Surveillance system and surveillance method using wearable camera having automatic image storage function

Abstract

The present invention provides a surveillance system comprising multiple cameras, the surveillance system comprising: a first camera which has master control authority for transmitting an image capture and storage command, and which transmits a wireless signal including the image capture and storage command to another camera within a preset communication range; and a second camera for performing image capture and storage in response to the image capture and storage command received from the first camera, transmitting a response signal to the image capture and storage command to the first camera, and receiving the master control authority from the first camera in response to the response signal so as to transmit, while having the master control authority, the wireless signal including the image capture and storage command to another camera within the preset communication range.

Description

Surveillance system and surveillance method using a body-worn camera equipped with automatic video recording function

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a surveillance system and a surveillance method using a body-worn camera equipped with an automatic image storage function.

[0002] The purpose of wearing a body-worn camera is to allow the subject being filmed to be aware that video and audio recording are taking place in dangerous situations, emergencies, or customer interaction situations, thereby deterring dangerous situations such as threats or violence against the wearer, or to store evidence video and audio in the camera in preparation for cases where legal evidence is required, such as dangerous situations. Since body-worn cameras capture objects within the imaging angle range of the video signal input rather than the wearer themselves, they are configured to save video only when the recording button is pressed to protect personal information. In the case of such cameras, there are usage limitations because video cannot be saved if the wearer is unable to press the recording button due to an attack or accident. To compensate for these drawbacks, some cameras include a function that automatically starts recording when a sudden change occurs in the camera using auxiliary sensors such as accelerometers. Additionally, research has been conducted on camera systems that wirelessly link a single camera and controller or multiple cameras and controllers to enable simultaneous video recording on other cameras via the controller when the recording button of a specific camera is pressed.

[0003] In existing technology, when a camera wearer presses the video recording button, a signal indicating that video recording has started is transmitted to a controller within the vehicle. Upon receiving the signal that the camera's video has been recorded, the controller transmits a command to another camera via a wireless signal to start recording the video. However, if the camera wearer moves out of the recognition range with the controller, it becomes impossible to transmit or receive signals to or from other cameras. Consequently, this has the disadvantage that simultaneous video recording and recording are impossible even if the wearer of another camera is within the wireless recognition range between the cameras, which undermines the important purpose of body-worn cameras to store video and audio evidence.

[0004] The present invention aims to solve various problems, including those mentioned above, by providing a surveillance system and a surveillance method using a body-worn camera equipped with an automatic video storage function. However, these problems are exemplary and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a surveillance system comprising multiple cameras is provided, comprising: a first camera having master authority to transmit a command to capture and save images and transmitting a wireless signal containing said command to another camera within a preset communication range; and a second camera that performs image capture and saving in response to said command to capture and save images received from the first camera, transmits a response signal to said command to the first camera, and in response to said response signal, receives the master authority from the first camera and transmits a wireless signal containing said command to another camera within a preset communication range having said master authority.

[0006] The first camera and the second camera may have information about other cameras in the surveillance system and information about cameras within a preset communication range from each camera.

[0007] The second camera can check whether all cameras in the surveillance system communicating with each other are recording images, check information about a deactivated camera that is not recording images and a third camera within a preset communication range, and transfer the master authority to the third camera to transmit the image recording and saving command to the deactivated camera through the third camera.

[0008] The first camera can check whether it receives a response signal for the image capture and storage command from another camera within a preset communication range, and can gradually increase the transmission power of the wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command depending on whether it receives the response signal.

[0009] The first camera can check the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other, and transfer the master authority to the fourth camera that is connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0010] The first camera above may transfer the master authority to the fifth camera among the cameras in the surveillance system that transmitted the response signal to the image capture and storage command the fastest.

[0011] The first camera can check the reception sensitivity of each camera among all cameras in the surveillance system communicating with each other, and transfer the master authority to the sixth camera having the lowest reception sensitivity among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0012] The first camera and the second camera may have cluster information of cameras included in a cluster by setting cameras that capture the same shooting target among the information of other cameras in the surveillance system into a cluster.

[0013] When a new seventh camera enters the preset communication range of the second camera, the second camera checks whether the seventh camera is a camera included in the cluster based on the cluster information, and if the seventh camera is a camera included in the cluster, it can receive the master authority and transmit a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command to the seventh camera with the master authority.

