Imaging device, imaging method, and computer program

Abstract

This imaging device provides an image sensor that makes it easy to understand the field of view of the thumbnail image used for preset registration, even after changing lenses. [Solution] The imaging device includes an imaging unit that captures an image through a lens, a lens information acquisition unit that acquires lens information of the lens, an imaging direction control unit that controls the imaging direction of the imaging unit, a thumbnail creation unit that creates a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by the imaging unit when the imaging direction is preset registered, and a control unit that changes the display state of the thumbnail image based on the result of comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the mounted lens information of the currently mounted lens.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera has a function called a preset function that allows the PTZ to be quickly called to a desired position by setting the PTZ position in advance. In recent years, in the preset function, an image taken at the time of preset registration is saved and displayed as a thumbnail image, so that the user can easily understand the position and angle of view of the preset-registered PTZ.

[0003] However, the angle of view of the thumbnail image at the time of preset registration may differ from the actual angle of view. For example, in a lens-exchangeable PTZ camera, if the focal length at the time of preset registration cannot be reproduced by the lens after exchange, the angle of view of the thumbnail image at the time of preset registration will differ from the actual angle of view.

[0004] In contrast, Patent Document 1 describes a configuration for updating a thumbnail image by periodically moving the camera to the position of the PTZ registered for preset and then taking a picture. Further, Patent Document 2 describes a configuration that enables updating of a thumbnail image by re-acquiring an image at the time of preset call or camera startup.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, the configurations in Patent Documents 1 and 2 require the reacquisition of preset thumbnail images, making the thumbnail image update process time-consuming and cumbersome. Furthermore, there is a problem in that users may not realize that changing lenses after preset registration may prevent the reproduction of the field of view of the thumbnail image at the time of preset registration.

[0007] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide an imaging device that makes it easy to understand the field of view of the thumbnail image when registering presets, even after changing lenses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention include an imaging device, An imaging means for capturing an image through a lens, Lens information acquisition means for acquiring lens information of the aforementioned lens, The imaging direction control means controls the imaging direction of the imaging means, A thumbnail creation means that creates a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered, The system is characterized by having a control means for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the comparison result between the lens information at the time of preset registration and the currently installed lens information of the installed lens. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an imaging device that makes it easy to understand the field of view of the thumbnail image when registering presets, even after changing lenses. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows an example of the processing during preset registration according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A]This flowchart shows an example of processing during lens information comparison in an imaging method according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3B] This flowchart shows a continuation of the processing example shown in Figure 3A. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of a notification display according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of displaying the difference in field of view according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. In each drawing, the same reference numeral is used for the same member or element, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified.

[0012] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Note that some of the functional blocks shown in Figure 1 are realized by having a CPU (not shown) as a computer included in the imaging device execute a computer program stored in memory (not shown) as a storage medium.

[0013] However, some or all of these may be implemented in hardware. Hardware options include dedicated circuits (ASICs) and processors (reconfigurable processors, DSPs). Furthermore, each functional block shown in Figure 1 does not necessarily have to be housed in the same enclosure; they may be composed of separate devices connected to each other via signal paths.

[0014] The imaging device 100 in this embodiment is set on a pan-tilt stand (not shown) and is capable of pan, tilt, and zoom (hereinafter referred to as PTZ). Furthermore, the imaging device 100 can be fitted with a replaceable lens 101. Note that the imaging device 100 may also include the lens 101.

[0015] The imaging device 100 also includes a lens connection unit 102, a lens information acquisition unit 103, an imaging unit 104, a lens control unit 105, a thumbnail creation unit 106, a preset control unit 107, and a preset memory unit 108.

[0016] The imaging device 100 also includes a lens information comparison unit 109, a display control unit 110, a PTZ control unit 111, an angle acquisition unit 112, a PTZ drive unit 113, and an imaging device control unit 120. Note that the arrows in the figure schematically indicate data buses, and each functional block is connected to the data buses and can exchange data with other functional blocks that are not connected by the arrows in FIG. 1 via the data buses.

[0017] The imaging device control unit 120 is a unit that controls the entire imaging device system and controls the lens control unit 105, the preset control unit 107, the display control unit 110, the PTZ control unit 111, etc. which will be described later.

