Image Capture Apparatus Dual Mode Subject Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image capture systems struggle to automatically capture images of fast-moving subjects when the parent camera loses sight of the subject, as the child camera can only capture images during the parent camera's operation and lacks independent angle of view adjustment.
Innovation Solution
An image capture apparatus with a communication unit to receive subject information from an external apparatus and a control unit that switches between two operation modes: one for searching and capturing the main subject and another for capturing at a different angle of view, allowing independent operation and diverse image capture angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the child camera is automatically controlled based on parent camera subject information, then simultaneous image capturing from desired directions is achieved, but the system fails when the parent camera loses sight of the subject
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the image capture system into independent camera units (parent camera and child cameras), each capable of autonomous subject detection and capture. This segmentation allows each camera to independently maintain subject tracking, ensuring continuous capture even when one camera loses sight of the subject.
Solution Approach 2:
The child cameras are pre-configured with subject information reception capability and automatic capture functionality. When subject information is received from any camera (parent or child), the system is already prepared to automatically capture images, eliminating delays and ensuring continuous coverage without waiting for parent camera detection.
2Device complexity
If the child camera only operates during parent camera capture, then system coordination is simplified, but image capture opportunities are lost when parent camera is inactive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes both parent and child cameras multi-functional: they can detect subjects independently, receive subject information from any camera, and execute automatic capture. This universal capability ensures that image capture coverage is maintained continuously, regardless of which camera is actively detecting the subject.
3Stability of the object's composition
If all cameras use the same angle of view as the external apparatus, then image consistency is maintained, but diverse shooting angles are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different angle of view settings to different camera positions. Each child camera is configured with angle of view parameters suitable for its specific location and capture purpose, allowing diverse shooting angles while maintaining overall system coordination through centralized subject information sharing.
Data Source
AI summary
An image capture apparatus includes an image capture unit, a communication unit that receives subject information about a subject captured by an external apparatus, and a control unit that controls the image capture apparatus based on a first operation mode in a case where the subject information does not include information about a main subject, or based on a second operation mode in a case where the subject information includes the information about the main subject. The first operation mode is an operation mode of searching for the main subject, and the second operation mode is an operation mode of capturing an image of the subject at an angle of view that is different from an angle of view of the external apparatus.