Camera Adaptor Box Synchronizes Dual Camera Imaging Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D camera systems require complex operations and configurations to synchronize two cameras, leading to increased operational load and potential delays in image timing, which can result in incomplete or unnatural 3D images, especially in fast-paced applications like sports broadcasting.
Innovation Solution
A camera system and method that utilize a camera adaptor box to adjust the imaging timing and control values of two cameras, allowing them to operate as a single unit by outputting corrected control values and synchronizing imaging operations, thereby simplifying the configuration and reducing the operational complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two cameras are used to generate 3D images, then the 3D imaging capability is improved, but the operational complexity and synchronization difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two camera systems into a single integrated 3D camera system with shared control and processing units. The control unit 14 receives images from both camera heads 10a and 10b, performs parallax adjustment, and outputs combined 3D images, effectively merging two separate systems into one unified system that reduces operational complexity while maintaining 3D capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit 14 serves multiple functions: it controls both camera heads, adjusts parallax for both images, synchronizes timing, and processes both video signals. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate control apparatus for each camera, reducing the overall system complexity while enabling 3D imaging
2Ease of operation
If separate control apparatus are used for each camera, then individual camera control is improved, but the simultaneous operation and synchronization become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions for both cameras into a single control unit 14 that receives a unified control signal and generates coordinated control signals for both camera heads 10a and 10b. This ensures synchronized operation and consistent timing while maintaining ease of operation through centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit 14 receives timing information from both camera heads and adjusts their operation to maintain synchronization. The system monitors the timing of images from both cameras and makes real-time adjustments to ensure they are captured and processed simultaneously, improving reliability of synchronization
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of two cameras is required, then flexibility in operation is improved, but the operational load and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit 14 automatically adjusts parallax and synchronizes timing for both camera heads without requiring manual intervention. The system self-regulates the control signals sent to each camera based on the imaging conditions and timing requirements, eliminating the need for engineers to manually adjust two separate camera systems while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit 14 pre-configures the parallax adjustment parameters and timing synchronization settings based on the selected imaging mode before actual image capture begins. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during operation, improving productivity while preserving flexibility through programmable parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A camera system includes: a first camera and a second camera; a camera adaptor box; and a camera control unit.