[0018] The imaging device control unit 120 also has a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM as a computer. Various computer programs for the operation of the CPU are stored in the ROM.

[0019] In addition to the RAM and ROM, it may have, for example, a hard disk (HD). The CPU executes, for example, computer programs stored in the ROM, uses the RAM as a work memory, and performs various processes and controls each part of the imaging device.

[0020] The lens 101 of the present embodiment is also called an interchangeable lens unit and has an imaging optical system including a fixed lens, a zoom lens, an aperture, a focus lens, etc. The aperture is driven by an aperture drive unit (not shown) to control the amount of incident light to the imaging element which will be described later.

[0021] The focusing lens is driven by a focusing lens drive unit (not shown) to adjust the focus. The zoom lens is driven by a zoom lens drive unit (not shown) to adjust the zoom magnification. Lens 101 may be a lens without zoom functionality (a prime lens). Lens 101 may also include a teleconverter.

[0022] The lens connection section 102 can electrically connect the interchangeable lens 101 and the imaging device 100 via electrical contacts (not shown), and the imaging device 100 and the lens 101 communicate with each other via the lens connection section 102.

[0023] This communication involves sending zoom and focus drive commands to the lens 101, as well as sending and receiving data such as the operating status and optical information of the imaging device 100 and the lens 101. The communication between the lens 101 and the imaging device 100 may be wireless or optical.

[0024] The lens information acquisition unit 103 acquires lens information from the ROM or other data within the lens 101 via the lens connection unit 102. The lens information includes the lens model, lens type (e.g., compound lens, fisheye lens, telephoto lens, etc.), focal length range including the telephoto and wide-angle ends, information on the presence or absence of a teleconverter, and setting information such as switch status. In other words, the lens information in this embodiment includes information on the lens type, focal length, and the movable range of the focal length including the telephoto and wide-angle ends.

[0025] The imaging unit 104 is an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor.

[0026] The imaging unit 104 captures an image (photoelectric conversion) through the lens 101 and generates an imaging signal. The imaging signal generated by the imaging unit 104 is then converted into an image signal (still image or video) by an image processing circuit, which performs various image processing on the imaging signal, and is stored in an image storage unit (not shown).

[0027] The lens control unit 105 includes an operating member, which the user can use to control aperture, focus, zoom, etc. The lens control unit 105 controls the lens 101 via the lens connection unit 102 in response to user operation.

[0028] Furthermore, the lens control unit 105 controls the aperture drive unit, focus lens drive unit, and zoom lens drive unit in accordance with the control commands and control information received from the imaging device control unit 120. In addition, the lens control unit 105 transmits lens information (for example, manual focus operation information and information about the imaging optical system) to the imaging device control unit 120.

[0029] The thumbnail creation unit 106 includes an image processing circuit that performs various image processing on the imaging signal generated by the imaging unit 104 and converts it into an image signal, and has an image processing block for creating a thumbnail image, an image processing block for cropping an image, and so on.

[0030] The preset control unit 107 acquires the current pan-tilt angle information of the imaging device 100 from the angle acquisition unit in accordance with the control commands and control information received from the imaging device control unit 120. The preset control unit 107 also acquires the current zoom information from the lens information acquisition unit 103.

[0031] Furthermore, the preset control unit 107 combines the thumbnail created by the thumbnail creation unit 106 with the pan / tilt angle information and zoom information mentioned above, and stores it in the preset storage unit 108 as a set of preset information.

[0032] Furthermore, the preset control unit 107 retrieves preset information from the preset storage unit 108 when a registered preset function is called by the user, for example, via the imaging device control unit 120. The preset control unit 107 also sends a control command to the PTZ control unit 111 to reproduce the PTZ position of that information.

[0033] The preset function, as used herein, refers to a function that allows users to pre-store desired shooting conditions such as pan, tilt, and zoom, and then reproduce those conditions. Furthermore, the preset function in this embodiment also includes a trace function.

[0034] The trace function stores operation history data such as pan, tilt, and zoom performed by the user within a certain period of time in the preset storage unit 108. The operation history data of the trace function (trace recording data) stored in the preset storage unit 108 can be played back at any time to reproduce the operation history of pan, tilt, and zoom performed by the user.

