Camera Control Bias Zone Virtual Map
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated camera control systems for sporting events lack the ability to capture dynamic and compositionally varied footage, as they either rely on simplistic tagged object systems or master/slave configurations that result in identical images from secondary cameras, failing to meet the complex framing requirements of modern broadcasting.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a computer-generated virtual map with bias zones to control the position and size of dynamic primary and halo images captured by multiple cameras, allowing for adjustable framing and focus to follow a moving object, such as a ball or player, while synchronizing camera views with a 3D model of the environment for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple skilled camera operators are used to capture varied footage, then the quality and variety of captured images improve, but the cost and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The camera control system automatically adjusts pan, tilt, zoom, and focus parameters based on object tracking data without requiring manual operator intervention. The system serves itself by using algorithmic control to make framing decisions that would traditionally require skilled operators, thereby reducing personnel requirements while maintaining framing variety through programmed versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
A single automated camera control system performs multiple functions that would traditionally require multiple specialized operators. The system can capture various framing types (close-ups, wide shots, tracking shots) and adjust multiple camera parameters simultaneously, making one system as versatile as a team of operators while reducing operational complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If camera operators are placed close to the action for better views, then the image quality improves, but safety risks and obstruction of action increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated camera control system acts as an intermediary between the distant camera position and the desired close-up framing. By using computer vision algorithms and object tracking, the system enables cameras positioned at safe distances to achieve framing quality comparable to close-positioned operators, eliminating the need for operators to physically place themselves in hazardous zones.
3Device complexity
If automated camera control systems use master/slave configurations, then the system complexity is reduced, but the ability to capture compositionally varied footage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts camera parameters (pan, tilt, zoom, focus) based on real-time object position, velocity, and acceleration data. Rather than using static master/slave relationships, the system continuously adapts framing parameters to capture compositionally varied footage while maintaining manageable system complexity through algorithmic control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves framing variety by dynamically changing multiple camera parameters simultaneously (position, zoom level, focus distance, pan/tilt angles) rather than relying on fixed master/slave configurations. This allows a single automated system to produce diverse compositions that would traditionally require multiple cameras with complex interrelationships.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates a method of obtaining motion picture footage of a moving object within an environment, being a surveyed environment or an environment of known dimensions. The method including the steps of: creating a computer generated virtual map of the environment within a control apparatus. At least one bias zone overlays the virtual map, the at least one bias zone being a predetermined or variable pattern, capturing a dynamic primary image of said object using a first motion picture camera, and capturing a dynamic halo image that extends around the primary image using a second motion picture camera. The said first and second motion picture cameras being controlled by the control apparatus such that a position or size of the halo image relative to the primary image is regulated by the at least one bias zone.