Marker Time Synchronization in Disconnected Imaging Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems face challenges in inputting markers at appropriate positions in video data when the imaging device and portable terminal device are not connected, leading to synchronization issues and unstable wireless communication, especially in outdoor settings.
Innovation Solution
An imaging system with a first clock unit for measuring imaging time, a portable terminal device with a second clock unit for measuring marker input time, and a time difference detection and correction unit that generates corrected marker time information to synchronize marker inputs with video data, even when devices are not connected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used between marker device and video camera device, then marker input capability is improved, but communication stability deteriorates when devices are distant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third device (smartphone or tablet) as an intermediary to receive markers from the user and transmit them to the video camera device. This mediator approach allows the user to input markers from a distance without requiring direct wireless connection between the marker device and video camera, thus maintaining communication stability while preserving marker input capability.
2Length of stationary object
If access point is placed to extend communication distance, then communication range is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a smartphone or tablet that the user already possesses for the dual purpose of both displaying video content and receiving marker inputs. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for additional dedicated devices like access points or specialized marker input hardware, thereby reducing system complexity and cost while extending effective communication range.
3Ease of operation
If marker is input when devices are not connected, then operation flexibility is improved, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical connection requirement with a time-based synchronization system. The video playback position is determined by calculating the time difference between marker input time and video recording time, rather than requiring devices to be physically connected during marker input. This substitution maintains operation flexibility while achieving synchronization accuracy through temporal correlation.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging system includes an imaging device and a portable terminal device. The portable terminal device includes a marker time information generation unit, a time difference detection unit, and a correction unit. The marker time information generation unit generates marker time information containing a marker input to a video file generated by the imaging device and input time of the marker in association with each other. The time difference detection unit detects a time difference between time measured by the clock of the imaging device and time measured by the clock of the portable terminal device. Then, the correction unit corrects the input time of the marker contained in the marker time information based on the time difference detected by the time difference detection unit and thereby generates corrected marker time information.