Protocol Conversion Device for Seamless Multi-Protocol Camera Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

In camera network systems, controlling cameras developed by different manufacturers is challenging due to protocol differences, leading to complicated session management and operational difficulties when using protocol conversion devices for communication between cameras and controllers.

Innovation Solution

A protocol conversion device that includes a first protocol control unit for transmitting and receiving data using a first protocol with operation mode information and a second protocol control unit for converting second protocol data into the first protocol data, allowing seamless communication between devices using different protocols by recognizing the protocol conversion device as a specific device within the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a protocol conversion device is provided between the camera and the controller to convert protocols, then communication between different manufacturer devices is enabled, but the connection adjustment becomes complicated and satisfactory operation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility between different manufacturer devicesVSAvoidconnection adjustment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The protocol conversion device acts as an intermediary between the first controller and the second electronic device, translating protocols bidirectionally. The device includes a first protocol control unit that communicates with the first controller using the first protocol, and a second protocol control unit that communicates with the second electronic device using the second protocol, thereby enabling compatibility without complicating connection adjustment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The protocol conversion device is designed to perform multiple functions: it converts the first protocol data to the second protocol data and vice versa, manages connection adjustments for both protocol types, and enables universal communication between devices from different manufacturers using different protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If merely a protocol conversion device is used for performing communication between the camera and the controller, then protocol conversion is achieved, but the connection adjustment may become complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol conversion capabilityVSAvoidconnection adjustment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The protocol conversion device serves as a mediator that handles all protocol conversion and connection adjustment complexities internally. The first protocol control unit and second protocol control unit work together to manage connections, shielding users from the complexity while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The protocol conversion device performs self-service by automatically managing protocol conversions and connection adjustments without requiring manual intervention. The device autonomously handles the complexity of connecting devices from different manufacturers, making the system easy to operate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9106475B2Protocol conversion device and protocol conversion method
Publication Date: 2015.08.11 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US9106475B2 patent drawing
  • US9106475B2 patent drawing
  • US9106475B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A protocol conversion device includes: a first protocol control unit transmitting/receiving first protocol data using a first protocol with information corresponding to a set operation mode to/from a first electronic device connected to a relay device and in which connection adjustment is performed by the first protocol; and a second protocol control unit converting second protocol data received through the relay device from a second electronic device connected to the relay device and in which communication is performed by a second protocol into the first protocol data to transmit the data to the first protocol control unit, and converting the first protocol data received by the first protocol control unit through the relay device into the second protocol data to transmit the data to the second electronic device.