[0014] When the 8th camera newly enters the preset communication range of the 2nd camera, the 2nd camera checks whether the 8th camera is a camera included in the cluster based on the cluster information, and if the 8th camera is not a camera included in the cluster, it receives the master authority and includes the 8th camera in the cluster using the master authority, and can transmit a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command to the 8th camera.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, a body-worn camera is provided for a surveillance system comprising multiple cameras, the body-worn camera comprising a processor, a communication module, and a memory for storing instructions executable by said processor, wherein the processor has master authority to transmit a video capture and storage command and transmits a wireless signal containing said video capture and storage command to another camera within a preset communication range, receives a response signal for said video capture and storage command, and transfers master authority in response to said response signal.

[0016] The processor can check whether it receives a response signal for the image capture and storage command from another camera within a preset communication range, and can gradually increase the transmission power of the wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command depending on whether it receives the response signal.

[0017] The above processor can check the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other, and transfer the master authority to the camera that is connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present invention, a surveillance method is provided for a surveillance system including multiple cameras, comprising the steps of: transmitting a wireless signal containing a command to capture and save images to another camera within a preset communication range, having a master authority to transmit a command to capture and save images; and receiving a response signal for the command to capture and save images, and transferring the master authority in response to the response signal.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, a computer program stored in a recording medium is provided to execute the above-described method using a computer.

[0020] Other aspects, features, and advantages other than those described above will become clear from the following specific details, claims, and drawings for implementing the invention.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention as described above, a surveillance system and a surveillance method using a body-worn camera equipped with an automatic image storage function can be implemented, in which adjacent cameras can capture and store images regardless of the actions of the camera wearer through the transmission and reception of wireless signals between cameras.

[0022] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the limitations of existing structures, which cannot transmit commands to adjacent cameras when the distance between the controller and the camera increases, can be improved through direct connection, and the system configuration can be simplified since a separate controller is unnecessary. Of course, the scope of the present invention is not limited by these effects.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the configuration and operation of a monitoring system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration and operation of a body-worn camera included in a surveillance system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining an example of a monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 4 is a drawing for illustrating an example of a monitoring system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transferring master authority of a camera according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transferring master authority of a camera according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an example of a monitoring system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033]

[0034] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. The effects and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various forms.

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. When describing with reference to the drawings, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0036] In the following embodiments, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used not in a limiting sense, but for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. Also, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, terms such as "include" or "have" mean that the feature or component described in the specification exists, and do not exclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0037] In the drawings, the size of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0038] In the following embodiments, when a part such as a region, component, section, block, or module is described as being on or above another part, it includes not only cases where it is directly on top of the other part, but also cases where another region, component, section, block, or module is interposed therein. Furthermore, when a region, component, section, block, or module is described as being connected, it includes not only cases where the region, component, section, block, or module is directly connected, but also cases where other regions, components, sections, blocks, or modules are interposed therein to indirectly connect them.

[0039] Hereinafter, in order to enable a person skilled in the art to easily practice the present invention, various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the configuration and operation of a surveillance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the configuration and operation of a body-worn camera included in a surveillance system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] First, referring to FIG. 1, a surveillance system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a first camera (100), a second camera (200), a third camera (300), a fourth camera (400), and a fifth camera (500). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the surveillance system (1) may include additional other components, or some components may be omitted. Some components of the surveillance system (1) may be separated into a plurality of devices, or a plurality of components may be merged into a single device. For example, FIG. 1 shows five cameras, but is not limited thereto, and the surveillance system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include two or more cameras.

[0042] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the first camera (100), the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500) can be connected to a network to exchange data with each other. For example, the first camera (100), the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500) can be connected to a wireless network to exchange data with each other.

[0043] The first camera (100), the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500) may represent cameras that photograph objects. For example, the first camera (100), the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500) may be provided in a surveillance system. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the first camera (100) is a master camera having the authority of a master camera within the surveillance system, and the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500) may be slave cameras.

[0044] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first camera (100) may transfer the authority of the master camera to another camera within the surveillance system. In this case, the camera that has received the authority of the master camera becomes the master camera, and the other camera within the surveillance system including the first camera (100) may be a slave camera. For example, the master camera having the authority of the master camera may transmit video capture and storage commands to other cameras within the surveillance system.

[0045] The following description of the first camera (100) may be applied equally to the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500). For example, the first camera (100) may represent a camera device that performs image capture, image storage, and voice recording. For example, the first camera (100) may be a body-worn camera.

[0046] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a first camera (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a memory (110), a processor (120), a communication module (130), a user interface module (150), and a shooting module (140). Below, the memory (110), processor (120), communication module (130), user interface module (150), and shooting module (140), which are components of the first camera (100), will be described, but the following description may be the same for the components of the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500).

