Camera Field of View Mapping via Mobile Drone Dispatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera systems lack efficient methods for collaborative field of view mapping, leading to blind spots and incomplete coverage in surveillance and monitoring tasks, particularly in dynamic environments where cameras may not be able to observe all areas simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A system that aggregates coordinate data from multiple cameras to identify blind spots and dispatch mobile cameras or drones to cover unobservable areas, utilizing edge computing and LIDAR technology for precise location sensing and orientation adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple fixed cameras are used to cover an area, then surveillance coverage area increases, but blind spots and unobservable areas still remain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mobile cameras and drones that can dynamically move to reposition and capture images of blind spots identified by fixed cameras. This dynamic element transforms the static surveillance system into an adaptive one that can respond to coverage gaps in real-time, resolving the contradiction between fixed camera coverage and complete area monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a server as an intermediary that receives images from fixed cameras, processes them to identify blind spots, and coordinates mobile cameras to capture additional views. This intermediary orchestrates the collaboration between different camera types, enabling the system to achieve complete coverage that neither fixed nor mobile cameras could accomplish alone.
2Reliability
If mobile cameras or drones are deployed to cover blind spots, then surveillance coverage completeness improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The server performs multiple functions: receiving images from fixed cameras, processing images to identify blind spots, coordinating mobile cameras, and managing drone operations. This multi-functional approach consolidates complex operations into a single coordinating system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining complete surveillance coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically identifies blind spots through image processing and autonomously coordinates mobile cameras and drones to capture additional views without human intervention. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity by eliminating manual monitoring and deployment, allowing the system to maintain complete coverage through automated processes.
3Loss of time
If real-time image processing is performed to identify blind spots, then response time improves, but computational resources required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system processes images to identify only the specific blind spots that need attention rather than analyzing all aspects of every image comprehensively. This partial action approach focuses computational resources on detecting coverage gaps and coordinating responses, achieving real-time blind spot identification and mobile camera deployment without requiring exhaustive image analysis.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances surveillance and monitoring capabilities by ensuring comprehensive coverage, reducing blind spots and improving response times through coordinated camera operations and real-time data processing.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing edge computing and LIDAR technology for precise location sensing and orientation adjustments
Data Source
AI summary
A system of cameras can be used to generate a complete field of view within an edge network. For example, one camera can have a field of view where part of the view is obstructed by an object and/or by the camera's orientation. Yet another camera that is a part of the edge network can supplement the view of the first camera by providing an alternate view. The two views can be stitched together by a coordinate system such that a complete field of view can be utilized by both cameras. Additionally, where a field of view is not available by any stationary camera, the system can dispatch a mobile camera to help supplement the views.