[0035] The trace function allows the system to store not only the user's operation history data within a certain period of time, but also the playback start position for replaying the trace record in the preset storage unit 108. When the user is instructed to move to the playback start position during trace record playback, the system moves to the playback start position stored in the preset storage unit 108 and then plays back the operation history data (trace record data).

[0036] In the case of the tracing function, the thumbnail image may be the image of the field of view at the initial position, or it may be the image of the field of view at a variation point where the pan or tilt movement changes, for example. While the example of obtaining the thumbnail image when registering a preset will be explained, the tracing function will similarly obtain the thumbnail image when registering the trace record.

[0037] The preset storage unit 108 stores the preset information for each set in accordance with the control commands and control information received from the preset control unit 107, and sends the stored preset information for each set to the preset control unit 107.

[0038] The lens information comparison unit 109 acquires the lens information stored in the preset storage unit 108, according to the control commands and control information received from the preset control unit 107. The lens information comparison unit 109 also acquires the currently mounted lens information from the lens information acquisition unit 103. The lens information comparison unit 109 then compares the lens information at the time of the preset with the information of the currently mounted lens.

[0039] Lens information includes, for example, the lens model, lens type (e.g., compound lens, fisheye lens, telephoto lens, etc.), the focal length range including the telephoto and wide-angle ends of the lens, the focal lengths stored in the presets, and whether or not a teleconverter is included.

[0040] The display control unit 110 acquires preset information stored in the preset storage unit 108 in response to control commands and control information received from the imaging device control unit 120. The display control unit 110 then edits the display data and controls the display in order to display the preset information on a display device (not shown).

[0041] In other words, based on the comparison results in the lens information comparison unit 109, the display control unit 110 can edit the thumbnail display content or control the display.

[0042] The PTZ control unit 111 outputs a PTZ drive command to control the PTZ drive of the imaging device 100 in accordance with the control commands and control information received from the imaging device control unit 120, and controls the drive of the PTZ drive unit 113, which will be described later.

[0043] Furthermore, the PTZ control unit 111 functions as an imaging direction control unit that executes an imaging direction control step to control the imaging direction of the imaging unit 104. In this embodiment, the PTZ control unit 111 as an imaging direction control unit can control both pan and tilt, but the imaging direction control unit only needs to control at least one of the pan and tilt directions.

[0044] The angle acquisition unit 112 acquires the current pan-tilt angle information of the imaging device 100 from the PTZ control unit 111, and also acquires the current zoom information from the lens information acquisition unit 103.

[0045] The PTZ drive unit 113 is a drive unit that rotates the imaging device 100 in the pan and tilt directions and drives the zoom of the lens 101 via the lens connection unit 102, and includes a motor for changing the imaging direction and zoom position of the imaging device 100.

[0046] Furthermore, the pan and tilt are driven by separate motors for pan rotation and tilt rotation, which rotate to perform the rotational drive. In addition, each motor is equipped with an encoder, such as a pulse encoder, which allows for the detection of the motor's rotational position.

[0047] Next, we will explain the processing flow executed by the imaging device control unit 120, which controls the entire imaging device 100. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing when registering a preset according to an embodiment of the present invention, and shows an example of the processing flow executed when registering a preset in the imaging device control unit 120.

[0048] Furthermore, the processing shown in the flowchart in Figure 2 is realized by the CPU of the imaging device control unit 120, which controls the imaging device 100, executing the computer program according to this embodiment.

[0049] Furthermore, all of the processing in the flowchart in Figure 2 may be implemented by hardware configuration, or some of the processing may be performed by hardware configuration and the remaining processing by software configuration using a program. Also, the above explanation for Figure 2 applies similarly to the processing in the flowcharts in Figures 3A and 3B described later.

[0050] First, in step S201, the imaging device control unit 120 obtains the current PTZ value of the imaging device 100, i.e., the PTZ position, from the angle acquisition unit 112 and stores it in the preset control unit 107. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S202.

[0051] In step S202, the imaging device control unit 120 acquires the current lens information from the lens information acquisition unit 103 and stores it in the preset control unit 107. Step S202 functions as a lens information acquisition step to acquire lens information of a lens. After processing in step S202, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S203.

[0052] The lens information stored here includes, for example, the lens model, lens type (e.g., compound lens, fisheye lens, telephoto lens, etc.), the focal length range including the telephoto and wide-angle ends of the lens, the focal lengths stored in the presets, and whether or not a teleconverter is used.

