Description
Title of Invention: STEREOSCOPIC VIDEO IMAGING SYSTEM
AND SYNCHRONOUS CONTROL METHOD
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a stereoscopic video imaging system and a syn
chronous control method that are suitable for use in the case where, for example, a
stereoscopic video (3D video) is generated from videos captured with two cameras.
Background Art
[0002] From the past, there has been a technique of generating a stereoscopic video (3D
video) that can be stereoscopically viewed by a user with use of videos of the same
subject. Those videos are captured with two cameras installed in accordance with
parallax of right and left eyes of the user.
[0003] As an example of the stereoscopic video imaging system, there is a system in which
videos of reflected light and transmitted light are captured with right and left cameras
through a half mirror mounted to a mount called rig. When a stereoscopic video is
captured using a rig, it is necessary for the two cameras used to coincide with each
other in settings thereof and to be synchronized with each other in order to prevent
generation of a difference between videos captured with the right and left cameras.
[0004] In the related art, two cameras are connected to each other through a cable for
transmitting a genlock (generator lock) signal (synchronization signal) that is used for
synchronizing the two cameras. The two cameras synchronize processing frames of
video signals thereof on the basis of the genlock signal. In addition, the two cameras
are connected to each other through a cable for transmitting a time code signal that is
used for synchronizing time codes of the two cameras. The time code is used for
editing a moving image and the like. Generally, the time code is information on a time
(hour, minute, and number of frames) from the start of shooting. The cable for the
genlock signal and the cable for the time code signal each include two signal lines for
input and output.
[0005] In another technique, as shown in FIG. 12, a camera 101 and a genlock signal
generator 103 are connected to each other by a cable 104A, a camera 102 and the
genlock signal generator 103 are connected to each other by a cable 104B, and the
camera 101 and the camera 102 are connected to each other by a time code signal cable
105. Then, a genlock signal (Genlock in) generated in the genlock signal generator 103
is input to each of the cameras 101 and 102 so that the two cameras are synchronized
with each other. In addition, an input and an output (TC in, TC out) of the time code
signal are transmitted and received through the cable 105.
[0006] Further, in order to match camera setting values (shooting parameters) of two
cameras with each other, a configuration file containing a setting value of one camera
is stored in a memory card, and then the configuration file is called from the memory
card by the other camera so that the settings of the two cameras are matched with each
other. Alternatively, a camera operator needs to match the settings of the two cameras
while comparing them with use of a menu or a remote operation apparatus (remote
controller). Further, in order to almost simultaneously start recording in two cameras, a
recording button of the camera main body or remote controller needs to be pressed at
the same time in the two cameras.
[0007] To eliminate those inconveniences, Patent Literature 1 proposes the following
technique.
In the technique disclosed in Patent Literature 1, when a main imaging apparatus is
connected to another imaging apparatus via a communication means and a camera
operator operates a first operation switch (presses a release button halfway down) of
the main imaging apparatus, a shooting parameter value set for the main imaging
apparatus is transferred to the other imaging apparatus so that a common shooting
parameter value is also set for the other imaging apparatus automatically. Further,
Patent Literature 1 discloses a technique of, when the camera operator operates a
second operation switch (presses a release button all the way down), transmitting a
shooting command to the other imaging apparatus and taking images at the same
timing between those imaging apparatuses. With this technique, a shooting operation
in a connection destination can be automatically performed almost at the same time as
when a shooting operation with use of a main camera is performed.
Citation List
Patent Literature
[0008] PTL 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2007-72210
Summary of Invention
[0009] However, in the related art, a lot of cables for connecting two cameras are used and
shooting equipment becomes large. Further, it is necessary to load or remove a
memory card for matching camera setting values of the two cameras and to store and
recall setting values on a menu screen. In addition, it takes time and labor to check
whether the setting values are actually the same or not in the two cameras. It should be
noted that in a shooting method disclosed in Patent Literature 1, when a release button
is pressed halfway down, a shooting parameter value set for the main imaging
apparatus is transferred to the other imaging apparatus, and therefore the shooting
parameter value is set for the other imaging apparatus immediately before the shooting,
and the same shooting parameter value is constantly set for the main imaging apparatus
and the other imaging apparatus in the shooting.
