Imaging device, information processing device, imaging method, and computer program

Abstract

The present invention provides an imaging device that can reproduce the field of view at the time of preset registration, even when the lens is changed. [Solution] The imaging device includes: an imaging means for capturing an image through a lens; an imaging direction control means for controlling the imaging direction of the imaging means; a preset information management means for creating a thumbnail based on the image captured by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered, and storing the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens as preset setting information; and a control means for updating the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens when the lens is replaced.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera has a function of quickly calling the PTZ to a desired position by setting the PTZ position in advance. This function is called a preset function. For example, in Patent Document 1, a configuration is described in which the angle of view of the registered preset is made visible to the user at a glance by displaying the image at the time of preset registration as a thumbnail image in the preset function.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in a lens-exchangeable PTZ camera, there are cases where the focal length at the time of preset registration cannot be reproduced by the lens after the exchange. In such a case, since the angle of view at the time of preset registration displayed as a thumbnail is different from the angle of view at the time of preset execution, there is a problem that the preset is executed at an angle of view unintended by the user.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device capable of reproducing the angle of view at the time of preset registration even when the lens is exchanged.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention is imaging means for imaging an image through a lens, The imaging direction control means controls the imaging direction of the imaging means, A preset information management means that, when registering the aforementioned imaging direction as a preset, creates a thumbnail based on the image captured by the imaging means, and stores the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens linked together as preset setting information. A control means that, when the aforementioned lens is replaced, updates the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens, It is characterized by having the following features. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an imaging device that can reproduce the angle of view at the time of preset registration even when the lens is changed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before registering a preset in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart showing an example of the preset registration process in Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after registering a preset in Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing an example of the preset call process in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before lens replacement in Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart showing an example of the preset information update process in Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after lens replacement, when it is driven to its limit in Embodiment 1. [Figure 9]It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of an imaging device after lens replacement when execution of a preset is prohibited in Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] It is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an imaging device in Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of an imaging device before preset registration in Embodiment 2. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing an example of a preset registration process in Embodiment 2. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of an imaging device after preset registration in Embodiment 2. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing an example of a preset call process in Embodiment 2. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of an imaging device before lens replacement in Embodiment 2. [Figure 16A] It is a flowchart showing an example of a preset information update process in Embodiment 2. [Figure 16B] It is a continuation flowchart of FIG. 16A. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining the relationship between focal length, sensor size, and angle of view. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen of an imaging device after lens replacement in Embodiment 2. [Figure 19] It is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing device in Embodiment 3. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart showing an example of a preset registration process in Embodiment 3. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart showing an example of a preset call process in Embodiment 3.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] <Embodiment 1> 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.

[0010] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1. Note that some of the functional blocks shown in Figure 1 are realized by having a CPU (not shown), which is a computer included in the control unit 400 of the imaging device, execute a computer program stored in memory (not shown), which is a storage medium.

[0011] However, some or all of these can be implemented in hardware. Hardware options include dedicated circuits (ASICs) and processors (reconfigurable processors, DSPs).

[0012] Furthermore, each functional block shown in Figure 1 does not necessarily have to be housed in the same enclosure; it may be composed of separate devices connected to each other via signal paths. The above explanation regarding Figure 1 also applies to Figures 10 and 19.

[0013] The imaging device 1 of 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 1 can be fitted with interchangeable lenses 2. Note that the imaging device 1 may include lenses 2.

[0014] The imaging device 1 includes a lens connection unit 100, an imaging unit 200, an image processing unit 300, a control unit 400, a lens control unit 500, a pan-tilt drive unit 600, a pan-tilt control unit 700, a preset information management unit 800, and a communication unit 900.

[0015] The lens connection unit 100 can connect the lens 2 and the imaging device 1, for example, via electrical contacts, and the imaging device 1 and the lens 2 communicate with each other via the lens connection unit 100. This communication involves sending zoom and focus drive commands to the lens 2, and transmitting and receiving data such as the operating status inside the imaging device 1 and the lens 2, and optical information of the lens stored in the ROM inside the lens. The communication between the lens 2 and the imaging device 1 may be wireless or optical.

[0016] The imaging unit 200 is an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor, and is an imaging sensor that converts the image of light captured through the lens 2 into an imaging signal. The imaging unit 200 functions as an imaging means that captures an image through the lens.

[0017] The image processing unit 300 is an image processing circuit that performs various image processing on the electrical signal converted by the imaging unit 200 and converts it into a video signal. The control unit 400 is a control unit that performs various controls on the imaging device 1. The control unit 400 has a built-in CPU and other components as a computer, and functions as a control means that controls the operation of each part of the entire device based on a computer program stored in the memory as a storage medium.

[0018] The lens control unit 500 is a means for controlling the drive of the lens 2, and controls the drive of the lens 2 by issuing drive commands for zoom and focus to the lens 2 according to the control unit 400. The pan-tilt drive unit 600 is a drive means for rotating the imaging device 1 in the pan and tilt directions, and can change the imaging direction of the imaging device 1.

[0019] Furthermore, the pan-tilt drive unit 600 is equipped with a motor for pan rotation and a motor for tilt rotation, and these motors rotate to perform rotational drive. In addition, each motor is equipped with an encoder such as a pulse encoder, which can detect the rotational position of the motor. In this embodiment, both a motor for pan rotation and a motor for tilt rotation are provided, but it is sufficient to have at least one of the motors for pan rotation and tilt rotation.

[0020] The pan-tilt control unit 700 is a means for controlling the pan-tilt drive of the imaging device 1, and controls the drive of the pan-tilt drive unit 600 by issuing pan-tilt drive commands in accordance with the control of the control unit 400.

[0021] Furthermore, the pan-tilt control unit 700 functions as an imaging direction control means that performs an imaging direction control step to control the imaging direction of the imaging means that captures an image through the lens. In this embodiment, the pan-tilt control unit 700 can control both pan and tilt, but the imaging direction control means only needs to control at least one of the pan and tilt directions.

[0022] The preset information management unit 800 manages preset position information, which is a combination of pan and tilt position information (angle information), zoom information (focal length information), and image cropping information, by linking it with thumbnails created from the video at the time of preset registration.

[0023] The preset information management unit 800 functions as a preset information management means. When registering an imaging direction as a preset, the preset information management means creates a thumbnail based on the image captured by the imaging means, and stores the thumbnail, imaging direction, and lens focal length information linked together as preset setting information.