[0053] In step S203, a thumbnail image is created from the captured image. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120 captures an image from the imaging unit 104 in the current pan, tilt, and zoom state, and the thumbnail creation unit 106 creates a thumbnail based on that information and stores it in the preset control unit 107.

[0054] Here, step S203 functions as a thumbnail creation step in which the thumbnail creation unit 106 creates a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by the imaging unit when the imaging direction is preset and registered.

[0055] Subsequently, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S204. The order of processing in steps S201 to S203 is not particularly limited.

[0056] In step S204, the imaging device control unit 120 stores the PTZ value, lens information, and thumbnail image stored in the preset control unit 107 in steps S201 to S203 as a set of preset information in the preset storage unit 108. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow for registering the preset shown in Figure 2.

[0057] In the case of trace recording, the entire process from steps S201 to S204 may be performed multiple times. However, in that case, it is not necessary to perform the processes in steps S202 and S203 every time.

[0058] Figure 3A is a flowchart showing an example of processing when comparing lens information in the imaging method according to an embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 3B is a flowchart showing a continuation of the processing example in Figure 3A. That is, Figures 3A and 3B show an example of the processing flow executed when comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently mounted on the imaging device in the imaging device control unit 120. In this embodiment of the imaging method, an image is captured through the lens.

[0059] Figures 3A and 3B show examples of using information about the lens type and focal length as lens information. This process may be performed, for example, when changing lenses. That is, when a lens is changed, the lens information used during preset registration may be compared with the lens information of the currently installed lens, and the display state of the thumbnail image may be changed based on the comparison result.

[0060] Alternatively, the user may execute the process at any time they choose, or when the preset information is displayed on a display device, etc. Furthermore, if multiple preset data sets are registered, the processes shown in Figures 3A and 3B may be performed for each preset data set. Additionally, the process may be performed for some of the registered preset data sets, or for all of them.

[0061] Furthermore, in that case, there are no particular restrictions on which preset data is processed, which preset data is not processed, or the order in which the processed preset data is processed.

[0062] First, in step S301, the imaging device control unit 120 acquires information on the focal length range and lens type of the currently mounted lens from the lens information acquisition unit 103 via the preset control unit 107.

[0063] The information acquired in step S301 may include both the focal length range of the lens and the type of lens, or either one of them. If the currently mounted lens is a prime lens, the focal length range will be a single value of the prime lens's focal length. In this case, the subsequent processing will be performed assuming that this focal length is both the wide-angle and telephoto end. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S302.

[0064] In step S302, the imaging device control unit 120 obtains information on the focal length and type of lens used when registering a preset from the preset storage unit 108 via the preset control unit 107.

[0065] Here, the information to be acquired may include both the focal length of the lens and the type of lens, or either one of them. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S303.

[0066] In step S303, it is determined whether the model of the mounted lens is the same as the model of the lens registered as a preset. That is, the imaging device control unit 120 uses the lens information comparison unit 109 to determine whether the model of the currently mounted lens, acquired in steps S301 and S302, is the same as the model of the lens registered as a preset.

[0067] If it is determined that they are the same, the process proceeds to step S304; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S305. The imaging device control unit 120 may proceed to step S305 without performing the process in step S303.

[0068] In step S304, a notification is displayed on the thumbnail image. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120, via the display control unit 110, displays a notification on the thumbnail image of the preset information displayed on the display device, etc., indicating that the model of the currently installed lens and the model of the lens registered as a preset are the same.

[0069] Figure 4 shows an example of a notification display according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4(A) shows the original thumbnail image, and Figures 4(B) to (D) show an example of the notification display in steps S304, S306, and S308, respectively.

[0070] The display shown in step S304 can be anything that is different from the thumbnail image that was originally displayed. For example, it could be a sentence indicating that it is the same type of lens, or an icon like the one shown in Figure 4(B).

[0071] Other examples include displaying a border around the thumbnail image, changing the color of the border, hiding the thumbnail image, or making the thumbnail image blink. Alternatively, you could change the size of the thumbnail image or change its color.