[0047] The communication module (130) may provide a function for communicating with an external device via a network. For example, a request generated by the processor (120) of the first camera (100) according to program code stored in a recording device such as memory (110) may be transmitted to an external device via a network under the control of the communication module (130). Conversely, control signals, commands, content, files, etc. provided by an external device may be received by the first camera (100) via the communication module (130) through the network. For example, control signals or commands, etc. from an external device received through the communication module (130) may be transmitted to the processor (120) or memory (110).

[0048] The communication method is not limited and may include not only communication methods utilizing communication networks that the network may include (e.g., mobile communication networks, wired internet, wireless internet, broadcasting networks), but also short-range wireless communication between devices. For example, the network may include one or more arbitrary networks among networks such as PAN (personal area network), LAN (local area network), CAN (campus area network), MAN (metropolitan area network), WAN (wide area network), BBN (broadband network), and the Internet. Additionally, the network may include one or more network topologies including, but is not limited to, bus networks, star networks, ring networks, mesh networks, star-bus networks, tree or hierarchical networks. Furthermore, the communication module (130) may communicate with an external server via the network. Although the communication method is not limited, the network may be a short-range wireless communication network. For example, the network may be a Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), or Wi-Fi communication network.

[0049] The user interface module (150) may be a means for interfacing with an input / output device. For example, the input device may include a device such as a keyboard or a mouse, and the output device may include a device such as a display for displaying a communication session of an application. As another example, the user interface module (150) may be a means for interfacing with a device in which the functions for input and output are integrated into one, such as a touchscreen. As a more specific example, when the processor (120) processes instructions of a computer program loaded in memory (110), a service screen or content configured using data provided by an external device may be displayed on a display through the user interface module (150).

[0050] The shooting module (140) may be a means for shooting and recording video signals and audio signals. For example, the shooting module (140) may perform functions of inputting, detecting, processing, and storing video signals, and functions of inputting, processing, and storing audio signals.

[0051] The memory (110) may include a storage device such as a Solid State Drive (SSD). Alternatively, the memory (110) may include a computer-readable recording medium such as Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), and Permanent Mass Storage Devices such as Disk Drives. Additionally, program code for controlling the first camera (100) may be stored in the memory (110) temporarily or permanently. For example, captured video signals and recorded audio signals may be stored in the memory (110).

[0052] The processor (120) can control the overall operation of the first camera (100). For example, the processor (120) may be implemented in a form that optionally includes a processor, an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), other chipsets, logic circuits, registers, communication modems and / or data processing devices known in the art to perform the above-described operation. For example, the processor (120) may perform basic arithmetic, logic, and input / output operations and, for example, execute program code stored in memory (110). The processor (120) may store data in memory (110) or load data stored in memory (110).

[0053] These processors (120) and components of the processor (120) may be implemented to execute instructions according to the code of an operating system contained in memory (110) and the code of at least one program. Here, the components of the processor (120) may be representations of different functions of the processor (120) that are performed by the processor (120) according to instructions provided by the program code stored in memory (110).

[0054] A first camera (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be equipped with an auxiliary power source to enable movement between locations. Additionally, the first camera (100) may include auxiliary functions such as changing or notifying camera settings, detecting the surrounding environment, and may include a wireless communication function for communicating with a control center or controller or determining the location of the wearer.

[0055] A processor (120) according to one embodiment of the present invention may transmit a wireless signal containing an image capture and storage command to another camera within a preset communication range, having master authority to transmit an image capture and storage command. Additionally, the processor (120) may receive a response signal for the image capture and storage command. Additionally, the processor (120) may transfer master authority in response to the response signal.

[0056] For example, the processor (120) can check whether it receives a response signal for the image capture and storage command from another camera within a preset communication range. Additionally, the processor (120) can gradually increase the transmission power of the wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command depending on whether it receives the response signal.

[0057] For example, the processor (120) can determine the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other. Additionally, the processor (120) can transfer the master authority to the camera that is connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0058] In a method for monitoring using multiple cameras in a monitoring system including multiple cameras according to one embodiment of the present invention, the monitoring method according to one embodiment of the present invention can be performed by a processor (120) of a first camera (100).