[0024] The communication unit 900 is a communication interface for communicating with an external information processing device 3 and other devices for controlling the imaging device 1 from the outside.

[0025] First, we will explain the process from when the imaging device 1 captures an image of light through the lens 2 to when it creates an image signal. The image of light formed by the lens 2 is converted into an electric image in the imaging unit 200.

[0026] The photoelectrically converted imaging signal is subjected to various image processing and image correction by the image processing unit 300 to generate a video signal. The generated video signal is output to external devices such as the information processing device 3 via the communication unit 900. In addition, the data is recorded to a recording medium such as an SD card by a recording unit (not shown).

[0027] Next, the pan-tilt-zoom operation of the imaging device 1 will be described. The communication unit 900 transmits the pan-tilt-zoom control commands from the user, received from the external information processing device 3 for controlling the imaging device 1, to the control unit 400.

[0028] Furthermore, the external information processing device 3 has a CPU as a computer and memory as a storage medium, and the CPU inside the information processing device 3 controls the entire information processing device 3 by executing computer programs stored in memory. In addition, the information processing device 3 has a video display capable of displaying images.

[0029] The control unit 400 generates a pan-tilt drive command in response to a pan-tilt-zoom control command and transmits it to the pan-tilt control unit 700. The pan-tilt control unit 700 drives the pan-tilt drive unit 600 in response to the pan-tilt drive command, thereby executing the pan-tilt drive specified by the user.

[0030] Furthermore, commands related to zoom drive are transmitted to the lens control unit 500, and the drive commands from the lens control unit 500 are transmitted to the lens 2 via the lens connection unit 100, thereby driving the zoom of the lens 2 and executing the zoom drive specified by the user.

[0031] Next, we will explain the processing of the preset function. The preset function is a function that allows you to register the shooting direction (pan direction, tilt direction) and zoom position of the imaging device (camera) in advance, and then reproduces the field of view at the time of preset registration by reading the registered preset position.

[0032] Figure 2 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before preset registration in Embodiment 1. In this embodiment, the operation screen 10 is generated inside the imaging device 1, sent to the external information processing device 3 via the communication unit 900, and displayed on the video display of the information processing device. However, the operation screen 10 may also be generated in the information processing device 3.

[0033] The operation screen 10 includes a video display unit 11, a menu unit 12, a preset registration button 13, a preset recall button 14, a preset deletion button 15, a preset information display unit 16, and thumbnail display units 17A to 17C.

[0034] The video display unit 11 is a display unit that displays the video processed by the image processing unit 300. The menu unit 12 is a menu unit that displays and sets various function settings of the imaging device 1. Figure 2 shows the screen when the "Preset" menu, which relates to the preset function, is selected.

[0035] The preset registration button 13 is a button that starts the preset registration process for any preset number. The preset recall button 14 is a button that starts the recall process for a preset registered to any preset number. The preset deletion button 15 is a button that deletes the preset information registered to any preset number.

[0036] The preset information display unit 16 is a display unit that displays preset information registered for each preset number. The preset information display unit 16 displays the pan / tilt drive position from the reference position, lens focal length information, etc. The thumbnail display units 17A to 17C are display units that display thumbnail images based on images taken when the preset was registered.

[0037] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset registration process in Embodiment 1, and the process during preset registration will now be explained. The CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing each step in the flowchart of Figure 3.

[0038] When the preset registration button 13 in Figure 2 is pressed, the preset registration process starts according to the flow shown in Figure 3. When the preset registration button 13 is pressed and the preset registration process starts, in step S001, the control unit 400 sends a request to the pan-tilt control unit 700 to acquire pan-tilt position information, and acquires pan-tilt position information (angle information) from the pan-tilt control unit 700.

[0039] When the pan-tilt control unit 700 receives a request to acquire position information from the control unit 400, it acquires the encoder value of the pan-tilt drive unit 600, converts it into pan-tilt position information (angle information), and transmits it to the control unit 400 as a response to the request to acquire pan-tilt position information. In other words, in step S001, the imaging direction of the imaging means that captures an image through the lens is acquired.

[0040] Next, in step S002, focal length information is obtained from the lens control unit 500. That is, the control unit 400 sends a request to the lens control unit 500 to obtain focal length information, and when the lens control unit 500 receives the request from the control unit 400, it goes to the lens connection unit 100 to obtain the current internal operating state of the lens 2.

[0041] Then, focal length information is created from the acquired operating state, and a response to the request for acquisition of focal length information is returned to the control unit 400. In other words, in step S002, the focal length information of the lens is acquired.

[0042] Next, in step S003, a thumbnail image is obtained from the image processing unit. That is, the control unit 400 issues a thumbnail image acquisition request to the image processing unit 300, and when the image processing unit 300 receives the thumbnail image acquisition request from the control unit 400, it creates a thumbnail image from the video signal and returns a response to the thumbnail image acquisition request to the control unit 400. In other words, in step S003, a thumbnail is created based on the image captured by the imaging unit 200.

[0043] Next, in step S004, the preset setting value list is stored in the preset information management unit. That is, the control unit 400 creates a preset setting value list from the information acquired in steps S001 to S003 and stores it in the preset information management unit 800.

[0044] Here, steps S001 to S004 function as preset information management steps. In the preset information management steps, when registering the imaging direction as a preset, a thumbnail is created based on the image captured by the imaging device, and the thumbnail, imaging direction, and lens focal length information are linked (associated) and stored as preset setting information.

[0045] Next, in step S005, the operation screen is updated. Specifically, the operation screen is sent to the information processing device 3, and the preset information display unit 16 and thumbnail display unit 17 of the operation screen of the imaging device 1 are updated.

[0046] Figure 4 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after preset registration in Embodiment 1. As shown in Figure 4, the updated operation screen of the imaging device 1 displays the preset information stored in the preset setting value list on the preset information display unit 16, and the thumbnail image created in step S003 is displayed on the thumbnail display unit 17. Once the operation screen update is complete, the preset registration process is finished.

[0047] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset call process in Embodiment 1. The CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing each step in the flowchart of Figure 5.

[0048] When the preset recall button 14 in Figure 2 is pressed, the preset recall process starts according to the flow shown in Figure 5. When the preset recall button 14 is pressed and the preset recall process starts, in step S101, the preset setting value list is obtained from the preset information management unit. That is, the control unit 400 obtains the preset setting value list corresponding to the preset number to be recalled from the preset information management unit 800.

