Imaging device

Abstract

Provided is an imaging device that is not easily seen.　The imaging device includes: an imaging unit that is installed on the inner side of the window glass of a structure, said imaging unit imaging the outer side of the window glass through the window glass; and a securing part that secures the imaging unit to the window glass.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there are surveillance cameras including a camera case, a lens housing cover, and a front glass. The surveillance camera is installed at an outdoor high place with its lens facing obliquely downward. The surveillance camera includes a sewage guide groove that guides sewage such as rainwater in a direction diverging from the lens housing cover and the front glass (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Literature 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Incidentally, since conventional surveillance cameras are installed outdoors, they are easily visible and easily noticed by persons who are subjects of surveillance. If the camera is easily noticed, there is a risk that the behavior of the persons who are subjects of surveillance cannot be sufficiently monitored.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus that is not easily visible.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] The imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: an imaging unit that is installed inside a building relative to window glass of the building and images the outside of the window glass through the window glass; and a fixing unit that fixes the imaging unit toward the window glass.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] The present invention can provide an imaging apparatus that is not easily visible.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the arrangement of the imaging device 100. [Figure 2] Figure 2A is a plan view of the imaging unit 100A, and Figures 2B, 2C, and 2D show the cross-sections in the direction of arrows AA, BB, and CC, respectively, in Figure 2A. [Figure 3] This is a plan view of the imaging unit 100A'. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the imaging unit 100A' attached to the window glass 20. [Figure 5] This figure shows the imaging unit 100A1 of the first modified example. [Figure 6] This figure shows the imaging unit 100A2 of the second modified example. [Figure 7] This figure shows the imaging unit 100A3 of the third modified example. [Figure 8] This figure shows the imaging unit 100A4 of the fourth modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] <Embodiment> The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. For ease of understanding, the scale of each component in the drawings may differ from the actual scale. In this embodiment, a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system with three axes (X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis) is used, with the width direction of the window glass being the Y-axis direction, the thickness direction of the window glass being the Z-axis direction, and the height direction of the window glass being the X-axis direction. The direction from the bottom to the top of the window glass is the +X-axis direction, and the opposite direction is the -X-axis direction. In the following description, the +X-axis direction may be referred to as "up," and the -X-axis direction may be referred to as "down." Also, a plan view refers to a view in the XY plane.

[0010] The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions represent directions parallel to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, respectively. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions are mutually orthogonal. The XY plane, YZ plane, and ZX plane represent virtual planes parallel to the X-axis and Y-axis, virtual planes parallel to the Y-axis and Z-axis, and virtual planes parallel to the Z-axis and X-axis, respectively.

[0011] Figure 1 shows an example of the arrangement of the imaging device 100. The imaging device 100 has an imaging unit 100A and a processing unit 100B. The imaging unit 100A is installed and used facing the indoor surface of the window glass 20 of the building 10. The building 10 is an example of a structure. The processing unit 100B is installed on the back side of the ceiling 30 of the building 10 and is connected to the imaging unit 100A via cables 100C1 and 100C2. For example, the Y-axis and Z-axis directions are approximately parallel to the direction parallel to the horizontal plane (horizontal direction), and the X-axis direction is approximately parallel to the vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane. The processing unit 100B may be installed on a wall or floor.

[0012] This section describes a configuration in which the window glass 20 is installed in the building 10, but the window glass 20 may also be installed in structures other than the building 10. Examples of structures other than the building 10 include bridge piers, bridges, or civil engineering structures such as dams, as well as historical buildings or artistic buildings.

[0013] The window glass 20 is a glass plate used in the windows of a building such as building 10. The window glass 20 may also be a glass facade located in the entrance of building 10. The window glass 20 is formed in a rectangular shape in plan view, for example, and has an outer surface and an inner surface of building 10. The inner surface of building 10 is the indoor side of building 10. The thickness of the window glass 20 is set according to the specifications of building 10. Note that "rectangular" includes not only rectangles and squares, but also shapes with beveled corners. The shape of the window glass in plan view is not limited to a rectangle, but may also be a circle or other shape.

[0014] The window glass 20 is not limited to a single plate, and may be laminated glass or multi-layer glass. Further, the window glass 20 may be Low-e glass, light-adjusting glass, or glass containing a linear member.

[0015] Examples of the material of the window glass 20 include soda lime silica glass, borosilicate glass, aluminosilicate glass, and alkali-free glass.

[0016] The thickness of the window glass 20 is preferably 1.0 to 20 mm. When the thickness of the window glass 20 is 1.0 mm or more, the window glass has sufficient strength for mounting the imaging unit 100A. Further, when the thickness of the window glass is 20 mm or less, radio wave transmission performance is favorable. The thickness of the window glass is more preferably 3.0 to 15 mm, and even more preferably 9.0 to 13 mm.

[0017] Further, as an example, the reflectance on the outer surface of the window glass 20 is 5% or more. The reflectance is the visible light reflectance specified in JIS R 3106:1998. Further, as an example, the window glass 20 has a visible light transmittance (TVA) based on the standard A light source specified in JIS R 3106:1998 of 30% to 98%. Further, the TVA of the window glass 20 is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 70% or more, even more preferably 75% or more, and particularly preferably 80% or more. Further, the TVA of the window glass 20 is preferably 95% or less, more preferably 92% or less, even more preferably 90% or less, and particularly preferably 85% or less.

[0018] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the imaging unit 100A is a device that is used by being attached to the indoor side of the window glass 20 of the building 10, and includes a glass plate 110, a camera 120, and an antenna 150. The glass plate 110 is an example of a transparent plate. The camera 120 is an example of an imaging unit, and is capable of capturing moving images and still images. In FIG. 1, the schematic configuration and functions of the imaging device 100 will be described, and the detailed configuration of the imaging unit 100A will be described later with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0019] The processing unit 100B includes an image processing device 100B1 and a wireless communication device 100B2. The image processing device 100B1 is connected to the camera 120 via a cable 100C1, and is connected to a server in the building 10 via a cable 100D. The image processing device 100B1 performs image processing on data representing an image captured by the camera 120, and stores the image data subjected to the image processing in an internal memory. Further, the image processing device 100B1 transmits the image data stored in the internal memory to the server via the cable 100D. Note that when the image processing device 100B1 transmits image data to the wireless communication device 100B2, and the wireless communication device 100B2 transmits the image data to the server from the antenna 150, the cable 100D may be a cable with a small transmission capacity.