[0072] After step S304, the imaging device control unit 120 terminates the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0073] On the other hand, in step S305, it is determined whether both the focal length range of the currently mounted lens and the focal length of the lens registered as a preset have been acquired. That is, the imaging device control unit 120, via the preset control unit 107, determines whether both the focal length range of the currently mounted lens and the focal length of the lens registered as a preset, which were acquired in steps S301 and S302, have been acquired.

[0074] If it is determined that the image was acquired, the process proceeds to step S307; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S306. The imaging device control unit 120 may proceed to step S307 without performing the process in step S305.

[0075] Furthermore, if the process of obtaining the lens's focal length range is not performed in step S301, or if the process of obtaining the lens's focal length at the time of preset registration is not performed in step S302, the process may proceed to step S307 without performing the check in step S305.

[0076] In step S306, a notification is displayed on the thumbnail image. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120, via the display control unit 110, displays a notification on the thumbnail image of the preset information displayed on the display device, etc., indicating that it was determined to be negative in step S305.

[0077] The display shown in step S306 only needs to be different from the thumbnail image that was originally displayed. For example, it may display text or an icon, such as in Figure 4(C), indicating that focal length information could not be obtained.

[0078] In other words, if the focal length of the lens cannot be obtained when registering a preset, or if the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens cannot be obtained, the display state of the thumbnail image may be changed.

[0079] Alternatively, you can display a frame around the thumbnail image, change the color of the frame, hide the thumbnail image, make the thumbnail image blink, change the size of the thumbnail image, or change the color of the thumbnail image.

[0080] After step S306, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0081] In step S307, it is determined whether the currently installed lens or the type of lens registered as a preset is a compound lens or a fisheye lens. That is, the imaging device control unit 120 determines whether both the currently installed lens and the type of lens registered as a preset are not compound lenses or fisheye lenses, or whether at least one of them is a compound lens or a fisheye lens.

[0082] If it is determined that neither the currently installed lens type nor the lens type registered during preset is a compound lens or a fisheye lens, the process proceeds to step S309. If it is determined that at least one of them is a compound lens or a fisheye lens, the process proceeds to step S308. The imaging device control unit 120 may proceed to step S309 without performing the processing in step S307.

[0083] In step S308, a notification is displayed on the thumbnail image. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120 displays a notification on the thumbnail image of the preset information indicating that at least one of the currently mounted lens type and the lens type registered at the time of preset registration is a compound eye lens or a fisheye lens.

[0084] Thus, in this embodiment, the display state of the thumbnail image is changed when the type of lens registered as a preset, or the type of lens currently installed, is a compound lens or a fisheye lens consisting of multiple lenses.

[0085] The display shown in step S308 can be anything that is different from the thumbnail image that was originally displayed. For example, it may be a message or icon, such as in Figure 4(D), indicating that at least one of them is a compound eye lens or a fisheye lens.

[0086] Alternatively, you can display a frame around the thumbnail image, change the color of the frame, hide the thumbnail image, make the thumbnail image blink, change the size of the thumbnail image, or change the color of the thumbnail image.

[0087] After step S308, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0088] In step S309, it is determined whether only the currently mounted lens or the lens type registered during preset registration is a telephoto lens. That is, the imaging device control unit 120 uses the lens information comparison unit 109 to determine whether only one of the currently mounted lens type or the lens type registered during preset registration, which was acquired in steps S301 and S302, is a telephoto lens.

[0089] If it is determined that only one of the currently installed lens type or the lens type registered as a preset is a telephoto lens, the process proceeds to step S310; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S311. The imaging device control unit 120 may proceed to step S311 without performing the process in step S309.

[0090] In step S310, a notification is displayed on the thumbnail image. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120 displays a notification on the thumbnail image of the preset information indicating that only one of the two types of lenses currently installed or the lens type registered as a preset is a telephoto lens.

[0091] In this embodiment, the display state of the thumbnail image is changed if either the lens type registered during preset registration or the lens type currently attached is a telephoto lens.

[0092] The notification displayed in Step S310 only needs to be different from the thumbnail image that was originally displayed. For example, it could display text or an icon indicating that only one of the lens types—either the currently attached lens or the lens type registered in the preset—is a telephoto lens.

[0093] Alternatively, you can display a frame around the thumbnail image, change the color of the frame, hide the thumbnail image, make the thumbnail image blink, change the size of the thumbnail image, or change the color of the thumbnail image.