[0059] A monitoring method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the step of transmitting a wireless signal containing an image capturing and saving command to another camera within a preset communication range, having master authority to transmit an image capturing and saving command. Subsequently, a monitoring method according to one embodiment of the present invention may include the step of receiving a response signal for the image capturing and saving command and transferring master authority in response to the response signal.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining an example of a monitoring system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, an example of a surveillance system including multiple cameras according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. For example, the surveillance system of FIG. 3 may include a first camera (100), a second camera (200), a third camera (300), a fourth camera (400), a fifth camera (500), a sixth camera (600), a seventh camera (700), and an eighth camera (800) that capture and store images of a target (900).

[0062] The first camera (100) has master authority to transmit video capture and storage commands and can transmit a wireless signal containing video capture and storage commands to other cameras within a preset communication range. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the first camera (100) can transmit a wireless signal containing video capture and storage commands to the second camera (200) and the eighth camera (800) within the communication range (10). For example, the communication range (10) can be preset by the reach of the wireless communication system (e.g., recognition range). In this case, the second camera (200) and the eighth camera (800) can transmit a response signal for the video capture and storage commands to the first camera (100).

[0063] The second camera (200) can perform image capture and storage in response to an image capture and storage command received from the first camera (100). Additionally, the second camera (200) can transmit a response signal to the image capture and storage command to the first camera (100). Furthermore, the second camera (200) can receive master authority from the first camera (100) in response to the response signal. For example, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to the second camera (200) that transmits the response signal to the image capture and storage command the fastest among the second camera (200) and the eighth camera (800).

[0064] Additionally, the second camera (200) may have master authority and transmit a wireless signal containing a command to capture and save an image to another camera within a preset communication range. For example, the second camera (200) may transmit a wireless signal containing a command to capture and save an image to a third camera (300) within the communication range.

[0065] The first camera (100) and the second camera (200) may have information about other cameras within the surveillance system and information about cameras within a preset communication range from each camera. For example, all cameras within the surveillance system may have information about all paired cameras. For example, the first camera (100) may have information about the second camera (200) through the eighth camera (800).

[0066] Additionally, all cameras within the surveillance system may exchange signals with each other and possess information about cameras within a preset communication range from each camera. For example, the first camera (100) may possess information about cameras within a preset communication range from each of the second camera (200) to the eighth camera (800). In this case, the first camera (100) can know that the fifth camera (500) and the seventh camera (700) are within the communication range of the sixth camera (600).

[0067] In addition, all cameras within the surveillance system can exchange signals with each other to check whether each camera is recording video. For example, the first camera (100) can check whether each camera of the second camera (200) through the eighth camera (800) is recording video.

[0068] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, when the wearer of the first camera (100) presses the save button or video saving is initiated by a sudden movement, the first camera (100) can become a master and transmit a wireless signal containing a video saving command to the surroundings.

[0069] In FIG. 3, since the second camera (200) and the eighth camera (800) are within the wireless recognition range of the first camera (100), these two cameras can receive a signal from the first camera (100) and start capturing and saving images. Additionally, after receiving a signal that image saving has started, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to the camera that responds first, either the second camera (200) or the eighth camera (800). If the response from the second camera (200) reaches the first camera (100) first, the second camera (200) can transmit a signal containing an image saving command toward the other camera with master authority.

[0070] Subsequently, the third camera (300) within the wireless recognition range receives a video storage command from the new master, the second camera (200), and transmits a signal to the second camera (200) indicating that it will start video storage. After receiving this signal, the second camera (200) transfers the master authority back to the third camera (300).

[0071] For example, in a surveillance system according to one embodiment of the present invention, all cameras may possess information about other cameras. Additionally, each camera of the surveillance system may transmit information about a camera where video is currently stored or a camera that previously served as a master during the master transfer process.

[0072] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, if the master transfer process is repeated, the first camera (100) starts capturing and saving images, and then all cameras can automatically capture and save images in the order of the second camera (200), the eighth camera (800), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), the fifth camera (500), the sixth camera (600), and the seventh camera (700). In addition, since no further wireless signal transmission or reception takes place after the last camera (e.g., the seventh camera (700)) starts capturing and saving images within the surveillance system, power consumption for transmitting wireless signals can be minimized.