[0020] The wireless communication device 100B2 is connected to the antenna 150 via a cable 100C2. The wireless communication device 100B2 performs data communication via the antenna 150. The processing unit 100B receives power supply from the power system of the building 10 via a power cable 100E. Note that the processing unit 100B may receive power supply from the power system of the building 10 in a contactless manner without using the power cable 100E.

[0021] The imaging device 100 uses the camera 120 to capture an image of a subject outside the window glass 20 through the window glass 20. The subject is, for example, a landscape visible from the window glass 20 (all objects visible from the window glass 20), and the landscape may be, for example, a road, a sidewalk, a passage, an intersection, an entrance / exit of the building 10, a ticket gate or entrance / exit of a station, and may also include people, vehicles and the like. Further, when the camera 120 is an infrared camera, it may capture an infrared image. Note that information captured by the imaging device 100 may be used for digital twin computing.

[0022] Such an imaging device 100 can be used for a variety of purposes and is not limited to any particular application. The imaging device 100 can capture images of subjects outside the window glass 20 of the building 10 and use the resulting images for a variety of purposes. Here, as an example, we will describe an application in which the imaging device 100 is used as a security surveillance camera. Since the imaging unit 100A is positioned facing the indoor surface of the window glass 20, it is difficult to see from the outside of the window glass 20 due to reflection. For this reason, its use as a surveillance camera is one example of a suitable application for the imaging device 100.

[0023] The height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 is preferably higher than the average human height, from the viewpoint of allowing a good view of the area to be monitored. For example, the height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 is preferably 2m or more, and it may be attached to a window glass 20 on the second floor or higher of the building 10, for example. If the height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 is 2m or more, it will be difficult for the person being monitored to see it. The height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 may be 3m or more, 4m or more, or 5m or more. There is no particular upper limit to the height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20, but it may be 30m or less, 20m or less, or 10m or less.

[0024] The height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 can be set to a height that allows for the capture of an appropriate image, taking into consideration the field of view of the camera 120, the distance to the subject, etc. The upper limit of the height at which the imaging unit 100A is attached to the window glass 20 is the height of the top edge of the highest window glass 20 in the building 10. The height of the imaging unit 100A can be defined as the height from a reference plane parallel to the horizontal plane (for example, the ground, floor, or a virtual plane). Alternatively, the height of the imaging unit 100A may be the height of the lens of the camera 120.

[0025] Furthermore, the imaging device 100 can perform wireless communication using the antenna 150. The imaging unit 100A of the imaging device 100 may be configured without the antenna 150, but here we will describe a configuration in which the imaging unit 100A has the antenna 150.

[0026] When the imaging unit 100A has an antenna 150, and the window glass 20 is Low-E glass, the Low-E glass may have the following configuration. Low-E glass is also called low-emissivity glass, and may have a coating layer (transparent conductive film) with heat-reflective properties coated on the indoor surface. In this case, the coating layer may have openings to suppress a decrease in radio wave transmission performance. Preferably, the openings are located opposite at least some of the multiple radiating elements described later. The openings may be patterned. Patterning means, for example, leaving the coating layer in a grid pattern. Only a portion of the opening may be patterned. In addition, linear member-reinforced glass has linear members such as metal arranged inside the glass. The linear members may be in the form of a mesh, and linear member-reinforced glass is also called wired glass.

[0027] The imaging device 100 may use the antenna 150 to wirelessly communicate with communication devices located outside the window glass 20, or it may wirelessly communicate with communication devices located inside the window glass 20. The communication devices may be, for example, smartphones, tablet computers, game consoles, or other electronic devices with communication functions.

[0028] Wireless communication with communication devices located on or outside the window glass 20 may be, for example, a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G), a fourth-generation mobile communication system (4G), a LAN (Local Area Network) such as IEEE802.11ac, or a communication using Bluetooth®. The imaging device 100 may detect the location information of the subject and use it to control beamforming in 5G communication.

[0029] The wireless communication device 100B2 and antenna 150 can be used, for example, as a wireless base station for 5G or 4G, a public wireless LAN spot that provides internet access using wireless LAN, or a public mobile spot that provides an area where data communication using Bluetooth® is possible, and may have multiple means of communication. In addition, the wireless communication device 100B2 and antenna 150 may transmit image data captured by the camera 120 and processed by the image processing device 100B1 to a communication device located on the outside or inside of the window glass 20.

[0030] Here, as an example, we will describe a configuration in which the wireless communication device 100B2 and antenna 150 function as a wireless base station for 5G communication and perform 5G communication with communication devices located outside the window glass 20. In this case, the wireless communication device 100B2 is connected to a baseband unit. The baseband unit is a device that controls 5G communication and may consist of a general-purpose server. Furthermore, the general-purpose server may not only have baseband unit functionality but also be used for edge computing. The antenna 150 may be any antenna capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves in the high-frequency band (e.g., 0.3 GHz to 300 GHz), including microwaves and millimeter waves. In addition, multiple antennas 150 may be provided. If multiple antennas 150 are provided, for example, multiple imaging units 100A may be connected to one wireless communication device 100B2.

[0031] <Detailed configuration of imaging unit 100A> Figure 2 shows the imaging unit 100A. The imaging unit 100A includes a glass plate 110, a camera 120, a mounting part 130, and an antenna 150. The glass plate 110 and the mounting part 130 are examples of fixed parts.

[0032] Figure 2A shows the imaging unit 100A in a plan view. Figures 2B, 2C, and 2D show the cross-sections in the directions of arrows AA, BB, and CC, respectively, in Figure 2A.

[0033] The glass plate 110 is rectangular in shape when viewed from above and is a transparent (colorless and transparent) glass plate member. The glass plate 110 is fixed to the inner surface of the window glass 20 by two mounting parts 130. The glass plate 110 does not have to be transparent, but it is preferable that it be transparent from the viewpoint of making the imaging unit 100A less conspicuous from the outside of the window glass 20 and from the viewpoint of not obstructing the view of the window glass 20 from inside the building 10. In this disclosure, "transparent" includes translucent, and for example, the visible light transmittance (TVA) based on the standard A light source specified in JIS R 3106:1998 is 20% or more, preferably 50% or more, and more preferably 70% or more.

