JP2015171045A - Imaging apparatus and imaging system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable high sensitivity imaging with an imaging device to be controlled by using additional information on insertion/removal of an infrared ray cutoff filter.SOLUTION: An imaging device 1000 capable of performing network connection to a client device comprises: an imaging optical system 2; an imaging element 6; an optical filter driving circuit 24 which inserts/removes an optical filter 4 into/from an optical path of the imaging optical system 2; and a communication circuit 14 which receives, from the client device, an adjustment command for causing the imaging device to automatically control insertion/removal of the optical filter and a first adjustment value related to the insertion/removal of the optical filter. A second adjustment value corresponding to the first adjustment value received by the communication path is automatically determined and high sensitivity imaging means is automatically controlled on the basis of the second adjustment value.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device and an imaging system. In particular, the present invention relates to an imaging device that can insert and remove an optical filter into and from an optical path of an imaging optical system.

  Conventionally, the infrared blocking filter is inserted into and removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system so that visible light imaging and infrared imaging can be performed, and the gain of each color signal used for white balance adjustment is increased to reduce the illuminance. There is known an imaging apparatus that enables imaging of the above. (Patent Document 1)

  In the above imaging apparatus, normally, when an infrared cutoff filter is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system, imaging is performed with visible light, and when the infrared cutoff filter is removed from the optical path, infrared imaging is performed. Is configured to do. In the imaging apparatus, the number of insertions / removals of the infrared cut-off filter is reduced by increasing the gain of each color signal used for white balance adjustment to improve sensitivity.

  Further, the frequency of unsightly captured images due to the movement of the infrared cutoff filter holding frame within the imaging angle of view is reduced by reducing the number of insertions / removals of the cutoff filter.

JP 2012-23606 PR

  However, in the above conventional example, if the gain of each color signal is increased too much, interference such as noise becomes conspicuous and the captured image becomes unsightly.

  In addition, since the disturbance such as noise described above differs in conspicuousness and appearance frequency for each image, the gain of each color signal is uniformly set based on a certain luminance set in advance in the imaging apparatus. There was a problem that it could not be controlled.

  In order to prevent this, an imaging device that performs infrared imaging by removing the infrared blocking filter from the optical path of the optical system before the above-described disturbance is noticeable on the screen can be considered. However, high gain imaging as described above and infrared imaging with the infrared cutoff filter removed cannot be operated at appropriate timing.

  In addition, with the rapid spread of network technology, there is an increasing need for users who want to control an imaging device from an external device via a network.

  However, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, it is not assumed that the setting related to the insertion / removal control of the optical filter with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system is performed from an external device via a network. In the future, it may be assumed that the user wants to set the luminance level of the subject of the imaging apparatus, the delay time, and the like.

  However, since the setting performed from the external device via the network has a high degree of freedom, it is considered that there are not a few cases where such setting is not performed as intended by the user among a plurality of different manufacturer products. In this case, the insertion / removal of the optical filter and the setting of the gain are unintentionally performed in the optical path of the imaging optical system, and the captured image may become abnormal. Furthermore, there may be a case where imaging cannot be performed as an abnormal operation.

  In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of operating high gain imaging and infrared imaging with an infrared cutoff filter removed at appropriate timing.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus of the present invention is an imaging apparatus that communicates with an external device via a network, and that captures an imaging optical system and an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system. A control unit, a high-sensitivity imaging unit that performs high-sensitivity imaging on a low-luminance subject, an optical filter, an insertion / removal unit that inserts / removes the optical filter into / from an optical path of the imaging optical system, A receiving means for receiving an adjustment command describing one of a first adjustment value used and a second adjustment value for controlling the high-sensitivity imaging means from the external device via a network; and the adjustment A determination unit that automatically determines the other from one adjustment value included in the command, and the insertion / removal based on the one adjustment value included in the adjustment command and the other adjustment value determined by the determination unit. Control means for controlling the stage and the high-sensitivity imaging means, wherein the first adjustment value and the second adjustment value include a value related to a delay time of control, and are controlled by the control means. The relationship between the control delay time of the insertion / removal means and the control delay time of the high sensitivity imaging means is the same as or more than the control delay time of the high sensitivity imaging means. It is characterized by having set so that it may become long.

  This has the effect of providing an imaging device capable of operating high-sensitivity imaging and imaging with the optical filter removed at appropriate timing.

It is a figure which shows an example of the system configuration | structure of a monitoring system based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of the client apparatus based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a time transition diagram of the brightness | luminance which shows the operation example in the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the command sequence of an imaging device and a client apparatus based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the GetOptionsResponse transmission process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of GetOptionsResponse based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of SetImagingSettings based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the table for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the table for demonstrating the SetImagingSettings reception process based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment setting screen based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the mode determination process by the imaging device based on Example 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the normal imaging mode determination process by the imaging device based on Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the high sensitivity imaging mode determination process by the imaging device based on Example 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the infrared imaging mode determination process by the imaging device based on Example 2 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations.

  In addition, the commands in the following embodiments are determined based on, for example, the Open Network Video Interface Forum (hereinafter sometimes referred to as ONVIF) standard. In the ONVIF standard, for example, this command is defined by using the XML Schema Definition language (hereinafter sometimes referred to as XSD).

Example 1
The network configuration according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. More specifically, FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of the monitoring system according to the present embodiment.

  In the monitoring system in the present embodiment, the imaging device 1000 and the client device 2000 are connected to each other via the IP network 1500 (in a state where they can communicate with each other). Accordingly, the imaging apparatus 1000 can distribute the captured image to the client apparatus 2000 via the IP network 1500.

  Note that the imaging apparatus 1000 in this embodiment is a monitoring camera that captures a moving image, and more specifically, a network camera used for monitoring. The client device 2000 in this embodiment is an example of an external device such as a PC. Further, the monitoring system in the present embodiment corresponds to an imaging system.

  The IP network 1500 is assumed to be composed of a plurality of routers, switches, cables, and the like that satisfy a communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark). However, in this embodiment, any communication standard, scale, and configuration may be used as long as communication between the imaging device 1000 and the client device 2000 can be performed.

  For example, the IP network 1500 may be configured by the Internet, a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN (Wireless LAN), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like. Note that the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment may be compatible with, for example, PoE (Power Over Ethernet (registered trademark)), and may be supplied with power via a LAN cable.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits various commands to the imaging apparatus 1000. These commands are, for example, a command for changing the imaging direction and angle of view of the imaging apparatus 1000, a command for changing imaging parameters, a command for starting streaming of the captured image, and the like.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 transmits a response to these commands and a stream of captured images to the client apparatus 2000. Further, the imaging apparatus 1000 changes the angle of view in accordance with a command for changing the angle of view received from the client apparatus 2000.

