Wiper control method, control device, and broadcasting camera system

Abstract

To prevent the reflection of a lens wiper.SOLUTION: A wiper control method is provided for controlling operation of a lens wiper of a broadcast camera by a control device within or connected to the broadcast camera. The method includes turning on a sweep operation of a lens wiper in response to a first operation, and interrupting the sweep operation of the lens wiper in response to input of a first control signal for turning on a tally lamp to a broadcast camera.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4B

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a wiper control method, a control device, and a broadcast camera system. [Background technology]

[0002] Broadcast cameras are used not only in indoor environments such as studios, but also in outdoor environments. In outdoor environments, rain, snow, dust, and the like may adhere to the lens unit of the broadcast camera. Typically, the lens unit of a broadcast camera used in outdoor environments is provided with a translucent protective member to protect the lens from rain, snow, dust, and the like. Lens units have also been proposed that have a lens wiper to remove raindrops, snow, and the like that have adhered to the protective member (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-139182 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-089206 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The lens wiper described above is also considered useful in studio filming, concert hall filming, or live performance filming. For example, when creating effects that involve the scattering of dust particles or fine water droplets, the lens wiper can be used to prevent these foreign objects from appearing in the footage. The lens wiper is usually operated by a cameraman operating a broadcast camera. For example, the cameraman operates the lens wiper by operating a button on the broadcast camera. In this case, if the cameraman accidentally operates the button during on-air broadcast, the lens wiper will appear in the footage.

[0005] Typically, the footage to be broadcast is selected by an operator from multiple images captured in parallel by multiple broadcast cameras and / or from existing footage, and switched at the appropriate time. Even if the cameraman is careful, it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of operating the camera wiper without realizing it is time to switch. Meanwhile, consideration is being given to having the operator operate the lens wiper. Even in this case, as long as it is operated by a human, the risk of the lens wiper appearing in the footage due to an incorrect operation cannot be completely eliminated.

[0006] The present application provides a solution to the above problem.

[0007] Incidentally, there are also security surveillance cameras equipped with lens wipers, but given their purpose, it is not a problem if the lens wiper is momentarily captured in the image, and the above-mentioned issues related to broadcast cameras do not arise. Also, with regard to in-vehicle cameras used in ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), there are cases where the capture of car wipers in the image is a problem, but car wipers operate independently of the camera, so are different from the above-mentioned lens wipers, and since people do not switch between images from in-vehicle cameras, the above-mentioned issues related to broadcast cameras do not arise. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a wiper control method for controlling the operation of a lens wiper of a broadcast camera by a control device inside or connected to the broadcast camera. This wiper control method includes the steps of turning on the sweeping operation of the lens wiper in response to a first operation, and suspending the sweeping operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp. With this configuration, even if the lens wiper operation is on when the target broadcast camera goes on air (the video from that broadcast camera goes on air), the sweeping operation of the lens wiper is suspended, thereby preventing the lens wiper from appearing in the video.

[0009] In one implementation example, the step of interrupting the sweeping operation includes moving the lens wiper to a predetermined position that is not visible in the image (e.g., a position outside the effective pixel range of the camera) and stopping the lens wiper at the predetermined position. For example, the predetermined position does not have to be the start position of the sweeping operation, and multiple positions that are not visible in the image may be set. For example, when interrupting the sweeping operation, the lens wiper may be quickly evacuated to a position that is closest to the current position and is not visible in the image. As another example, when interrupting the sweeping operation, the lens wiper may not change its direction of movement and may be evacuated to a position that is not visible in the image ahead of its direction of movement. In this case, since the direction of movement does not change when interrupting the sweeping operation, the load on the motor and gears that drive the lens wiper can be reduced. In addition, this can avoid the possibility that the lens wiper may stop momentarily when changing its direction of movement within the effective pixel range of the camera, making the lens wiper noticeable.

[0010] In one implementation, the method further includes, after the sweep operation is interrupted, resuming the sweep operation in response to inputting a second control signal to the broadcast camera for turning off the tally lamp. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper can be resumed when the target broadcast camera goes off-air without having to perform the first operation again.

[0011] In one implementation, the sweep operation is configured so that the lens wiper repeatedly moves back and forth continuously or intermittently until a preset operation time has elapsed. For example, the lens wiper starts operating in response to a first operation, and a timer is activated, and the lens wiper stops operating after the preset time has elapsed. This configuration eliminates the need to turn off the lens wiper, reducing the operational burden and preventing forgetting to turn it off.

[0012] In relation to the timer-based control described above, in one implementation example, the step of resuming the operation includes terminating the operation while keeping the lens wiper stationary in a predetermined position if the operation time has already elapsed, and resuming the reciprocating movement of the lens wiper if the operation time has not yet elapsed. With this configuration, if the interruption period is short, the operation of the lens wiper is automatically resumed after the interruption, so even if short interruptions are repeated, there is no need to frequently perform the first operation, reducing the operational burden.

[0013] In one implementation, the sweep operation is configured so that the lens wiper repeatedly moves back and forth a set number of times, either continuously or intermittently. For example, the lens wiper starts operating in response to a first operation, and a counter that counts the number of times the lens wiper has moved back and forth is activated. When the count reaches the set number, the lens wiper stops operating. This configuration eliminates the need to turn off the lens wiper, reducing the operational burden and preventing users from forgetting to turn it off.

[0014] In relation to the control by the counter described above, in one implementation example, the step of resuming the operation includes determining whether the number of reciprocation of the lens wiper has reached a set number, terminating the sweep operation while keeping the lens wiper stationary at a predetermined position if the number of reciprocation has reached the set number, and resuming the reciprocation of the lens wiper if the number of reciprocation has not reached the set number. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper is automatically resumed after an interruption, so even if interruptions are repeated, there is no need to frequently perform the first operation, reducing the operational burden.

[0015] In one implementation example, the sweep operation is configured to cause the lens wiper to make one full reciprocation. This configuration is useful when you want to operate the lens wiper only once. For example, in situations where water droplets or the like occasionally adhere to the lens unit due to production during studio shooting, it is easier to use if the lens wiper moves only one full reciprocation each time the first operation is performed.

[0016] In one implementation example, the method further includes disabling the first operation during the period from when the first control signal is input to the broadcast camera to when the second control signal for turning off the tally lamp is input to the broadcast camera. With this configuration, if the lens wiper operation of a target broadcast camera is off and the broadcast camera is already on air, the first operation for that broadcast camera is disabled. During the period in which the first operation is disabled, no processing related to lens wiper control occurs, reducing the processing load.

[0017] In one implementation example, the control device is a camera control unit connected to a broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. In this case, in response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper of the broadcast camera can be controlled by an operator rather than a cameraman.

[0018] In one implementation example, the control device is a processing unit within the broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. In this case, in response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit, and the first command signal is transmitted from the camera control unit to the processing unit. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper of the broadcast camera can be controlled by an operator rather than a cameraman.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a control device. The control device is located inside or connected to a broadcast camera. The control device has a function of controlling the operation of a lens wiper of the broadcast camera, and executes processes including turning on the sweep operation of the lens wiper in response to a first operation and suspending the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp. With this configuration, even if the lens wiper operation is on when the target broadcast camera goes on air, the sweep operation of the lens wiper is suspended, thereby preventing the lens wiper from appearing in the video.

[0020] In one implementation example, the control device is a camera control unit connected to a broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. In this case, in response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper of the broadcast camera can be controlled by an operator rather than a cameraman.

[0021] In one implementation example, the control device is a processing unit within a broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. In this case, in response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit, and the first command signal is transmitted from the camera control unit to the processing unit. With this configuration, the operation of the lens wiper of the broadcast camera can be controlled by an operator rather than a cameraman.

[0022] According to a third aspect of the present application, there is provided a broadcast camera system including a broadcast camera, a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. The camera control unit has a function of controlling the operation of a lens wiper of the broadcast camera, and executes processes including receiving a first command signal transmitted from the operation controller in response to a first operation on the operation controller, turning on the sweeping operation of the lens wiper in response to receiving the first command signal, and suspending the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp. With this configuration, even if the lens wiper operation is on when the target broadcast camera goes on air, the sweeping operation of the lens wiper is suspended, thereby preventing the lens wiper from appearing in the video.