[0034] The glass plate 110 has a hole 111 that penetrates in the Z direction approximately in the center of its length in the Y direction. The opening shape of the hole 111 is matched to the outer shape of the camera 120 housed inside, and is rectangular as an example. The hole 111 is an example of a housing for the camera 120. Here, as an example, a configuration in which the hole 111 houses the entire camera 120 is described, but the hole 111 may be configured to house at least a part of the camera 120. That is, for example, a part of the camera 120 may protrude from the hole 111.

[0035] Camera 120 is a camera capable of capturing digital images of both video and still images. For example, it is a camera that includes an image sensor using a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) or CCD (Charge Coupled Device) as the image sensor. Camera 120 has a lens 120A.

[0036] The camera 120 is fixed inside the hole 111 with its lens 120A facing the window glass 20. This is for imaging subjects outside the window glass 20. The camera 120 may or may not have a telephoto function. If the camera 120 does not have a telephoto function, a cheaper camera 120 can be used, and therefore the imaging device 100 can be manufactured at a low cost.

[0037] The dimensions of the camera 120 in plan view are, for example, 2mm to 200mm (Y direction) x 2mm to 200mm (Z direction), and more preferably 5mm to 50mm (Y direction) x 5mm to 50mm (Z direction). A smaller dimensions of the camera 120 in plan view makes it more difficult to see the camera 120 from outside the window glass 20, thus making the camera 120 less conspicuous. Note that the dimensions of the camera 120 in plan view refer to the dimensions of the camera 120's housing in plan view, because the entire housing of the camera 120 is visible through the window glass 20.

[0038] The camera 120 is connected to the cable 100C1 (see Figure 1) via wiring 121 provided on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110. In Figure 2, the wiring 121 is simplified and shown as a single line, but in reality, multiple wirings 121 are provided. The multiple wirings 121 include wiring for transmitting image data, wiring for control such as switching the camera 120 on / off, and wiring for power. Similarly, the cable 100C1 also includes wiring for transmitting image data, wiring for control such as switching the camera 120 on / off, and wiring for power.

[0039] The wiring 121 is, for example, a wiring composed of a mesh-like metal layer provided on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110. The mesh-like metal layer is, for example, made of copper. By fabricating the wiring 121 with a mesh-like metal layer, the wiring 121 can be made light-transmitting. As a result, the imaging unit 100A can be made less conspicuous from the outside of the window glass 20, and the view of the window glass 20 from inside the building 10 can not be obstructed. Known methods can be used to form the wiring 121, such as sputtering or vapor deposition.

[0040] Here, the mesh is a wire 121 with a mesh-like pattern of perforations when viewed from above. The line width of the mesh is preferably 0.1 μm to 30 μm, and more preferably 0.2 μm to 15 μm. The line spacing of the mesh is preferably 5 μm to 500 μm, and more preferably 10 μm to 300 μm. The opening shape of the perforations in the mesh may be polygonal, such as square, hexagonal, or rhombic.

[0041] The mounting portion 130 is attached to both ends in the Y direction of the surface of the glass plate 110 on the +Z direction side and extends in the X direction. The mounting portion 130 is a member for fixing the glass plate 110 to the inner surface of the window glass 20. When the glass plate 110 is transparent, the mounting portion 130 is preferably transparent (colorless and transparent). Such a mounting portion 130 may be made of a resin such as acrylic resin or polycarbonate resin, or glass. If the mounting portion 130 is not transparent, it may be made of rubber such as butyl rubber.

[0042] Any method may be used to attach the mounting part 130 to the glass plate 110, but one example is to attach it to the glass plate 110 with adhesive or double-sided tape. Alternatively, the mounting part 130 may be integrally molded with the glass plate 110. Similarly, any method may be used to attach the mounting part 130 to the window glass 20, but one example is to attach it to the window glass 20 with adhesive or double-sided tape. If the glass plate 110 and the mounting part 130 are transparent (colorless and transparent), it is preferable that the adhesive or double-sided tape is also transparent.

[0043] The antenna 150 is located on the surface of the glass plate 110 on the +Z side, on the -X side of the hole 111, approximately in the center of its length in the Y direction. As described above, the antenna 150 can be any antenna capable of transmitting and receiving high-frequency radio waves, and may be of various types such as a patch antenna, monopole antenna, or dipole antenna. Here, as an example, the imaging device 100 functions as a wireless base station for 5G communication, so the antenna 150 only needs to have multiple antenna elements capable of outputting a beam by beamforming.

[0044] The reason for placing the antenna 150 on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110 is that, in this example, the wireless communication device 100B2 and the antenna 150 function as a wireless base station for 5G communication and perform 5G communication with communication devices located outside the window glass 20. The antenna 150 is placed on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110 so that it has directivity toward the outside of the window glass 20. Therefore, when using the antenna 150 for communication inside the building 10, the antenna 150 should be placed on the -Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110.

[0045] Furthermore, if the antenna 150 is a type of antenna having antenna elements and a ground layer, such as a patch antenna or a monopole antenna, the antenna elements should be provided on the surface of the glass plate 110 in the +Z direction, and the ground layer should be provided on the surface of the glass plate 110 in the -Z direction. This is to ensure that the antenna 150 has directivity toward the outside of the window glass 20. Also, if the antenna 150 is used for communication inside the building 10, the antenna elements should be provided on the surface of the glass plate 110 in the -Z direction, and the ground layer should be provided on the surface of the glass plate 110 in the +Z direction, so that the antenna 150 has directivity toward the inside of the building 10.

[0046] The antenna 150 is connected to the cable 100C2 (see Figure 1) via wiring 151 provided on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110. In Figure 2A, the wiring 151 is simplified and shown as a single line, but the number of wirings 151 is provided according to the number of antenna elements in the antenna 150 and the presence or absence of a ground layer. Also, in Figure 2C, the antenna 150 is shown as thicker than the wiring 151 to show the boundary between the antenna 150 and the wiring 151, but in reality, the thickness of the antenna 150 and the wiring 151 are equal.