[0073] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a monitoring system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 4, an example of a surveillance system including multiple cameras according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. For example, the surveillance system of FIG. 4 may include a first camera (100), a second camera (200), a third camera (300), a fourth camera (400), a fifth camera (500), a sixth camera (600), a seventh camera (700), and an eighth camera (800) that capture and store images of a target (900). Additionally, referring to FIG. 5, a flowchart of a surveillance method for an embodiment of the surveillance system of FIG. 4 is illustrated.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when master authority is transferred in the order of the first camera (100), the fourth camera (400), and the fifth camera (500), the fifth camera (500) can check whether video recording is being performed by all cameras within the surveillance system that communicate with each other. Additionally, the fifth camera (500) can check information about inactive cameras that do not record video (e.g., the sixth camera (600), the seventh camera (700)) and the eighth camera (800) that is within a preset communication range. Furthermore, the fifth camera (500) can transfer master authority to the eighth camera (800) and transmit video recording and storage commands to the inactive cameras (e.g., the sixth camera (600), the seventh camera (700)) through the eighth camera (800). In this case, the fifth camera (500) can transfer master authority in the order of the fourth camera (400), the first camera (100), and the eighth camera (800).

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 together, in steps S111, S112, and S113, all cameras within the surveillance system have information about other cameras, and each camera can check information about cameras within its area. In this case, information about all cameras within the surveillance system can be stored by checking whether the camera information has changed.

[0077] In step S114, when the first camera (100) becomes the master, video recording and storage can begin at the first camera (100).

[0078] In steps S115 and S116, the first camera (100) transmits an image storage command to the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the eighth camera (800) within the communication range (10) of the first camera (100), and image storage may begin at the second camera (200), the third camera (300), the fourth camera (400), and the eighth camera (800). Additionally, the first camera (100) may check whether it has received signals from all cameras within the communication range (10).

[0079] In step S117, if the first camera (100) receives a response from the fourth camera (400) first, the fourth camera (400) becomes the master, and then the fifth camera (500) can become the master.

[0080] In steps S118, S119, and S120, the fifth camera (500) can check cameras within the communication range, send a video storage command to cameras within the communication range, and check whether it has received signals from all cameras within the communication range.

[0081] In step S121, the fifth camera (500) can check whether video recording and storage have started from all cameras in the surveillance system, as there is no camera to transfer master authority within the communication range.

[0082] In step S122, the sixth camera (600) and the seventh camera (700) are outside the communication range (50) of the fifth camera (500), and the sixth camera (600) and the seventh camera (700) are unable to receive image storage commands. The fifth camera can identify the sixth camera (600) and the seventh camera (700) as disabled cameras.

[0083] In step S123, the fifth camera (500) can check camera information within the communication range of each camera in the surveillance system.

[0084] In step S124, the fifth camera (500) can identify the master (e.g., the eighth camera (800)) of the sixth camera (600) and the seventh camera (700), which are inactive cameras.

[0085] In step S125, the 5th camera (500) can again transfer master authority to the 4th camera (400), the 1st camera (100), and the 8th camera (800) in that order.

[0086] In steps S126, S127, and S128, the eighth camera (800) enables images to be stored from the sixth camera (600) and the seventh camera (700).

[0087] In step S129, the eighth camera (800) can confirm that video recording and storage have been performed on all cameras within the surveillance system. Through this process, video can be stored simultaneously on all cameras within the surveillance system that possess information.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 6, the first camera (100) can check whether it receives a response signal for an image capture and storage command from another camera within a preset communication range. Additionally, the first camera (100) can gradually increase the transmission power of a wireless signal containing an image capture and storage command depending on whether it receives a response signal.

[0090] The camera operates to minimize battery consumption in order to secure operating time, but if a camera cannot be detected within the communication range, it may temporarily increase transmission power to establish a connection with another camera. In this case, the camera may minimize power consumption by dividing the camera's transmission power into several stages and increasing it step by step.

[0091] In step S211, the first camera (100) can check information about the camera within the communication range.

[0092] In steps S212 and S213, the first camera (100) checks whether communication with cameras within the communication range is possible, and if there are no cameras within the communication range that can communicate, it can increase the wireless output power. In this case, the communication range of the first camera (100) can be expanded as the wireless output increases.

[0093] In step S214, the first camera (100) can form a cluster and share information about the cluster with other cameras. For example, the first camera (100) may have cluster information of the cameras included in the cluster by setting cameras that capture the same shooting target among the information of other cameras in the surveillance system into a single cluster.

[0094] In steps S215, S216, and S217, the first camera (100) starts capturing and saving images, transmits a command to capture and save images to other cameras within the communication range, and can check whether it has received signals from all cameras within the communication range.

[0095] In steps S218 and S219, the first camera (100) can share camera information within the surveillance system. Additionally, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to another camera. Subsequently, in steps S220, S221, and S222, the master camera that has received master authority from the first camera (100) can transmit video shooting and saving commands to other cameras within the communication range and check whether it has received signals from all cameras within the communication range.