[0023] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, there is provided a broadcast camera system including a broadcast camera, a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and an operation controller connected to the camera control unit. The broadcast camera includes a lens wiper and a processing unit. The processing unit executes processing including receiving, via the camera control unit, a first command signal transmitted from the operation controller in response to a first operation on the operation controller, turning on the sweeping operation of the lens wiper in response to receiving the first command signal, and suspending the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting, to the broadcast camera, a first control signal for turning on a tally lamp. With this configuration, even if the lens wiper operation is on when the target broadcast camera goes on air, the sweeping operation of the lens wiper is suspended, thereby preventing the lens wiper from appearing in the video.

[0024] Each implementation example according to the first aspect can be combined with the second to fourth aspects. Furthermore, when each implementation example according to the first aspect is combined with the second to fourth aspects, the technical effects obtained by each implementation example according to the first aspect can also be obtained by combining it with the second to fourth aspects. To avoid repetitive explanations, please refer to the explanations of each implementation example according to the first aspect.

[0025] Furthermore, according to a fifth aspect of the present application, there may be provided a program causing a processor to execute the method of the first aspect or any one of the implementation examples of the first aspect. Furthermore, according to a sixth aspect of the present application, there may be provided a computer-readable storage medium storing a program causing a processor to execute the method of the first aspect or any one of the implementation examples of the first aspect. Regarding the technical effects obtained by the fifth and sixth aspects, please refer to the description of each implementation example of the first aspect above to avoid repetitive description. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] This prevents the lens wiper from being reflected in the image. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a broadcast camera system according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a lens wiper. [Figure 2B] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a lens wiper. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining functions of each element of a broadcast camera system according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4A] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a third diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a fourth diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the second implementation example. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the second implementation example. [Figure 6C] FIG. 10 is a third diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the second implementation example. [Figure 6D] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the operation of a lens wiper according to a modified example of the second implementation example. [Figure 7A] FIG. 10 is a first diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the third implementation example. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 is a second diagram for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the third implementation example. [Figure 7C] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the operation of a lens wiper according to a modified example of the third implementation example. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation control of a lens wiper in a broadcast camera system according to a first implementation example. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for refusing to accept a wiper control command when the broadcast is on air. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for disabling wiper operation when the image is on air. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operation control (including the interruption process) of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the first implementation example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operational control (including interruption processing) of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the second implementation example. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram for explaining the operational control (including the interruption process) of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the third implementation example. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for determining whether a wiper control command has been received by a broadcast camera. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method in which the camera control unit mainly controls the operation of the lens wiper. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present application (hereinafter, the present embodiment) will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, elements having substantially the same functions as those described in the specification and drawings of the present application may be designated by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant description. On the other hand, to clarify the correspondence between different drawings and / or different implementation examples, corresponding elements may be designated by the same reference numerals. When corresponding elements have different functions and / or structures, the differences will be explained in the specification.

[0029] (broadcast camera system) A broadcast camera system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a broadcast camera system according to this embodiment.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 1, the broadcast camera system according to this embodiment includes a broadcast camera 1, a camera control unit 2, and an operation controller 3. For simplicity, Fig. 1 shows only one broadcast camera (broadcast camera 1), but it should be noted that a broadcast camera system may include multiple broadcast cameras.

[0031] Broadcast camera 1 is a camera used to capture footage of broadcast programs. The broadcast program may be a terrestrial television broadcast program, a satellite broadcast program, an internet broadcast program, a broadcast program distributed in real time, a broadcast program recorded and edited before being distributed, or any other program and / or broadcast format; the program format and broadcast format are not limited. Furthermore, broadcast camera 1 may be used in an outdoor environment or an indoor environment such as a studio, and may be usable in any environment. The dimensions and / or shape of broadcast camera 1 are not particularly limited.

[0032] The broadcast camera 1 includes a lens unit 11, a body unit 12, and a tally lamp 13. The lens unit 11 may be detachable from the body unit 12 or may be integrally formed with the body unit 12. The tally lamp 13 may be detachable from the body unit 12 or may be integrally formed with the body unit 12. In the example of FIG. 1, for simplicity, only one tally lamp (tally lamp 13) is shown, but multiple lamps used as tally lamps may be provided on the broadcast camera 1. The dimensions and / or shapes of the lens unit 11, the body unit 12, and the tally lamp 13 are not particularly limited. Although not shown, audio equipment such as a sound-collecting microphone may be connected to the body unit 12.

[0033] The lens unit 11 has an optical system. The optical system is composed of optical elements such as one or more lens groups, each including one or more lenses, an aperture, and an optical filter. The lens unit 11 also includes a translucent protective member provided on the front surface of the lens to protect the lens from foreign matter such as rain, snow, or dust. An optical filter may also be used as the protective member. The lens unit 11 also includes a lens wiper for removing foreign matter adhering to the protective member. Note that there are no particular limitations on the configuration of the optical elements included in the optical system, the dimensions and / or shape of the protective member, or the dimensions and / or shape of the lens wiper.

[0034] The body unit 12 is sometimes referred to as a camera head or the like. The body unit 12 has an imaging element. The imaging element is a solid-state imaging element such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor. Light enters the imaging element of the body unit 12 through the optical system of the lens unit 11 and is converted into an electrical signal by the imaging element. The body unit 12 also has an image processing circuit and a processing unit. The image processing circuit generates video data based on the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The processing unit transmits the video data output from the image processing circuit to the camera control unit 2. The processing unit also controls the operation of the broadcast camera 1 based on a control signal (control command) input from the camera control unit 2.

[0035] The camera control unit 2 is a device that controls the broadcast cameras in the broadcast camera system, and is sometimes referred to as a CCU (Camera Control Unit). The camera control unit 2 transmits video data, audio data, and control signals (control commands) via a fiber optic cable connected to the broadcast camera 1. The camera control unit 2 can also supply power to the broadcast camera 1 via the fiber optic cable. The camera control unit 2 can be installed in a broadcast station, a broadcast van, or the like. There are no particular limitations on the installation location, dimensions, and / or shape of the camera control unit 2.

[0036] The operation controller 3 is an input interface that an operator uses to operate the camera control unit 2. The connection between the operation controller 3 and the camera control unit 2 may be a wired connection via a cable, or a wireless connection using any wireless communication technology. There are no particular limitations on the connection mode.

[0037] The operation controller 3 has operation units 31a and 31b and a display unit 32. The operation units 31a and 31b include operation means such as buttons, switches, and dials. The display unit 32 includes a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display. The display unit 32 may also be a touch panel. In this case, the display unit 32 can also be used as an input interface. In the example of FIG. 1, the operation units 31a and 31b and the display unit 32 are shown separately, but the functions of both the operation units 31a and 31b and the display unit 32 may be implemented using a touch panel. The technology of this embodiment is applicable to either configuration.

[0038] The technology according to this embodiment will be specifically described below using the broadcast camera system shown in FIG. 1 as an example.

[0039] (Example of a lens wiper) As explained with reference to Fig. 1, the lens unit 11 has a lens wiper. The configuration of the lens wiper itself, such as the size, shape, number, and / or drive mechanism of the lens wiper, is not particularly limited in this embodiment, but for ease of explanation, an example configuration of the lens wiper is shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B. Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B are schematic diagrams showing an example configuration of the lens wiper.

[0040] First, refer to FIG. 2A. FIG. 2A schematically illustrates the lens unit 11 as viewed from the front, and in particular, the hood frame 111, the transparent protective member 112, the lens wiper 113, and the drive unit 114. In the example of FIG. 2A, the lens wiper 113 is schematically illustrated as a single straight line. However, in actual implementation, the lens wiper 113 may be composed of multiple components. For example, the lens wiper 113 may be composed of an arm portion having one end connected to the drive unit 114 and a resin portion provided on at least a portion of the arm portion and contacting the protective member 112. The resin portion may be composed of a resin material such as rubber that does not damage the protective member 112. However, for ease of explanation, the following description will be given assuming that the lens wiper 113 is a rod-shaped member connected to the drive unit 114.

