Multi-Camera Video Switching for Real-Time TCP Streaming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video distribution systems using network cameras face issues with packet loss and quality deterioration due to UDP-based RTP communication, and TCP/IP prioritizing data quality over real-time performance, making it difficult to create high-quality video content with seamless switching and camera work controls.
Innovation Solution
An information processing device that switches video sources including network cameras, generating sequence data for real-time switching and using TCP for data transfer to ensure high-quality video distribution, while integrating playlist generation and segment data management to support HTTP streaming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If UDP-based RTP communication is used for real-time video transmission, then real-time performance is improved, but packet loss and quality deterioration occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an information processing device as an intermediary between video sources and distribution systems. This device receives video signals, performs switching and processing, then outputs stable video signals for distribution. The intermediary handles the complexity of real-time processing while ensuring quality output, resolving the contradiction between real-time performance and data integrity.
2Reliability
If TCP/IP is used for data transfer, then data quality is improved, but real-time performance deteriorates due to retransmission delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the video transmission system into distinct functional parts: video source, information processing device for switching and control, and distribution system. By segmenting the system, TCP/IP can be used for controlled data transfer between segments while maintaining real-time performance within each segment, particularly in the switching control portion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple video sources are switched in real-time, then video content production flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing device is designed with multi-functionality, handling video signal reception, switching, processing, and distribution control within a single system. This universal device can manage multiple video sources and various switching operations, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices and simplifying the overall system configuration.
4Reliability
If HTTP streaming with TCP is used for video distribution, then signal quality is improved, but latency increases compared to UDP
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing device performs video switching and processing actions in advance before distribution. By preparing and stabilizing video signals beforehand through controlled switching operations, the system can use reliable TCP-based HTTP streaming without excessive latency, as the critical real-time decisions are made in advance during the switching phase.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is an information processing device that performs information processing to output (produce and distribute) video content using video from multiple video sources including network cameras, the information processing device comprising: a switching means for performing switching based on video signals transferred by the transfer method used to transfer data without confirming reception by the receiving node with the transmitting node at the video source; and an information processing means that outputs (produces and distributes) video content based on information indicating which video source was switched at what time by the switching means and based on video data outputted from the video sources.