[0047] The antenna 150 and wiring 151 are, for example, composed of a mesh-like metal layer. The mesh-like metal layer is, for example, made of copper. By fabricating the antenna 150 and wiring 151 from a mesh-like metal layer, the antenna 150 and wiring 151 can be made light-transmitting. As a result, the imaging unit 100A can be made less conspicuous from the outside of the window glass 20, and the view of the window glass 20 from inside the building 10 can be not obstructed. The line width, line spacing, and opening shape of the mesh of the antenna 150 and wiring 151 may be the same as those of the wiring 121. Furthermore, known methods can be used to form the antenna 150 and wiring 151, such as sputtering or vapor deposition.

[0048] The antenna 150 and wiring 151 may be made of a transparent conductive film. By making the antenna 150 and wiring 151 from a transparent conductive film, light transmission can be made possible for the antenna 150 and wiring 151. As the transparent conductive film, for example, a light-transmitting conductive material such as indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-added tin oxide (FTO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), silicon oxide-added indium tin oxide (ITSO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or a Si compound containing P or B can be used.

[0049] The imaging unit 100A may have protective material provided on the glass plate 110 to protect the antenna 150, wiring 151, and ground layer. The protective material may be provided on the +Z side surface of the glass plate 110 on which the antenna 150 and wiring 151 are provided, or on the -Z side surface of the glass plate 110 on which the ground layer is provided.

[0050] The protective material is bonded and laminated to the glass plate 110 via an interlayer, such as polyvinyl butyral or ethylene vinyl acetate. However, the protective material may be bonded to the glass plate 110 using other adhesives, such as optically transparent adhesives, rather than being limited to interlayers. When an interlayer is used, its thickness is, for example, 0.37 mm. Furthermore, the interlayer or other adhesives, such as optically transparent adhesives, may contain an ultraviolet absorber. Including an ultraviolet absorber prevents deterioration of the antenna 150, wiring 151, and ground layer.

[0051] Suitable protective materials include, for example, glass such as soda-lime glass, alkali-free glass, and borosilicate glass; resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene; glass-resin composites (e.g., fiber-reinforced plastics); or ceramics. The protective material can prevent deterioration of the antenna 150, wiring 151, and ground layer due to ultraviolet rays, moisture (water vapor), water, mechanical contact, and other factors. The thickness of the protective material is typically 0.05 mm to 5.0 mm.

[0052] <Mounting of imaging unit 100A onto window glass 20> Figure 3 shows the imaging unit 100A'. The imaging unit 100A' shown in Figure 3 has a configuration in which a low refractive index layer 140 is added to the imaging unit 100A shown in Figure 2A.

[0053] The low refractive index layer 140 is provided on the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110 so as to cover the opening of the hole 111. The low refractive index layer 140 is attached to the +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110 with adhesive or double-sided tape. The low refractive index layer 140 only needs to cover at least the opening of the hole 111, and may be provided over the entire +Z-direction surface of the glass plate 110. When the imaging unit 100A' is attached to the inner surface of the window glass 20, there is a gap between the low refractive index layer 140 and the inner surface of the window glass 20, and air exists in this gap. Alternatively, the low refractive index layer 140 may be provided so as to fill the gap between the glass plate 110 and the window glass 20 so that such a gap does not occur.

[0054] Furthermore, since the low refractive index layer 140 only needs to be provided between the glass plate 110 and the window glass 20, it is not limited to being provided on the surface of the glass plate 110 in the +Z direction. For example, the low refractive index layer 140 may be held between two mounting parts 130 with a gap in the Z direction from the glass plate 110. Alternatively, the low refractive index layer 140 may be attached to the inner surface of the window glass 20.

[0055] The low refractive index layer 140 has a refractive index lower than that of the window glass 20. Furthermore, it is preferable that the refractive index of the low refractive index layer 140 is greater than 1. Because the refractive index of the low refractive index layer 140 is greater than 1 and lower than that of the window glass 20, reflection of light propagating through the air at the interface with air, where the refractive index is 1, can be suppressed, allowing the camera 120 to capture a clear image.

[0056] As an example, the low refractive index layer 140 can be made of liquid crystal whose refractive index changes depending on the applied voltage. Liquid crystal is an example of a variable refractive index layer whose refractive index is variable. There are various types of glass for the window glass 20 to which the imaging unit 100A' is attached, and the refractive index may differ depending on the type of window glass 20. In addition, the outer or inner surface of the window glass 20 may have a coating, and the refractive index may differ depending on the type of coating. For this reason, the refractive index of the low refractive index layer 140 can be optimized by adjusting the voltage applied to the low refractive index layer 140 according to the refractive index of the window glass 20. As the low refractive index layer 140, crystallized glass whose refractive index changes depending on the applied voltage may also be used.

[0057] Furthermore, in order to make the camera 120 difficult to see from the outside of the window glass 20, a high refractive index layer having a refractive index greater than that of the window glass 20 may be attached to the inner or outer surface of the window glass 20. This is because it has the effect of increasing the refractive index of the window glass 20, making it difficult to see inside from the outside of the window glass 20. This is because increasing the reflectivity of the light incident on the outside of the window glass 20 makes it difficult to see the camera 120 from the outside of the window glass 20. As a surveillance camera, it is less likely to raise suspicion if the camera 120 is not visible from the outside of the window glass 20 than if it is visible from the outside of the window glass 20, making it easier to acquire images including the actions of people outside the window glass 20 who are being monitored when they are not on alert (for example, suspicious behavior). In addition, if the camera is not visible from the outside of the window glass 20, it is not possible to know that there is a surveillance camera from the outside of the window glass 20, and it is possible to give the people being monitored a subconscious awareness that the camera 120 may be installed somewhere out of sight, thus acting as a deterrent to crime.

[0058] Such a high refractive index layer can, for example, be a sheet-like member made of a resin capable of realizing optical waveguides such as optical fibers. Alternatively, the high refractive index layer may be a sheet-like member having a reflectivity (for example, 40% to 70%) that makes the window glass 20 a half-mirror (partial reflector) when viewed from the outside. Furthermore, a heat-reflective film or high refractive index glass can be used as the high refractive index layer. As high refractive index glass, for example, La-B, Nb-Si, SiO2, and P2O5 optical glasses can be used.