[0041] In the example of FIG. 2A , the lens wiper 113 sweeps the surface of the protective member 112 by moving its other end in an arc. During the sweeping operation, the lens wiper 113 moves from a predetermined position P1 in the direction of arrow A to a predetermined position P2. Upon reaching the predetermined position P2, the lens wiper 113 moves in the direction opposite to arrow A to the predetermined position P1. The predetermined positions P1 and P2 are positions where the lens wiper 113 does not appear in the image captured by the broadcast camera 1. In this example, the predetermined positions P1 and P2 are set on the hood frame 111, but they may be set at any positions where the lens wiper 113 does not appear in the image, and are not particularly limited. Moving from P1 to P2 and back from P2 to P1 constitutes one round trip of the lens wiper 113. The sweeping operation may also be started from the predetermined position P2.

[0042] Next, reference is made to Figure 2B. Figure 2B schematically shows the lens unit 11 as seen from the front, and in particular, the hood frame 111, the transparent protective member 112, the lens wiper 113, and the drive units 114a and 114b. Although the same reference numerals are used for the lens wipers, it should be noted that the example in Figure 2B differs from the example in Figure 2A in the movement mechanism of the lens wiper 113.

[0043] In the example of FIG. 2B, lens wiper 113 is depicted schematically as a single straight line, but in actual implementation, lens wiper 113 may be composed of multiple components. For example, lens wiper 113 may be composed of an arm portion having one end connected to drive unit 114a and the other end connected to drive unit 114b, and a resin portion provided on at least a portion of the arm portion and in contact with protective member 112. The resin portion may be composed of a resin material such as rubber that does not damage protective member 112. However, for ease of explanation, the following description will be given assuming that lens wiper 113 is a rod-shaped member connected to drive units 114a and 114b.

[0044] In the example of FIG. 2B , lens wiper 113 is driven by drive unit 114a and drive force of 114b to move in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction and sweep the surface of protective member 112. During the sweeping operation, lens wiper 113 moves from predetermined position P3 in the direction of arrow B to predetermined position P4. Upon reaching predetermined position P4, lens wiper 113 moves in the direction opposite arrow B back to predetermined position P3. Predetermined positions P3 and P4 are positions where lens wiper 113 is not visible in the image captured by broadcast camera 1. In this example, predetermined positions P3 and P4 are set on hood frame 111, but they may be set at any position where lens wiper 113 is not visible in the image, and are not particularly limited thereto. Moving from P3 to P4 and back from P4 to P3 constitutes one round trip of lens wiper 113. Note that the sweeping operation may be initiated from predetermined position P4.

[0045] For ease of understanding, examples of lens wiper 113 are shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, but the scope of application of the technology according to this embodiment is not limited to these examples. It should be noted that the structure, movement mechanism, movement direction, number, movement start point, movement end point, and mounting position of lens wiper 113 can be designed or set in an appropriate form for actual implementation. However, for ease of explanation, the following description will be based on the example of FIG. 2A. Based on the following explanation, a person skilled in the art will easily understand that the technology according to this embodiment can also be applied to lens wipers 113 according to other examples.

[0046] (Broadcast camera system functions) Next, the functions of each element of the broadcast camera system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the functions of each element of the broadcast camera system according to this embodiment.

[0047] As already described, the broadcast camera 1 includes a lens unit 11, a body unit 12, and a tally lamp 13. The lens unit 11 includes a lens wiper 113 and a drive unit 114, as well as an optical system 115 and a control unit 116. The optical system 115 is composed of optical components such as one or more lens groups, each of which includes one or more lenses, an aperture, and an optical filter. The number and types of optical components included in the optical system 115 are not particularly limited. Although not shown, the lens unit 11 may include drive mechanisms related to the optical system 115, such as zoom and focus. The configurations of these drive mechanisms are also not particularly limited.

[0048] The control unit 116 has a function of controlling the operation of the lens unit 11. For example, the control unit 116 controls the drive unit 114 to move the lens wiper 113. The control unit 116 may be one or more processors such as a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The control unit 116 is also connected to a memory (not shown) such as a read only memory (ROM) and / or a random access memory (RAM). The functions of the control unit 116 can be realized, for example, by the control unit 116 executing a program stored in the memory.

[0049] The body unit 12 includes an image sensor 121, an image processing circuit 122, a processing unit 123, and a storage unit 124. The image sensor 121 is a solid-state image sensor such as a CCD image sensor or a CMOS image sensor. Light enters the image sensor 121 via the optical system 115 of the lens unit 11 and is converted into an electrical signal by the image sensor 121. The image processing circuit 122 performs processing such as ADC (Analog to Digital Conversion) based on the electrical signal output from the image sensor 121 to generate video data. Note that the type and size of the image sensor 121 and / or the processing performed by the image processing circuit 122 are not particularly limited.

[0050] The processing unit 123 transmits the video data output from the image processing circuit 122 to the camera control unit 2. The processing unit 123 may also temporarily or permanently store the video data in the storage unit 124. For example, the processing unit 123 may be one or more processors such as a CPU, a DSP, an ASIC, or an FPGA. The storage unit 124 may be one or more storage devices such as a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), and / or a flash memory. The functions of the processing unit 123 may be realized, for example, by the processing unit 123 executing a program stored in the storage unit 124.

[0051] The processing unit 123 may also control the operation of the lens wiper 113 in cooperation with the control unit 116 of the lens unit 11. For example, the processing unit 123 may control the operation of the lens wiper 113 by transmitting a control command to the control unit 116 of the lens unit 11 to control the operation of the lens wiper 113, and controlling the driving unit 114 via the control unit 116. A specific method of controlling the lens wiper 113 will be described later. As a modified example, the processing unit 123 may be configured to directly control the driving unit 114 of the lens unit 11. Such a modified example is also included in the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0052] The processing unit 123 also controls the turning on and off of the tally lamp 13 based on a control signal (tally signal) input from the camera control unit 2. The tally lamp 13 is used to indicate whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air. When the tally lamp 13 is on, the performers in the program will recognize that the image from the broadcast camera 1 is on-air, and when the tally lamp 13 is off, they will recognize that the image from the broadcast camera 1 is off-air.

[0053] The camera control unit 2 includes a control unit 21 and a storage unit 22. The control unit 21 has a function of controlling the operation of the camera control unit 2. For example, the control unit 21 may be one or more processors such as a CPU, DSP, ASIC, or FPGA. The storage unit 22 may be one or more storage devices such as a ROM, RAM, HDD, SSD, and / or flash memory. The functions of the storage unit 22 may be provided by an external storage device installed outside the camera control unit 2, or may be provided in combination with external storage devices. Furthermore, the functions of the control unit 21 may be realized, for example, by the control unit 21 executing a program stored in a storage device.

[0054] The control unit 21 may store video data transmitted from the processing unit 123 included in the body unit 12 of the broadcast camera 1 in the storage unit 22. The control unit 21 may also control the operation of the lens wiper 113 in cooperation with the processing unit 123 included in the body unit 12 of the broadcast camera 1 and the control unit 116 included in the lens unit 11 of the broadcast camera 1. The control unit 21 may also control each broadcast camera in the broadcast camera system to switch between an on-air state and an off-air state. For example, the control unit 21 may put the broadcast camera 1 on-air or off-air in response to an operator's operation of the operation controller 3. The operation of the lens wiper 113 may be controlled mainly by the control unit 21 of the camera control unit 2, or may be controlled mainly by the processing unit 123 included in the body unit 12 of the broadcast camera 1. This is not particularly limited.