  Next, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. The imaging optical system 2 in FIG. 2 forms an image of a subject imaged by the imaging device 1000 on the imaging element 6 via the optical filter 4.

  Here, in this embodiment, the optical filter 4 is an infrared cut filter (Infrared Cut Filter; hereinafter referred to as IRCF). Based on the drive signal from the optical filter drive circuit 24, the optical filter 4 is applied to the optical path between the image pickup optical system 2 and the image pickup element 6 by a drive mechanism (not shown) (for example, a plunger using an electromagnet). Is inserted and removed. Here, blocking infrared rays means that infrared rays are greatly attenuated, and does not have to block 100%.

  The optical filter 4 is inserted into and removed from the optical path between the imaging optical system 2 and the imaging element 6 by a driving mechanism (not shown) based on a driving signal from the optical filter driving circuit 24. The image sensor 6 is composed of a CCD, a CMOS, or the like. The imaging element 6 captures an image of the subject formed by the imaging optical system 2. Furthermore, the image sensor 6 outputs a captured image by photoelectrically converting the captured subject image.

  Note that the image pickup device 6 in this embodiment corresponds to an image pickup unit that picks up an image of a subject formed by the image pickup optical system 2.

  The video signal processing circuit 8 outputs only the luminance signal of the captured image output from the image sensor 6 or is output from the image sensor 6 in accordance with an instruction from a central processing circuit (hereinafter also referred to as CPU) 26 described later. The luminance signal and color difference signal of the captured image are output to the encoding circuit 10. In addition, the video signal processing circuit 8 outputs the luminance signal of the captured image output from the image sensor 6 to the luminance measurement circuit 18 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 26.

  When only the luminance signal is output from the video signal processing circuit 8, the encoding circuit 10 compresses and encodes the output luminance signal, and outputs the compressed and encoded luminance signal to the buffer 12 as a captured image. On the other hand, when the luminance signal and the color difference signal are output from the video signal processing circuit 8, the encoding circuit 10 compresses and encodes the output luminance signal and the color difference signal, and the compressed luminance signal and the color difference signal are encoded. Is output to the buffer 12 as a captured image.

  The buffer 12 buffers the captured image output from the encoding circuit 10. Then, the buffer 12 outputs the buffered captured image to a communication circuit (hereinafter sometimes referred to as I / F) 14. The I / F 14 packetizes the captured image output from the buffer 12 and transmits the packetized captured image to the client apparatus 2000 via the communication terminal 16. Here, the communication terminal 16 includes a LAN terminal to which a LAN cable is connected.

  The I / F 14 corresponds to a receiving unit that receives a command related to insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 from the external client device 2000.

  The luminance measurement circuit 18 measures the luminance value of the current subject of the imaging apparatus 1000 based on the luminance signal output from the video signal processing circuit 8. Then, the luminance measurement circuit 18 outputs the measured luminance value to the determination circuit 20. The determination circuit 20 compares the luminance value of the subject output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 with the luminance threshold value of the subject set by the CPU 26, and outputs the comparison result to the CPU 26.

  The timer circuit 22 is set with a delay time from the CPU 26. In addition, the timer circuit 22 counts the time elapsed after receiving this instruction in accordance with the instruction to start timing from the CPU 26. Then, when the set delay time has elapsed, the time measuring circuit 22 outputs a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed to the CPU 26.

  The optical filter drive circuit 24 receives an instruction from the CPU 26 and removes the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. Further, the optical filter driving circuit 24 receives an instruction from the CPU 26 and inserts the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The optical filter drive circuit 24 in this embodiment corresponds to an insertion / removal unit that inserts / removes the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  The CPU 26 comprehensively controls each component of the imaging device 1000. Further, the CPU 26 executes a program stored in a non-volatile memory (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory; hereinafter referred to as EEPROM) 28 that can electrically erase data. Alternatively, the CPU 26 may perform control using hardware.

  In this embodiment, the EEPROM may be referred to as a memory.

  When an insertion instruction command for instructing insertion of the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is received by the I / F 14, the CPU 26 inputs an insertion instruction command subjected to appropriate packet processing at the I / F 14. Is done. Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input insertion instruction command. Then, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter driving circuit 24 based on the result of this analysis, and causes the optical filter 4 to be inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  When visible light imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the CPU 26 places importance on the color reproducibility of the captured image output from the imaging device 6 and instructs the video signal processing circuit 8 to output the luminance signal and the color difference signal. Is output to the encoding circuit 10. As a result, the I / F 14 delivers a color captured image. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the imaging device 1000 is performing visible light imaging, the imaging mode of the imaging device 1000 may be referred to as a normal imaging mode.

  In addition, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment can perform imaging with high sensitivity by increasing the color signal gain used for white balance by the gain setting circuit 7 or the like. Hereinafter, this imaging operation may be referred to as a high sensitivity imaging mode.

  As described above, in this embodiment, high color signal gain imaging is performed in the high sensitivity imaging mode. However, high sensitivity imaging is performed by using another configuration or another configuration in combination with high color signal gain imaging. It is also possible to do this.

  For example, at the time of high-sensitivity imaging, imaging with a longer accumulation time (photoelectric accumulation time) at the time of photoelectric conversion in the image sensor 6 may be performed by the operation of the image sensor drive circuit 23. Such imaging may be referred to as slow shutter imaging or low shutter speed imaging.

  In high-sensitivity imaging, an operation of adding signals of the same pixel over a plurality of frames using a pixel memory (not shown in FIG. 1) and an addition circuit (not shown in FIG. 1) in the video signal processing circuit 8 is performed. You can go.

  As described above, in this embodiment, high-sensitivity imaging can be performed by combining any two or more imaging methods of high color signal gain imaging, slow shutter imaging, and multiple frame addition imaging.

  Further, when the I / F 14 receives a removal instruction command for instructing removal of the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, the CPU 26 performs removal instruction that has been subjected to appropriate packet processing at the I / F 14. A command is entered. Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input removal instruction command. Then, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 based on the result of this analysis to remove the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Here, in the present embodiment, imaging the subject with the imaging apparatus 1000 with the optical filter 4 removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is referred to as infrared imaging. That is, in infrared imaging, the imaging apparatus 1000 captures an image of the subject in a state where light from the subject is incident on the imaging element 6 without passing through the optical filter 4.

