Video Surveillance Field of View Determination Using Sensor Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current video surveillance systems rely on time-consuming and error-prone theoretical calculations to determine the field of view of cameras, especially in complex environments with dynamic obstacles, leading to inaccuracies and difficulties in monitoring large areas or regions with moving objects.
Innovation Solution
A video surveillance apparatus that uses measured data from sensors, such as infrared sensors, to determine and display the field of view of cameras, allowing for real-time updates and automatic alerts for obscured views, enabling operators to adjust camera angles and prioritize important targets, even in low-light conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If theoretical calculations are used to determine the field of view, then the process can be performed without additional sensors, but the determination is time-consuming and vulnerable to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces theoretical calculation methods with actual sensor measurements to determine field of view. Distance measuring sensors (laser rangefinders, ultrasonic sensors, or stereo cameras) directly measure distances to objects in the environment, substituting the mechanical/mathematical calculation process with physical measurement, thereby achieving both high accuracy and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces distance measuring sensors as intermediaries between the camera and the environment. These sensors act as mediators that provide actual distance data to the processor, which then uses this measured data to accurately determine the field of view by identifying objects at measured distances and mapping them to image coordinates
2Adaptability or versatility
If theoretical assumptions are made about the field of view, then the system can operate without real-time measurement, but the system cannot account for dynamic obstacles or lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the surveillance system multi-functional by equipping the camera with additional distance measuring sensors that serve multiple purposes: determining field of view boundaries, detecting dynamic obstacles, and enabling operation under various lighting conditions. The same sensor system supports both static field of view mapping and dynamic environment monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
Distance measuring sensors serve as intermediaries that bridge the gap between the camera system and dynamic environmental factors. These sensors provide real-time distance data that allows the system to adapt to moving obstacles and changing conditions without requiring complex additional subsystems
3Quantity of substance
If cameras are positioned to cover large areas, then fewer cameras are needed, but the field of view determination becomes more error-prone and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces error-prone theoretical calculations with direct sensor measurements, even in complex environments with large coverage areas. The distance measuring sensors provide accurate real-world data that eliminates cumulative errors associated with mathematical modeling of complex geometries and obstacle configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from distance measuring sensors to continuously verify and adjust the field of view determination. By measuring actual distances to objects and comparing them with expected distances based on camera parameters, the system can detect and correct errors, ensuring high precision even when covering large areas with fewer cameras
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a more accurate and efficient method for determining camera fields of view, ensuring comprehensive coverage and reducing resource usage by only recording image data when necessary, while allowing for dynamic adjustments to maintain optimal surveillance.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor may be of a type which can measure the distance between the sensor and the captured object even if the target is not sufficiently illuminated for the camera to capture the target. For example, an infra red sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
A video surveillance apparatus determines a field of view of a video surveillance camera (110) having a sensor (120) mounted thereon. A distance measuring means is configured to obtain a plurality of distance measurements based on data received from the sensor (120). A field of view determining means is configured to determine, based on the plurality of distance measurements, the field of view of the camera (110).