[0059] The high refractive index layer may be provided over the entire window glass 20, or it may be provided only in the area that overlaps with the imaging unit 100A when viewed from the outside of the window glass 20. The reason for wanting a higher refractive index is only in the area that overlaps with the imaging unit 100A when viewed from the outside of the window glass 20. Furthermore, providing the high refractive index layer only in the area that overlaps with the imaging unit 100A is less likely to impair the aesthetic design of the window glass 20. In addition, the inner surface of the window glass 20 is less conspicuous than the outer surface when providing the high refractive index layer.

[0060] Furthermore, if there is a risk of condensation forming on the window glass 20, an anti-fog film may be provided at least in the area of ​​the window glass 20 that overlaps with the imaging unit 100A when viewed from the outside. The anti-fog film only needs to be provided on one side of the window glass 20. The anti-fog film preferably contains, for example, a water-absorbing polymer or a hydrophilic polymer, and achieves high water absorption. The anti-fog film may also be attached to the window glass 20 via a film having an adhesive layer. By providing an anti-fog film on the window glass 20, the occurrence of condensation can be suppressed, and a clear image can be acquired with the camera 120.

[0061] Figure 4 shows the imaging unit 100A' attached to the window glass 20. In Figure 4, the imaging unit 100A' is shown in a cross-section corresponding to Figure 2D, and the window glass 20 is also shown in a cross-section at a position corresponding to the cross-section of the imaging unit 100A'. The window glass 20 has an outer surface 20A and an inner surface 20B. The imaging unit 100A' is fixed to surface 20B near the upper end of the window glass 20. More specifically, the imaging unit 100A' is fixed to surface 20B of the window glass 20 by fixing the mounting part 130 to surface 20B. Also in Figure 4, the field of view range of the camera 120 in the XZ plane is shown by two dashed lines. The field of view corresponds to the field of view of the camera 120.

[0062] Here, the visible light transmittance from the outer surface 20A of the window glass 20 to the camera 120 should be set to 60% to 90% based on the visible light transmittance of standard A light source as defined in JIS R 3106:1998. A visible light transmittance of 40% or more is preferable, 50% or more is more preferable, and 60% or more is even preferable. Furthermore, a visible light transmittance of 80% or less is preferable, and 70% or less is even preferable. This is because by setting the visible light transmittance to such a value, the camera 120 can acquire a good image of the subject outside the window glass 20.

[0063] With the imaging unit 100A mounted on the inside of the window glass 20 in this manner, even if a person looks from outside the window glass 20, the scenery surrounding the person in front of the window glass 20 is reflected on the outer surface 20A of the window glass 20, making the imaging unit 100A difficult to see and the presence of the camera 120 unlikely to be noticed. Furthermore, the camera 120, which is covered by the low refractive index layer 140, becomes particularly difficult to see from outside the window glass 20.

[0064] Therefore, an imaging device 100 that is difficult to see can be provided. In addition, since the camera 120 is installed at a position higher than a person's height, it is possible to capture images that make it easy to understand the situation of the person being monitored outside the window glass 20.

[0065] Since the imaging unit 100A is installed on the interior side of the building 10 relative to the window glass 20, the installation of the imaging unit 100A can be handled as indoor work, making the installation process easier. Furthermore, because the imaging unit 100A is installed on the interior side of the building 10 relative to the window glass 20, the imaging unit 100A is not exposed to wind and rain, and the imaging unit 100A can be realized with a simple configuration that does not require a waterproof or dustproof structure.

[0066] The imaging unit 100A preferably includes a glass plate 110 to which the camera 120 is attached, and a mounting portion 130 for attaching the glass plate 110 to the inner surface of the window glass 20. With this configuration, the camera 120 can be stably fixed to the window glass 20 and can be easily fixed with a simple structure. Furthermore, it is preferable that the mounting portion 130 is transparent. With this configuration, the imaging unit 100A can be made difficult to see from the outside of the window glass 20, making it difficult to discover the camera 120.

[0067] Preferably, the imaging unit 100A further includes an antenna 150 formed on the surface of the glass plate 110 and composed of a metal mesh. With such a configuration, the imaging unit 100A can be used as an antenna unit, and in addition to capturing images of the area around the imaging unit 100A, wireless communication can be performed around the imaging unit 100A.

[0068] It is preferable that the antenna 150 be positioned relatively high on the window glass 20 of the building 10, facing the window glass 20. With this configuration, there are no obstacles between the antenna and the window glass 20, and radio waves can be efficiently radiated outwards from the window glass 20. As a result, the antenna 150 can form a communication area outside the window glass 20 that provides a relatively high throughput.

[0069] Furthermore, the antenna 150 is formed on the surface of the glass plate 110 and preferably includes wiring 121 connected to the camera 120, with the wiring 121 being made of a metal mesh. This configuration allows the wiring 121 to have high light transmittance, making it difficult to see even when installed on a transparent glass plate 110. As a result, the imaging unit 100A including the wiring 121 can be made difficult to see from the outside of the window glass 20, providing an imaging device 100 that is difficult to observe.

[0070] Preferably, the glass plate 110 has a hole 111 that accommodates at least a portion of the camera 120. With such a configuration, the camera 120 can be stably attached to the glass plate 110 with a simple structure.

[0071] Furthermore, it is preferable that the imaging device 100 is provided between the glass plate 110 and the window glass 20 and includes a low refractive index layer 140 having a refractive index lower than that of the window glass 20. This configuration increases the reflectivity to light incident from outside the window glass 20, making the camera 120 difficult to see from outside the window glass 20. When the imaging device 100 is used as a surveillance camera, it is less likely to raise suspicion if the camera 120 is not visible from outside the window glass 20 than if it is visible from outside the window glass 20, and it is easier to obtain images that represent people's behavior when they are not feeling threatened. In addition, if the camera 120 is not visible from outside the window glass 20, it is not apparent from outside the window glass 20 that there is a surveillance camera, and it is possible to give people outside the window glass 20 a subconscious awareness that the camera 120 may be installed somewhere out of sight, thus acting as a deterrent to crime.

[0072] Furthermore, when attaching the imaging unit 100A to various types of window glass 20 with different refractive indices, or to window glass 20 with various coatings applied to its surface with different refractive indices, if a variable refractive index layer, like electronic ink, is used as the low refractive index layer 140, the refractive index of the low refractive index layer 140 can be adjusted according to the refractive index of the window glass 20. Therefore, there is no need to manufacture different imaging units 100A depending on the refractive index of the window glass 20 or coatings, and an imaging device 100 can be provided that can handle various refractive indices of window glass 20 and coatings, thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

[0073] Furthermore, if a high refractive index layer (partial reflection layer) is provided on the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 and partially reflects light incident from the outside of the window glass 20 toward the camera 120, the refractive index of the window glass 20 is increased, providing an imaging device 100 that is less visible to the naked eye.