[0055] The operation controller 3 includes an operation unit 31, a display unit 32, a processing unit 33, and a memory unit 34. The operation unit 31 is an input interface and includes operating means such as buttons, switches, and dials. The display unit 32 is an output interface and includes a display panel such as an LCD or OLED. The display unit 32 may also be a touch panel. In this case, the operation unit 31 and the display unit 32 can be used as an input / output interface. The processing unit 33 has a function of controlling the operation of the operation controller 3. For example, the processing unit 33 may be one or more processors such as a CPU, a DSP, an ASIC, or an FPGA. The memory unit 34 may be one or more memories such as a ROM and / or a RAM. The functions of the processing unit 33 can be realized, for example, by the processing unit 33 executing a program stored in the memory unit 34.

[0056] The functional blocks of the elements shown in FIG. 3 and the hardware configuration described above are merely examples, and some functional blocks may be omitted or other functional blocks may be added. For example, if the processing unit 123 of the body unit 12 also performs the functions of the control unit 116 of the lens unit 11, the functional block of the control unit 116 may be omitted. Furthermore, if a drive mechanism for the lens wiper 113 is provided in the body unit 12, the functional block of the drive unit 114 may be moved to the body unit 12. Furthermore, if the camera control unit 2 and the operation controller 3 are wirelessly connected, a functional block for wireless communication function may be added to both the camera control unit 2 and the operation controller 3. Such modifications are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0057] (Operation of lens wiper according to first implementation example) Next, the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4A to 5B. Figures 4A to 5B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the first implementation example.

[0058] FIG. 4A shows the on / off timing of the lens wiper 113 and the timing of the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. The lens wiper 113 may continuously repeat reciprocation, or may repeat reciprocation intermittently. Intermittent operation means an operation in which the lens wiper 113 is stationary at a start position (for example, P1 in FIG. 2A) for each reciprocation (a rest period Tr≧0). FIG. 4A shows, as an example, a type of sweep operation in which the lens wiper 113 repeats reciprocation intermittently. In the following description, the period in which the lens wiper 113 is moving (the period for one reciprocation) may be referred to as a sweep period Ts.

[0059] 4A, in the first implementation example, when starting or stopping the operation of the lens wiper 113, the operator performs a start operation or a stop operation using the operation controller 3. The sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 starts in response to the start operation by the operator, and the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 ends in response to the stop operation by the operator.

[0060] When the operator performs a start operation, a wiper control command (wiper ON command) is transmitted from the operation controller 3 to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command may include identification information for the broadcast camera to be controlled (broadcast camera 1). If the operator is allowed to set the rest period Tr, the wiper control command may also include information about the rest period Tr. The operation controller 3 transmits the wiper control command (wiper ON command) to the broadcast camera 1, causing the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 to start the sweep operation.

[0061] On the other hand, when the operator performs a stop operation, a wiper control command (wiper OFF command) is transmitted from the operation controller 3 to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command may include identification information of the broadcast camera (broadcast camera 1) to be controlled. The camera control unit 2 transmits the wiper control command (wiper OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1, and ends the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1.

[0062] When a wiper ON command is input to the camera control unit 2 at time t1, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) determines whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air. Because the broadcast cameras in the broadcast camera system are controlled by the camera control unit 2, the camera control unit 2 holds information indicating which broadcast cameras are on-air. Therefore, the camera control unit 2 can easily determine whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air.

[0063] On the other hand, the broadcast camera 1 can determine whether it is on-air or off-air based on the input tally signal. When the tally lamp 13 is turned on in response to an input of a tally signal (tally ON command) that turns on the tally lamp 13, the broadcast camera 1 can be determined to be on-air. On the other hand, when the tally lamp 13 has already been turned off in response to an input of a tally signal (tally OFF command) that turns off the tally lamp 13, the broadcast camera 1 can be determined to be off-air. In this way, by using the tally signal, the broadcast camera 1 can determine whether it is on-air or off-air.

[0064] If the broadcast camera 1 is already on-air, when the sweeping operation of the lens wiper 113 begins, the lens wiper 113 will be captured in the on-air image. Therefore, in this case, the camera control unit 2 will not input a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1, but will wait until the broadcast camera 1 goes off-air, or may reject the wiper ON command input from the operation controller 3. In this case, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information indicating that the broadcast camera 1 is on-air to the operation controller 3. As a variant, the above-mentioned wait or rejection process may be performed on the broadcast camera 1 side (processing unit 123).

[0065] On the other hand, when the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state, even if the sweeping operation of the lens wiper 113 is started, the lens wiper 113 will not appear in the on-air image. Therefore, the camera control unit 2 inputs a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1. At this time, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information indicating that the operation of the lens wiper 113 has started to the operation controller 3. Fig. 4A shows the case when the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state.

[0066] When a wiper OFF command is input to the camera control unit 2 at time t2, the camera control unit 2 inputs a wiper OFF command to the broadcast camera 1 to terminate the operation of the lens wiper 113. The timing at which the wiper OFF command is input is independent of the end timing of the sweep period Ts, and the lens wiper 113 may not necessarily be in the start position (e.g., P1 in FIG. 2A) at that timing. When the wiper OFF command is input during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position and then terminates the operation of the lens wiper 113. The broadcast camera 1 may then transmit response information indicating the end of the operation of the lens wiper 113 to the camera control unit 2. This response information may be further transmitted to the operation controller 3 and presented to the operator (displayed on the display unit 32).

[0067] Next, reference will be made to Figure 4B. As shown in Figure 4B, the broadcast camera system according to the first implementation example is provided with a mechanism that suspends the operation of lens wiper 113 of broadcast camera 1 when the broadcast camera 1 goes on-air while the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 is in operation. In the example of Figure 4B, a wiper ON command is input at time t1, and during the period until a wiper OFF command is input at time t4 (time t2), a tally signal (tally ON command) that turns on tally lamp 13 of broadcast camera 1 is input. In this case, broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) temporarily stops (interrupts) the sweep operation of lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally ON command.

[0068] The timing at which the tally ON command is input is independent of the end timing of the sweep period Ts, and the lens wiper 113 is not necessarily in a position that does not appear in the image (for example, P1 or P2 in FIG. 2A) at that time. When a tally ON command is input during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) moves the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image and then suspends the operation of the lens wiper 113. If there are multiple positions that do not appear in the image, the broadcast camera 1 may move the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image that is closest to the current position of the lens wiper 113. In the case of FIG. 5A, the lens wiper 113 moves in the direction a to position P1. In the case of FIG. 5B, the lens wiper 113 moves in the direction b to position P2. This control allows the lens wiper 113 to be retracted to a position that does not appear in the image in a shorter time.

[0069] As a modified example, when suspension occurs, the direction of movement of the lens wiper 113 may not change, and the lens wiper 113 may be retracted to a position ahead of the direction of movement where it will not be reflected in the image. In this case, since the direction of movement does not change when suspension occurs, the load on the motor and gears that drive the lens wiper 113 can be reduced. Also, when the direction of movement of the lens wiper 113 changes within the effective pixel range of the camera, the lens wiper 113 may stop for a moment, which may make the lens wiper 113 stand out. However, this modified example can avoid this. In the following description, the retraction operation of the lens wiper 113 when suspension occurs is described with reference to the control method exemplified in FIGS. 5A and 5B. However, the modified example described above may be applied instead. Such modifications naturally fall within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0070] In the example of FIG. 4B, at time t3 after the retraction, a tally signal (tally OFF command) is input to turn off the tally lamp 13 of the broadcast camera 1. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) resumes the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally OFF command. In this example, the sweep operation is resumed after the input of the tally OFF command, and the sweep operation is continuously performed until time t4 when the wiper OFF command is input. In response to the input of the wiper OFF command, the broadcast camera 1 moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position, thereby ending the operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0071] As described above, by suspending the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally ON command and retracting the lens wiper 113 to a position where it will not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent the lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced. Note that, as a modified example, the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to the input of a tally ON command, and the above-described resumption process may be omitted. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0072] (Operation of lens wiper according to second implementation example) Next, the operation of the lens wiper according to the second implementation example and its modified example of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6A to 6D. Figures 6A to 6D are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the second implementation example and its modified example.