[0094] After step S310, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0095] In step S311, the imaging device control unit 120 determines whether the focal length of the lens registered as a preset is included in the range of the focal length of the currently mounted lens. That is, it determines whether the focal length of the lens registered as a preset is included in the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens.

[0096] If the focal length of the lens registered during preset registration falls within the range of the currently attached lens's focal length, the process proceeds to step S312; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S313.

[0097] Furthermore, the imaging device control unit 120 may terminate the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device, without performing the processing in step S311.

[0098] In step S312, a notification is displayed on the thumbnail indicating that the field of view will be the same as the preset thumbnail. That is, the imaging device control unit 120, via the display control unit 110, displays a notification on the thumbnail image of the preset information displayed on a display device or the like, indicating that the field of view will be the same as the preset thumbnail.

[0099] Figure 5 shows an example of displaying the difference in field of view according to an embodiment of the present invention, and the original thumbnail image and the display examples in steps S312, S315, and S317 are shown as Display Example 1 and Display Example 2, respectively. It is also possible to display a mixture of Display Example 1 and Display Example 2, or to implement only a part of them.

[0100] The display shown in step S312 can be anything as long as it differs from the originally displayed thumbnail image. For example, it could be a message (e.g., display example 2 in S312 of Figure 5) or an icon indicating that the field of view will be the same as the preset thumbnail. This allows for quick recognition that the field of view of the thumbnail and the actual field of view are approximately equal.

[0101] Alternatively, as shown in example 1 of display S312 in Figure 5, a frame such as a dotted line may be displayed around the thumbnail image, the color of the frame may be changed, the thumbnail image may be hidden, or the thumbnail image may be made to blink. Alternatively, the size of the thumbnail image may be changed, or the color of the thumbnail image may be changed.

[0102] After step S312, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0103] In step S313, the imaging device control unit 120 determines whether the wide-angle end of the currently mounted lens's focal length is close to the focal length of the lens registered during preset registration. If it determines Yes, the process proceeds to step S314; if it determines No, the process proceeds to step S316.

[0104] In step S314, the imaging device control unit 120 calculates the difference in angle of view based on the difference between the wide-angle end of the currently mounted lens and the focal length of the lens registered as a preset. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S315.

[0105] In step S315, the difference in field of view is displayed on the preset thumbnail. Specifically, the imaging device control unit 120, via the display control unit 110, displays the difference in field of view calculated in step S314 on the thumbnail image of the preset information displayed on a display device or the like. In this way, in step S315, the display state of the thumbnail image is changed based on the difference in field of view.

[0106] The display of the difference in field of view in step S315 can be anything as long as it is different from the originally displayed thumbnail image. Alternatively, the display of the difference in field of view in step S315 could be, for example, by displaying a frame on the original thumbnail image that represents the field of view at the wide end of the currently attached lens, based on the difference in field of view calculated in step S314, as shown in example 1 of display in S315 in Figure 5. This allows for quick recognition that the thumbnail has a larger field of view than the actual field of view.

[0107] Alternatively, based on the difference in field of view calculated in step S314, the area corresponding to the field of view at the wide end of the currently mounted lens may be cropped from the thumbnail image, and the cropped image may be replaced as a new thumbnail image (for example, display example 2 of S315 in Figure 5). In other words, the thumbnail image may be cropped and displayed based on the difference in field of view.

[0108] Furthermore, the system may display text indicating that the field of view will be narrower with the currently installed lens compared to the thumbnail image, or it may display the difference in field of view using numbers or other symbols, or it may display an icon. After step S315, the imaging device control unit 120 terminates the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0109] In step S316, the imaging device control unit 120 calculates the difference in angle of view based on the difference between the telephoto end of the currently mounted lens and the focal length of the lens registered as a preset. Here, steps S314 and S316 function as calculation units that calculate the difference in angle of view if the result of the determination in step S311 is negative.

[0110] Specifically, in steps S314 and S316, the movable limit focal length is determined by using the focal length registered as a preset and the focal length of the mounted lens, whichever is closer, either the telephoto or wide-angle end. The difference in angle of view is then calculated between the movable limit focal length and the focal length registered as a preset. After that, the imaging device control unit 120 proceeds to step S317.