[0096] In step S223, the master camera can check whether all cameras in the cluster have started capturing and saving images.

[0097] In step S224, the master camera can identify disabled cameras among the cameras in the cluster.

[0098] In step S225, the master camera can check camera information within the communication range of each camera in the cluster.

[0099] In step S226, the master camera can check the master camera of the disabled camera.

[0100] In step S227, the master camera can transfer master authority to the master camera of the disabled camera.

[0101] In steps S228 and S229, the master camera of the disabled camera checks the cameras within the communication range and can transmit video capture and storage commands to the cameras within the communication range. Additionally, in step S230, the master camera of the disabled camera checks whether it has received signals from all cameras within the communication range, and in step S231, it can check whether all cameras within the cluster have started video capture and storage.

[0102] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transferring master authority of a camera according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 7, the first camera (100) can determine the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other. Additionally, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to the camera that is connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system. Additionally, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to the camera that transmits the response signal for the video capture and storage command the fastest among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0104] In steps S311 and S312, the first camera (100) can identify cameras within the communication range and share information about cameras within the communication range with other cameras in the monitoring system.

[0105] In step S313, the first camera (100) can check the number of cameras connected within the communication range of each camera in the surveillance system.

[0106] In steps S314 and S315, the first camera (100) checks whether it is the camera connected to the most cameras in the surveillance system, and if it is not the camera connected to the most cameras in the surveillance system, it can send a waiting command to wait for a command from the master.

[0107] In steps S314, S316, S317, and S318, the first camera (100) checks whether it is the camera connected to the most cameras in the surveillance system, and if it is the camera connected to the most cameras in the surveillance system, it checks whether it has the fastest response and may transfer master authority to the camera that transmitted the fastest response signal.

[0108] According to the present invention, each camera identifies the cameras it can connect to within its wireless reach area and, while sharing the respective information, compares the number of cameras each camera can connect to, thereby transferring master authority to the camera capable of connecting the most cameras. For example, if there are multiple cameras capable of connecting the most cameras, master authority is transferred to the camera that provides the fastest response. In this case, since master authority is transferred to the camera capable of connecting to the most cameras, it has the advantage of rapidly increasing the number of cameras capable of automatically saving video.

[0109] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for transferring master authority of a camera according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 8, the first camera (100) can check the reception sensitivity of each camera among all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other. Additionally, the first camera (100) can transfer master authority to the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity among the cameras in the surveillance system.

[0111] In steps S411 and S412, the first camera (100) can identify cameras within the communication range and share information about cameras within the communication range with other cameras in the monitoring system.

[0112] In step S413, the first camera (100) can check the reception sensitivity of each camera in the surveillance system.

[0113] In steps S414 and S415, the first camera (100) checks whether it is the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity within the surveillance system, and if it is not the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity within the surveillance system, it can send a waiting command to wait for a command from the master.

[0114] In steps S414, S416, S417, and S418, the first camera (100) checks whether it is the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity within the surveillance system, and if it is the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity within the surveillance system, it checks whether it has the fastest response and may transfer master authority to the camera that transmitted the fastest response signal.

[0115] According to the present invention, there is a method to enable rapid storage of images from a camera outside the communication range of the initial master camera by transferring master authority to the camera with the lowest reception sensitivity.

[0116] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a monitoring system according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, each camera in the surveillance system may have cluster information of cameras included in a cluster by setting cameras that capture the same shooting target among the information of other cameras in the surveillance system into a cluster.

[0118] When the x-camera (600) newly enters the preset communication range (50) of the 5th camera (500), the 5th camera (500) can determine whether the x-camera (600) is a camera included in the cluster based on cluster information. Additionally, if the x-camera (600) is a camera included in the cluster, the 5th camera (500) can receive master authority and transmit a wireless signal containing a command to capture and save an image to the x-camera (600) with master authority.

[0119] Additionally, if the x-camera (600) is not a camera included in the cluster, the 5th camera (500) can receive master authority, have master authority to include the x-camera (600) in the cluster, and transmit a wireless signal containing video capture and storage commands to the x-camera (600).

[0120] The embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10 are embodiments that allow for the automatic storage of video by including cameras in a cluster that are not included in a cluster where camera registration information (e.g., pairing information) is shared. For example, the embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10 are methods for automatically storing video from the x-th camera (600) accessed from the outside in a situation where 40 cameras (1 to 40) are paired at a police station and a list of paired cameras is stored in all cameras, and dispatched police officers are storing video by grouping 8 cameras (1 to 8) into one cluster.

