Image Capturing Apparatus Synchronization Signal Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Video cameras with separate GENLOCK and timecode terminals face synchronization issues due to cable connection order and the lack of precision in phase synchronization, leading to potential misidentification of synchronization signals, which complicates operations and reduces synchronization precision.
Innovation Solution
An image capturing apparatus with detecting units for GENLOCK and timecode signals, a control unit that manages synchronization processes based on detected signals, allowing for automatic switching between GENLOCK and timecode synchronization to ensure accurate synchronization without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate GENLOCK and timecode terminals are provided for synchronization, then synchronization precision can be improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates due to cable connection order issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the GENLOCK terminal and timecode terminal into a single integrated terminal that can accept both types of synchronization signals. This merging eliminates the need for separate terminals and complex cable connection procedures while maintaining the ability to achieve precise synchronization through automatic signal detection and switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization system automatically detects the type of signal connected to the terminal and self-adjusts to use the appropriate synchronization method. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or user intervention regarding cable connection order, thereby reducing operational complexity while preserving synchronization precision.
2Ease of operation
If automatic switching between GENLOCK and timecode signals is implemented, then ease of operation improves, but reliability may deteriorate due to potential signal misidentification
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor the synchronization signal quality and source status. This feedback allows the automatic switching mechanism to reliably identify the correct signal type and maintain stable synchronization, preventing misidentification while keeping operations simple and automatic.
3Ease of operation
If TC signal synchronization is used instead of GENLOCK signal, then ease of connection improves, but synchronization precision deteriorates due to phase noise
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its synchronization method based on the available signal quality and type. When a GENLOCK signal is detected, the system automatically switches to use that signal for higher precision phase synchronization. When only TC signals are available, it uses those with relaxed precision requirements. This dynamic adaptation maintains ease of connection while optimizing synchronization precision based on actual signal conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
An image capturing apparatus comprises an input terminal for synchronization with another image capturing apparatus; a generating unit that generates a video signal using an image capturing unit; a first detecting unit that detects an input of a first synchronization signal; a second detecting unit that detects an input of a second synchronization signal; a first synchronization unit that carries out a first synchronization process for synchronizing the video signal on the basis of the first synchronization signal; a second synchronization unit that carries out a second synchronization process for synchronizing the video signal on the basis of the second synchronization signal; and a control unit that carries out control so that when the first synchronization signal has been detected while the second synchronization process is being executed, the second synchronization process is stopped and the first synchronization process is executed.