[0111] In step S317, the imaging device control unit 120, via the display control unit 110, displays the difference in field of view calculated in step S316 on the thumbnail image of the preset information displayed on a display device or the like.

[0112] The display of the difference in field of view in step S317 can be anything as long as it is different from the originally displayed thumbnail image. For example, based on the difference in field of view calculated in step S316, the thumbnail image may be reduced in size and displayed in the area corresponding to the thumbnail image within the field of view at the telephoto end of the currently attached lens (for example, display example 2 in S317 of Figure 5). In other words, the thumbnail image may be reduced in size and displayed based on the difference in field of view.

[0113] At this time, for example, as shown in Display Example 1 of S317 in Figure 5, the area of ​​difference between the area of ​​the original thumbnail image and the area of ​​the reduced-size thumbnail image may be displayed as a black area. Alternatively, text indicating that the field of view is wider with the currently attached lens compared to the thumbnail image, or the difference in field of view may be displayed as a number, or an icon may be displayed. This allows for quick recognition that the actual field of view is larger than that of the thumbnail.

[0114] After step S317, the imaging device control unit 120 completes the processing flow shown in Figures 3A and 3B, which compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the lens currently installed in the imaging device.

[0115] Steps S311 to S317 function as control steps (control means) for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the comparison result between the lens information used during preset registration and the lens information of the currently installed lens.

[0116] As described above, in this embodiment, when a different lens is attached than the one used to acquire the thumbnail image, the user is notified or the thumbnail image is updated, allowing the user to appropriately determine whether the field of view of the thumbnail can be reproduced. Therefore, for example, if it is determined that it can be reproduced, the registered preset can be recalled.

[0117] Furthermore, if the field of view differs, the difference can be notified to the user, allowing the user to know the field of view beforehand before recalling a registered preset, thus reducing user confusion caused by thumbnails when selecting a preset. Moreover, there is no need to acquire thumbnail images again, and already registered thumbnail images can be used.

[0118] Furthermore, even if the field of view differs, the user can recognize the difference and effectively utilize the preset settings. Thus, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide an imaging device that reduces confusion caused by thumbnails during preset registration and enables effective use of preset settings.

[0119] Although the present invention has been described in detail above based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications and combinations of the above embodiments are possible in accordance with the spirit of the present invention, and these are not excluded from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, some of the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

[0120] Furthermore, the above embodiment is applicable to various devices equipped with imaging capabilities, such as personal computers, tablet terminals, smartphones, and portable game consoles. It is also applicable to other devices such as digital SLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, compact digital cameras, camcorders, video cameras, in-vehicle cameras, surveillance cameras, medical cameras, and industrial cameras.

[0121] Furthermore, the present invention includes, for example, a system that realizes the functions of the above embodiment using at least one processor such as a CPU, memory, and circuitry (e.g., an ASIC). Alternatively, multiple processors may be used for distributed processing.

[0122] Furthermore, in order to implement some or all of the control in the above embodiment, a computer program that implements the functions of the above embodiment may be supplied to the imaging device, etc., via a network or various storage media.

[0123] The computer (or CPU or MPU, etc.) in the imaging device may read and execute the program. In that case, the program and the storage medium storing the program constitute the present invention. The present invention includes the following combinations.

[0124] (Configuration 1) An imaging device characterized by comprising: an imaging means for capturing an image through a lens; a lens information acquisition means for acquiring lens information of the lens; an imaging direction control means for controlling the imaging direction of the imaging means; a thumbnail creation means for creating a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered; and a control means for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the result of comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the mounted lens information of the currently mounted lens.

[0125] (Configuration 2) The imaging apparatus according to Configuration 1, characterized in that the imaging direction control means controls at least one direction of the pan direction and the tilt direction.

[0126] (Configuration 3) The imaging device according to Configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the lens includes a zoom lens.

[0127] (Configuration 4) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the lens information includes information regarding the type of lens.

[0128] (Configuration 5) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that the lens information includes information relating to the focal length of the lens.

[0129] (Configuration 6) The imaging device according to Configuration 5, characterized in that the lens information includes information regarding the movable range of the focal length, including the telephoto end and the wide-angle end of the lens.

[0130] (Configuration 7) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means determines whether the focal length of the lens at the time of preset registration falls within the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens.