  When infrared imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the CPU 26 instructs the video signal processing circuit 8 because the color balance of the captured image output from the imaging device 6 is lost, and encodes only the luminance signal. 10 to output. As a result, the I / F 14 delivers a monochrome captured image. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when infrared imaging is performed by the imaging apparatus 1000, the imaging mode of the imaging apparatus 1000 may be referred to as an infrared imaging mode.

  When the I / F 14 receives an automatic insertion / removal command for causing the imaging apparatus 1000 to automatically control the insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2, the CPU 26 receives an appropriate packet at the I / F 14. The processed automatic insertion / removal command is input. Next, the CPU 26 analyzes the input automatic insertion / removal command.

  Here, the automatic insertion / removal command can describe an adjustment value related to insertion / removal of the optical filter 4. This adjustment value can be omitted. The adjustment value is an adjustment value indicating the luminance of the subject, for example. When the adjustment value indicating the luminance of the subject is described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 sets a luminance threshold value corresponding to the described adjustment value in the determination circuit 20. .

  On the other hand, when the adjustment value indicating the luminance of the subject is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 reads the luminance threshold value stored in advance in the EEPROM 28 and reads the read luminance value. A threshold is set in the determination circuit 20.

  When the determination circuit 20 determines that the current subject brightness exceeds the brightness threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to enter the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The optical filter 4 is inserted.

  If the determination circuit 20 determines that the luminance of the current subject does not exceed the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to check the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The optical filter 4 is removed.

  Furthermore, the adjustment value relating to the insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 is, for example, an adjustment value indicating a delay time. When the adjustment value indicating the delay time is described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 sets the delay time corresponding to the described adjustment value in the timer circuit 22.

  On the other hand, when the adjustment value indicating the delay time is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14, the CPU 26 reads the delay time stored in advance in the EEPROM 28 and reads the read delay time. Is set in the timing circuit 22.

  For example, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the current luminance of the subject exceeds the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. Then, when a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed is input from the timer circuit 22, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to insert the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Alternatively, if the determination circuit 20 determines that the current luminance of the subject does not exceed the luminance threshold set by the CPU 26, the CPU 26 instructs the time measurement circuit 22 to start time measurement. Then, when a signal indicating that the delay time has elapsed is input from the timer circuit 22, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to remove the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Note that the CPU 26 may set a delay time indicating “0” in the timer circuit 22 when the adjustment value indicating the delay time is not described in the automatic insertion / removal command input from the I / F 14. Alternatively, the delay time may not be set in the time measuring circuit 22. Thereby, the CPU 26 can instruct the optical filter driving circuit 24 immediately according to the determination result of the determination circuit 20 to insert / remove the optical filter 4.

  Note that the automatic insertion / removal command in the present embodiment corresponds to an adjustment command including adjustment values for inserting and removing the optical filter 4 from the imaging optical system 6.

  In this embodiment, IRCF is used as the optical filter 4, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as the optical filter 4, an ND filter that reduces the amount of incident light, a beam splitter that changes the destination of transmitted light, a filter that transmits only light of a specific wavelength, a polarization filter that transmits only a specific polarization component, etc. Different optical filters may be used.

  Next, FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment. The client device 2000 in the present embodiment is configured as a computer device connected to the IP network 1500, and is typically a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a PC). .

  The CPU 426 in FIG. 3 comprehensively controls each component of the client device 2000. Further, the CPU 426 executes a program stored in a memory 428 described later. Alternatively, the CPU 426 may perform control using hardware. The memory 428 is used as a program storage area executed by the CPU 426, a work area during program execution, and a data storage area.

  A digital interface unit (hereinafter also referred to as I / F) 414 receives an instruction from the CPU 426 and transmits a command or the like to the imaging apparatus 1000 via the communication terminal 416. Also, the I / F 414 receives a command response, a captured image that has been streamed, and the like from the imaging apparatus 1000 via the communication terminal 416. The communication terminal 416 includes a LAN terminal to which a LAN cable is connected.

  The input unit 408 includes, for example, a button, a cross key, a touch panel, a mouse, and the like. The input unit 408 accepts input of instructions from the user. For example, the input unit 408 can accept input of various command transmission instructions to the imaging apparatus 1000 as instructions from the user.

  In addition, when a command transmission instruction to the imaging apparatus 1000 is input from the user, the input unit 408 notifies the CPU 426 that the input has been made. Then, the CPU 426 generates a command for the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the instruction input to the input unit 408. Next, the CPU 426 instructs the digital interface unit (hereinafter sometimes referred to as I / F) 414 to transmit the generated command to the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Furthermore, the input unit 408 can accept an input of a user response to an inquiry message to the user generated by the CPU 426 executing a program stored in the memory 428.

  Here, the CPU 426 decodes and expands the captured image output from the I / F 414. Then, the CPU 426 outputs the decoded and expanded captured image to the display unit 422. Thereby, the display unit 422 displays an image corresponding to the captured image output from the CPU 426.

  The display unit 422 can display an inquiry message to the user generated by the CPU 426 executing the program stored in the memory 428. As the display portion 422 in this embodiment, a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display display device, a cathode ray tube (hereinafter sometimes referred to as CRT) display device such as a cathode ray tube, or the like can be used.

  As described above, the internal configurations of the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 have been described, but the processing blocks shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate preferred embodiments of the imaging apparatus and the external apparatus according to the present invention. This is not the case. Various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the present invention, such as including an audio input unit and an audio output unit.

  Next, FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining the operation when the adjustment value indicating the subject luminance and the adjustment value indicating the delay time are set in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. Is. Graphs 101 in FIGS. 4A and 4B show temporal changes in luminance of the subject of the imaging apparatus 1000. FIG. This graph 101 shows that the luminance of the subject decreases or rises like a dawn time zone as time passes, such as a sunset time zone. Reference numeral 102 denotes a luminance threshold for inserting the optical filter 4, and reference numeral 103 denotes a luminance threshold for removing the optical filter 4. Reference numeral 104 denotes a luminance threshold for shifting from normal imaging to high sensitivity imaging, or from high sensitivity imaging to normal imaging.

  In this embodiment, the luminance threshold value described in the automatic insertion / removal command is normalized to a predetermined range of values. Specifically, the luminance threshold is limited to a value from −1.0 to +1.0. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the specifiable range of the luminance threshold 102 and the luminance threshold 103 is a range from −1.0 to +1.0.

