported even if the communication path is interrupted by the camera 100. In this case, too, the data exchange between devices is reflected in the management information, and the storage status of each image data can be grasped from the management information.

[0059] The image management system 1 can also be used to ensure the validity of various data held in conjunction with each other, not just image data captured by a camera, in cases where a mobile object (movable device) such as a vehicle, drone, or mobile terminal device is subject to damage due to natural disasters, accidents, or man-made malfunctions or damage. The image management system 1 can also be used to prevent the camera 100 from being hijacked and fake images inserted.

[0060] Second Embodiment The device for taking pictures and the device for storing image data may be configured as separate devices. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Fig. 9, the image management system 2 includes a plurality of storage devices 400, an image capturing device 500, and a server device 200. The server device 200 and a client terminal device 300 are communicatively connected. 9, parts having the same functions as those in FIG. 1 are given the same reference numerals (200, 300), and detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0061] In image management system 2, the photographing unit 110 and memory unit 130 of camera 100 in image management system 1 are configured as separate devices. The photographing device 500 corresponds to the photographing unit 110, and the memory device 400 corresponds to the memory unit 130. In other respects, image management system 2 is similar to image management system 1. The functions and operations of the image management system 2 are similar to those of the image management system 1. In the image management system 2, the functions and operations of the camera 100 of the image management system 1 are shared between the storage device 400 and the photographing device 500.

[0062] 9, the storage devices 400 and the image capturing devices 500 are communicatively connected in one-to-one correspondence. Alternatively, only some of the storage devices 400 may be communicatively connected to the image capturing devices 500. In other words, a storage device 400 dedicated to storing copies of images from other storage devices 400 may be provided.

[0063] 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the storage device 400. In the configuration of FIG. The communication unit 410 communicates with other devices, particularly the communication unit 410 transmits and receives image data to and from the image capturing device 500, other storage devices 400, or the server device 200.

[0064] The storage unit 420 stores various types of data. In particular, the storage unit 420 stores image data and management information. The image management system 1 may manage the management information using a blockchain, and each storage unit 420 may store part of the management information. The storage unit 420 may store certificates for use in the blockchain. The processing unit 430 controls each unit of the storage device 400 to execute various processes. The storage device 400 may be configured using a computer.

[0065] 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image capturing device 500. In the configuration shown in FIG. The photographing unit 510 photographs an image and generates new image data. The communication unit 520 communicates with other devices, and in particular, the communication unit 520 transmits new image data obtained by photographing to the storage device 400.

[0066] The storage unit 530 stores various data such as setting values ​​related to the operation of the image capturing device 500. The storage unit 130 also functions as a working memory for processing by the image capturing device 500. For example, the storage unit 130 may function as a buffer that temporarily stores new image data obtained by image capturing. The processing unit 540 controls each unit of the imaging device 500 to execute various processes. The photographing device 500 may be configured using a computer having a photographing function.

[0067] As described above, two or more storage devices 400 store the same image data. Furthermore, all storage devices 400 and server device 200 share management information that indicates the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0068] According to the image management system 2, the same image data is stored in each of two or more storage devices 400, which reduces the risk of losing image data when managing image data on multiple devices.

[0069] Furthermore, when each of the storage devices 400 acquires new image data, it stores the new image data in its own storage device 400 and transmits the new image data to one or more other storage devices 400 for storage. Furthermore, all storage devices 400 and server device 200 share management information updated to indicate the device storing the new image data.

[0070] According to the image management system 2, the storage status of images can be grasped relatively easily because each device shares management information.

[0071] Furthermore, each of the storage devices 400 and the server device 200 is communicatively connected to a plurality of the storage devices 400 and the server device 200. According to the image management system 2, even if a failure occurs in the communication path between two devices, communication can be performed using another path.

[0072] In addition, management information is managed on a blockchain. According to the image management system 2, the management information can be cross-checked among all devices to ensure the validity of the management information, and for all image data, it is possible to know which device is storing that image data. Furthermore, the image management system 2 can detect any falsification or loss of data.

[0073] Furthermore, when the server device 200 detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device 200 itself has not acquired, it acquires that image data. According to the image management system 2, the server device 200 can automatically acquire image data that the server device 200 has not acquired by itself through the relatively simple process of referencing management information. A user can use, for example, a client terminal device 300 to refer to the image data acquired by the server device 200.

[0074] Furthermore, when the server device 200 acquires image data that it has not acquired itself, management information updated to indicate that the image data has been acquired by the server device 200 itself is shared between all storage devices 400 and the server device 200 itself. The storage device 400 can refer to the management information to know which image data can be deleted.