[0049] Next, in step S102, the lens is driven to achieve the focal length specified in the preset setting value list. That is, the control unit 400 issues a focal length drive request command to the lens control unit 500 so that the lens focal length is one of the preset setting value lists obtained in step S101.

[0050] Then, when the lens control unit 500 receives a focal length drive command from the control unit 400, it drives the focal length of the lens 2 via the lens connection unit 100 to achieve the commanded focal length.

[0051] Next, in step S103, the pan-tilt is driven to the position specified in the preset setting value list. That is, the control unit 400 issues a pan-tilt drive request command to the pan-tilt control unit 700 so that the pan-tilt position information (angle information) is as specified in the preset setting value list acquired in step S101.

[0052] Then, when the pan-tilt control unit 700 receives a pan-tilt drive request command from the control unit 400, it drives the pan-tilt drive unit 600 to the commanded pan-tilt position. After that, the preset recall processing flow shown in Figure 5 is terminated. By controlling it in this manner, the preset registered field of view can be reproduced.

[0053] Next, the preset deletion process will be explained. When the preset deletion button 15 in Figure 2 is pressed, the preset deletion process begins. That is, the control unit 400 deletes the preset setting value list corresponding to the preset number to be deleted from the preset information management unit 800.

[0054] Next, the operation screen in Figure 2 is updated by deleting the preset information in the preset information display unit 16 and the thumbnail image in the thumbnail display unit 17 corresponding to the deleted preset number. Once the operation screen update is complete, the preset deletion process is finished.

[0055] Next, we will explain the process when changing lenses using Figure 6. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before changing lenses in Embodiment 1. In Figure 6, we will explain the process when a lens with a focal length of 24mm to 70mm is changed after a preset registration with a lens with a focal length of 24mm to 105mm has been made.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, before lens replacement, a lens with a focal length of 24mm to 105mm is mounted on the imaging device 1, and presets 1 and 2 are registered. Preset number 1 is registered with a pan position of 40°, a tilt position of 0°, a zoom of 50mm, and is associated with the thumbnail image displayed on the thumbnail display unit 17A.

[0057] On the other hand, preset number 2 is registered with a pan position of 40°, a tilt position of -10°, a zoom of 100mm, and is associated with the thumbnail image displayed in the thumbnail display unit 17B.

[0058] In this scenario, consider the case where the lens with a focal length of 24mm-105mm that is attached is removed from the imaging device and replaced with a lens with a focal length of 24mm-70mm. In this case, the zoom focal length preset number 2 cannot be achieved with the replacement lens.

[0059] Therefore, in this embodiment, a setting item is provided for the process to be performed when a preset focal length cannot be achieved during lens replacement, and the process is performed according to that setting when a lens is replaced. In this embodiment, the explanation is given using the example of having two options for the process when the focal length cannot be achieved: "drive to the drive limit" and "do not operate," but other options may also be available.

[0060] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset information update process in Embodiment 1. The CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing each step in the flowchart of Figure 7.

[0061] When a lens change is performed, the preset information update process starts according to the flow shown in Figure 7. When a lens is changed, in step S201, the focal length drive range of the lens is acquired. That is, the lens control unit 500 detects that lens 2 has been changed and connected via the lens connection unit 100, and sends lens connection detection information to the control unit 400.

[0062] When the control unit 400 receives lens connection detection information, it sends a request to the lens control unit 500 to acquire lens focal length drive range information. When the lens control unit 500 receives the request to acquire lens focal length drive range information, it communicates with the lens 2 via the lens connection unit 100 and acquires the lens focal length drive range, which is pre-stored in the ROM within the mounted lens 2. It then returns the acquired focal length drive range information to the control unit 400.

[0063] Next, in step S202, the control unit 400 acquires the preset setting value list stored in the preset information management unit 800.

[0064] In step S203, 1 is set to the preset number n that is the target of the update process for the preset information. In step S204, it is determined whether the focal length registered for the preset number n is within the focal length drive range of the attached lens.

[0065] That is, the control unit 400 acquires the focal length information Fn of the lens registered for the preset number n in the preset setting value list acquired in step S202.

[0066] Based on the focal length drive range information of the attached lens 2 acquired in step S201, the minimum focal length Fmin and the maximum focal length Fmax of the wide-angle end of the lens 2 are acquired. And when the inequality Fmin <= Fn <= Fmax holds, it is determined Yes in step S204 and the process proceeds to step S208. On the other hand, when the above inequality does not hold, the process proceeds to step S205.

[0067] Next, in step S205, when the operation setting when the focal length is unattainable is set to "drive to the drive limit", the process proceeds to step S206, and when it is set to "do not operate", the process proceeds to step S207.

[0068] In step S206, it is driven to the drive limit of the focal length. That is, for example, when Fn < Fmin, the control unit 400 updates the focal length information Fn of the lens registered for the preset number n to Fmin.

[0069] Similarly, when Fmax < Fn, in step S206, the control unit 400 updates the focal length information Fn of the lens registered for the preset number n to Fmax. When the update of the focal length information for the preset number n is completed, the process proceeds to step S208.

[0070] Here, steps S204 to S207 function as control steps (control means) that update the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly attached lens when the lens is replaced.

[0071] Furthermore, since the angle of view stored in the thumbnail of preset number n at this time differs from the angle of view after the preset is executed, the thumbnail may be updated (for example, by enlarging or shrinking the thumbnail image) based on the focal length information Fn updated in step S206.

[0072] Furthermore, because the focal length information has changed, the field of view is different from when the preset was registered. Therefore, to notify the user that the field of view has changed, certain identification information (for example, the text "Field of view has changed" or a designated icon) may be displayed.

[0073] On the other hand, in step S207, the execution of preset number n is disabled, so that even if a preset call for preset number n is made, the preset will not be executed, and the process transitions to step S208.

[0074] Thus, in this embodiment, if the angle of view registered by preset registration is impossible to achieve with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also impossible to achieve even with the use of image cropping processing, the execution of the preset is restricted.

[0075] In step S208, it is determined whether the update process for all preset numbers n registered in the presets has been completed. If it has been completed, the preset information update process flow shown in Figure 7 is terminated. If it is determined to be No in step S208, the process proceeds to step S209.