  As shown in FIG. 4A, when the subject brightness decreases and falls below the brightness threshold 104 for removing the optical filter 4, the CPU 26 sets a delay time in the time measuring circuit 22 and starts a time measuring operation. In FIG. 4A, the subject luminance at the point A is lower than the luminance threshold value 102. The time at this time is t1. In this embodiment, the CPU 26 does not remove the optical filter 4 until the delay time elapses due to the delay time set in the timer circuit 22. With this operation, even when the subject luminance frequently crosses the luminance threshold 102, the high-sensitivity imaging and the infrared imaging are not frequently switched. Thereafter, when the delay time elapses and time t2 is reached, the CPU 26 removes the optical filter 4 and shifts to infrared imaging.

  When the subject brightness increases and exceeds the brightness threshold 103 for inserting the optical filter 4 as shown in FIG. 4B, the CPU 26 sets a delay time in the time measuring circuit 22 and starts the time measuring operation. In FIG. 4B, the subject brightness at the point A exceeds the brightness threshold 102. The time at this time is t1. In this embodiment, the CPU 26 does not remove the optical filter 4 until the delay time elapses due to the delay time set in the timer circuit 22. With this operation, even when the subject luminance frequently crosses the luminance threshold 102, the high-sensitivity imaging and the infrared imaging are not frequently switched. Thereafter, when the delay time elapses and time t2 is reached, the CPU 26 removes the optical filter 4 and shifts to infrared imaging.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the user causes the imaging apparatus 1000 to transmit an automatic insertion / removal command in which an adjustment value related to insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 is described by operating the client apparatus 2000. Can do. Here, the adjustment value includes an adjustment value indicating the luminance of the subject and an adjustment value indicating the delay time.

  As a result, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received the automatic insertion / removal command frequently inserts and removes the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even when the luminance value of the subject is near the luminance threshold. Can be prevented. In addition, the imaging apparatus 1000 can prevent frequent insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 even when the luminance of the subject frequently changes due to lighting flicker or the like. it can.

  Next, FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a typical command sequence for setting an adjustment value related to insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 between the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 according to the present embodiment. It is a sequence diagram. In FIG. 5, ITU-T Recommendation Z. The transaction of this command is described using a so-called message sequence chart defined in the 120 standard.

  Note that the transaction in this embodiment refers to a pair of a command transmitted from the client apparatus 2000 to the imaging apparatus 1000 and a response that the imaging apparatus 1000 returns to the client apparatus 2000 in response thereto. In FIG. 5, it is assumed that the imaging apparatus 1000 and the client apparatus 2000 are connected via the IP network 1500.

  Next, through the GetServices transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire the type of Web service supported (provided) by the imaging apparatus 1000 and the address URI for using each Web service.

  Specifically, the client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetServices command to the imaging apparatus 1000. With this command, the client apparatus 2000 acquires information indicating whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 supports Imaging Service in order to determine whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 can execute an automatic insertion / removal command or the like. be able to.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command. In the present embodiment, this response indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 supports Imaging Service. The Imaging Service is a service for performing settings related to insertion / removal of the optical filter 4.

  Next, through a GetVideoSources transaction, the client apparatus 2000 acquires a list of VideoSources stored in the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Here, VideoSource is a collection of adjustment values indicating the performance of one image sensor 6 included in the image capturing apparatus 1000. For example, the VideoSource includes a VideoSourceToken that is an ID of the VideoSource, and a Resolution indicating the resolution of the captured image that can be output by the image sensor 6.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetVideoSources command to the imaging apparatus 1000. With this command, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire a VideoSourceToken indicating a VideoSource that can be set for insertion / removal of the optical filter 4.

  Then, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received the GetVideoSources command returns a response to this command to the client apparatus 2000. In the present embodiment, this response includes a VideoSourceToken indicating a VideoSource corresponding to the image sensor 6.

  Next, with the GetOptions transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can obtain information indicating a command that can be executed by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the insertion command, the removal command, and the automatic insertion / removal command from the imaging apparatus 1000. . Also, with this transaction, the client apparatus 2000 can acquire information indicating adjustment values that can be described in the automatic insertion / removal command.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetOptions command to the imaging apparatus 1000 (more specifically, an address URI for using the Imaging Service of the imaging apparatus 1000). This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command to the client apparatus 2000. In this example, this response includes IRCutFilterOptions.

  In this IRCutFilterOptions, information indicating commands that can be executed by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the insertion command, the extraction command, and the automatic insertion / removal command is described. Further, in the IRCutFilterOptions, information indicating adjustment values that can be executed (set) by the imaging apparatus 1000 among the adjustment values that can be described in the automatic insertion / removal command is described.

  Next, the client device 2000 can acquire information indicating the insertion / removal state of the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 from the imaging device 1000 by a transaction of GetImagingSettings.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a GetImagingSettings command to an address URI for using the ImagingService of the imaging apparatus 1000. This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response to this command. In this embodiment, this response includes IRCutFilter Settings.

  In this IRCutFilter Settings, information indicating whether the optical filter 4 is currently inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 or whether the optical filter 4 is currently removed from this optical path is described. In the present embodiment, the IRCutFilterSettings describes information indicating that the optical filter 4 is currently inserted in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Next, the client apparatus 2000 causes the imaging apparatus 1000 to automatically control insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 through a transaction of SetImagingSettings.

  The client apparatus 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command to an address URI for using the ImagingService of the imaging apparatus 1000. This command includes VideoSourceToken included in the response of GetVideoSource received from the imaging apparatus 1000.

  Further, in this command, information (IrCutFilter field whose value is “AUTO”) indicating that the imaging apparatus 1000 automatically controls insertion / removal of the optical filter 4 with respect to the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 is described. In addition, an adjustment value (IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field) is described in this command.

  The IrCutFilter field and the IrCutFilterAutoAdjustment field will be described later.

  On the other hand, the imaging apparatus 1000 that has received this command returns a response of SetImagingSettings to the client apparatus 2000. This response argument is omitted. Here, this response in which the argument is omitted indicates that the execution of this command by the imaging apparatus 1000 is successful.

  Thereby, the imaging apparatus 1000 automatically determines whether the optical filter 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 or whether the optical filter 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  Next, FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the GetOptionsResponse transmission process in the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment. This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a GetOptions command from the client apparatus 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process.

  Hereinafter, the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to FIG. 7 as appropriate. Here, FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the GetOptionsResponse transmitted in the GetOptionsResponse transmission process of FIG.

  In step S <b> 701, the CPU 26 generates a GetOptions response and stores the generated GetOptions response in the EEPROM 28.

