Automated Camera Control Using Predictive Event Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Live camera operation for events like track and field races is costly due to the need for live operators to physically control cameras, and existing remote control systems require manual operation by a live operator for each camera.

Innovation Solution

A system that uses historical or predicted event data to automate camera control, allowing video cameras to pan, tilt, and zoom based on event characteristic and participant information, eliminating the need for live operators by generating control signals for robotic cameras.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If live operators manually control cameras during events, then camera operation quality and adaptability are maintained, but operational costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecamera operation qualityVSAvoidoperational cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The camera control system operates autonomously by receiving event data, determining optimal camera parameters, and automatically controlling camera operations without requiring live operators. The system serves itself by integrating event information processing, parameter determination, and camera control functions into an automated workflow that adapts to different event types and conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual camera operation with an automated information processing system. Instead of operators physically manipulating camera controls, the system uses event data processing and automated control signals to adjust camera parameters, substituting human mechanical action with electronic automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Quantity of substance

If automated camera control is implemented, then operational costs are reduced, but the system complexity increases due to need for event data processing and control algorithms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational costVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The camera control system is designed with multi-functionality to handle various event types (sports events, concerts, ceremonies) using a single integrated platform. The system processes different kinds of event data, determines appropriate camera parameters for diverse scenarios, and controls multiple camera functions (pan, tilt, zoom, focus) through unified automated logic, reducing the need for separate specialized systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If remote control devices are used, then operator safety is improved, but the requirement for live operator manipulation remains

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator safetyVSAvoidoperator involvement
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The system eliminates the need for operator involvement by automating the entire camera control process. Event data is processed automatically, camera parameters are determined through automated algorithms, and control signals are generated and transmitted without human intervention, achieving complete automation from event information to camera action

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9615015B2Systems methods for camera control using historical or predicted event data
Publication Date: 2017.04.04 DISNEY ENTERPRISES INC
  • US9615015B2 patent drawing
  • US9615015B2 patent drawing
  • US9615015B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to some embodiments, systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program code for controlling a video camera to capture video associated with an event are provided which use historical or predictive data. In some embodiments, historical event information and participant information is received. Video camera configuration and position data is received, as well as current event data. The current event data may be received substantially in real time from the event. Video camera control signals are generated based on at least one of the event information, the participant information, and the current event data. The control signals are transmitted to a video camera to control the operation of the video camera.