[0076] In step S209, the preset number n, which is the target of the preset information update process, is incremented, and then the process transitions to step S204, where the aforementioned process is repeated.

[0077] Once the preset information update process flow shown in Figure 7 is completed, the operation screen of the imaging device is updated to the operation screen shown in Figures 8 and 9, according to the operation settings when the focal length is not achievable.

[0078] Figure 8 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after lens replacement when it is driven to its limit in Embodiment 1, and Figure 9 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after lens replacement when the execution of presets is prohibited in Embodiment 1.

[0079] If the operation setting for when the focal length is not achievable is set to "drive to the drive limit," the screen will be updated to the imaging device operation screen as shown in Figure 8. The main changes from Figure 6 are that the focal length information registered under "Zoom" for preset number 2 in the preset information display unit 16 has been updated, and the thumbnail in the thumbnail display unit 17B for preset number 2 has been updated.

[0080] Furthermore, the thumbnail display unit 17B has been updated, and a thumbnail update icon 18 is displayed to notify the user that the field of view is different from when the preset was registered.

[0081] Furthermore, the preset information display unit 16 displays a zoom update icon 19 to notify the user that the focal length information registered for preset number 2, "Zoom," has been updated and is now a different field of view than when the preset was registered.

[0082] If the setting for operation when the focal length is not achievable is set to "Do not operate," the screen will be updated to the imaging device operation screen as shown in Figure 9. The change from Figure 6 is that the preset information corresponding to preset number 2 in the preset information display unit 16, and the thumbnail in the thumbnail display unit 17B for preset number 2 are grayed out and cannot be selected.

[0083] On the other hand, the preset contents registered in preset number 1 can be implemented even after changing lenses. Therefore, the preset information in Figures 8 and 9 is the same as the preset information in Figure 6, and the thumbnails in Figures 8 and 9 are the same as the thumbnails in Figure 6. Furthermore, preset recall is possible in both the operation screens of Figures 8 and 9, just as before changing lenses, and the same angle of view can be achieved before and after changing lenses.

[0084] In this embodiment, by performing the processing described above, it becomes possible to reproduce the field of view at the time of preset registration, even if the preset was registered with a different lens.

[0085] <Embodiment 2> Embodiment 2 of the present invention will now be described. In the preset function described in Embodiment 1, pan-tilt position information (angle information), lens focal length, and thumbnail at the time of preset registration were linked (associated) and stored.

[0086] However, this only allows for the reproduction of angles of view for presets with focal lengths within the focal length drive range of the mounted lens. Embodiment 2 describes a method for solving the above problem by using image processing in conjunction with this method.

[0087] Figure 10 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the imaging device in Embodiment 2. The configuration of the imaging device in Embodiment 2 differs from that of Embodiment 1 in that it has a cropping section 301. Also, the operation screen of the imaging device differs in that while the screen in Embodiment 1 was as shown in Figure 2, Embodiment 2 uses the screen shown in Figure 11.

[0088] Furthermore, this embodiment differs from Embodiment 1 in that it uses image cropping processing in conjunction with the preset function. Other than that, it is the same as Embodiment 1, so the explanation will be omitted. Also, in this embodiment, the imaging unit 200 is equipped with, for example, a 35mm full-frame sensor, and the calculation of the angle of view focal length is performed on the premise that it is calculated in 35mm equivalent terms.

[0089] The image processing unit 300 has a cropping unit 301 that performs cropping processing on the video signal. Electronic zoom is achieved by displaying the cropped image across the entire screen. Here, the cropping unit 301 functions as a cropping means that performs image cropping processing.

[0090] Figure 11 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before preset registration in Embodiment 2. The operation screen 20 of the imaging device in Embodiment 2 is the same as the operation screen of Embodiment 1, except that the information displayed on the preset information display unit 26 is different from the preset information display unit 16 of Embodiment 1 shown in Figure 2.

[0091] The preset information display unit 26 is a display unit that displays preset information registered for each preset number. The preset information display unit 26 displays the pan-tilt drive position (rotation angle position) from the reference position, optical zoom information which is the focal length information of the lens, and electronic zoom information which indicates the magnification ratio by the image cropping process. In other words, it is possible to display information indicating whether or not electronic zoom by cropping is being used.

[0092] Furthermore, the preset information display unit 26 displays 35mm equivalent zoom information, which is the focal length converted to 35mm considering optical zoom and electronic zoom.

[0093] Next, the process for registering a preset in Embodiment 2 will be described. When the preset registration button 13 is pressed, the preset registration process starts according to the flow shown in Figure 12.

[0094] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset registration process in Embodiment 2. The CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing each step in the flowchart of Figure 12.

[0095] The processing in steps S301 and S302 is the same as in steps S001 and S002 of Embodiment 1, so the explanation is omitted. In step S303, the image cropping position and size are obtained from the image processing unit.

[0096] Specifically, the control unit 400 issues a request to the image processing unit 300 to acquire image cropping information, and the image processing unit 300 acquires information on the image cropping size and position in the cropping unit 301 and returns it to the control unit 400 as a response to the request to acquire image cropping information.

[0097] In step S304, the electronic zoom magnification is calculated. That is, the control unit 400 calculates the electronic zoom magnification from the image cropping size acquired in step S303. The electronic zoom magnification can be calculated, for example, as shown in Equation 1 below.

number

[0098] Equation 1 above calculates the digital zoom magnification from the ratio of the diagonals so that it can be used even when the image is cropped to a different aspect ratio. However, when the image is cropped to the same aspect ratio, the digital zoom magnification can also be determined from the ratio of the horizontal or vertical number of pixels. Thus, the method of calculating the digital zoom magnification can be changed as appropriate and is not limited to Equation 1 above.

[0099] In this embodiment, the reference image size is described as the image size required to achieve a 35mm full-frame sensor. However, the reference image size in Equation 1 above may be any image size, such as APSC or Micro Four Thirds, depending on the size of the sensor used.

[0100] Alternatively, the user may be allowed to select the reference image size from options such as APS-C or Micro Four Thirds using a menu. The image size cropped from a 35mm full-frame sensor to the selected sensor size may then be adjusted to match the selected reference image size.

[0101] In that case, the electronic zoom magnification can be a value of 1 or less. Furthermore, the reference image size may be changed to a sensor size suitable for the attached lens.

