Wireless Camera Synchronization via Central Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional video capture methods, such as multiple camera setups and volumetric video capture systems, are limited by wired connections and require complex synchronization processes, making them inflexible and cumbersome for collaborative and immersive video capture scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The use of wireless interfaces and smart cameras that can communicate with each other and a central server, allowing for ad-hoc camera sessions, collaborative multi-view capture, and the creation of composite videos with rich metadata for immersive experiences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired connections and genlock synchronization are used in volumetric video capture systems, then frame capture synchronization is achieved, but camera position flexibility and system setup complexity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with wireless communication. Cameras use wireless interfaces to communicate with a central server, eliminating physical cables while maintaining synchronization capabilities through digital timing signals transmitted wirelessly.
Solution Approach 2:
The central server performs multiple functions: it acts as a synchronization source replacing genlock, a central storage location replacing local camera storage, and a coordination hub for ad-hoc camera sessions. This multi-functional approach simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Reliability
If multiple cameras are wired together with genlock, then synchronized capture is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The central server acts as an intermediary between cameras, handling synchronization coordination, data collection, and session management. This mediates the complexity by centralizing control functions that would otherwise require direct camera-to-camera wiring and configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Cameras automatically join sessions and synchronize to the central server's timing signals without requiring manual genlock configuration. The system enables ad-hoc sessions where cameras self-organize under server coordination, reducing setup complexity.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional multi-camera capture is used, then multiple views are captured, but editing complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
All video captures are automatically synchronized to a common time reference established by the central server during the recording session. This preliminary synchronization of timestamps eliminates the need for complex post-production alignment work, as all clips are already time-coordinated.
Solution Approach 2:
The central server collects timing information and synchronization data from all cameras during capture, providing feedback that ensures all views are properly aligned. This real-time coordination prevents synchronization issues that would otherwise require time-consuming editing corrections.
Data Source
AI summary
Content hosting for composite video is described using metadata and user identification. A user management module registers a first user ID for a primary device, a second user ID for a secondary device, a session ID for a session between the primary device and the secondary device, and a player device with a third user ID and privileges to view a composite video. A content hosting module receives a first video associated with the first user ID and the session ID and a second video associated with the second user ID and the session ID. The first and second videos include metadata regarding time and position. The content hosting module serves a composite video to the player device in response to a request associated with the third user ID. A content preparation module forms the composite video using the first video and the second video.