[0073] FIG. 6A shows the ON / OFF timing of the lens wiper 113, the ON / OFF timing of the timer, and the timing of the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 6A, in the second implementation example, when starting the operation of the lens wiper 113, the operator performs a start operation using the operation controller 3. On the other hand, the process of ending the operation of the lens wiper 113 is performed by control using a timer. Therefore, the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 starts in response to the start operation by the operator, and ends in response to the expiration of the timer. In the following description, the time set in the timer, i.e., the period from the start of the timer to the expiration of the timer, may be referred to as a set period ΔT.

[0075] When the operator performs a start operation, a wiper control command (wiper ON command) is transmitted from the operation controller 3 to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command may include identification information of the broadcast camera to be controlled (broadcast camera 1) and a set period ΔT. If the operator is allowed to set the rest period Tr, the wiper control command may further include information about the rest period Tr. The operation controller 3 transmits the wiper control command (wiper ON command) to the broadcast camera 1, causing the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 to start the sweep operation.

[0076] When a wiper ON command is input to the camera control unit 2 at time t1, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) determines whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air. Because the broadcast cameras in the broadcast camera system are controlled by the camera control unit 2, the camera control unit 2 holds information indicating which broadcast cameras are on-air. Therefore, the camera control unit 2 can easily determine whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air.

[0077] If the broadcast camera 1 is already on air, the camera control unit 2 may not input a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1, but may wait until the broadcast camera 1 goes off air, or may reject the wiper ON command input from the operation controller 3. In this case, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information to the operation controller 3 indicating that the broadcast camera 1 is on air.

[0078] On the other hand, when the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state, the camera control unit 2 inputs a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1. At this time, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information to the operation controller 3 indicating that the operation of the lens wiper 113 has begun. FIG. 6A shows a case in which the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state. When the wiper ON command is input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) starts a timer. As a variant, the camera control unit 2 may manage the timer and start the timer when it inputs the wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1. In this case, the camera control unit 2 notifies the broadcast camera 1 of the end of the set period ΔT.

[0079] When the set period ΔT expires at time t2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) terminates the operation of the lens wiper 113. The timing at which the set period ΔT ends is independent of the timing at which the sweep period Ts ends, and the lens wiper 113 may not necessarily be at the start position (e.g., P1 in FIG. 2A) at that time. If the set period ΔT ends during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position and then terminates the operation of the lens wiper 113. The broadcast camera 1 may then transmit response information indicating the end of the operation of the lens wiper 113 to the camera control unit 2. This response information may be further transmitted to the operation controller 3 and presented to the operator (displayed on the display unit 32).

[0080] Next, reference is made to Figure 6B. As shown in Figure 6B, the broadcast camera system according to the second implementation example is provided with a mechanism that suspends the operation of the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 when the broadcast camera 1 goes on-air while the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 is in operation. In the example of Figure 6B, a wiper ON command is input at time t1, and a tally signal (tally ON command) that turns on the tally lamp 13 of the broadcast camera 1 is input during the period until time t4, when the set period ΔT ends (time t2). In this case, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) temporarily stops (interrupts) the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally ON command.

[0081] The timing at which the tally ON command is input is independent of the end timing of the sweep period Ts, and the lens wiper 113 is not necessarily in a position that does not appear in the image (for example, P1 or P2 in FIG. 2A) at that time. When a tally ON command is input during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) moves the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image and then suspends the operation of the lens wiper 113. If there are multiple positions that do not appear in the image, the broadcast camera 1 may move the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image that is closest to the current position of the lens wiper 113 (see FIGS. 5A and 5B). This control allows the lens wiper 113 to be retracted to a position that does not appear in the image in a shorter time.

[0082] In the example of FIG. 6B, at time t3 after the retraction, a tally signal (tally OFF command) is input to turn off the tally lamp 13 of the broadcast camera 1. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) resumes the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally OFF command. In this example, the sweep operation is resumed after the input of the tally OFF command, and the sweep operation is continuously performed until time t4, when the set period ΔT ends. In response to the end of the set period ΔT, the broadcast camera 1 moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position, thereby ending the operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0083] As described above, by suspending the operation of lens wiper 113 in response to input of a tally ON command and retracting lens wiper 113 to a position where it does not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of lens wiper 113 in response to input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0084] Next, refer to Figure 6C. In the example of Figure 6B, a tally OFF command is input to the broadcast camera 1 before the end of the set period ΔT, but in the example of Figure 6C, a tally OFF command is input after the end of the set period ΔT. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) ends the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the end of the set period ΔT without restarting the sweep operation. At this time, if the lens wiper 113 is not in the start position (for example, P1 in Figure 2A) but in a position different from the start position where it is not reflected in the image (for example, P2 in Figure 2A), the broadcast camera 1 returns the lens wiper 113 to the start position before ending the operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0085] As a modified example, as shown in FIG. 6D , the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to the input of a tally ON command, without waiting for the end of the set period ΔT. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 may reset the timer in response to the input of the tally ON command. According to this modified example, the above-mentioned restart process is omitted. This can reduce the processing load on the broadcast camera 1 regarding the control of the lens wiper 113. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0086] (Operation of lens wiper according to the third implementation example) Next, the operation of the lens wiper according to the third implementation example and its modified example of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7A to 7C. Figures 7A to 7C are explanatory diagrams for explaining the operation of the lens wiper according to the third implementation example and its modified example.

[0087] FIG. 7A shows the ON / OFF timing of the lens wiper 113, the count number and reset timing of the counter, and the timing of the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0088] 7A, in the third implementation example, when starting the operation of the lens wiper 113, the operator performs a start operation using the operation controller 3. On the other hand, the process of ending the operation of the lens wiper 113 is performed by control using a counter that counts the number of times the lens wiper 113 has reciprocated. Therefore, the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 starts in response to the start operation by the operator, and the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 ends when the count reaches a set value N (N=8 in the example of FIG. 7A).

[0089] When the operator performs a start operation, a wiper control command (wiper ON command) is transmitted from the operation controller 3 to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command may include the identification information of the broadcast camera to be controlled (broadcast camera 1) and the set number N. If the operator is allowed to set the rest period Tr, the wiper control command may further include information about the rest period Tr. The operation controller 3 transmits the wiper control command (wiper ON command) to the broadcast camera 1, causing the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 to start the sweep operation.

[0090] When a wiper ON command is input to the camera control unit 2 at time t1, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) determines whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air. Because the broadcast cameras in the broadcast camera system are controlled by the camera control unit 2, the camera control unit 2 holds information indicating which broadcast cameras are on-air. Therefore, the camera control unit 2 can easily determine whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air.

[0091] If the broadcast camera 1 is already on air, the camera control unit 2 may not input a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1, but may wait until the broadcast camera 1 goes off air, or may reject the wiper ON command input from the operation controller 3. In this case, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information to the operation controller 3 indicating that the broadcast camera 1 is on air.

[0092] On the other hand, when the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state, the camera control unit 2 inputs a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1. At this time, the camera control unit 2 may transmit response information indicating that the operation of the lens wiper 113 has started to the operation controller 3. FIG. 7A shows the case when the broadcast camera 1 is in an off-air state. When the wiper ON command is input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) starts counting the number of round trips.

[0093] When the count reaches the set value N at time t2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) terminates the operation of the lens wiper 113. The timing at which the count reaches the set value N is independent of the end timing of the sweep period Ts, and the lens wiper 113 may not necessarily be at the start position (e.g., P1 in FIG. 2A) at that time. If the count reaches the set value N during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position and then terminates the operation of the lens wiper 113. The broadcast camera 1 may then transmit response information indicating the end of the operation of the lens wiper 113 to the camera control unit 2. This response information may be further transmitted to the operation controller 3 and presented to the operator (displayed on the display unit 32).

[0094] Next, reference is made to Figure 7B. As shown in Figure 7B, a broadcast camera system according to a third implementation example is provided with a mechanism that suspends the operation of lens wiper 113 of broadcast camera 1 when the broadcast camera 1 goes on-air while the lens wiper 113 of the broadcast camera 1 is in operation. In the example of Figure 7B, a wiper ON command is input at time t1, and a tally signal (tally ON command) that turns on tally lamp 13 of broadcast camera 1 is input during the period until time t4 (time t2) when the count number reaches set number N. In this case, broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) temporarily suspends (interrupts) the sweep operation of lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally ON command.