[0102] In step S305, zoom (equivalent) information is created from the optical zoom information and the electronic zoom information. Specifically, the 35mm equivalent focal length is calculated from the lens focal length information obtained in step S302 and the electronic zoom magnification obtained in step S304. For example, if the lens focal length is 50mm and the electronic zoom magnification is 2x, the 35mm equivalent focal length is calculated to be 50mm × 2 = 100mm.

[0103] In step S306, a thumbnail image is obtained from the image processing unit. That is, the control unit 400 issues a request to the image processing unit 300 to obtain a thumbnail image. When the image processing unit 300 receives the request from the control unit 400, it creates a thumbnail image from the video signal and returns a response to the request to the control unit 400. The thumbnail image created at this time is the image after the image cropping process has been performed.

[0104] Next, in step S307, the preset setting value list is stored in the preset information management unit. That is, the control unit 400 creates a preset setting value list from the information acquired in steps S301 to S306 and stores it in the preset information management unit 800.

[0105] Next, in step S308, the operation screen is updated. Specifically, the preset information display unit 16 and the thumbnail display unit 17 of the operation screen of the imaging device 1 are updated.

[0106] Figure 13 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after preset registration in Embodiment 2. As shown in Figure 13, the preset information display unit 26 displays the preset information stored in the preset setting value list on the updated operation screen. In addition, the thumbnail display unit 17A displays the thumbnail image created in step S306. Once the operation screen update is complete, the preset registration process flow shown in Figure 12 is finished.

[0107] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset call process in Embodiment 2. The CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing each step in the flowchart of Figure 14.

[0108] When the preset recall button 14 is pressed, the preset recall process starts according to the flow shown in Figure 14. When the preset recall button 14 is pressed and the preset recall process starts, in step S401, the preset setting value list is obtained from the preset information management unit. That is, the preset setting value list corresponding to the preset number to be recalled by the control unit 400 is obtained from the preset information management unit 800.

[0109] In the next step, S402, the lens is driven to achieve the focal length specified in the preset setting list. That is, the focal length of lens 2 is driven in the same manner as in step S102 in Figure 5 of Embodiment 1.

[0110] Next, in step S403, the image is cropped to the position and size specified in the preset setting value list. That is, the control unit 400 issues an image cropping command to the image processing unit 300 so that the image cropping position and size are as specified in the preset setting value list obtained in step S303.

[0111] When the image processing unit 300 receives an image cropping command from the control unit 400, it configures the cropping unit 301 to match the commanded image cropping position and size, and then executes the image cropping process.

[0112] Next, in step S404, the pan-tilt movement is performed to set the pan-tilt position to the preset setting value list. Note that step S404 is performed in the same way as step S103 in Figure 5 of Embodiment 1, so the explanation is omitted. Once the above processes are completed, the preset recall processing flow in Figure 14 is terminated.

[0113] Next, we will explain the process when changing lenses. In this embodiment, we will explain the process when, after registering a preset with a lens having a focal length of 24mm to 105mm, the lens is changed to one having a focal length of 24mm to 70mm.

[0114] Figure 15 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device before lens replacement in Embodiment 2. In the state before lens replacement, a lens with a focal length of 24mm to 105mm is attached, and presets 1 and 2 have been registered.

[0115] As shown in Figure 15, preset number 1 is registered with a pan position of 40°, a tilt position of 0°, an optical zoom of 50mm, an electronic zoom of 1x, a 35mm equivalent zoom of 50mm, and is associated with the thumbnail image displayed on the thumbnail display unit 17A.

[0116] Preset number 2 is registered with a pan position of 40°, a tilt position of -10°, an optical zoom of 105mm, an electronic zoom of 1x, a 35mm equivalent zoom of 105mm, and is associated with the thumbnail image displayed on the thumbnail display unit 17B.

[0117] Figure 16A is a flowchart showing an example of the preset information update process in Embodiment 2, and Figure 16B is a flowchart that continues from Figure 16A.

[0118] Furthermore, the CPU and other components within the control unit 400 execute the computer program stored in memory, thereby sequentially performing the operations of each step in the flowcharts shown in Figures 16A and 16B.

[0119] When a lens is changed, the preset information update process starts according to the processing flow shown in Figure 16A. The processes from steps S501 to S503 are the same as the processes from steps S201 to S203 in Figure 7 of Embodiment 1, so their explanation is omitted.

[0120] Furthermore, since optical zoom magnifies / reduces the image around the optical axis, attempting to correct an image whose center position has changed before and after image cropping using optical zoom will result in a shifted image even if the field of view remains the same.

[0121] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the center position of the image changes due to the image cropping process, the image center is aligned using pan-tilt control. This method will be explained in steps S504 and S505.

[0122] In step S504, it is determined whether the center of the image matches before and after the cropping process, based on the content registered in preset number n. That is, the control unit 400 determines whether the center of the image matches before and after the image cropping process, based on the cropped size and position of the image from the electronic zoom information registered in preset number n of the preset setting value list acquired in step S502.

[0123] If the centers of the images match, the process proceeds to step S506; otherwise, it proceeds to step S505.

[0124] In step S505, pan-tilt control is performed so that the image centers before and after cropping coincide. That is, the imaging direction of the imaging means is controlled so that the center of the image cropping position in the image cropping process coincides with the center of the image. To this end, the control unit 400 first calculates the pan-tilt angle to be driven so that the image centers before and after cropping coincide.

[0125] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between focal length, sensor size, and field of view. In Figure 17, the object 1000 to be photographed is represented by the field of view θ [°] when an image 2000 is formed on an imaging unit 200 with sensor size δ [mm], using a lens 2 with focal length f [mm], which has horizontal resolution Res_x and vertical resolution Res_y.

[0126] In this case, if the center of the d[pix] image changes before and after the image cropping process, the angle α[°] driven by the pan-tilt can be calculated from Figure 17 using Equation 2 below.

number

[0127] In step S505, the control unit 400 uses equation 2 above to calculate the pan-tilt drive amounts from the horizontal and vertical movement amounts d, respectively, and issues a pan-tilt drive command to the pan-tilt control unit 700. Then, it drives the pan-tilt to return the image center position, which has changed due to the image cropping process, to its original position. Note that equation 2 above, used to calculate the pan-tilt drive amount, is just one example, and the calculation method can be changed as appropriate, such as by adding lens aberration correction.