[0121] In one embodiment of the present invention, cameras included in the previously registered camera list are protected by a password to distinguish them from other cameras, so unregistered cameras cannot know the process currently in progress on the cluster or cameras included in the camera list.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 together, in step S511, when the x-camera (600) enters the communication range (50) of the 5-camera (500), the 5-camera (500) can use current cluster information to determine whether the x-camera (600) is a camera included in an existing cluster.

[0123] In steps S531 to S536, if the x-camera (600) is a camera that is currently included in the cluster but has moved out of the communication area, the 5th camera (500) can check whether to save the image, request the transfer of master authority from the existing master to acquire it, and then send a video saving command to save the image. Additionally, if the 5th camera (500) does not receive a video saving start signal from the x-camera (600), it can increase the wireless output power and send a video saving command to the x-camera (600).

[0124] In steps S512, S515, S516, S517, and S518, the fifth camera (500) can receive master authority from the x camera (600) if the x camera is not a camera included in the current cluster but is included in the list of registered cameras, include it in the current cluster, and send a video saving command to automatically save the video, and enable it to perform the same function as the current cluster in subsequent processes.

[0125] In steps S519 and S520, if the fifth camera (500) does not receive a signal that image storage has started while the x camera (600) is registered in the cluster, there is a possibility that the x camera (600) has moved out of the communication range of the fifth camera (500), so the transmission power can be increased to allow the x camera (600) to receive the command.

[0126] In steps S512, S513, and S514, if the x-th camera (600) is not included in the list of cameras already registered, the fifth camera (500) can share the information of the x-th camera (600) with cameras within the cluster. Additionally, the fifth camera (500) can register the x-th camera (600) in the signal reception exclusion list.

[0127] According to the present invention, a body-worn camera system is provided in which a registered camera or all cameras within a currently set cluster operate without an external controller or external storage device and can automatically start video recording and storage using a surveillance system.

[0128] According to the present invention, a body-worn camera contains information about all registered cameras and can distinguish between registered cameras and unregistered cameras through a shared password.

[0129] According to the present invention, a body-worn camera can register, distinguish, or change information of the camera by transmitting and receiving commands through a surveillance system.

[0130] According to the present invention, the monitoring system can change the wireless output power to expand or reduce the transmission and reception area.

[0131] According to the present invention, all cameras within a registered camera or a currently set cluster cannot be recognized by cameras outside the cluster through a password set or shared between cameras, thereby preventing image information captured or stored within the cluster from being shared outside the cluster.

[0132] According to the present invention, cameras other than those in the currently set cluster can be included in the currently set cluster by utilizing a shared password or camera registration information.

[0133] According to the present invention, wireless output power can be minimized or blocked so that power consumption can be minimized when images are stored from all cameras within a currently set cluster.

[0134] According to the present invention, in a body-worn camera system in which a registered camera or all cameras within a currently set cluster can automatically start capturing and saving images, the master and slave roles can be automatically changed.

[0135] According to the present invention, by granting master authority to the camera that first stores the image, transmitting an image shooting and storage command to a slave, and receiving an image storage start signal from the slave, it can be confirmed that the image shooting and storage function operates in all cameras within the master area range.

[0136] According to the present invention, the master and slave can be changed using the number of connected cameras or reception sensitivity within an area range (e.g., communication range).

[0137] The device and / or system described above may be implemented as a hardware component, a software component, and / or a combination of a hardware component and a software component. The device and component described in the embodiments may be implemented using one or more general-purpose or special-purpose computers, such as, for example, a processor, a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic unit (PLU), a microprocessor, or any other device capable of executing and responding to instructions. The processing unit may execute an operating system (OS) and one or more software applications executed on the operating system. Additionally, the processing unit may access, store, manipulate, process, and generate data in response to the execution of the software. For ease of understanding, the processing unit may be described as being used as a single unit, but those skilled in the art will understand that the processing unit may include multiple processing elements and / or multiple types of processing elements. For example, the processing unit may include multiple processors or one processor and one controller. Additionally, other processing configurations, such as parallel processors, are also possible.

[0138] Software may include computer programs, code, instructions, or a combination of one or more of these, and may configure a processing unit to operate as desired or command the processing unit independently or collectively. Software and / or data may be permanently or temporarily embodied in any type of machine, component, physical device, virtual equipment, computer storage medium or device, or transmitted signal wave so as to be interpreted by the processing unit or to provide instructions or data to the processing unit. Software may be distributed over networked computer systems and may be stored or executed in a distributed manner. Software and data may be stored on one or more computer-readable recording media.