[0075] Furthermore, the storage device 400 deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device 200 from the image data stored in the storage device 400 itself. The storage device 400 can refer to the management information to identify and delete image data that can be deleted, thereby securing free space for storing image data and the like.

[0076] Furthermore, one or more of the storage devices 400 may be configured as a portable terminal device, or one or more of the storage devices 400 may be configured to be mobile, such as being mounted on a drone. This allows data to be physically transported even if the communication path is interrupted by the storage device 400. In this case, too, the data exchange between devices is reflected in the management information, and the storage status of each image data can be grasped from the management information.

[0077] The image management system 2 can also be used to ensure the validity of various data held in conjunction with each other, not just image data captured by a camera, in cases where a mobile object (movable device) such as a vehicle, drone, or mobile terminal device is subject to damage due to natural disasters, accidents, or man-made malfunctions or damage. The image management system 2 can also be used to prevent the storage device 400 from being hijacked and fake images inserted.

[0078] Third Embodiment Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Fig. 12, an image management system 610 includes a plurality of cameras 611 and a server device 614. Each of the cameras 611 includes an image capturing unit 612 and a storage unit 613.

[0079] In this configuration, the same image data is stored in the respective storage units 613 of two or more cameras 611 . Furthermore, all cameras 611 and server devices 614 share management information that indicates the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0080] According to the image management system 610, the same image data is stored in each of two or more cameras 611, which reduces the risk of losing image data when managing image data on multiple devices.

[0081] <Fourth embodiment> 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an image management system according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in FIG. 13, an image management system 620 includes a plurality of storage devices 621 and a server device 622.

[0082] In such a configuration, two or more storage devices 400 store the same image data. Furthermore, all storage devices 400 and server device 200 share management information that indicates the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0083] According to the image management system 620, the same image data is stored in each of two or more storage devices 621, thereby reducing the risk of losing image data when managing image data on multiple devices.

[0084] Fifth Embodiment 14 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in an image management method according to at least one embodiment. The image management method shown in FIG. 14 includes storing image data (step S611) and sharing management information (step S612).

[0085] In storing image data (step S611), an image management system is provided with a plurality of cameras and a server device, each of which has a photographing unit and a memory unit, and the memory units of two or more cameras store the same image data. In sharing the management information (step S612), all the cameras and the server device share the management information that indicates the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0086] According to the image management method shown in Figure 14, the same image data is stored in each of two or more cameras, which reduces the risk of losing image data when managing image data on multiple devices.

[0087] Sixth Embodiment 15 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in an image management method according to at least one embodiment. The image management method shown in FIG. 15 includes storing image data (step S621) and sharing management information (step S622).

[0088] In storing the image data (step S621), two or more storage devices of an image management system including a plurality of storage devices and a server device store the same image data. In sharing the management information (step S612), all the storage devices and the server device share the management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data.

[0089] According to the image management method shown in Figure 15, the same image data is stored in each of two or more storage devices, which reduces the risk of image data loss when image data is managed by multiple devices.

[0090] FIG. 16 illustrates an example configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in FIG. 16, a computer 700 includes a CPU 710, a main memory device 720, an auxiliary memory device 730, an interface 740, and a non-volatile recording medium 750.

[0091] One or more of the above-described camera 100, server device 200, client terminal device 300, storage device 400, image capturing device 500, camera 611, server device 614, storage device 621, and server device 622, or a portion thereof, may be implemented in computer 700. In this case, the operations of the above-described components are stored in the auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program. Furthermore, CPU 710 allocates storage areas in the main storage device 720 corresponding to the above-described components in accordance with the program. Communication between each device and other devices is performed by an interface 740 having a communication function and performing communication under the control of CPU 710. Furthermore, interface 740 has a port for nonvolatile storage device 750 and reads and writes information from and to the nonvolatile storage device 750.