[0131] (Configuration 8) The imaging device according to Configuration 7, which, if the result of the determination is negative, has a calculation means for calculating the difference in angle of view between the focal length at the time of preset registration and the focal length at the time of preset registration, with the focal length at the limit of movement being the closer of the telephoto end or the wide-angle end of the focal length of the mounted lens.

[0132] (Configuration 9) The imaging device according to Configuration 8, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

[0133] (Configuration 10) The imaging device according to Configuration 9, characterized in that the control means reduces the size of the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

[0134] (Configuration 11) The imaging device according to Configuration 9, characterized in that the control means crops and displays the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

[0135] (Configuration 12) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when the focal length of the lens at the time of preset registration cannot be obtained, or when the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens cannot be obtained.

[0136] (Configuration 13) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when the type of lens used for preset registration or the type of lens currently installed is a compound lens or a fisheye lens consisting of multiple lenses.

[0137] (Configuration 14) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 13, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when only one of the lens type used during preset registration or the lens type currently mounted is a telephoto lens.

[0138] (Configuration 15) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 14, characterized in that when the lens is replaced, the control means compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the currently mounted lens, and changes the display state of the thumbnail image based on the comparison result.

[0139] (Method) An imaging method for capturing an image through a lens, comprising: a lens information acquisition step for acquiring lens information of the lens; an imaging direction control step for controlling the imaging direction of the imaging means; a thumbnail creation step for creating a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by imaging when the imaging direction is preset registered; and a control step for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the result of comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the mounted lens information of the currently mounted lens.

[0140] (Program) A computer program for controlling each part of the imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 15 by computer. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0141] 100: Imaging device 101: Lens 102: Lens connection part 103: Lens information acquisition unit 104: Imaging Unit 105: Lens control unit 106: Thumbnail Creation Department 107: Preset Control Unit 108: Preset Memory Unit 109: Lens Information Comparison Section 110: Display Control Unit 111: PTZ Control Unit 112: Angle acquisition section 113: PTZ drive unit 120: Imaging device control unit

Claims

1. An imaging means for capturing an image through a lens, Lens information acquisition means for acquiring lens information of the aforementioned lens, The imaging direction control means controls the imaging direction of the imaging means, A thumbnail creation means that creates a thumbnail image based on the image acquired by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered, An imaging device characterized by having a control means for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the result of comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the currently mounted lens information of the mounted lens.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the imaging direction control means controls at least one of the pan direction and the tilt direction.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the lens includes a zoom lens.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the lens information includes information regarding the type of lens.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the lens information includes information regarding the focal length of the lens.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the lens information includes information regarding the movable range of the focal length, including the telephoto and wide-angle ends of the lens.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means determines whether the focal length of the lens at the time of preset registration falls within the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens.

8. If the result of the above determination is negative, The imaging device according to claim 7, further comprising a calculation means for calculating the difference in angle of view between the focal length registered in the preset, with the focal length registered in the preset being the closest of the focal length registered in the preset and the telephoto or wide-angle end of the focal length of the mounted lens, whichever is closer to the focal length registered in the preset.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

10. The imaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that the control means reduces the size of the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

11. The imaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that the control means crops and displays the thumbnail image based on the difference in the field of view.

12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when the focal length of the lens at the time of preset registration cannot be obtained, or when the movable range of the focal length of the mounted lens cannot be obtained.

13. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when the type of lens used for preset registration or the type of lens currently mounted is a compound lens or a fisheye lens consisting of multiple lenses.

14. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means changes the display state of the thumbnail image when only one of the lens type used during preset registration or the lens type currently mounted is a telephoto lens.

15. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means compares the lens information at the time of preset registration with the lens information of the currently mounted lens when the lens is replaced, and changes the display state of the thumbnail image based on the comparison result.

16. An imaging method for capturing an image through a lens, A lens information acquisition step for acquiring lens information of the aforementioned lens, An imaging direction control step that controls the imaging direction of the imaging means, A thumbnail creation step in which a thumbnail image is created based on the image acquired by the imaging when the imaging direction is preset and registered, An imaging method comprising: a control step for changing the display state of the thumbnail image based on the result of comparing the lens information at the time of preset registration with the currently mounted lens information of the mounted lens currently installed.

17. A computer program for controlling each means of an imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15 by computer.

Images