[0095] The timing at which the tally ON command is input is independent of the end timing of the sweep period Ts, and the lens wiper 113 is not necessarily in a position that does not appear in the image (for example, P1 or P2 in FIG. 2A) at that time. When a tally ON command is input during the sweep period Ts, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) moves the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image and then suspends the operation of the lens wiper 113. If there are multiple positions that do not appear in the image, the broadcast camera 1 may move the lens wiper 113 to a position that does not appear in the image that is closest to the current position of the lens wiper 113 (see FIGS. 5A and 5B). This control allows the lens wiper 113 to be retracted to a position that does not appear in the image in a shorter time.

[0096] In the example of FIG. 7B, at time t3 after the retraction, a tally signal (tally OFF command) is input to turn off the tally lamp 13 of the broadcast camera 1. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) resumes the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of the tally OFF command. In this example, the sweep operation is resumed after the input of the tally OFF command, and the sweep operation is continued until time t4 when the count number reaches the set value N. When the count number reaches the set value N, the broadcast camera 1 moves the lens wiper 113 to the start position, thereby ending the operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0097] As described above, by suspending the operation of lens wiper 113 in response to input of a tally ON command and retracting lens wiper 113 to a position where it does not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of lens wiper 113 in response to input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0098] As a modified example, as shown in FIG. 7C , the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to input of a tally ON command, without waiting for the count number to reach the set value N. In this case, the broadcast camera 1 may reset the counter in response to input of a tally ON command. According to this modified example, the above-described restart process is omitted. This can reduce the processing load on the broadcast camera 1 related to control of the lens wiper 113. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0099] (Wiper control method according to the first implementation example) Next, the wiper control method according to the first implementation example will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of wiper control in the broadcast camera system according to the first implementation example (a case that does not include the process of suspending wiper operation in response to input of a tally ON command). In the following description, for simplicity, broadcast camera 1 may be referred to as "camera A."

[0100] (S101, S102) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0101] (S103, S104) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S102, it determines whether the camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 8, it is assumed that the camera A is off-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that the camera A is off-air, and transmits a wiper control command to the camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of the operation of the lens wiper.

[0102] (S105) When the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S104, it confirms that it is in an off-air state (a state in which the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal. Then, the broadcast camera 1 starts the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113.

[0103] (S106, S107) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to end the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper OFF operation). The operation controller 3 accepts this wiper OFF operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the end of lens wiper operation.

[0104] (S108, S109) When camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from operation controller 3 in S107, it transmits the wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the end of lens wiper operation. When broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from camera control unit 2 in S108, it returns lens wiper 113 to the starting position, and ends the sweep operation of lens wiper 113.

[0105] The wiper control method according to the first implementation example has been described above.

[0106] When the wiper control method is applied to the second implementation example described above, the operation of the lens wiper 113 is terminated by control using a timer, so the processes of S106 to S108 are omitted, a timer ON process is added to S105, and a timer reset process is added to S109. Also, when the wiper control method is applied to the third implementation example described above, the operation of the lens wiper 113 is terminated by control using a counter, so the processes of S106 to S108 are omitted, a count start process is added to S105, and a counter reset process is added to S109. To avoid repetition, detailed descriptions of cases where the method is applied to the second and third implementation examples described above will be omitted.

[0107] (How to reject wiper control commands when on air) Next, a method for refusing to accept a wiper control command when the broadcast is on air will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for refusing to accept a wiper control command when the broadcast is on air.

[0108] If the broadcast camera 1 is already on-air, when the sweeping operation of the lens wiper 113 begins, the lens wiper 113 will appear in the on-air image. Therefore, in this case, the camera control unit 2 will not input a wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1, but will wait until the broadcast camera 1 goes off-air, or may reject the wiper ON command input from the operation controller 3. The example in Figure 9 shows the operation of the broadcast camera system in such a case.

[0109] (S201, S202) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2. Based on the input of this tally ON command, the broadcast camera 1 can recognize that it is on air.

[0110] (S203, S204) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0111] (S205, S206) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S204, it determines whether camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 9, camera A is on-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that camera A is on-air, does not transmit the wiper control command to camera A, and returns response information to the operation controller 3. This response information includes information indicating that the wiper ON operation of camera A is not possible (wiper ON not possible notification) and / or information indicating that camera A is on-air.

[0112] (S207) The operation controller 3 presents to the operator (displays on the display unit 32) information indicating that the wiper ON operation of the camera A is currently not possible.

[0113] (S208, S209) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2. Based on the input of this tally OFF command, the broadcast camera 1 can recognize that it is in an off-air state.

[0114] After transmitting the tally OFF command to the broadcast camera 1 in S208, the camera control unit 2 may transmit a wiper ON command to the operation controller 3 to the broadcast camera 1 (i.e., wait until the camera goes off-air). In this case, the camera control unit 2 transmits to the operation controller 3 information indicating that the wiper ON operation of camera A is now possible (wiper ON permission notification), information indicating that camera A has gone off-air, and / or information indicating that the wiper ON command has been input to camera A.

[0115] Alternatively, the camera control unit 2 may discard the wiper control command acquired from the operation controller 3 in S205 and terminate the processing related to the wiper ON operation accepted by the operation controller 3 in S203 (i.e., reject the wiper ON command). In this case, after transmitting the tally OFF command to the broadcast camera 1 in S208, the camera control unit 2 does not transmit the wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1, but waits for input of a new wiper ON command from the operation controller 3.

[0116] 9, the wiper ON operation for broadcast camera 1 that is already on air is effectively disabled, so that the broadcast camera 1 does not process the wiper control command. Also, by notifying the operator that broadcast camera 1 is on air, the operator can know the reason why the wiper ON operation is disabled. Note that the method shown in FIG. 9 can be applied to any of the first, second, and third implementation examples described above.

[0117] (How to disable wiper operation when on air) Next, a method for disabling wiper operation while on air will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for disabling wiper operation while on air. In the example of Fig. 9 described above, the camera control unit 2 handled the wiper ON operation in response to input of a wiper ON command, but in the example of Fig. 10, the wiper ON operation in the operation controller 3 is disabled when the camera control unit 2 issues a tally ON command.

[0118] (S301, S302) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. In response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13.

[0119] (S303) After inputting the tally ON command to the broadcast camera 1 in S301, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) transmits information (on-air notification) indicating that the broadcast camera 1 (camera A) is on-air to the operation controller 3. This on-air notification may include identification information of the on-air camera A. The on-air notification may also include instruction information indicating that the wiper ON operation should be disabled.

[0120] (S304) When the operation controller 3 (processing unit 33) receives the on-air notification transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S303, it disables the wiper ON operation for camera A. At this time, the operation controller 3 may display information indicating that the wiper ON operation for camera A has been disabled on the display unit 32. After the wiper ON operation has been disabled, the operation controller 3 does not transmit a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2 even if an operating means related to the wiper ON operation (such as a button on the operating unit 31) is operated.

[0121] If the operation unit 31 and the display unit 32 are an input / output interface configured with a touch panel, the operation controller 3 may hide an operation object related to the wiper ON operation among the operation objects displayed on the input / output interface, or may change the display method (color tone, type of icon, etc.) of the operation object. Note that in S304, the method for notifying the operator that the wiper ON operation has been disabled, or the method for not accepting the operation, may be designed arbitrarily.

[0122] (S305, S306) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off the air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0123] (S307) After inputting the tally OFF command to the broadcast camera 1 in S305, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) transmits information (off-air notification) indicating that the broadcast camera 1 (camera A) is in an off-air state to the operation controller 3. This off-air notification may include identification information of the off-air camera A. The off-air notification may also include instruction information indicating that the wiper ON operation should be enabled.

[0124] (S308) Upon receiving the off-air notification transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S305, the operation controller 3 (processing unit 33) enables the wiper ON operation for camera A. At this time, the operation controller 3 may display information indicating that the wiper ON operation for camera A has been enabled on the display unit 32. After the wiper ON operation has been enabled, the operation controller 3 may transmit a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2 when an operating means (such as a button on the operating unit 31) related to the wiper ON operation is operated (see FIG. 8).

