Distributed Camera Array for High-Resolution Surveillance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current surveillance camera systems face challenges with high costs, mechanical complexity, and bandwidth limitations, which restrict the delivery of high-resolution video streams and efficient image analysis, requiring extensive calibration and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A distributed camera system with an array of high-resolution sensors, processors, and lenses that self-install and orient, capable of producing composite XHTML streams with object information, using consumer electronics technology to eliminate mechanical parts and leverage internet standards for communication, enabling high-resolution imaging and analysis without mechanical steering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional PTZ cameras with mechanical steering are used to achieve high resolution and coverage, then imaging quality and field of view are improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase due to mechanical parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical PTZ steering systems with a fixed camera array that uses multiple stationary cameras positioned at different locations and angles. Each camera has a fixed lens with no moving parts, eliminating mechanical complexity while achieving the same coverage and resolution through spatial distribution of multiple sensors.
2Measurement precision
If optical zoom lenses are used to achieve high resolution on individual cameras, then imaging quality is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging function across multiple fixed cameras instead of using a single camera with complex zoom lenses. Each camera uses a simple fixed lens, and the collective array provides comprehensive coverage with high resolution through the combined views of multiple cameras positioned strategically.
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution sensors are used to capture detailed video, then image quality is improved, but network bandwidth requirements increase making real-time transmission difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transmits only the necessary portion of the high-resolution data by having each camera in the array transmit its specific field of view at high resolution, while the overall system provides comprehensive coverage. This partial transmission approach from multiple sources achieves the same effective resolution as a single high-res camera would require to transmit fully.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple cameras are distributed to achieve adequate coverage, then field of view is improved, but system complexity and calibration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses identical fixed camera units with standardized lenses and mounting configurations throughout the array. Each camera performs the same function with the same technical specifications, simplifying deployment and eliminating the need for complex individual calibration. The uniformity allows for easy replication and system-wide consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a plurality of cameras each enabled to operate independently of the others as a component camera. The system includes logic operable to form the component cameras into a network operable as a single federated camera device. The lens types of the component cameras are non-heterogeneous, and the federated camera forms a virtual lens comprising characteristics combining the lens types of the component cameras.