[0010] In view of the circumstances as described above, it is desirable to save time and
effort for shooting preparation of two cameras that takes a stereoscopic video.
[001 1] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a
stereoscopic video imaging system including a first imaging apparatus, a second
imaging apparatus coupled to the first imaging apparatus and arranged to take a 3D
image. A single cable connects the first imaging apparatus to the second imaging
apparatus. A switching device selects one of the first and second imaging apparatuses
to be a main imaging apparatus and the remaining imaging apparatus to be a sub
imaging apparatus. The main imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a synchro
nization signal, the synchronization signal being communicated to the sub imaging
apparatus through the single cable.
[0012] According to another embodiment of the stereoscopic video imaging system the main
imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a time code signal for matching a time code
for the main imaging apparatus with a time code of the sub imaging apparatus, the time
code signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[0013] According to another embodiment of the stereoscopic video imaging system the main
imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a data signal containing a shooting parameter,
the data signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through the single
cable.
[0014] According to another embodiment there is provided an imaging device having single
cable, a receiver to receive signals from a main imaging apparatus through the single
cable and a transmitter to transmit signals to a sub imaging apparatus through the
single cable. A switching device can switch the imaging device to either a main
imaging apparatus mode or a sub imaging apparatus mode and generate a 3D image in
communication with a second imaging apparatus. When the imaging apparatus in the
main imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a synchro
nization code, the synchronization signal being communicated to the second imaging
apparatus through the single cable and when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the
imaging device is enabled to receive a synchronization code, the synchronization
signal being communicated from the second imaging apparatus through the single
cable.
[0015] According to another embodiment of the imaging device when in the main imaging
apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a time code signal for
matching a time code for the imaging apparatus with a time code of the sub imaging
apparatus, the time code signal being communicated to the second imaging apparatus
through the single cable and when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging
device is enabled to receive a time code signal, the time code signal being communicated
from the second imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the imaging device when in the main imaging
apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a data signal containing a
shooting parameter, the data signal being communicated to the second imaging
apparatus through the single cable and when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the
imaging device is enabled to receive a data signal, the data signal being communicated
from the second imaging apparatus through the single cable.
According to the present disclosure, it is possible to save time and effort for shooting
preparation of two imaging apparatuses that take a stereoscopic video.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0017] [fig.l]FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an external structure of a
stereoscopic video imaging system according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[fig.2]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structure of a dedicated cable
according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.3]FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an internal structure of
an input circuit and an output circuit in an imaging apparatus according to the em
bodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.4]FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the input circuit and the output circuit
in the imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.5]FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal structure of the
stereoscopic video imaging system according to the embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[fig.6]FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal structure of a main
controller according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.7]FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing example up to completion of
shooting preparation of two imaging apparatuses connected to each other by a
dedicated cable according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.8]FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a transition example of a menu screen
of a viewfinder according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig.9]FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a viewfinder of
the imaging apparatus on a main apparatus side according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[fig. 10]FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a viewfinder
of the imaging apparatus on a sub-apparatus side according to the embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[fig. 11]FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of the viewfinder
(on the main apparatus side), in which a setting value is being reflected, according to
the embodiment of the present disclosure.
[fig. 12]FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a method of
connecting two imaging apparatuses in related the art.
Description of Embodiments
[0018] Hereinafter, an example for carrying out the present disclosure (hereinafter, also
referred to as "embodiment") will be described with reference to the attached drawings.
Description will be given in the following order. It should be noted that in the
drawings, common constituent elements are denoted by the same reference symbols
and overlapping description will be omitted.
1. One Embodiment (example in which two imaging apparatuses are connected by
single dedicated cable)
2. Others (example of reflecting camera setting value from main imaging apparatus
to sub-imaging apparatus, and example of recording start and reproduction stop)
[0019] <1. One Embodiment
(External Structure of Stereoscopic Video Imaging System)
In this embodiment, an example applied to a stereoscopic video imaging system 10 in
which two imaging apparatuses (cameras) are connected to each other by a single
dedicated cable to capture a stereoscopic video will be described (hereinafter, referred
to as "this example").