[0074] Furthermore, it is preferable that the high refractive index layer (partial reflection layer) be provided in the portion of the window glass 20 that is included in the field of view of the camera 120. In such a case, an imaging device 100 can be realized that is difficult to see from the outside of the window glass 20, while minimizing any impairment to the aesthetic design of the window glass 20.

[0075] In the above description, the device having a camera 120 and an antenna 150 was described as an imaging unit 100A, and the device including the imaging unit 100A having a camera 120 and an antenna 150, and a processing unit 100B having an image processing device 100B1 and a wireless communication device 100B2 was described as an imaging device 100. However, the imaging unit 100A may be considered as a camera-equipped antenna device (antenna unit). Also, the imaging device 100 may be considered as a camera-equipped wireless communication device. As described in this embodiment, if the wireless communication device 100B2 and antenna 150 function as a wireless base station for 5G communication, the imaging device 100 may be considered as a camera-equipped wireless base station.

[0076] <First variation> Figure 5 shows the imaging unit 100A1 of the first modified example. In Figure 5, the imaging unit 100A1 is shown in a cross-section corresponding to Figure 2D. The imaging unit 100A1 has a configuration that adds an overhang 160, a matching layer 170, and a mesh cover 180 to the imaging unit 100A shown in Figure 2. The mesh cover 180 is an example of a mesh. The imaging unit 100A1 does not have the low refractive index layer 140 shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0077] The canopy 160 is provided on the top surface of the inner wall of the hole 111, on the +X direction side (upper side), parallel to the YZ plane. The canopy 160 is, for example, a resin layer formed by applying a light-shielding paint to the top surface of the hole 111. The resin layer for the canopy 160 only needs to have light-shielding properties, and for example, it is black. Such a canopy 160 is provided on the top surface of the hole 111 on the +Z direction side (outside from the camera 120) of the center of the thickness of the lens 120A in the Z direction (optical axis direction). In other words, the canopy 160 extends from the lens 120A of the camera 120 toward the window glass 20.

[0078] The canopy 160 is provided to obtain a clear image of the subject by blocking light that enters the lens 120A from above when the camera 120 is capturing an image. By providing the canopy 160, a shadow can be cast on the underside of the canopy 160. The canopy 160 is provided to suppress situations where backlighting occurs, such as from sunlight or streetlights, thereby suppressing underexposure or overexposure in the image. In addition, by providing the canopy 160, the camera 120 can be made difficult to see from the direction in which the canopy 160 is located. Furthermore, by providing the canopy 160, sunlight and indoor lighting from the building 10 are less likely to hit the camera 120, making it difficult to see the camera 120 from outside the building 10.

[0079] In this description, the canopy 160 is provided on the top surface of the inner wall of the hole 111. However, the position of the canopy 160 should be set to an appropriate position depending on the environment at the installation location of the imaging unit 100A1. Furthermore, when the canopy 160 is provided on the top surface of the hole 111, it may be provided over the entire top surface.

[0080] The matching layer 170 is a transparent (colorless and transparent) layer provided within the hole 111 so as to cover the surface of the lens 120A. The matching layer 170 is a refractive index matching layer that mitigates the difference in refractive index between the lens 120A and the window glass 20. The refractive index of the matching layer 170 is a value between the refractive index of the lens 120A and the refractive index of the window glass 20. As such a matching layer 170, for example, a sheet-like material made of a resin capable of realizing an optical waveguide such as an optical fiber can be used. By providing the matching layer 170 between the lens 120A and the window glass 20, the camera 120 can acquire a clearer image.

[0081] Here, we will describe a configuration in which a sheet-like member as described above is used as the matching layer 170. However, instead of the matching layer 170, a sheet-like member composed of a metamaterial having a negative refractive index, or a sheet-like member composed of a chiral medium having non-reciprocal refractive indices, may be used. The refractive index of a sheet-like member composed of a metamaterial can be controlled. A sheet-like member composed of a chiral medium can be configured to have different polarization characteristics depending on the direction of incidence, and the refractive index can be controlled by utilizing these differences in polarization characteristics.

[0082] The mesh cover 180 is provided on the window glass 20 side surface of the glass plate 110 and covers the lens 120A of the camera 120. Similar to the awning 160, the mesh cover 180 is provided to obtain a clear image of the subject by blocking the light that enters the lens 120A from above when the camera 120 takes an image. The mesh cover 180 is made of a metal such as aluminum, silver, iron, or stainless steel, or a resin such as polyester or polyvinyl chloride, with mesh-like perforations. The mesh cover 180 may have adhesive properties by applying an adhesive to its surface, and the adhesive mesh cover 180 may be used by bonding it to a light-transmitting resin plate such as polycarbonate or a glass plate.

[0083] Such a mesh cover 180 has light transmission due to its mesh-like perforations. Furthermore, by setting the direction of the perforations in the mesh cover 180, the mesh cover 180 can be selectively given the direction in which it transmits light. Therefore, like the awning 160, the mesh cover 180 can block light incident on the lens 120A from above when the camera 120 is taking images.

[0084] The mesh cover 180 may have its surface on the lens 120A side made black or the like, thereby lowering the reflectivity of the surface on the lens 120A side to that of the window glass 20 side. By lowering the reflectivity of the lens 120A side surface to that of the window glass 20 side surface, the mesh cover 180 can be selective in the direction in which it transmits light, thereby blocking the light incident on the lens 120A when the camera 120 takes an image. The reflectivity of the mesh cover 180 is measured, for example, in accordance with JIS R 3106:1998.

[0085] The mesh line width is preferably 100 μm to 3 mm, and more preferably 300 μm to 1 mm. The mesh line spacing is preferably 0.5 mm to 50 mm, more preferably 0.7 mm to 5 mm, and even more preferably 0.8 mm to 2 mm. The mesh opening ratio is preferably 30 to 80%, and more preferably 40 to 60%. The opening shape of the mesh holes may be square or rhombic, etc. Furthermore, the mesh cover 180 has a visible light transmittance of 20% to 90% based on a standard A light source as defined in JIS R 3106:1998.