[0128] In step S506, it is determined whether the 35mm equivalent focal length registered with preset number n is within the focal length drive range of the lens. That is, the control unit 400 obtains the 35mm equivalent focal length F35n registered with preset number n in the preset setting value list obtained in step S502.

[0129] Then, from the focal length drive range information of the mounted lens 2 obtained in step S501, the focal length at the wide-angle end Fmin and the focal length at the telephoto end Fmax are obtained. If Fmin <= F35n <= Fmax is true, step S506 is determined to be Yes and the process proceeds to step S507; otherwise, step S506 is determined to be No and the process proceeds to step S509.

[0130] In step S507, it is determined whether electronic zoom is being used with the preset number n. That is, it is determined whether electronic zoom is being used by referring to the electronic zoom information registered for the preset number n. If electronic zoom is being used, the process proceeds to step S508; if not, the process proceeds to step S514.

[0131] In step S508, the setting of the electronic zoom is canceled and the optical zoom setting value is changed. That is, the control unit 400 sets the electronic zoom magnification in the preset setting value list of the preset number n to ×1, updates the focal length of the lens in the optical zoom information to the same value as the focal length of the 35 mm equivalent zoom information, and proceeds to step S514.

[0132] Thus, in step S508, if the angle of view registered by preset registration can be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens, the preset setting information is updated so that the angle of view is achieved only with the optical zoom.

[0133] On the other hand, in step S509, it is determined whether the 35 mm equivalent focal length registered by preset registration can be achieved with the optical zoom and the electronic zoom. That is, the control unit 400 determines whether the 35 mm equivalent focal length F35n registered in the preset setting value list of the preset number n can be achieved with the optical zoom and the electronic zoom.

[0134] The case where the 35 mm equivalent focal length F35n cannot be achieved with the optical zoom and the electronic zoom is, for example, the case where F35n < Fmin or the case where Fmax × (the maximum magnification of the electronic zoom) < F35n. As a result of the determination, if it can be achieved, the process proceeds to step S510; if it cannot be achieved, the process proceeds to step S511.

[0135] Here, the transition to step S511 corresponds to the case where the angle of view registered by preset registration cannot be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens and cannot be achieved even when using the image cutout process in combination.

[0136] In step S510, the settings for the registered preset optical zoom and electronic zoom are changed. That is, the control unit 400 changes the settings for the preset optical zoom and electronic zoom registered to preset number n.

[0137] In other words, in step S510, if the angle of view registered by preset registration cannot be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens, the preset setting information is updated to achieve the angle of view by using a combination of optical zoom and image cropping processing.

[0138] Furthermore, it may be possible to individually set the optical zoom and image cropping size required to achieve the registered field of view via preset registration. Additionally, it may be possible to switch the method for determining the optical zoom and image cropping size required to achieve the registered field of view via preset registration.

[0139] The explanation of changing each setting value assumes that the optical zoom information, such as lens focus = Fmax and electronic zoom magnification = F35n / Fmax, is being modified. However, this is just one example, and other calculation methods may be used to make these changes.

[0140] In addition, the image cropping position and size registered in preset number n are updated when the electronic zoom magnification is changed. After the various settings are changed in step S510, the process moves to step S514. The processing in steps S511 to S515 is the same as the processing in steps S205 to S209 in Figure 7 of Embodiment 1, so the explanation is omitted.

[0141] Step S512 is performed when the angle of view registered by the preset registration cannot be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens, and cannot be achieved even with the use of image cropping processing. In addition, in step S512, the preset setting information is updated to obtain the angle of view closest to the preset registered angle of view.

[0142] Once all preset adjustments are complete in step S514, the preset information update process flow shown in Figures 16A and 16B is terminated.

[0143] When the preset information update process described above is performed, the preset information registered for preset numbers 1 and 2 will be updated as follows. Specifically, the 35mm equivalent focal length registered for preset number 1 is 50mm, which is within the focal length drive range of the lens after replacement. Also, since electronic zoom is not used, the registered preset information will not be updated.

[0144] The 35mm equivalent focal length registered to preset number 2 is 105mm, which is outside the focal length drive range of the interchangeable lens.

[0145] Furthermore, since the preset 35mm equivalent focal length can be achieved with both optical zoom and electronic zoom, the preset information is updated so that the optical zoom focal length is 70mm, which is the telephoto end focal length after replacement, and the electronic zoom magnification is 1.5x. After updating the preset information as described above, the operation screen of the imaging device is updated to the operation screen shown in Figure 18.

[0146] As shown in the processing flow in Figures 16A and 16B, when a lens is replaced, the focal length information stored as preset setting information and the image cropping size performed by the cropping means are updated according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens.

[0147] Figure 18 shows an example of the operation screen of the imaging device after lens replacement in Embodiment 2. In addition, the preset information update process shown in Figures 16A and 16B prioritized the focal length setting process of the optical zoom lens in order to prevent a decrease in resolution, but it may also be performed with priority given to the image cropping size determination process.

[0148] In other words, it may be possible to select whether or not to prioritize maintaining the image cropping size. If prioritizing maintaining the image cropping size is chosen, the image cropping size during preset registration may be set to a predetermined image cropping size before setting the optical zoom.

[0149] Furthermore, in the preset information update process shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the lens focal length was driven to its limit, and the electronic zoom magnification was controlled to be minimized. However, it is also acceptable to update the optical zoom information and electronic zoom information settings to match the lens focal length and electronic zoom magnification at the time of preset registration.

[0150] Furthermore, since the pan-tilt drive unit 600 is not used when using electronic zoom, it becomes possible to switch instantly without showing the movement process. To achieve this, a menu may be provided to individually preset the optical zoom focal length, image cropping position, and size. Alternatively, a choice of which of these controls to use may be provided, allowing the user to select the control method.

[0151] By performing the process described above, it becomes possible to reproduce the field of view at the time of preset registration, even if the preset was registered with a different lens.

[0152] <Embodiment 3> The following describes Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Embodiments 1 and 2 described a method for managing preset information using an imaging device, but Embodiment 3 describes a method for managing preset information using an information processing device.

[0153] Figure 19 is a functional block diagram showing an example configuration of the information processing device of Embodiment 3. As shown in Figure 19, the information processing device 3 has a control unit 3400, a preset information management unit 3800, and a communication unit 3900, and is capable of performing various controls on the imaging device 1.