[0020] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an external structure of a
stereoscopic video imaging system according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
The stereoscopic video imaging system 10 includes a first imaging apparatus 1 and a
second imaging apparatus 2 installed on a rig 4 as imaging apparatuses that capture
two-dimensional videos with the same number of frames and the same image size in
one second. Incident light from a subject is split into transmitted light and reflected
light through a half mirror 5, and enters an optical system 6 of each of the imaging
apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2. The imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging
apparatus 2 include a common terminal and are connected to each other by a single
dedicated cable 3, which has been developed by the applicant of this application. The
imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 can transmit and receive a genlock
(or generator lock) signal (synchronization signal) for controlling synchronization of
video recording or reproducing processing in a unit of frames between those ap
paratuses, a time code signal used for editing a moving image, and the like.
[0021] Further, the first imaging apparatus 1 and the second imaging apparatus 2 each
include an operation unit with which a camera operator instructs each unit to operate
by inputting an operation. FIG. 1 illustrates, as an example of the operation unit, an
assignable button 7 and a recording button 8. The imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging
apparatus 2 each include a slot 9 for loading a memory card.
[0022] (Structure of Dedicated Cable)
Next, with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 and Table 1, a structure of the dedicated cable 3
according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a structure of the dedicated cable 3. FIG. 3 is
an explanatory diagram showing an example of an internal structure of an input circuit
and an output circuit in an imaging apparatus. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram
showing the input circuit and the output circuit in the imaging apparatus.
[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the dedicated cable 3 includes, in a cylindrical protective
covering 3a (see FIG. 3), a coaxial wire 12 for a genlock signal, a coaxial wire 13 for a
time code signal, and four conductive wires 14 to 17 for data signals. Characteristic
impedances of the coaxial wires 12 and 13 are 75ohm or 50ohm, for example. Male
connectors 11A and 1IB are provided to both ends of the dedicated cable 3. The
connectors 11A and 1IB each have the same structure and each include eight terminals
(pins). Conduction between corresponding terminals of the two connectors 11A and
1IB is established by those signal lines.
[0024] Table 1 shows names of signals that are input and output to and from the terminals of
the connectors 11A and 1IB of the dedicated cable 3.
(Table 1)
Pin
Signal name
Remarks
1
Genlock(GND)
Genlock signal
2
Genlock
3
TC(GND)
Time code signal
4
TC
5
RX
Data signal
tc
7
CLK
8
CS
[0025] As shown in Table 1, in this example, first pins of the connectors 11A and 1IB of the
dedicated cable 3 are assigned to a reference potential (Genlock(GND)) of a genlock
signal, second pins thereof are assigned to the genlock signal (Genlock), third pins are
assigned to a reference potential (TC(GND)) of a time code signal, fourth pins are
assigned to the time code signal (TC), and fifth to eighth pins are assigned to a data
signal. In this example, the fifth pins are assigned to reception data (RX), the sixth pins
are assigned to transmission data (TX), the seventh pins are assigned to a clock signal
(CLK), and the eighth pins are assigned to a chip select signal (CS).
[0026] Information items included in the reception data (RX) and the transmission data (TX)
are an input operation signal of a recording start, a recording stop, or the like of the
imaging apparatus 1 or the imaging apparatus 2, a control signal based thereon, a
camera setting value (shooting parameter), and the like. The clock signal (CLK) is a
signal that is used for a plurality of blocks in the imaging apparatus 1 or the imaging
apparatus 2 to synchronize timings of operation. The chip select signal (CS) is a signal
representing which hardware module (IC etc.) of the imaging apparatus 1 and the
imaging apparatus 2 is enabled. When the chip select signal is active, read and write of
the hardware module can be performed.
[0027] The connector 11A (male) of the dedicated cable 3 and a connector 2 1 (female) of
the imaging apparatus 1 are connected to each other and the connector 1IB (male) of
the dedicated cable 3 and a connector 2 1 (female) of the imaging apparatus 2 are
connected to each other so that the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2
are physically and electrically connected to each other.