[0086] The imaging unit 100A1 of the first modified example described above is difficult to see from the outside of the building 10, just like the imaging unit 100A. Therefore, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is difficult to see and capable of capturing clearer images.

[0087] In this description, the imaging unit 100A has a canopy 160 and a mesh cover 180 to block light entering the lens 120A from above. However, the configuration may include either the canopy 160 or the mesh cover 180. The configuration should include at least one of the canopy 160 or the mesh cover 180 depending on the light incidence conditions at the installation location of the imaging unit 100A1.

[0088] <Second variation> Figure 6 shows the second modified imaging unit 100A2. In Figure 6, the imaging unit 100A2 is shown in a cross-section corresponding to Figure 2D. The imaging unit 100A2 has a configuration in which the glass plate 110 of the imaging unit 100A shown in Figure 2 is replaced with a glass plate 110A, and a matching layer 170 is added.

[0089] The glass plate 110A has a configuration in which the hole 111 (see Figure 2) of the glass plate 110 is replaced with a hole 111A. The hole 111A is, for example, a hole that is recessed in the thickness direction (Z direction) from the surface on the -Z direction side of the glass plate 110A. The hole 111A has a configuration in which the +Z direction side of the hole 111 of the glass plate 110 is closed. The shape of the opening of the hole 111A on the surface on the -Z direction side of the glass plate 110A is matched to the outer shape of the camera 120 housed inside, and is, for example, rectangular.

[0090] The hole 111A is provided with a camera 120 and a matching layer 170. The wiring connected to the camera 120 housed in the hole 111A of the glass plate 110A (corresponding to the wiring 121 in Figure 2A) should be provided on the surface of the glass plate 110A on the -Z side. Here, as an example, a configuration in which the hole 111A houses the entire camera 120 is described, but the hole 111A only needs to house at least a part of the camera 120. That is, a part of the camera 120 may protrude from the hole 111A in the -Z direction.

[0091] The matching layer 170 is located inside the hole 111A, further back than the lens 120A. Since the matching layer 170 is identical to the matching layer 170 of the imaging unit 100A1 of the first modified example, its description is omitted here.

[0092] In this manner, the imaging unit 100A2, with the camera 120 installed inside the hole 111A, can capture images of subjects outside the window glass 20 using the camera 120, just like the imaging unit 100A. Therefore, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is difficult to see. Furthermore, since the glass plate 110A has a hole 111A that accommodates at least a part of the camera 120, the camera 120 can be stably attached to the glass plate 110A with a simple configuration.

[0093] The hole 111A may also be a recess in the thickness direction (Z direction) from the surface of the glass plate 110A on the +Z direction side. In this case, the glass plate 110A will not be in front of the lens 120A of the camera 120.

[0094] Furthermore, if there is a risk of condensation forming on the glass plate 110A, an anti-fog film may be provided on at least the portion of the glass plate 110A located in front of the lens 120A (the portion located on the +Z side of the hole 111A). The anti-fog film may be attached to the glass plate 110A via a film having an adhesive layer. By providing an anti-fog film on the glass plate 110A, the occurrence of condensation can be suppressed, and a clear image can be obtained with the camera 120.

[0095] <Third variation> Figure 7 shows the imaging unit 100A3 of the third modified example. In Figure 7, the imaging unit 100A3 is shown in a cross-section corresponding to Figure 2D. The imaging unit 100A3 has a configuration in which the glass plate 110 of the imaging unit 100A shown in Figure 2D is replaced with a glass plate 110M and an overhang 160 is added.

[0096] The glass plate 110M has a hole 111M that is formed at an angle such that the +Z side is located lower than the -Z side, and a projection 112M that protrudes in the +Z direction above the portion of the glass plate 110M in which the hole 111M is provided. The hole 111M is formed at an angle to the surface of the glass plate 110M.

[0097] When the camera 120 is housed in such an opening 111M as shown in Figure 7, the lens 120A faces downwards. This makes it easier to photograph people outside the window glass 20 from above. Furthermore, by attaching the imaging unit 100A3 to the inside of a window glass 20 on a high floor, such as the second or third floor or higher of a building 10, it becomes possible to image a wider area.

[0098] The protruding portion 112M protrudes in the +Z direction from the portion of the glass plate 110M in which the hole 111M is provided, and a visor 160 is provided on its lower surface. The protruding portion 112M is a part of the glass plate 110M and is transparent (colorless and transparent). Therefore, when imaging with the camera 120, the visor 160 blocks the light incident on the lens 120A from above, allowing for the acquisition of a clear image of the subject.

[0099] Therefore, it is possible to provide an imaging device that is difficult to see and capable of capturing clearer images over a wider area.

[0100] The hole 111M may be formed at an angle such that the +Z direction side is positioned higher than the -Z direction side. In this case, the lens 120A will face upward. For example, when imaging a subject that is above the height at which the camera 120 is installed, the lens 120A should be pointed upward in this manner.

[0101] <Fourth variation> Figure 8 shows the imaging unit 100A4 of the fourth modified example. The imaging unit 100A4 has a configuration in which the mounting portion 130 of the imaging unit 100A' shown in Figure 4 is replaced with a mounting portion 130M. When the imaging unit 100A4 is viewed from the XZ plane, the mounting portion 130M has a trapezoidal shape in which the lower base is longer than the upper base. Here, the upper base is the upper bottom edge of the trapezoidal shape of the mounting portion 130M, and the lower base is the lower bottom edge of the trapezoidal shape of the mounting portion 130M. Viewing the imaging unit 100A4 from the XZ plane is equivalent to viewing the imaging unit 100A4 from the side.

[0102] When the glass plate 110 is attached to the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 via such a mounting part 130M, the surface of the glass plate 110 facing the window glass 20 is tilted downwards, causing the lens 120A of the camera 120 to point downwards. This makes it easier to photograph people outside the window glass 20 from above. Furthermore, by attaching the imaging unit 100A4 to the inside of a window glass 20 on a high floor, such as the second or third floor or higher of a building 10, a wider area can be captured.

[0103] Therefore, an imaging device capable of capturing clearer images over a wider area can be provided. In addition, because the glass plate 110 is mounted at an angle, the camera 120 can be pointed downwards without having to mount the camera 120 at an angle to the glass plate 110.