  In step S702, the CPU 26 sets ON, OFF, and AUTO in the value of the IrCutFilterModes field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S701.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, three <img20: IrCutFilterModes> tags are associated with the <ImagingOptions20> tag in the GetOptions response. Furthermore, each of the three <Img20: IrCutFilterModes> tags is associated with ON, OFF, and AUTO.

  Note that the IrCutFilterModes field whose value is ON indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept an insertion instruction command. An IrCutFilterModes field whose value is OFF indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept a removal instruction command. Further, the IrCutFilterModes field whose value is AUTO indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can accept an automatic insertion / removal command.

  In step S703, the CPU 26 sets Common as the value of the Mode field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S701.

  Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7, one <Img20: Mode> is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag in the GetOptions response. Further, Common is associated with each <Img20: Mode> tag.

  The Mode field whose value is ToOn indicates that the imaging apparatus 1000 can use an adjustment value for determining whether or not to insert the optical filter 4 in the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. The Mode field whose value is ToOff indicates that the adjustment value can be used for determining whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 removes the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2.

  The common mode field in this embodiment is common for each of the determination of whether or not the imaging apparatus 1000 inserts the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and whether or not to remove it. Indicates that an adjustment value can be used.

  For example, a GetOptions response in which a Mode field whose value is Common is described, a Mode field whose value is ToOn, and a Mode field whose value is ToOff is not described indicates the following.

  That is, the adjustment value used by the imaging apparatus 1000 can be commonly set for each of the case where the optical filter 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the optical filter 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. It can be done. Hereinafter, the adjustment value used at this time is referred to as a common adjustment value.

  Further, for example, a GetOptions response in which a Mode field having a value of Common is not described, a Mode field having a value of ToOn, and a Mode field having a value of ToOff is described as follows.

  That is, the adjustment value used by the imaging apparatus 1000 can be individually set for each of the case where the optical filter 4 is inserted into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and the case where the optical filter 4 is removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2. It can be done. Hereinafter, the adjustment value used at this time is referred to as an individual adjustment value.

  In step S704, the CPU 26 sets true to the value of the BoundaryOffset field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S701. Further, the CPU 26 sets PT0S as the value of the Min field of the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S601, and sets PT30M as the value of the Max field of this response.

  As a result, as shown in FIG. 7, the <img20: BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag in the GetOptions response. Furthermore, an <img20: ResponseTime> tag is associated with the <IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmentOptions> tag.

  The <img20: BoundaryOffset> tag is associated with true. The <img20: ResponseTime> tag is associated with the <img20: Min> tag and the <img20: Max> tag. Here, PT0S is associated with the <img20: Min> tag. Also, PT30M is associated with this <img20: Max> tag.

  Note that a BoundaryOffset field whose value is true indicates that BoundaryOffset can be set in the imaging apparatus 1000. The <img20: Min> tag indicates the minimum time (shortest time) that can be set in the ResponseTime field. The <img20: Max> tag indicates the maximum time (longest time) that can be set in the ResponseTime field.

  That is, <img20: Min> and <img20: Max> indicate a time range that can be set in the ResponseTime field.

  In step S705, the CPU 26 instructs the I / F 14 to transmit the GetOptions response stored in the EEPROM 28 in step S701 to the client device 2000.

  The flowchart shown in FIG. 8 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11 as appropriate. Here, FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of SetImagingSettings received in the SetImagingSettings reception process of FIG. 8.

  FIG. 10 is an example of a table used by the imaging apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment for the SetImagingSettings reception process in which the BoundaryType field whose value is Common is described.

  FIG. 11 is an example of a table used by the imaging apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment when performing SetImagingSettings reception processing in which BoundaryType fields whose values are ToON and ToOff are described. In this embodiment, each table is stored in advance in the EEPROM 28.

  This process is executed by the CPU 26. When the CPU 26 receives a SetImagingSettings command from the client device 2000 via the I / F 14, the CPU 26 starts executing this process. Further, it is assumed that the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14 is stored in the EEPROM 28.

  In step S <b> 1701, the CPU 26 reads a SetImagingSettings command from the EEPROM 28.

  In step S1702, the CPU 26 determines the value of the BoundaryType field in the command read in step S1701. Specifically, if the CPU 26 determines that the BoundaryType field whose value is Common is described in the command read in step S1701, the process proceeds to step S1703. On the other hand, if the Boundary Type field whose value is ToOn and the Boundary Type field whose value is ToOff are described, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1708.

  Here, the CPU 26 in this embodiment corresponds to a description determination unit that determines whether the luminance value described in SetImagingSettings is a common adjustment value or an individual adjustment value.

  First, a case will be described in which it is determined that a BoundaryType field having a value of Common is described when SetImagingSettings illustrated in FIG. 9A is received.

  In step S1703, the CPU 26 reads the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is Common in the command read in step S1701. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 26 reads 0.52 as the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is Common, and advances the process to step S1704.

  In step S1704, the CPU 26 reads out the luminance threshold values (Th1 to Th4) corresponding to the read value (0.52) from the table of FIG. 10A, and advances the processing to step S1705. Here, each of the luminance threshold values (Th1 to Th4) is used as a threshold value set in the determination circuit 20 at the time of switching the imaging mode described later.

  In step S1705, the CPU 26 reads the value of the ResponseTime field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is Common in the command read in step S1701. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 26 reads 1 minute 15 seconds as the value of ResponseTime corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is Common, and advances the process to step S1706.

  In step S1706, the CPU 26 reads each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4) corresponding to the read value (1 minute 15 seconds) from the table of FIG. 10B, and advances the process to step S1707. Here, each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4) is used as a delay time set in the time counting circuit 22 when switching an imaging mode to be described later.

  In step S1707, the CPU 26 stores the brightness threshold values (Th1 to Th4) and the predetermined times (Tr1 to Tr4) read from the tables in the EEPROM 28.

  Next, a case where it is determined that the BoundaryType field whose values are ToOn and ToOff when the SetImagingSettings shown in FIG. 9B is received will be described.

  In step S1708, the CPU 26 reads the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose values are ToOn and ToOff in the command read in step S1701. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 9B, the CPU 26 reads 0.25 as the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn. In addition, the CPU 26 reads 0.16 as the value of the BoundaryOffset field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff. Then, the process proceeds to step S1704.