[0092] When the camera 100 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the processing unit 140 is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0093] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area for the storage unit 130 in the main storage device 720 in accordance with a program. Photography by the imaging unit 110 is performed by the interface 740, which has a photography function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 120 is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the camera 100 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0094] When the server device 200 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0095] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area in the main storage device 720 for the server device 200 to perform processing in accordance with the program. Communication between the server device 200 and other devices is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the server device 200 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0096] When the client terminal device 300 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0097] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area in the main memory device 720 for the client terminal device 300 to perform processing in accordance with the program. Communication between the client terminal device 300 and other devices is carried out by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the client terminal device 300 and a user is carried out by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0098] When the storage device 400 is implemented in a computer 700, the operation of the processing unit 430 is stored in the form of a program in an auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0099] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area for the storage unit 420 in the main storage device 720 in accordance with the program. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 410 is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the storage device 400 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0100] When the imaging device 500 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the processing unit 540 is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0101] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area for the storage unit 530 in the main storage device 720 in accordance with a program. Photography by the photographing unit 510 is performed by the interface 740, which has a photographing function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 520 is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the photographing device 500 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0102] When the camera 611 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0103] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area for the storage unit 613 in the main storage device 720 in accordance with the program. Photography by the photography unit 612 is performed by the interface 740, which has a photography function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Communication between the camera 611 and other devices is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the camera 611 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0104] When the server device 614 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0105] Furthermore, the CPU 710, in accordance with the program, allocates a storage area in the main storage device 720 for the server device 614 to perform processing. Communication between the server device 614 and other devices is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the server device 614 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0106] When the storage device 621 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0107] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates a storage area in the main storage device 720 for the storage device 621 to perform processing in accordance with the program. Communication between the storage device 621 and other devices is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the storage device 621 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0108] When the server device 622 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in the form of a program in the auxiliary storage device 730. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main storage device 720, and executes the above-described processing in accordance with the program.

[0109] Furthermore, the CPU 710, in accordance with the program, allocates a storage area in the main storage device 720 for the server device 622 to perform processing. Communication between the server device 622 and other devices is performed by the interface 740, which has a communication function and operates under the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the server device 622 and a user is performed by the interface 740, which has an input device and an output device, presenting information to the user via the output device under the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations via the input device.

[0110] One or more of the above-described programs may be recorded on nonvolatile recording medium 750. In this case, interface 740 may read the programs from nonvolatile recording medium 750. CPU 710 may then directly execute the programs read by interface 740, or may temporarily store the programs in main storage device 720 or auxiliary storage device 730 and then execute them.

[0111] Note that the processing of each unit may be performed by recording a program for executing all or part of the processing performed by camera 100, server device 200, client terminal device 300, storage device 400, image capturing device 500, camera 611, server device 614, storage device 621, and server device 622 on a computer-readable recording medium, and loading and executing the program recorded on the recording medium into a computer system. Note that the term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs (Read Only Memory), and CD-ROMs (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. The program may be one that realizes part of the aforementioned functions, or may be one that can realize the aforementioned functions in combination with a program already stored in the computer system.

[0112] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and includes designs within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments may be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0113] Some or all of the above embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0114] (Appendix 1) A plurality of cameras and a server device are provided, Each of the cameras includes a photographing unit and a storage unit, The same image data is stored in the memory units of two or more cameras, All of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. Image management system.

[0115] (Appendix 2) When new image data captured by the photographing unit is acquired, each of the cameras stores the new image data in its own memory unit and transmits the new image data to one or more other cameras to store it in the memory unit of the other camera; The management information is updated to indicate the device storing the new image data, and is shared between all of the cameras and the server device. 10. The image management system of claim 1.

[0116] (Appendix 3) Each of the cameras and the server device is communicatively connected to a plurality of the cameras and the server device. 10. The image management system of claim 1 or 2.

[0117] (Appendix 4) The management information is managed by a blockchain. 4. An image management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

[0118] (Appendix 5) When the server device detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the server device acquires the image data. 5. An image management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0119] (Appendix 6) When the server device acquires image data that the server device itself has not acquired, management information updated to indicate that the server device itself has acquired the image data is shared between all the cameras and the server device itself. 6. The image management system of claim 5.

[0120] (Appendix 7) The camera deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device from among the image data stored in the camera itself. 7. The image management system of claim 6.

[0121] (Appendix 8) A plurality of storage devices and a server device are provided, Two or more storage devices store the same image data, All of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. Image management system.

[0122] (Appendix 9) each of said storage devices, when acquiring new image data, stores the new image data in its own storage device and transmits the new image data to one or more other storage devices for storage; the management information updated to indicate the device storing the new image data is shared by all the storage devices and the server device; 9. The image management system of claim 8.

[0123] (Appendix 10) each of the storage devices and the server device is communicatively connected to a plurality of the plurality of storage devices and the server device; 10. The image management system of claim 8 or 9.

[0124] (Appendix 11) The management information is managed by a blockchain. 11. An image management system according to any one of appendices 8 to 10.

[0125] (Appendix 12) When the server device detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the server device acquires the image data. 12. An image management system according to any one of appendices 8 to 11.

[0126] (Appendix 13) When the server device acquires image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the management information is updated to indicate that the server device itself has acquired the image data, and the updated management information is shared between all the storage devices and the server device itself. 13. The image management system of claim 12.