[0028] (Switching Between Input Circuit and Output Circuit)
In the stereoscopic video imaging system according to the embodiment of the present
disclosure, the two imaging apparatuses 1 and 2 are connected to each other by the
single dedicated cable 3, and a genlock signal, a time code signal, and a data signal are
transmitted by the single cable so that settings of the cameras, synchronization,
recording start/stop, and the like can be performed. Hereinafter, a structure for
switching between the input circuit and the output circuit in the imaging apparatus will
be described.
[0029] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the connector 11A (male) of the dedicated cable 3
is inserted into the connector 2 1 (female) of the imaging apparatus 1, the terminals
(first to eighth pins) of the connector 11A and the terminals (first to eighth pins) corresponding
thereto of the imaging apparatus 1 are physically and electrically connected
to one another. Similarly, when the connector 1IB (male) of the dedicated cable 3 is
inserted into the connector 2 1 (female) of the imaging apparatus 2, the terminals (first
to eighth pins) of the connector 1IB and the terminals (first to eighth pins) corre
sponding thereto of the imaging apparatus 2 are physically and electrically connected
to one another.
[0030] Since the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 are connected to each
other by a single dedicated cable 3, it is necessary to set an input side (main apparatus
side) and an output side (sub-apparatus side) for the imaging apparatus 1 and the
imaging apparatus 2. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the imaging apparatus 1 is set to
be an input side, and the imaging apparatus 2 is set to be an output side. The setting of
those two imaging apparatuses 1 and 2 may be reversed between the input side and the
output side depending on a shooting condition or the intention of the camera operator.
Hereinafter, an internal structure of the imaging apparatus for switching the setting will
be described. The imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 have the same
structure, and therefore the imaging apparatus 1 will be described here.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 3, a center core (inner conductor) of the coaxial wire 12 of the
dedicated cable 3 is connected to the second terminal (second pin) of the connector 21,
and an outer conductor thereof is connected to the first terminal (first pin) of the
connector 21. The outer conductor is basically a reference of a zero-volt potential.
Therefore, the first terminal is connected to an electronic circuit of the imaging
apparatus connected via an outer metallic part of the connector 2 1 or to a ground wire
of a casing of the imaging apparatus. Further, the second terminal of the connector 2 1
is connected to a connector interface 22 (hereinafter, also referred to as "connector I/F"
or "input and output I/F"). It should be noted that in this example, ground wires for the
data signals transmitted through the four conductive wires 14 to 17 are shared with the
outer conductors of the coaxial wires 12 and 13.
[0032] The connector I/F 22 includes an input circuit 23, an output circuit 24, and a
switching unit 25. The input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 are connected to an
electronic circuit (not shown) of the imaging apparatus. The fifth to eighth terminals of
the connector 2 1 are also connected to the electronic circuit of the imaging apparatus.
[0033] As an example, the input circuit 23 can be structured by a buffer amplifier (amplifier
circuit) in which an input terminal thereof is connected to the switching unit 25 and an
output terminal thereof is connected to the electronic circuit of the imaging apparatus,
and a resistor (termination resistor) in which one terminal is connected between the
switching unit 25 and the buffer amplifier and the other terminal is connected to the
ground wire. For the termination resistor, a resistance value of 75ohm or 50ohm is
used in accordance with an impedance of the coaxial wire for the purpose of
impedance matching.
[0034] As an example, the output circuit 24 can be structured by a buffer amplifier
(amplifier circuit) in which an input terminal thereof is connected to the electronic
circuit of the imaging apparatus, and a resistor (output resistor) in which one terminal
is connected to an output terminal of the buffer amplifier and the other terminal is
connected to the switching unit 25. For the output resistor, a resistance value of 75ohm
or 50ohm is used in accordance with an impedance of the coaxial wire for the purpose
of impedance matching.
[0035] The switching unit 25 switches connection between the input circuit 23 and the
output circuit 24 according to an instruction from the main controller 37. Accordingly,
the imaging apparatus can be switched between the input side (main apparatus side)
and the output side (sub-apparatus side).
[0036] The same holds true for the fourth terminal (fourth pin) of the connector 2 1
connected to the center core (inner conductor) of the coaxial wire 13 of the dedicated
cable 3, and the third terminal (third pin) connected to the outer conductor thereof. The
connector 22 includes another input circuit 23, another output circuit 24, and
another switching unit 25. The input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 are connected
to the electronic circuit of the imaging apparatus. The switching unit 25 is connected to
the fourth terminal. Connection is switched between the input circuit 23 and the output
circuit 24 by the switching unit 25.
