Hands-Free Far-End Camera Control via Computer Vision Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current video conferencing systems lack intuitive control mechanisms for remotely operating far-end cameras, resulting in a less immersive and less realistic interaction experience for participants.
Innovation Solution
A tracking engine within the video conferencing software uses computer vision techniques to analyze images from a local camera, translating the observer's physical movements into zoom, pan, and tilt commands for the far-end camera, enhancing control and realism without requiring additional devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual control interfaces (buttons, sliders) are used to control far-end camera, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to lack of intuitiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control interfaces (buttons, sliders) with a computer vision-based tracking system that automatically detects observer position and converts it to camera control commands. This substitution eliminates the need for complex manual control mechanisms while providing intuitive hands-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation by automatically tracking the observer's position and movements without requiring manual input. The tracking engine continuously monitors the observer and autonomously generates camera control commands, making the system serve itself rather than requiring active manual control.
2Ease of operation
If additional control devices are added to improve camera control, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing camera system multi-functional by adding computer vision tracking capabilities to the video conferencing system. The same system that captures video for communication also tracks observer position to control the far-end camera, eliminating the need for separate control devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the observer tracking function with the existing video conferencing system. The tracking engine integrates with the video processing pipeline, combining multiple functions (video capture, tracking, camera control) into a unified system rather than adding separate standalone devices.
3Measurement precision
If precise tracking algorithms are implemented, then measurement precision improves, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic frame-based processing where the tracking engine analyzes images at regular intervals rather than continuously. This periodic action maintains measurement precision by processing complete frames while reducing overall processing time by avoiding constant continuous analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking engine focuses computational resources on detecting and tracking the observer rather than processing the entire image in detail. By concentrating analysis on relevant regions and aspects (observer position and movement), the system achieves sufficient precision without the computational overhead of complete image analysis.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for intuitively controlling a far-end camera via physical movements. The method includes the steps of receiving an image captured by a first camera and including a digital representation of at least a portion of a user of the first camera, analyzing the digital representation to identify a position of the user relative to the first camera, computing a value associated with a first property of a second camera based on the position of the user, and transmitting the value to the second camera, wherein, in response to receiving the value, a perspective of the second camera is modified based on the value.