[0139] The method according to the embodiment may be implemented in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., either alone or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the medium may be those specifically designed and configured for the embodiment, or they may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs; magneto-optical media such as floptical disks; and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory. Examples of program instructions include machine code, such as that generated by a compiler, as well as high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operation of the embodiment, and vice versa.

[0140] Although the embodiments have been described above with reference to limited examples and drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations from the description above. For example, suitable results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order than described, and / or the components of the described system, structure, device, circuit, etc. are combined or assembled in a form different from described, or replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents.

[0141] Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims set forth below.

Claims

1. In a surveillance system including multiple cameras, A first camera having master authority to transmit video shooting and saving commands and transmitting a wireless signal containing said video shooting and saving commands to another camera within a preset communication range; and A second camera that performs image shooting and storage in response to the image shooting and storage command received from the first camera, transmits a response signal for the image shooting and storage command to the first camera, and, in response to the response signal, receives the master authority from the first camera and transmits a wireless signal containing the image shooting and storage command to another camera within a preset communication range using the master authority; A monitoring system including 2. In Paragraph 1, The first camera and the second camera are a surveillance system having information about other cameras within the surveillance system and information about cameras within a preset communication range from each camera.

3. In Paragraph 2, The second camera above checks whether all cameras within the surveillance system communicating with each other are capturing images, checks information of a deactivated camera that is not capturing images and a third camera within a preset communication range, transfers the master authority to the third camera, and transmits the image capturing and saving command to the deactivated camera through the third camera.

4. In Paragraph 2, A monitoring system in which the first camera checks whether a response signal for the image capture and storage command is received from another camera within a preset communication range, and gradually increases the transmission power of a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command according to whether the response signal is received.

5. In Paragraph 2, A surveillance system in which the first camera checks the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other, and transfers the master authority to the fourth camera that is connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system.

6. In Paragraph 5, A surveillance system in which the first camera transfers the master authority to the fifth camera, which transmits the response signal for the image capture and storage command fastest among the cameras in the surveillance system.

7. In Paragraph 2, The above-mentioned first camera checks the reception sensitivity of each camera among all cameras in the surveillance system that communicate with each other, and transfers the master authority to the sixth camera having the lowest reception sensitivity among the cameras in the surveillance system.

8. In Paragraph 2, The surveillance system, wherein the first camera and the second camera set cameras that capture the same shooting target among the information of other cameras in the surveillance system into a single cluster and have cluster information of the cameras included in the cluster.

9. In Paragraph 8, A surveillance system in which, when a new seventh camera enters the preset communication range of the second camera, the second camera checks whether the seventh camera is a camera included in the cluster based on the cluster information, and if the seventh camera is a camera included in the cluster, receives the master authority and transmits a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command to the seventh camera with the master authority.

10. In Paragraph 8, A surveillance system in which, when the 8th camera newly enters the preset communication range of the 2nd camera, the 2nd camera checks whether the 8th camera is a camera included in the cluster based on the cluster information, and if the 8th camera is not a camera included in the cluster, receives the master authority and includes the 8th camera in the cluster using the master authority, and transmits a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command to the 8th camera.

11. A body-worn camera equipped in a surveillance system including multiple cameras, processor; Communication module; and It includes memory for storing instructions executable by the above processor, and A body-worn camera, wherein the processor has master authority to transmit a video capture and storage command, transmits a wireless signal containing the video capture and storage command to another camera within a preset communication range, receives a response signal for the video capture and storage command, and transfers master authority in response to the response signal.

12. In Paragraph 11, A body-worn camera, wherein the processor checks whether a response signal for the image capture and storage command is received from another camera within a preset communication range, and increases the transmission power of a wireless signal containing the image capture and storage command in steps according to whether the response signal is received.

13. In Paragraph 11, A body-worn camera, wherein the processor checks the number of cameras within a preset communication range from each camera of all cameras in a surveillance system communicating with each other, and transfers the master authority to the camera connected to the largest number of cameras among the cameras in the surveillance system.

14. A method of monitoring using multiple cameras in a surveillance system including multiple cameras, A step of transmitting a wireless signal containing the video recording and saving command to another camera within a preset communication range, having master authority to transmit the video recording and saving command; and A step of receiving a response signal for the above-mentioned video recording and saving command, and transferring master authority in response to the response signal; A monitoring method including 15. A computer program stored on a recording medium to execute the method of claim 14 using a computing device.

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