[0104] Such a mounting portion 130M is a mounting portion that mounts the glass plate 110 at an angle to the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 such that the distance between the lower end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 is greater than the distance between the upper end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20.

[0105] Furthermore, the shape of the mounting portion 130M in side view is not limited to a trapezoidal shape; any shape is acceptable as long as the distance between the lower end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 is greater than the distance between the upper end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20. For example, the shape of the mounting portion 130M in side view may be triangular. Also, for example, the mounting portion 130M may have protrusions on its upper and lower ends that project toward the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 and are fixed to the surface 20B, with the upper protrusion being shorter in length than the lower protrusion.

[0106] Furthermore, the trapezoidal shape of the mounting portion 130M may be such that, when the imaging unit 100A4 is viewed from the side, the lower base is shorter than the upper base. In this case, the lens 120A will face upward. For example, when imaging a subject that is above the height at which the camera 120 is installed, the mounting portion 130M, which has a trapezoidal shape with a lower base shorter than the upper base, can be used to face the lens 120A upward. Because the glass plate 110 is mounted at an angle, the camera 120 can be faced upward without having to mount the camera 120 at an angle to the glass plate 110.

[0107] In this case, the mounting portion 130M is a mounting portion that mounts the glass plate 110 at an angle to the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 such that the distance between the lower end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 is narrower than the distance between the upper end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20.

[0108] Furthermore, the shape of the mounting portion 130M in side view is not limited to a trapezoidal shape. Any shape is acceptable as long as the distance between the lower end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 is narrower than the distance between the upper end of the glass plate 110 and the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20. For example, the shape of the mounting portion 130M in side view may be triangular. Also, for example, the mounting portion 130M may have protrusions on its upper and lower ends that project toward the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20 and are fixed to the surface 20B, with the upper protrusion being longer than the lower protrusion.

[0109] Furthermore, the mounting section 130M may have an angle-adjustable mechanism that allows for variable adjustment of the angle at which the glass plate 110 is installed relative to the inner surface 20B of the window glass 20. In this case, for example, the angle of the glass plate 110 can be changed according to the time of day or season, and the range captured by the camera 120 can be changed. In addition, the angle-adjustable mechanism of the mounting section 130M may allow the angle of the glass plate 110 to be changed to either downward or upward.

[0110] Although an exemplary embodiment of the imaging device of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the specifically disclosed embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the claims. Furthermore, the entire contents of the specification, claims, drawings, and abstract of Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-013719, filed on January 29, 2021, are incorporated herein by reference as disclosure of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0111] 10. Buildings (Examples of structures) 20 Window glass 100 Imaging device 100A, 100A1, 100A2, 100A3, 100A4 Imaging Unit 100B Processing Unit 100B1 Image Processing Device 100B2 Wireless communication equipment 110, 110A, 110M Glass Plate (Example of transparent plate and fixing part) 111, 111M Hole section (Example of a housing section) 111A Hole section (Example of a housing section) 120 Camera (Example of an imaging unit) 130, 130M Mounting section (Example of a fixing section) 140 Low refractive index layer (an example of a low refractive index layer and a variable refractive index layer) 150 antennas 160 Canopy 170 Matching layer 180 Mesh cover (an example of mesh)

Claims

1. An imaging unit is installed inside the window glass of a building and captures images of the outside of the window glass through the window glass, A fixing part that fixes the imaging unit toward the window glass and An imaging device including, The aforementioned fixing part is A transparent plate to which the imaging unit is attached, Mounting portion for attaching the transparent plate to the inner surface of the window glass It has, An imaging device further comprising a light-transmitting antenna formed on the transparent plate.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the antenna is made of a metal mesh.

3. An imaging unit is installed inside the window glass of a building and captures images of the outside of the window glass through the window glass, An imaging device including a fixing part for fixing the imaging part toward the window glass, The aforementioned fixing part is A transparent plate to which the imaging unit is attached, Mounting portion for attaching the transparent plate to the inner surface of the window glass It has, The transparent plate further includes wiring formed therein and connected to the imaging unit, The aforementioned wiring is a light-transmitting imaging device.

4. The transparent plate further includes wiring formed therein and connected to the imaging unit, The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wiring is light-transmitting.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the wiring is made of a metal mesh.

6. The transparent plate has a housing portion that houses at least a part of the imaging unit, The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing portion is a hole that penetrates the transparent plate in the thickness direction, or a hole that is recessed in the thickness direction from the surface of the transparent plate.

7. The imaging device according to claim 6, wherein the hole or opening serving as the housing portion is formed at an angle to the surface of the transparent plate.

8. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the transparent plate has an overhang that extends toward the window glass side beyond the lens of the imaging unit.

9. An imaging unit is installed inside the window glass of a building and captures images of the outside of the window glass through the window glass, An imaging device including a fixing part for fixing the imaging part toward the window glass, The aforementioned fixing part is A transparent plate to which the imaging unit is attached, Mounting portion for attaching the transparent plate to the inner surface of the window glass It has, An imaging device further comprising a mesh provided on the window glass side surface of the transparent plate and covering the lens of the imaging unit.

10. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a mesh provided on the window glass side surface of the transparent plate and covering the lens of the imaging unit.

11. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the reflectance of the surface on the lens side of the mesh is lower than the reflectance of the surface on the window glass side.

12. An imaging unit is installed inside the window glass of a building and captures images of the outside of the window glass through the window glass, An imaging device including a fixing part for fixing the imaging part toward the window glass, The aforementioned fixing part is A transparent plate to which the imaging unit is attached, Mounting portion for attaching the transparent plate to the inner surface of the window glass It has, An imaging device further comprising a low refractive index layer provided between the transparent plate and the window glass, having a refractive index lower than that of the window glass.

13. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a low refractive index layer provided between the transparent plate and the window glass, having a refractive index lower than that of the window glass.

14. The imaging apparatus according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the low refractive index layer is a variable refractive index layer with a variable refractive index.

15. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a partial reflection layer provided on the inner surface of the window glass, which partially reflects light incident from the outside of the window glass toward the imaging unit.

16. The imaging apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the partial reflective layer is provided in the portion of the window glass that is included in the field of view of the imaging unit.

Images