[0154] The control unit 3400 has a built-in CPU and other components, and functions as a control means that controls the operation of each part of the information processing device and imaging device based on a computer program stored in the memory, which serves as a storage medium.

[0155] The preset information management unit 3800 is a recording unit that manages preset information similar to that of the preset information management unit 800 of the imaging device 1. The communication unit 3900 is connected to the communication unit 900 of the imaging device 1 and functions as a communication means for various types of communication between them.

[0156] In this embodiment, the operation screen of the information processing device 3 is described as being the same as the operation screen generated by the imaging device 1, but it may be a different operation screen from the one generated by the imaging device 1.

[0157] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset registration process in Embodiment 3, and the preset registration process will be explained based on Figure 20. The CPUs and other components of the control unit 400 and the information processing device 3, acting as their respective computers, execute the computer programs stored in their respective memories, thereby sequentially performing the operations of each step in the flowchart of Figure 20.

[0158] The preset registration process is performed according to the flow shown in Figure 20. First, in step S601, the control unit 3400 of the information processing device 3 issues a command to acquire the preset setting value list to the imaging device 1 via the communication unit 3900.

[0159] In step S602, the imaging device 1 receives a command to acquire a preset setting value list via the communication unit 900. Upon receiving the command to acquire a preset setting value list, the control unit 400 executes the processes described in steps S603 to S608 and begins acquiring various information related to the preset setting value list.

[0160] The processing in steps S603 to S608 is the same as the processing in steps S301 to S306 of Embodiment 2, so the explanation is omitted. Next, in step S609, the control unit 400 creates a preset setting value list from the information acquired in steps S603 to S608 and returns it to the information processing device 3 via the communication unit 900 as a response to the preset setting value list acquisition command.

[0161] In step S610, the information processing device 3 receives a response from the imaging device 1 to the command to acquire the preset setting value list via the communication unit 3900. In step S611, the control unit 3400 stores the response result of the command to acquire the preset setting value list received in the preset information management unit 3800.

[0162] Thus, in step S611, the preset information management unit 3800 associates and stores the focal length information of the lens attached to the imaging device, acquired by the communication unit 3900, with a thumbnail based on the image captured by the imaging device at the focal length of the lens. Here, step S611 functions as a preset information management step.

[0163] Finally, in step S612, the control unit 3400 updates the operation screen according to the preset setting value list stored in the preset information management unit 3800. Once the operation screen update is complete after performing the above processing, the preset registration process is finished.

[0164] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing an example of the preset call process in Embodiment 3. The operations in each step of the flowchart in Figure 21 are performed sequentially by the CPUs, etc., acting as computers within the control unit 400 and the information processing device 3, respectively, executing the computer programs stored in their respective memories.

[0165] The preset recall process is performed according to the flow shown in Figure 21. First, in step S701, the control unit 3400 of the information processing device 3 obtains the preset setting value list stored in the preset information management unit 3800.

[0166] Next, in step S702, a preset recall command is created according to the contents of the preset setting value list obtained in step S701 and issued to the imaging device 1 via the communication unit 3900. In step S703, the imaging device 1 receives the preset recall command via the communication unit 900.

[0167] Upon receiving a preset recall command, the control unit 400 executes the processes described in steps S704 to S706 and starts the preset recall. The processes in steps S704 to S706 are the same as those in steps S402 to S404 of Embodiment 2, so their explanation is omitted.

[0168] When the preset call is complete, step S707 creates a response to the preset call command and returns it to the information processing device 3 via the communication unit 900. When the information processing device 3 receives the response to the preset call command in step S708, the preset call process is terminated.

[0169] Next, the process for updating preset information when a lens is replaced in Embodiment 3 will be described. When the lens of the imaging device 1 is replaced, the lens control unit 500 detects that the lens 2 has been connected via the lens connection unit 100 and obtains the focal length drive range of the lens 2 by the same process as in step S201. Then, it creates a lens replacement detection notification including the obtained focal length drive range of the lens 2 and issues (transmits) it to the information processing device 3.

[0170] When the information processing device 3 receives a lens change detection notification, it updates the preset setting value list stored in the preset information management unit 3800. The method for updating the preset setting value list is the same as the processing flow of Embodiment 2 shown in Figures 16A and 16B. That is, except for the thumbnail image acquisition method performed in step S512, the method is the same as steps S502 to S515 of Embodiment 2, so the explanation is omitted.

[0171] In the thumbnail image acquisition method performed in step S512 of Embodiment 3, the control unit 3400 of the information processing device 3 creates a thumbnail image update request and transmits it to the imaging device 1.

[0172] The imaging device acquires thumbnail images registered in the target preset setting list and returns them to the information processing device 3 as a response to the thumbnail image update request. The information processing device 3 uses the received thumbnail images to update the corresponding preset setting list.

[0173] In this manner, when the control unit 3400 of the information processing device 3 detects that a lens has been replaced via communication means, it updates the focal length information stored in the preset information management unit 3800 according to the focal length drive range of the lens newly attached to the imaging device.

[0174] Furthermore, the method of obtaining thumbnail images is not limited to the method described above; it is also possible to perform a preset recall process and re-obtain the thumbnail images. In other words, if the angle of view registered by preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping, it is possible to re-obtain the thumbnails.

[0175] Alternatively, the thumbnail may not be updated during the preset information update processing sequence described above, but may be updated at an arbitrary time. In that case, since the thumbnail image and the field of view when the preset is executed will be different, identification information such as an icon may be displayed. That is, if a thumbnail with a different field of view than the one used when registering the preset is displayed, predetermined identification information (text, icon, etc.) may be displayed.

[0176] By performing the above processing, even if the lens of the imaging device 1 is replaced, the preset setting list of the information processing device 3 can be updated in a timely manner. Furthermore, by performing the above processing, it becomes possible to reproduce the field of view at the time of preset registration, even if the preset was registered with a different lens.

[0177] 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.

[0178] Furthermore, the present invention includes, for example, a system that implements 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] 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.

[0181] (Configuration 1) An imaging device characterized by comprising: an imaging means for capturing an image through a lens; an imaging direction control means for controlling the imaging direction of the imaging means; a preset information management means for creating a thumbnail based on an image captured by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered, and storing the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens as preset setting information; and a control means for updating the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens when the lens is replaced.

