Network Camera Master Role for Storage and Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network camera systems require a network video recorder for storage and search functions, leading to increased size and construction costs, and lack efficient methods for image data management and client request processing without a centralized control unit.
Innovation Solution
A network camera system where at least one network camera acts as a master, storing and managing image data from both itself and slave cameras, providing requested data to clients, processing setup changes, and handling real-time image requests, while also reallocating a new master camera if the existing one becomes abnormal, using a storage medium like NAS, USB hard disk, or SD card.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a network video recorder is used for storage and search functions, then image data management capability is improved, but system size and construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage and search functions into the network camera itself rather than using a separate network video recorder. The network camera includes an image storage unit that stores captured images and an index generation unit that creates search indexes, thereby integrating functions that were previously performed by dedicated external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The network camera is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing images, storing images locally, generating search indexes, and responding to search requests. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment while maintaining full image data management capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a network video recorder is used for storage and search functions, then image data management capability is improved, but construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage and search functions into the network camera itself rather than using a separate network video recorder. The network camera includes an image storage unit that stores captured images and an index generation unit that creates search indexes, thereby integrating functions that were previously performed by dedicated external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The network camera is designed to perform multiple functions: capturing images, storing images locally, generating search indexes, and responding to search requests. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment while maintaining full image data management capability.
3Productivity
If a centralized control unit is used to process client requests, then request processing capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network camera autonomously processes client requests without requiring a centralized control unit. The search index unit generates indexes of stored images, and when a search request is received, the camera independently queries its own index and transmits matching images to the client, enabling self-service operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the system into independent network cameras that each maintain their own storage and processing capabilities, rather than having a centralized control unit. This segmentation allows each camera to operate autonomously while still providing comprehensive system functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for operating network cameras, a method for operating network cameras, and a network camera having a storage function are provided so that the system does not have to include a network video recorder.