  In step S1709, the CPU 26 reads out the luminance threshold values (Th1 to Th4) corresponding to the read values (0.25 and 0.16) from each table in FIG. 11A, and advances the process to step S1710. . Here, each of the luminance threshold values (Th1 to Th4) is used as a threshold value set in the determination circuit 20 at the time of switching the imaging mode described later.

  In step S1710, the CPU 26 reads the value of the ResponseTime field corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose values are ToOn and ToOff in the command read in step S1701. In the case of the command shown in FIG. 11B, the CPU 26 reads 1 minute 30 seconds as the value of ResponseTime corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn. In addition, the CPU 26 reads out 1 minute and 10 seconds as the value of ResponseTime corresponding to the BoundaryType field whose value is ToOff. Then, the process proceeds to step S1711.

  In step S1711, the CPU 26 reads out each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4) corresponding to the read value (1 minute 30 seconds and 1 minute 10 seconds) from each table in FIG. 11B, and the process is performed in step S1707. Proceed to Here, each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4) is used as a delay time set in the time counting circuit 22 when switching an imaging mode to be described later.

  In step S1704 and the like, the CPU 26 reads each luminance threshold value (Th1 to 4) and each predetermined time (Tr1 to 4) corresponding to each value read in step S1701 from a table stored in advance in the EEPROM 28. FIGS. 10A and 11A show an example of a table related to the BoundaryOffset value. In this table, each BoundaryOffset value is associated with each luminance threshold (Th1 to Th4). FIG. 10B and FIG. 11B show examples of tables related to ResponseTime values. In this table, each ResponseTime value is associated with each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4).

  On the other hand, it is not necessary to read from the table stored beforehand. That is, the luminance thresholds (Th1 to 4) and the predetermined times (Tr1 to 4) may be calculated by offsetting the values of the BoundaryOffset field and the ResponseTime field corresponding to each BoundaryType field. At this time, the offset amount of any one of the luminance threshold values (Th1 to Th4) may be a uniform value (fixed value), or a subject obtained from the luminance measurement circuit 18 when the optical filter 4 is inserted and removed from the imaging apparatus 1000. A value to which a luminance difference is applied may be used. Note that offsetting means adding or subtracting values.

  The value may be a default value stored in advance in the EEPROM 28 without using a table. Further, at least two or more luminance threshold values or the same value in common for a predetermined time may be used.

  Thus, the CPU 26 in this embodiment corresponds to a control unit having a function of automatically determining each luminance threshold value or each predetermined time from the adjustment value described in the command.

  Next, FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for the value of the BoundaryType field in the client device 2000 according to the present embodiment. This screen is displayed on the display unit 422.

  The optical filter type selection pane 301 in FIG. 12 includes a Common selection check box 303, a ToOn selection check box 305, a ToOff selection check box 307, and a BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309.

  The optical filter type selection pane 301 includes a delay time setting numerical value box 311. The optical filter setting pane 315 is provided with a first luminance threshold setting scale 317, a second luminance threshold setting scale 319, a first delay time setting scale 321, and a second delay time setting scale 323. Further, a setting button 325 and a cancel button 327 are provided on the setting screen shown in FIG.

  Here, in the optical filter setting pane 315, the vertical axis indicates the luminance value, and the horizontal axis indicates the delay time. In particular, in the optical filter setting pane 315, the horizontal axis (on the Time axis) indicates a luminance value 0 (zero), and the upper limit (upper end) indicates a normalized luminance value 1.0. Further, the lower limit (lower end) indicates a normalized luminance value −1.0. In the optical filter setting pane 315, the left limit (left end) indicates the delay time 0 (zero).

  Here, the screen of FIG. 12 is a setting screen used when the SetImagingSettings command of FIG. 9A is transmitted to the imaging apparatus 1000.

  A common selection check box 303 in FIG. 12 is selected by the user. For this reason, a BoundaryType field whose value is Common is described in the SetImagingSettings command.

  The second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are grayed out. That is, the second luminance threshold setting scale 319 and the second delay time setting scale 323 are in an inoperable state.

  The user slides the first brightness threshold setting scale 317 up and down to set the user's desired BoundaryOffset value. When the first brightness threshold setting scale 317 is operated by the user, the value of the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 changes in conjunction with this operation.

  On the other hand, the user can also directly input a value in the Common equivalent part in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309. Then, when a value is input to the Common equivalent part by the user, the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 moves up and down according to the input value.

  Thus, the user can roughly grasp the value of BoundaryOffset from the position of the first luminance threshold setting scale 317. Furthermore, since this position and the value of the Common equivalent in the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309 are linked, the user can accurately grasp the value of BoundaryOffset by this Common equivalent.

  When the setting button 325 is pressed while the first luminance threshold setting scale 317 is arranged on the Time axis, the client device 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command in which the BoundaryOffset field is omitted.

  Similarly, even if the setting button 325 is pressed in a state where 0 (zero) is input to the Common equivalent part of the BoundaryOffset setting numerical value box 309, the client apparatus 2000 transmits the omitted SetImagingSettings command.

  For example, a GUI component for instructing to omit the BoundaryOffset field in the SetImagingSettings command may be separately displayed on the display unit 422.

  Specifically, a BoundaryOffset field omission check box is arranged on the screen of FIG. 10 as such a GUI component. Then, when this check box is selected by the user, the BoundaryOffset field of the SetImagingSettings command may be omitted.

  Also, the user sets the value of ResponseTime desired by the user by sliding the first delay time setting scale 321 left and right. When the first delay time setting scale 321 is operated by the user, the time display of the common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311 changes in conjunction with this operation.

  On the other hand, the user can also directly input the time into the Common equivalent part in the delay time setting numerical value box 311. Then, when the user inputs time to the Common corresponding part, the first delay time setting scale 321 moves to the left and right according to the input time.

  It is assumed that the setting button 325 is pressed in a state where the first delay time setting scale 321 is arranged at the left end of the optical filter setting pane 315. In such a case, the client apparatus 2000 transmits a SetImagingSettings command in which the ResponseTime field is omitted.

  Similarly, it is assumed that the setting button 325 is pressed in a state where 0 (zero) is input to all the numerical boxes corresponding to the common in the delay time setting numerical box 311. Even in such a case, the client apparatus 2000 assumes a SetImagingSettings command in which the ResponseTime field is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the first delay time setting scale 321 is arranged at the left end of the optical filter setting pane 315, or 0 is input to the Common equivalent part of the delay time setting numerical value box 311 so that the ResponseTime field is omitted. Can be instructed. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, a GUI component for instructing to omit the ResponseTime field in the SetImagingSettings command may be separately displayed on the display unit 422.