[0037] It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to this example showing
the structure in which switching between the input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24
is performed by using a single switching unit 25. For example, the following structure
may be adopted, in which a buffer amplifier and a resistor are shared between the input
circuit 23 and the output circuit 24, a plurality of switching units are provided, and
connection is switched among the plurality of switching units in accordance with a
setting so that the orientation of the buffer amplifier and the function of the resistor
(output resistor and termination resistor) are selected.
[0038] (Internal Structure of Stereoscopic Video Imaging System)
Next, an example of an internal structure of the stereoscopic video imaging system
10 will be described.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal structure of the
stereoscopic video imaging system 10 according to the embodiment of the present
disclosure. Since the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 that are
connected to each other by the dedicated cable 3 have the same functional blocks, an
example of an internal structure of the imaging apparatus 1 will be described here. In
the following description, the imaging apparatus set on the input side (main apparatus
side) is referred to as "main apparatus" and the imaging apparatus set on the output
side (sub-apparatus side) is referred to as "different apparatus" in some cases.
[0039] The imaging apparatus 1 includes an imaging unit 31 constituted of an image sensor,
a circuit for reading out an imaging signal from the image sensor, and the like. The
image sensor included in the imaging unit 31 converts image light that has entered via
a lens of an optical system 6 mounted to the imaging apparatus 1 into an electric
imaging signal. An imaging timing, an imaging cycle, an imaging operation in the
imaging unit 3 1 are controlled by an imaging controller 39. The imaging controller 39
controls the imaging unit 31 so that imaging is performed based on a camera setting
value (shooting parameter) stored in a memory 40 or an instruction from an operation
unit 38 that is input via the main controller 37 (one example of controller). The camera
setting value based on the operation of the operation unit 38 or the like is stored in the
memory 40.
[0040] The imaging signal output from the imaging unit 31 is input to a signal processing
unit 32. The signal processing unit 32 performs various types of signal processing on
the input imaging signal and outputs the resultant signal as a video signal to a
recording/reproducing processing unit 34. A memory 33 is connected to the signal
processing unit 32 and temporarily stores data of the video signal in order to perform
signal processing in the signal processing unit 32.
[0041] The recording/reproducing processing unit 34 converts the video signal input from
the signal processing unit 32 into a video signal of a predetermined output format and
outputs the obtained video signal to a large capacity storage 44 in the recording or to a
display controller 35 in the reproduction. As the large capacity storage, a hard disk, a
semiconductor memory, or the like is used. It should be noted that in the recording/
reproducing processing unit 34, the imaging signal (raw data) output from the imaging
unit 3 1 may be output as an output video signal as it is to the display controller 35,
without performing format conversion of the video signal.
[0042] In this example, a chroma burst signal in a video signal (VBS) with a chroma burst
signal, which is generated in the recording/reproducing processing unit 34, is used as a
synchronization reference signal, that is, a genlock signal (Genlock). It should be noted
that when the imaging apparatus 1 or 2 is set on the main apparatus side (input side), a
circuit for generating a genlock signal (Genlock) (not shown) and a circuit for
generating a time code signal (TC) (not shown) may be separately provided within the
imaging apparatus.
[0043] In the display controller 35, a drive signal is generated from the supplied video signal
in accordance with a display method, a resolution, and the like of a display panel 36,
and then supplied to the display panel 36. The display panel 36 serving as a viewfinder
displays a video on the screen on the basis of the supplied drive signal. As the display
panel 36, for example, a FPD (Flat Panel Display) such as a liquid crystal display panel
is used.
[0044] As the operation unit 38, for example, an operation switch (assignable button 7,
recording button 8, etc.) provided to the camera main body, and a remote controller, a
push button, a toggle switch, a touch panel display, and the like (that are not shown)
are used. An input operation signal from the operation unit 38 is input to the main
controller 37 via an interface unit (not shown).