[0125] If the operation unit 31 and the display unit 32 are input / output interfaces configured with touch panels and the operation objects related to the wiper ON operation have been hidden following the disablement, the operation controller 3 displays the operation objects related to the wiper ON operation again. At this time, the displayed operation objects may be highlighted for a certain period of time. If the display method of the operation objects (color tone, type of icon, etc.) has been changed following the disablement, the display method may be restored to the original display method. Note that in S308, the method for notifying the operator that the wiper ON operation has been enabled may be designed arbitrarily.

[0126] 10, the wiper ON operation for broadcast camera 1 that is already on air is disabled, so that processing of wiper control commands does not occur on the broadcast camera 1 side. Also, by notifying the operator that broadcast camera 1 is on air, the operator can know the reason why the wiper ON operation is disabled. It should be noted that the method shown in FIG. 10 can be applied to any of the first, second, and third implementation examples described above.

[0127] (Flow of interruption processing related to the first implementation example) Next, operation control including interruption processing of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the first implementation example described above will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of wiper control in the broadcast camera system according to the first implementation example (a case including interruption processing of wiper operation in response to input of a tally ON command).

[0128] (S401, S402) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0129] (S403, S404) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S402, it determines whether camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 11, it is assumed that camera A is off-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that camera A is off-air, and transmits a wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0130] (S405) The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S404. The broadcast camera 1 then starts the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. Note that the broadcast camera 1 can confirm that it is in an off-air state (a state in which the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal.

[0131] (S406, S407) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. In response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13.

[0132] (S408) Broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) recognizes that it has gone on air based on the input of the tally ON command in S409. Then, broadcast camera 1 stops the operation of lens wiper 113 (see FIGS. 4B, 5A, 5B, and their associated descriptions).

[0133] (S409, S410) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off the air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0134] (S411) Broadcast camera 1 recognizes that it has gone off-air based on the input of the tally OFF command in S409, and then resumes operation of the lens wiper 113 (see FIG. 4B and the related description).

[0135] (S412, S413) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to end the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper OFF operation). The operation controller 3 accepts this wiper OFF operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the end of lens wiper operation.

[0136] (S414, S415) When camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from operation controller 3 in S413, it transmits the wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the end of lens wiper operation. When broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from camera control unit 2 in S414, it returns lens wiper 113 to the starting position, and ends the sweep operation of lens wiper 113.

[0137] As described above, by suspending the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally ON command and retracting the lens wiper 113 to a position where it will not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent the lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced. Note that, as a modified example, the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to the input of a tally ON command, and the above-described resumption process may be omitted. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0138] (Flow of interruption processing related to the second implementation example) Next, operation control including interruption processing of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the second implementation example described above will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of wiper control in the broadcast camera system according to the second implementation example (a case including interruption processing of wiper operation in response to input of a tally ON command).

[0139] (S501, S502) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0140] (S503, S504) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S502, it determines whether camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 12, it is assumed that camera A is off-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that camera A is off-air, and transmits a wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0141] (S505, S506) The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S504. The broadcast camera 1 then starts a timer and begins the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. Note that the broadcast camera 1 can confirm that it is in an off-air state (a state in which the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal.

[0142] (S507, S508) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. In response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13.

[0143] (S509) Broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) recognizes that it has gone on air based on the input of the tally ON command in S507. In response, broadcast camera 1 suspends the operation of lens wiper 113 (see FIGS. 6B, 5A, 5B, and their associated descriptions).

[0144] (S510, S511) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off the air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0145] (S512) Broadcast camera 1 recognizes that it has gone off-air based on the input of the tally OFF command in S510. In response, broadcast camera 1 resumes operation of lens wiper 113 (see FIG. 6B and related description).

[0146] (S513, S514) When the set period ΔT set in the timer expires, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) returns the lens wiper 113 to the starting position and ends the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. Note that in the example of Fig. 12, a tally OFF command is input to the broadcast camera 1 before the set period ΔT expires, but if the tally OFF command is not input by the time the set period ΔT expires, the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 ends in response to the expiration of the set period ΔT, as shown in Fig. 6C.

[0147] As described above, by suspending the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally ON command and retracting the lens wiper 113 to a position where it will not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent the lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced. Note that, as a modified example, the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to the input of a tally ON command, and the above-described resumption process may be omitted. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0148] (Flow of interruption processing related to the third implementation example) Next, operation control including interruption processing of the lens wiper in the broadcast camera system according to the third implementation example will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of wiper control in the broadcast camera system according to the third implementation example (a case including interruption processing of wiper operation in response to input of a tally ON command).

[0149] (S601, S602) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0150] (S603, S604) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S602, it determines whether camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 13, it is assumed that camera A is off-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that camera A is off-air, and transmits a wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0151] (S605, S606) The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S604. The broadcast camera 1 then starts the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 and begins counting the number of times the lens wiper 113 has moved back and forth using a counter. The broadcast camera 1 can confirm that it is in an off-air state (a state in which the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal.

[0152] (S607, S608) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. In response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13.

[0153] (S609) Broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) recognizes that it has gone on air based on the input of the tally ON command in S607. In response, broadcast camera 1 suspends the operation of lens wiper 113 (see FIGS. 7B, 5A, 5B, and their associated descriptions).

[0154] (S610, S611) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off the air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0155] (S612) Broadcast camera 1 recognizes that it has gone off-air based on the input of the tally OFF command in S610. In response, broadcast camera 1 resumes operation of lens wiper 113 (see FIG. 7B and related description).

[0156] (S613, S614) When the count number reaches the set value N, the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) returns the lens wiper 113 to the starting position, and the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 ends.

[0157] As described above, by suspending the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally ON command and retracting the lens wiper 113 to a position where it will not appear in the image, it is possible to prevent the lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, by automatically resuming the operation of the lens wiper 113 in response to the input of a tally OFF command, the operational burden on the operator can be reduced. Note that, as a modified example, the operation of the lens wiper 113 may be terminated in response to the input of a tally ON command, and the above-described resumption process may be omitted. Such modified examples are also included within the technical scope of this embodiment.

[0158] (Method of determining whether wiper control commands are accepted by a broadcast camera) Next, a method for determining whether or not a wiper control command has been received by a broadcast camera will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a sequence diagram for describing a method for determining whether or not a wiper control command has been received by a broadcast camera.

[0159] 11, 12, and 13, the camera control unit 2 confirms that the broadcast camera 1 (camera A) is off-air before transmitting the wiper ON command to the broadcast camera 1 (see S403, S503, and S603). In this embodiment, however, it is possible to determine whether the broadcast camera 1 is on-air or off-air based on the tally signal. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 14, we propose a method in which the camera control unit 2 confirms that the broadcast camera 1 is off-air (i.e., a method in which it confirms that it is OK to accept the wiper ON operation) without first confirming whether the target broadcast camera 1 is off-air. In this case, the processing flow is as follows:

[0160] (S701, S702) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0161] (S703) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S702, it transmits the wiper control command to the camera A without determining whether the camera A is on-air or off-air. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of the operation of the lens wiper.

[0162] (S704, S705) When the broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S703, it confirms that it is in the off-air state (the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal. Then, the broadcast camera 1 starts a timer and begins the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. For the processing that follows, please refer to the examples in FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 described above (the processing from S405, S505, and S605 onwards).

[0163] 14 is applied, the processing load on the camera control unit 2 is reduced. Even when deformed in this way, the lens wiper 113 can be prevented from appearing in on-air images.

[0164] (Lens wiper operation is controlled primarily by the camera control unit) Next, a method for controlling the operation of the lens wiper mainly by the camera control unit will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a sequence diagram for explaining a method for controlling the operation of the lens wiper mainly by the camera control unit.