  Specifically, a ResponseTime field omission check box is arranged on the screen of FIG. 12 as such a GUI component. Then, when this check box is selected by the user, the ResponseTime field of the SetImagingSettings command may be omitted.

  Further, the client device 2000 according to the present embodiment may transmit a GetOptions command to the imaging device 1000 before displaying the setting screen illustrated in FIG. 12 on the display unit 422. Then, the client device 2000 may update the setting screen of FIG. 12 displayed on the display unit 422 in accordance with the GetOptions response transmitted from the imaging device 1000.

  Here, this response includes an IrCutFilterAutoAdjustmetOptions field. In this field, the value of the BoundaryType field that can be received by the imaging apparatus 1000 is described.

  Further, in this embodiment, an example related to Common is shown, but the same operation can be performed by operating the ToOn selection check box 305 in FIG. 12 in the same manner even when selected by the user. Selected by the user. For this reason, a BoundaryType field whose value is Common is described in the SetImagingSettings command.

  Further, even when the ToOff selection check box 307 is selected by the user, it can be similarly operated by operating the second luminance threshold setting scale 319, the second delay time setting scale 323, and the like.

  In this case, a BoundaryType field whose value is ToOn or ToOff is described in the SetImagingSettings command.

  Also, a check box or the like that can set whether or not to implement the high-sensitivity imaging mode may be provided on the setting screen of FIG. By operating this check box, the user may be able to select the presence or absence of the high-sensitivity imaging mode. At that time, the brightness threshold and delay time for controlling the high-sensitivity imaging mode may be set by the same operation as that for setting the SetImagingSettings command.

  Subsequently, imaging mode control by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining the imaging mode control processing by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment.

  In step S1301, the CPU 26 determines whether the current imaging mode is the normal imaging mode, the high sensitivity imaging mode, or the infrared imaging mode.

  If the CPU 26 determines that the current imaging mode is the normal imaging mode, the CPU 26 proceeds to step S1302. If the CPU 26 determines that the current imaging mode is the high-sensitivity imaging mode, the process proceeds to step S1303. Proceed with the process. If the CPU 26 determines that the current imaging mode is the infrared imaging mode, the process proceeds to step S1304.

  In step S1302, the CPU 26 executes a normal imaging mode determination process. This process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1303, the CPU 26 executes a high sensitivity imaging mode determination process. This process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S1304, the CPU 26 executes infrared imaging mode determination processing. This process will be described later with reference to FIG.

  Subsequently, a normal imaging mode determination process by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the normal imaging mode by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment.

  In step S1401, the CPU 26 determines whether the subject luminance is lower than a predetermined luminance threshold (Th1). Specifically, the CPU 26 causes the determination circuit 20 to make a determination based on the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 and the luminance threshold (Th1) set by the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Then, the determination circuit 20 determines whether or not the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is darker than the luminance threshold value (Th1) set by the CPU 26.

  If the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is darker than the brightness threshold set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1402. On the other hand, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is not darker than the brightness threshold set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1301.

  In step S1402, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. Specifically, the CPU 26 reads a value corresponding to the ResponseTime field associated with the BoundaryType field whose value is set to Common. And the predetermined time (Tr1) set by the process shown by the flowchart of FIG. 8 is set to the time measuring circuit 22, and time-measurement is started.

  Since step S1403 is the same as step S1401, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S1404, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a predetermined time (Tr1) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1402. Specifically, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a time lapse signal has been input by the timer circuit 22.

  If the time elapse signal is input from the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr1) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1402, and advances the process to step S1405. On the other hand, if the time lapse signal is not input by the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr1) has not elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1402, and returns the process to step S1403. .

  In step S1405, the CPU 26 instructs the gain setting circuit 7, the video signal processing circuit 8, and the image sensor driving circuit 23 to shift the imaging mode to the high sensitivity imaging mode.

  Subsequently, a high-sensitivity imaging mode determination process by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining high-sensitivity imaging mode determination processing by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment.

  In step S1501, the CPU 26 determines whether the subject luminance is darker than a predetermined luminance threshold (Th2). Specifically, the CPU 26 causes the determination circuit 20 to make a determination based on the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 and the luminance threshold (Th2) set in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Then, the determination circuit 20 determines whether the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is darker than the luminance threshold value (Th2) set by the CPU 26.

  If the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is darker than the luminance threshold (Th2) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1502. On the other hand, if the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is not lower than the brightness threshold (Th2) set in the CPU 26, the process proceeds to step S1506.

  In step S1502, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. Specifically, the CPU 26 sets the predetermined time (Tr2) set in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S1503, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the subject luminance is darker than a predetermined luminance threshold (Th2) as in step S1501. If the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is darker than the luminance threshold (Th2) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1504. On the other hand, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is not lower than the luminance threshold (Th2) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1301.

  In step S1504, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a predetermined time (Tr2) has elapsed since the time measurement was started in step S1502. Specifically, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a time lapse signal has been input by the timer circuit 22.

  Then, when the time lapse signal is input from the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr2) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1502, and advances the process to step S1505. On the other hand, if the time lapse signal is not input by the time counting circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr2) has not elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1502, and returns the process to step S1503. .

  In step S1505, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to remove the optical filter 4 from the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and shift the imaging mode to the infrared imaging mode.

  In step S1506, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the subject brightness is brighter than a predetermined brightness threshold (Th3). Specifically, the CPU 26 causes the determination circuit 20 to make a determination based on the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 and the luminance threshold value (Th3) set in the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Then, the determination circuit 20 determines whether the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is brighter than the luminance threshold value (Th3) set by the CPU 26.

  If the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is brighter than the brightness threshold (Th3) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1507. On the other hand, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is not brighter than the brightness threshold (Th3) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1301.

  In step S1507, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. Specifically, the CPU 26 sets the predetermined time (Tr3) set in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Since step S1508 is the same as step S1506, description thereof is omitted.

  In step S1509, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a predetermined time (Tr3) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1507. Specifically, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a time lapse signal has been input by the timer circuit 22.

  If a time lapse signal is input from the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that a predetermined time (Tr3) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1507, and advances the process to step S1510. On the other hand, if the time lapse signal is not input by the time counting circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr3) has not elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1507, and returns the process to step S1508. .

  In step S1510, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to insert the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and shift to the normal imaging mode.

  Subsequently, an infrared imaging mode determination process by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the infrared imaging mode determination processing by the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment.