[0127] (Appendix 14) The storage device deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device from among the image data stored in the storage device itself. 14. The image management system of claim 13.

[0128] (Appendix 15) An image management system including a plurality of cameras and a server device, each of the cameras including a photographing unit and a storage unit, wherein the storage units of two or more cameras store the same image data; All of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. An image management method comprising:

[0129] (Appendix 16) When new image data captured by the photographing unit is acquired, each of the cameras stores the new image data in its own memory unit and transmits the new image data to one or more other cameras to store it in the memory unit of the other camera; the management information updated to indicate the device storing the new image data is shared by all of the cameras and the server device; 16. The image management method of claim 15, comprising:

[0130] (Appendix 17) Each of the cameras and the server device is communicatively connected to a plurality of the cameras and the server device. 17. The image management method according to claim 15 or 16, comprising:

[0131] (Appendix 18) The management information is managed by a blockchain. 18. An image management method according to any one of appendices 15 to 17, comprising:

[0132] (Appendix 19) When the server device detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the server device acquires the image data. 19. An image management method according to any one of appendices 15 to 18, comprising:

[0133] (Appendix 20) When the server device acquires image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the management information is updated to indicate that the server device itself has acquired the image data, and the updated management information is shared between all the cameras and the server device itself. 20. The image management method of claim 19, comprising:

[0134] (Appendix 21) The camera deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device from among the image data stored in the camera itself. 21. The image management method of claim 20, comprising:

[0135] (Appendix 22) In an image management system having a plurality of storage devices and a server device, two or more storage devices store the same image data, All of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. An image management method comprising:

[0136] (Appendix 23) each of said storage devices, when acquiring new image data, stores the new image data in its own storage device and transmits the new image data to one or more other storage devices for storage; the management information updated to indicate the device storing the new image data is shared by all the storage devices and the server device; 23. The image management method of claim 22, comprising:

[0137] (Appendix 24) each of the storage devices and the server device is communicatively connected to a plurality of the plurality of storage devices and the server device; 24. The image management method according to claim 22 or 23, comprising:

[0138] (Appendix 25) The management information is managed by a blockchain. 25. An image management method according to any one of appendices 22 to 24, comprising:

[0139] (Appendix 26) When the server device detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the server device acquires the image data. 26. An image management method according to any one of appendices 22 to 25, comprising:

[0140] (Appendix 27) When the server device acquires image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the management information is updated to indicate that the server device itself has acquired the image data, and the updated management information is shared between all the storage devices and the server device itself. 27. The image management method of claim 26, comprising:

[0141] (Appendix 28) The storage device deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device from among the image data stored in the storage device itself. 28. The image management method of claim 27, comprising: [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 1, 2, 610, 620 Image Management System 100, 611 Camera 110, 510, 612 Photography Department 120, 410, 520 Communications Department 130, 420, 530, 613 Storage section 140, 430, 540 Processing section 200, 614, 622 Server device 300 Client terminal device 400, 621 storage device 500 Imaging Device

Claims

1. A plurality of cameras and a server device are provided, Each of the cameras includes a photographing unit and a storage unit, The same image data is stored in the memory units of two or more cameras, All of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. Image management system.

2. When new image data captured by the photographing unit is acquired, each of the cameras stores the new image data in its own memory unit and transmits the new image data to one or more other cameras to store it in the memory unit of the other camera; The management information is updated to indicate the device storing the new image data, and is shared between all of the cameras and the server device. The image management system according to claim 1 .

3. Each of the cameras and the server device is communicatively connected to a plurality of the cameras and the server device. The image management system according to claim 1 .

4. The management information is managed by a blockchain. The image management system according to claim 1 .

5. When the server device detects, based on the management information, that there is image data that the server device itself has not acquired, the server device acquires the image data. The image management system according to claim 1 .

6. When the server device acquires image data that the server device itself has not acquired, management information updated to indicate that the server device itself has acquired the image data is shared between all the cameras and the server device itself. The image management system according to claim 5 .

7. The camera deletes image data that is indicated by the management information as having been acquired by the server device from among the image data stored in the camera itself. The image management system according to claim 6 .

8. A plurality of storage devices and a server device are provided, Two or more storage devices store the same image data, All of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. Image management system.

9. An image management system including a plurality of cameras and a server device, each of the cameras including a photographing unit and a storage unit, wherein the storage units of two or more cameras store the same image data; All of the cameras and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. An image management method comprising:

10. In an image management system having a plurality of storage devices and a server device, two or more storage devices store the same image data, All of the storage devices and the server device share management information indicating the correspondence between which device stores which image data. An image management method comprising:

Images