[0182] (Configuration 2) The imaging apparatus according to Configuration 1, further comprising cropping means for performing the image cropping process, wherein when the lens is replaced, the control means updates the focal length information stored as preset setting information and the image cropping size performed by the cropping means according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens.

[0183] (Configuration 3) The imaging device according to Configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information so that the angle of view registered by the preset registration can be achieved by the focal length of a newly attached lens, using only optical zoom.

[0184] (Configuration 4) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information to achieve the angle of view registered by the preset registration if the angle of view cannot be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens by using optical zoom and image cropping processing in combination.

[0185] (Configuration 5) The imaging device according to Configuration 4, wherein the control means can select whether or not to prioritize maintaining the image cropping size, and when prioritizing maintaining the image cropping size, the optical zoom setting is performed after setting the image cropping size at the time of preset registration to a predetermined image cropping size.

[0186] (Configuration 6) The imaging apparatus according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the control means restricts the execution of the preset if the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing.

[0187] (Configuration 7) The imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information to the angle of view closest to the preset registered angle of view when the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing.

[0188] (Configuration 8) An imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that if the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing, the thumbnail is reacquired.

[0189] (Configuration 9) An imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that the optical zoom and image cropping size for achieving the angle of view registered by the preset registration can be set individually.

[0190] (Configuration 10) The imaging device according to Configuration 9, characterized in that it is possible to switch between optical zoom for realizing the angle of view registered by the preset registration and the method for determining the image crop size.

[0191] (Configuration 11) An imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that it has cropping means for performing the cropping process of the image, and is capable of displaying information indicating whether or not electronic zoom by the cropping process is being used.

[0192] (Configuration 12) An imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that if a thumbnail with a different field of view than the one used when registering the preset is displayed, predetermined identification information is displayed.

[0193] (Configuration 13) The imaging apparatus according to any one of Configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that the imaging direction control means controls at least one of the pan direction and the tilt direction.

[0194] (Configuration 14) An imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 13, characterized in that the imaging direction of the imaging means is controlled so that the center of the image cropping position in the image cropping process coincides with the center of the image.

[0195] (Configuration 15) An information processing apparatus comprising: a communication means; a preset information management means that stores, in association with focal length information of a lens mounted on an imaging device acquired by the communication means and a thumbnail based on an image taken by the imaging device at the focal length of the lens; and a control means that, when the communication means detects that the lens has been replaced, updates the focal length information stored in the preset information management means according to the focal length driving range of the lens newly mounted on the imaging device.

[0196] (Method) An imaging method characterized by comprising: an imaging direction control step for controlling the imaging direction of an imaging means that captures an image through a lens; a preset information management step for creating a thumbnail based on an image captured by the imaging means when the imaging direction is preset registered, and storing the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens linked together as preset setting information; and a control step for updating the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly attached lens when the lens is replaced.

[0197] (Program) A computer program for controlling each means of the imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 15. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0198] 1: Imaging device 100: Lens connection part 200: Imaging Department 300: Image Processing Unit 301: Cutting section 400: Control Unit 500: Lens control unit 600: Pan-tilt drive unit 700: Pan-tilt control unit 800: Preset Information Management Unit 900: Communications Department 2: Lens 3: Information Processing Device 3400: Control Unit 3800: Preset Information Management Unit 3900: Communications Department 10: Operation screen 11: Video display unit 12: Menu Section 13: Preset Registration Button 14: Preset recall button 15: Delete Preset Button 16: Preset Information Display Section 17: Preset thumbnail display section

Claims

1. An imaging means for capturing an image through a lens, The imaging direction control means controls the imaging direction of the imaging means, A preset information management means that, when registering the aforementioned imaging direction as a preset, creates a thumbnail based on the image captured by the imaging means, and stores the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens linked together as preset setting information. A control means that, when the aforementioned lens is replaced, updates the focal length information in the preset setting information according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens, An imaging device characterized by having the following features.

2. The system has cropping means for performing the cropping process of the aforementioned image, The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the lens is replaced, the control means updates the focal length information stored as preset setting information and the image cropping size performed by the cropping means according to the focal length drive range of the newly attached lens.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information so that the angle of view registered by the preset registration can be achieved by the focal length of a newly attached lens, using only optical zoom.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information to achieve the angle of view registered by the preset registration if the angle of view cannot be achieved with the focal length of the newly attached lens by using optical zoom and image cropping processing in combination.

5. The control means can select whether or not to prioritize maintaining the image cropping size. The imaging device according to claim 4, characterized in that, when prioritizing the retention of the image cropping size, the image cropping size at the time of preset registration is set to a predetermined image cropping size, and then the optical zoom setting is performed.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means restricts the execution of the preset if the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means updates the preset setting information to the angle of view closest to the preset registered angle of view if the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing.

8. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that if the angle of view registered by the preset registration is not achievable with the focal length of the newly attached lens and is also not achievable even with the use of image cropping processing, the thumbnail is reacquired.

9. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that the optical zoom and image cropping size for achieving the angle of view registered by the preset registration can be set individually.

10. The imaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that it is possible to switch between optical zoom for achieving the angle of view registered by the preset registration and the method for determining the image crop size.

11. The system has cropping means for performing the cropping process of the aforementioned image, The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is capable of displaying information indicating whether or not electronic zoom by the cropping process is being used.

12. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that if a thumbnail with a different field of view than the one used during preset registration is displayed, predetermined identification information is displayed.

13. 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.

14. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the imaging direction of the imaging means is controlled so that the center of the image cropping position in the image cropping process coincides with the center of the image.

15. Communication methods, The system includes a preset information management means that stores, in association with focal length information of a lens mounted on an imaging device, acquired by the aforementioned communication means, and a thumbnail based on an image captured by the imaging device at the focal length of the lens. An information processing apparatus comprising: a control means that, when the communication means detects that the lens has been replaced, updates the focal length information stored in the preset information management means according to the focal length drive range of the lens newly attached to the imaging device.

16. An imaging direction control step that controls the imaging direction of an imaging means that captures an image through a lens, A preset information management step in which, when registering the aforementioned imaging direction as a preset, a thumbnail is created based on the image captured by the imaging means, and the thumbnail, the imaging direction, and the focal length information of the lens are linked and stored as preset setting information, A control step in which, when the aforementioned lens is replaced, the focal length information in the preset setting information is updated according to the focal length drive range of the newly installed lens, An imaging method characterized by having the following features.

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

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