[0045] The memory card 43 is to record data of the camera setting value, captured video
data, and the like. When the memory card 43 in which the data of the camera setting
value is stored is inserted into a memory card interface (memory card I/F) 42, the main
controller 37 stores the data of the camera setting value in the memory 40.
[0046] A communication controller 4 1 controls communication between the main apparatus
(imaging apparatus 1) and a different apparatus (imaging apparatus 2). In other words,
the communication controller 4 1 transmits a genlock signal, a time code signal, and a
data signal output from the main controller 37 of the main apparatus to the different
apparatus, and conversely receives a genlock signal, a time code signal, and a data
signal from the different apparatus to input those signals to the main controller 37. In
the following description, when the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2
performs communication with each other, description on the communication controller
4 1 of each imaging apparatus may be omitted.
[0047] Further, the imaging apparatuses 1 and 2 each include a commercial power supply or
a power supply unit (not shown) that receives power from a battery, and supply power
to the blocks. Supply and stop of power with respect to the blocks are performed by
pressing a power supply button (not shown) of the operation unit 38, for example.
[0048] (Example of Internal Structure of Main Controller)
Next, an example of an internal structure of the main controller 37 will be described.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of an internal structure of the main
controller 37 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The main
controller 37 includes a command analysis unit 51, a dedicated cable detection unit 52,
a negotiation unit 53, an input/output switching controller 54, and a synchronization
controller 55. For the main controller 37, an arithmetic control device such as an MPU
(Micro-Processing Unit) can be used.
[0049] The command analysis unit 51 analyzes a command contained in an operation input
signal from the operation unit 38 and sends the result of analysis to the blocks. Further,
based on the result of analysis, the command analysis unit 5 1 reads out data such as a
camera setting value (shooting parameter) from the memory 40 to output a control
signal to the imaging controller 39, or stores data in the memory 40. Further, the
command analysis unit 5 1 exchanges data with the communication controller 41.
[0050] The dedicated cable detection unit 52 detects whether the connector 11A of the
dedicated cable 3 is inserted into the connector 2 1 of the imaging apparatus 1, and
notifies the negotiation unit 53 of the result of the detection. As an example, in the case
where a resistor is connected between predetermined terminals of the connector 11A of
the dedicated cable 3, when the dedicated cable 3 is connected to the imaging
apparatus 1, it is possible to check that the dedicated cable 3 is connected to the
imaging apparatus 1, based on whether the dedicated cable detection unit 52 has
detected a signal of current or voltage corresponding to the resistor. Alternatively, it
may be possible to transmit a preset signal from the main imaging apparatus to the subimaging
apparatus and then determine the connection based on whether the signal has
been received.
[0051] The negotiation unit 53 exchanges information on a setting of the main apparatus
(imaging apparatus 1) or the different apparatus (imaging apparatus 2) with the other
negotiation unit 53, before performing negotiation processing between those imaging
apparatuses, that is, starting communication therebetween. The information on the
setting also contains setting information of a main imaging apparatus or a sub-imaging
apparatus of each imaging apparatus, in addition to communication setting information
of each imaging apparatus. When receiving from the command analysis unit 5 1 noti
fication indicating that a stereoscopic video imaging mode is selected, and receiving
from the dedicated cable detection unit 52 notification indicating that the dedicated
cable 3 is connected to the imaging apparatus 1, the negotiation unit 53 executes ne
gotiation processing. Information on the setting of the different apparatus, which has
been received through the negotiation processing, is stored in the memory 40.
[0052] After receiving from the negotiation unit 53 the notification indicating that the ne
gotiation is ended, the input/output switching controller 54 performs control such that
the input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 of the input and output I/F 22 (see FIGS. 3
and 4) are switched. The input/output switching controller 54 instructs switching
between the input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 of the main apparatus and also
instructs switching between the input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 of the
different apparatus.
[0053] After receiving from the input/output switching controller 54 the notification in
dicating that the switching between the input circuit 23 and the output circuit 24 is
ended, the synchronization controller 55 performs control such that the main apparatus
and the different apparatus are synchronized with each other. In this example, the syn
chronization controller 55 transmits and receives a genlock signal and a time code
signal with respect to the different apparatus via the communication controller 4 1 to
synchronize the generator lock signals and time code signals.
