Pan-Tilt Camera Speed Control for Video Encoding Efficiency

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

High bit rates in video streams from pan-tilt cameras result from increased computational complexity due to large motion vector search ranges, making it difficult to achieve efficient encoding, especially during rapid adjustments of the field of view.

Innovation Solution

A method that adjusts the speed of pan-tilt camera movements based on threshold speeds derived from the motion vector search range, ensuring that most pixel blocks are encoded using P-blocks by capping the adjustment speed within the encoder's capabilities, thereby reducing processing time and bit rate.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the motion vector search range of the encoder is increased to handle rapid pan/tilt adjustments, then the encoder can accommodate larger FOV changes, but the computational complexity and processing time increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoder capability to handle FOV adjustmentVSAvoidcomputational complexity of encoding
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the motion vector search range adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The encoder dynamically adjusts the search range based on the actual pan/tilt speed of the camera, allowing it to accommodate varying FOV adjustment rates without permanently increasing computational complexity for all scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of motion vector search range based on camera movement characteristics. By calculating the pan/tilt speed and comparing it against threshold values, the system adjusts the search range parameter to match the actual adjustment magnitude, optimizing the balance between handling capability and computational load

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If the pan/tilt adjustment speed is increased to respond quickly to user input, then the camera responds faster to FOV changes, but the bit rate increases due to more I-blocks being required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepan/tilt adjustment speedVSAvoidbit rate of video stream
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the pan/tilt adjustment speed and using this information to control the motion vector search range. The system measures the actual camera movement, compares it to threshold values, and adjusts encoding parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop control that optimizes bit rate based on real-time movement characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by adjusting the motion vector search range to match the actual need rather than always using the maximum range. When pan/tilt speed is below the second threshold, the search range is limited to what is actually required, avoiding unnecessary computational overhead and reducing bit rate while still capturing the essential motion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Productivity

If the motion vector search range is kept small to reduce computational complexity, then encoding is more efficient, but the encoder cannot handle rapid pan/tilt adjustments effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveencoding efficiencyVSAvoidencoder capability to handle FOV adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the motion vector search range dynamic rather than static. The search range adjusts in real-time based on the calculated pan/tilt speed, allowing the encoder to maintain high efficiency during normal operation while automatically expanding capacity when rapid FOV adjustments occur

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9979882B2Method and device for controlling a camera capable of pan and tilt control
Publication Date: 2018.05.22 AXIS
  • US9979882B2 patent drawing
  • US9979882B2 patent drawing
  • US9979882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates generally a method and device for controlling a camera capable of pan and tilt control, and more specifically a method and device for controlling adjustments of the field of view of such camera.