  In step S1601, the CPU 26 determines whether the subject brightness is brighter than a predetermined brightness threshold (Th4). Specifically, the CPU 26 causes the determination circuit 20 to make a determination based on the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 and the luminance threshold value (Th4) set in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Then, the determination circuit 20 determines whether the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is brighter than the luminance threshold value (Th4) set by the CPU 26.

  If the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject luminance output from the luminance measurement circuit 18 is higher than the luminance threshold (Th4) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 advances the process to step S1602. On the other hand, when the determination circuit 20 determines that the subject brightness output from the brightness measurement circuit 18 is not brighter than the brightness threshold (Th4) set in the CPU 26, the CPU 26 returns the process to step S1301.

  In step S1602, the CPU 26 instructs the timing circuit 22 to start timing. Specifically, the CPU 26 sets the predetermined time (Tr4) set in the process shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  Step S1603 is the same as step S1506, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S1604, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a predetermined time (Tr4) has elapsed since the time measurement was started in step S1602. Specifically, the CPU 26 determines whether or not a time lapse signal has been input by the timer circuit 22.

  If a time lapse signal is input from the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that a predetermined time (Tr4) has elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1602, and advances the process to step S1605. On the other hand, if the time lapse signal is not input by the time measuring circuit 22, the CPU 26 determines that the predetermined time (Tr4) has not elapsed since the start of time measurement in step S1602, and returns the process to step S1603. .

  In step S1605, the CPU 26 instructs the optical filter drive circuit 24 to insert the optical filter 4 into the optical path of the imaging optical system 2 and shift to the high sensitivity imaging mode.

  As described above, the imaging apparatus 1000 according to the present embodiment automatically sets the luminance threshold value or the predetermined time for switching the imaging mode based on the common adjustment value or the individual adjustment value described in the SetImagingSettings command received by the I / F 14. decide.

  Therefore, high gain imaging and infrared imaging with the infrared cutoff filter removed can be operated at appropriate timing, and interference caused by noise, reflection of the filter holding frame, and the like can be reduced. As a result, even when the subject brightness changes, the high gain imaging as described above and the infrared imaging with the infrared cutoff filter removed can be operated at appropriate timing, and good imaging can be continued.

  In addition, it is possible to prevent unintentional insertion / removal of an optical filter and gain setting in the optical path of the imaging optical system in response to a user's need to control the imaging device from an external device via a network. be able to. For this reason, the case where a picked-up image becomes abnormal, the case where imaging cannot be carried out as abnormal operation | movement, etc. can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, in step S1701 shown in FIG. 8, the CPU 26 reads the adjustment value described in the SetImagingSettings command. In step S1704 and the like, the CPU 26 exemplifies an operation of determining each luminance threshold (Th1 to Th4) and each predetermined time (Tr1 to Tr4) corresponding to each value.

  However, each threshold value may be determined based on a value described in a received command other than the SetImagingSettings command. Specifically, when an adjustment value including a threshold value for the high-sensitivity imaging mode is received from an external device, the CPU 26 may determine each threshold value based on the value.

(Other examples)
The present invention supplies a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or apparatus read and execute the program This process can be realized. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

  As mentioned above, although the preferable Example of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to these Examples, A various deformation | transformation and change are possible within the range of the summary.

2 Imaging optical system 4 Infrared cutoff filter (optical filter)
6 Image sensor 14 Communication circuit 24 Optical filter drive circuit

Claims (9)

An imaging device that communicates with an external device via a network,
An imaging optical system;
Imaging means for capturing an image of a subject imaged by the imaging optical system;
A high-sensitivity imaging means for performing high-sensitivity imaging on a low-luminance subject;
An optical filter;
Insertion / removal means for inserting / removing the optical filter into / from the optical path of the imaging optical system;
To receive an adjustment command describing one of the first adjustment value used for controlling the insertion / removal means and the second adjustment value for controlling the high-sensitivity imaging means from the external device via the network. Receiving means,
A determination means for automatically determining the other from one adjustment value included in the adjustment command;
Control means for controlling the insertion / removal means and the high-sensitivity imaging means based on one adjustment value included in the adjustment command and the other adjustment value determined by the determination means,
The first adjustment value and the second adjustment value include values related to control delay time,
The relationship between the delay time of control of the insertion / removal means by the control means and the delay time of control of the high-sensitivity imaging means, the delay time of control of the insertion / removal means, the delay time of control of the high-sensitivity imaging means An image pickup apparatus that is set to be the same as or longer than.   The first adjustment value described in the adjustment command is a common adjustment value commonly used when the optical filter is inserted into and removed from the optical path, or when the optical filter is inserted into the optical path, and The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising individual adjustment values that are individually used for extraction. Storage means for storing the first adjustment value and the second adjustment value in association with each other;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines the second adjustment value by referring to the adjustment value stored by the storage unit.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit calculates the second adjustment value from the first adjustment value. A storage means for storing the offset;
3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines the second adjustment value based on an offset stored in the storage unit. 4. Calculating means for calculating a difference between the luminance of the subject when the optical filter is inserted into the optical path by the insertion / removal means and the luminance of the subject when the optical filter is removed from the optical path by the insertion / removal means; In addition,
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit determines a second adjustment value based on the difference calculated by the calculation unit.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the optical filter includes an infrared blocking filter that blocks infrared rays. High color signal gain imaging mode for setting the color signal gain high and imaging
An accumulation time control imaging mode for imaging by controlling the photoelectric accumulation time of the image sensor; and
Multiple frame addition imaging mode for imaging by adding data of the same pixel over multiple frames;
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the high-sensitivity imaging is performed by any one mode or a combination of a plurality of modes. An imaging optical system, an imaging unit that captures an image of a subject formed by the imaging optical system, a gain setting unit for performing high-sensitivity imaging, an optical filter, and an optical filter that is inserted into and removed from the optical path of the imaging optical system A method for controlling an imaging apparatus that communicates with an external device via a network,
A reception step of receiving an adjustment command describing a first adjustment value used for controlling the insertion / removal unit from the external device via the network;
An automatic determination step for automatically determining a second adjustment value for controlling the gain setting unit corresponding to the first adjustment value;
A control step for controlling the insertion / removal means and the high-sensitivity imaging means based on the first adjustment value and the second adjustment value,
The first adjustment value and the second adjustment value include values related to control delay time,
The relationship between the delay time of the control of the insertion / removal unit by the control step and the delay time of the control of the high-sensitivity imaging means, the delay time of the control of the insertion / removal means, A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, characterized in that it is set to be the same as or longer than.

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