[0054] The display controller 35 generates a drive signal in accordance with the analysis
result of the operation input signal input from the command analysis unit 51 or an
input from the synchronization controller 55 and supplies the drive signal to the
display panel 36.
[0055] The internal structure of the imaging apparatus 1 has been described above. The
imaging apparatus 2 also has the same structure.
[0056] (Processing Example Up To Completion of Shooting Preparation)
Next, processing example up to completion of shooting preparation of the two
imaging apparatuses 1 and 2 connected to each other by the dedicated cable 3 will be
described with reference to a flowchart of FIG. 7.
[0057] A camera operator first presses a power supply button of the imaging apparatus 1 to
turn on the imaging apparatus 1. At this point, it has not been determined which of the
imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 is a main imaging apparatus (input
side) or a sub-imaging apparatus (output side). In the following description, it is
assumed that the imaging apparatus 1 is set to be a main imaging apparatus and the
imaging apparatus 2 is set to be a sub-imaging apparatus.
[0058] Next, the camera operator selects a stereoscopic video imaging mode from a menu of
the imaging apparatus 1 (Step SI). Then, the camera operator sets the imaging
apparatus 1 to be an imaging apparatus on the main apparatus side, for example. The
command analysis unit 51 of the main controller 37 of the imaging apparatus 1
analyzes an input operation signal from the operation unit 38, determines that the
imaging apparatus 1 has been set to be a main imaging apparatus, and stores the details
on the setting in the memory 40.
[0059] At the time of setting, the camera operator operates the operation unit 38 to display a
menu screen as shown in FIG. 8, for example, on the display panel 36 and makes
setting. The camera operator first displays a main menu on the screen and selects
"camera" that is a menu item for shooting, to display a camera menu on the right-hand
side of the main menu. The camera operator selects, from the camera menu, a
"3D-Link Mode" that is a stereoscopic video imaging mode, and displays a 3D-Link
Mode menu on the right-hand side of the camera menu. The camera operator selects
"main" from a plurality of menu items of the 3D-Link Mode menu, to thereby set the
imaging apparatus 1 to be an imaging apparatus on the main apparatus side (input
side).
[0060] In the same way, the camera operator turns on the imaging apparatus 2, and then
selects a stereoscopic video imaging mode from a menu of the imaging apparatus 2
(Step S2) and sets the imaging apparatus 2 to be an imaging apparatus on the subapparatus
side (output side).
[0061] It should be noted that the following structure may be adopted: the settings of a main
apparatus and a sub-apparatus with respect to the two imaging apparatuses 1 and 2 are
executed and stored in the memory 40 in advance, and when the imaging apparatuses 1
and 2 are turned on, those imaging apparatuses call the settings from the memory 40.
[0062] Next, the camera operator connects the connector 11A of the dedicated cable 3 to the
connector 2 1 of the imaging apparatus 1, and connects the connector 1IB of the
dedicated cable 3 to the connector 2 1 of the imaging apparatus 2.
In the imaging apparatus 1, the main controller 37 (dedicated cable detection unit 52)
detects that the connector 11A of the dedicated cable 3 has been inserted into the
connector 2 1 of the imaging apparatus 1 (Step S3). Similarly, also in the imaging
apparatus 2, the main controller 37 (dedicated cable detection unit 52) detects that the
connector 1IB of the dedicated cable 3 has been inserted into the connector 2 1 of the
imaging apparatus 2 (Step S4). It should be noted that the processing of selecting the
stereoscopic video imaging mode in Steps S1 and S2 and the processing of connecting
the dedicated cable 3 in Steps S3 and S4 may be performed in reverse order.
[0063] After the dedicated cable 3 is connected to the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging
apparatus 2, negotiation processing is performed between the imaging apparatus 1 and
the imaging apparatus 2.
The main controller 37 (negotiation unit 53) of the imaging apparatus 1 requests the
imaging apparatus 2 to transmit information on the setting of the imaging apparatus
(Step S5). The main controller 37 (negotiation unit 53) of the imaging apparatus 2
receives the request and sends back the information on the setting of the imaging
apparatus 2 to the imaging apparatus 1 (Step S6). The main controller 37 (negotiation
unit 53) of the imaging apparatus 1 receives the information sent back and stores the
information on the setting of the imaging apparatus 2 in the memory 40 (Step S7).