[0165] 11, 12, and 13, the broadcast camera 1 autonomously controls the interruption and resumption of the operation of the lens wiper 113 based on a tally signal, but these controls may also be performed independently by the camera control unit 2. Also, in the second implementation example described above, the broadcast camera 1 manages the timer, but the camera control unit 2 may also manage the timer, i.e., control the end timing of the sweep operation, independently. In this case, the processing flow is as follows:

[0166] (S801, S802) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to start the operation of the lens wiper of camera A (wiper ON operation). The operation controller 3 receives this wiper ON operation and transmits a wiper control command to the camera control unit 2. This wiper control command includes identification information indicating camera A and information indicating the start of lens wiper operation.

[0167] (S803, S804, S805) When the camera control unit 2 receives the wiper control command transmitted from the operation controller 3 in S802, it determines whether camera A is on-air or off-air. In the example of FIG. 15, it is assumed that camera A is off-air. In this case, the camera control unit 2 determines that camera A is off-air and transmits a wiper control command to camera A. This wiper control command includes information indicating the start of lens wiper operation. The camera control unit 2 also starts a timer corresponding to camera A.

[0168] (S806) The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) receives the wiper control command transmitted from the camera control unit 2 in S804. The broadcast camera 1 then starts the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. Note that the broadcast camera 1 can confirm that it is in an off-air state (a state in which the tally lamp 13 is off) based on the most recent tally signal.

[0169] (S807, S808, S809) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to put the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) on air. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 (control unit 21) inputs a tally signal (tally ON command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn on the tally lamp 13. The operation controller 3 also inputs a wiper control command (wiper interrupt command) to the broadcast camera 1, which indicates that the operation of the lens wiper 113 should be interrupted. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns on the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally ON command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0170] In the figure, S809 is written after S808, but S809 may be written before S808 or immediately before S807.

[0171] (S810) Broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) suspends the operation of lens wiper 113 based on the input of the wiper suspend command in S809 (see Figures 6B, 5A, 5B, and their associated descriptions).

[0172] (S811, S812, S813) The operator uses the operation controller 3 to perform an operation to take the video from camera A (broadcast camera 1) off the air. For example, the operator switches the video to be on air to video from another camera or recorded video. In response to this operation, the camera control unit 2 inputs a tally signal (tally OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1 to turn off the tally lamp 13. The operation controller 3 also inputs a wiper control command (wiper resume command) to the broadcast camera 1 to restart the operation of the lens wiper 113. The broadcast camera 1 (processing unit 123) turns off the tally lamp 13 in response to the tally OFF command input from the camera control unit 2.

[0173] In the figure, S813 is written after S812, but S813 may be placed between S811 and S812.

[0174] (S814) The broadcast camera 1 resumes the operation of the lens wiper 113 based on the input of the tally resume command in S813 (see FIG. 6B and the related description).

[0175] (S815, S816, S817) When the set period ΔT set in the timer expires, the camera control unit 2 inputs a wiper control command (wiper OFF command) to the broadcast camera 1, indicating that the operation of the lens wiper 113 should be terminated. In response to the input of the wiper OFF command in S816, the broadcast camera 1 returns the lens wiper 113 to the starting position and terminates the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113. Note that in the example of FIG. 15, a tally OFF command is input to the broadcast camera 1 before the set period ΔT expires, but if the tally OFF command is not input by the time the set period ΔT expires, as shown in FIG. 6C, a wiper OFF command is input to the broadcast camera 1 in response to the expiration of the set period ΔT, and the sweep operation of the lens wiper 113 ends.

[0176] 15 is also applied, the operation of lens wiper 113 is suspended in response to input of a tally ON command, and lens wiper 113 is retracted to a position where it does not appear in the image, thereby preventing lens wiper 113 from appearing in the on-air image. Furthermore, the operation of lens wiper 113 is automatically resumed in response to input of a tally OFF command, which can reduce the operational burden on the operator.

[0177] 15 to the first implementation example described above, S805 and S815 can be omitted, and the process in S816 that triggers the input of the wiper OFF command can be replaced with S412 and S413 in FIG. 11. Also, when the method shown in FIG. 15 to the third implementation example described above, S805, S815, and S816 can be omitted, and S606 and S614 in FIG. 13 can be added to control the end of the sweep operation using a counter. Therefore, the technical idea shown in FIG. 15 can be applied not only to the second implementation example described above, but also to any of the first and third implementation examples described above, and their variations.

[0178] Although several embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to these examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications and alterations within the scope of the claims, and these modifications and alterations are naturally included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0179] 1 broadcast camera 2 Camera Control Unit 3 Operation Controller 11 Lens unit 12 Body Unit 13 Tally lamp

Claims

1. 1. A wiper control method for controlling operation of a lens wiper of a broadcast camera by a control device within the broadcast camera or connected to the broadcast camera, comprising: turning on a sweeping action of the lens wiper in response to a first operation; interrupting the sweeping action of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp; A wiper control method comprising:

2. The step of interrupting the sweeping operation includes moving the lens wiper to a predetermined position that is not reflected in the image, and stopping the lens wiper at the predetermined position. The wiper control method according to claim 1 .

3. The method further includes a step of restarting the sweep operation in response to inputting a second control signal to the broadcast camera for turning off a tally lamp after the sweep operation has been interrupted. The wiper control method according to claim 2 .

4. The sweep operation is configured so that the lens wiper repeats reciprocation continuously or intermittently until a preset operation time has elapsed. The wiper control method according to claim 3 .

5. The step of resuming the operation includes: terminating the operation while keeping the lens wiper stationary at the predetermined position if the operation time has already elapsed, and resuming the reciprocating movement of the lens wiper if the operation time has not yet elapsed. The wiper control method according to claim 4 .

6. The sweep operation is configured so that the lens wiper repeats reciprocation continuously or intermittently a set number of times. The wiper control method according to claim 3 .

7. The step of resuming the operation includes: The method includes determining whether the number of reciprocating movements of the lens wiper has reached the set number of times, terminating the sweeping operation while keeping the lens wiper stationary at the predetermined position if the number of reciprocating movements has reached the set number of times, and restarting the reciprocating movement of the lens wiper if the number of reciprocating movements has not reached the set number of times. The wiper control method according to claim 6.

8. The method further includes a step of disabling the first operation during a period from when the first control signal is input to the broadcast camera to when a second control signal for turning off a tally lamp is input to the broadcast camera. The wiper control method according to claim 1 .

9. the control device is a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit; In response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit. The wiper control method according to claim 1 .

10. the control device is a processing unit within the broadcast camera; the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to a camera control unit, In response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit, and the first command signal is transmitted from the camera control unit to the processing unit. The wiper control method according to claim 1 .

11. a control device within or connected to a broadcast camera, the control device having a function of controlling operation of a lens wiper of the broadcast camera; turning on a sweeping action of the lens wiper in response to a first operation; interrupting the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp; A control device that performs processing including the steps of:

12. the control device is a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit; In response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit. The control device according to claim 11.

13. the control device is a processing unit inside the broadcast camera, and the first operation is a user operation on an operation controller connected to the camera control unit; In response to the first operation, a first command signal indicating the first operation is transmitted from the operation controller to the camera control unit, and the first command signal is transmitted from the camera control unit to the processing unit. The control device according to claim 11.

14. A broadcast camera system including a broadcast camera, a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and an operation controller connected to the camera control unit, wherein the camera control unit has a function of controlling an operation of a lens wiper of the broadcast camera, receiving a first command signal transmitted from the operation controller in response to a first operation on the operation controller; responsive to receiving the first command signal, turning on a sweeping motion of the lens wiper; interrupting the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp; A broadcast camera system that performs processing including:

15. A broadcast camera system including a broadcast camera, a camera control unit connected to the broadcast camera, and an operation controller connected to the camera control unit, wherein the broadcast camera has a lens wiper and a processing unit, and the processing unit receiving, via the camera control unit, a first command signal transmitted from the operation controller in response to a first operation on the operation controller; responsive to receiving the first command signal, turning on a sweeping motion of the lens wiper; interrupting the operation of the lens wiper in response to inputting a first control signal to the broadcast camera for turning on a tally lamp; A broadcast camera system that performs processing including:

Images