[0064] After the negotiation processing is ended, the main controller 37 (input/output
switching controller 54) of the imaging apparatus 1 switches the switching unit 25
(first switching unit) of the input and output F 22 to the output circuit 24 side (Step
S8). With this operation, an orientation of the buffer amplifier and the resistor (output
resistor) are switched and a genlock circuit and a time code circuit are switched to the
output side. After the switching, the main controller 37 (input/output switching
controller 54) of the imaging apparatus 1 transmits, to the imaging apparatus 2, a
command for instructing switching of a genlock circuit and a time code circuit to the
input side (Step S9).
[0065] The main controller 37 (input/output switching controller 54) of the imaging
apparatus 2 receives, from the imaging apparatus 1, the command for instructing
switching of a genlock circuit and a time code circuit to the input side (Step S10).
Upon reception of the command, the main controller 37 (input/output switching
controller 54) of the imaging apparatus 2 switches the switching unit 25 (second
switching unit) of the input and output VF 22 to the output circuit 24 side (Step SI 1).
With this operation, an orientation of the buffer amplifier and the resistor (termination
resistor) are switched and the genlock circuit and the time code circuit are switched to
the input side. After the switching, the main controller 37 (input/output switching
controller 54) of the imaging apparatus 2 transmits, to the imaging apparatus 1, a
command indicating that the switching of the genlock circuit and the time code circuit
to the input side has been completed (Step SI2).
[0066] The main controller 37 (input/output switching controller 54) of the imaging
apparatus 1 receives, from the imaging apparatus 2, the command indicating that the
switching of the genlock circuit and the time code circuit to the input side has been
completed (Step S13).
[0067] In the processing in Step SI to S13 described above, communication between the
imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 is performed using the conductive
wire 14 (for reception signal (RX)) and the conductive wire 15 (for transmission signal
(TX)) of the dedicated cable 3.
[0068] Next, the main controller 37 (synchronization controller 55) of the imaging apparatus
1 transmits a genlock signal to the imaging apparatus 2 through the coaxial wire 12 of
the dedicated cable 3. Further, the main controller 37 (synchronization controller 55) of
the imaging apparatus 1 transmits a time code signal to the imaging apparatus 2
through the coaxial wire 13 of the dedicated cable 3 (Step SI4).
[0069] The main controller 37 (synchronization controller 55) of the imaging apparatus 2
receives the genlock signal and the time code signal from the imaging apparatus 1
through the dedicated cable 3 for synchronization (Step S15). When receiving the
genlock signal and the time code signal from the imaging apparatus 1 and completing
synchronization, the main controller 37 (synchronization controller 55) of the imaging
apparatus 2 transmits a command indicating that the synchronization has been
completed to the imaging apparatus 1 through the conductive wire 15 of the dedicated
cable 3 (Step S16).
[0070] The main controller 37 (synchronization controller 55) of the imaging apparatus 1
receives, from the imaging apparatus 2, the command indicating that the synchro
nization of the genlock signal and the time code signal has been completed, through
the conductive wire 15 of the dedicated cable 3 (Step S17).
[0071] The main controller 37 of the imaging apparatus 1 instructs the display controller 35
to display a screen indicating that the imaging apparatus 1 is set on a main apparatus
side (output side) (Step SI 8). Upon reception of the instruction, the display controller
35 outputs a drive signal to the display panel 36 so that a screen 6 1 (see FIG. 9) in
dicating that the imaging apparatus 1 is the main apparatus is displayed on the
viewfinder. Further, when shooting is performed such that a captured video is recorded
as a stereoscopic video, a status as to whether the imaging apparatus 1 is on the left- or
right-hand side is also displayed on the viewfinder. In this example, the imaging
apparatus 1 is set so as to correspond to the left eye, and therefore "Left" is displayed
together with "3D-Main".
[0072] In parallel to the display of the imaging apparatus 1, the main controller 37 of the
imaging apparatus 2 instructs the display controller 35 to display a screen indicating
that the imaging apparatus 2 is set on a sub-apparatus side (input side) (Step S19).
Upon reception of the instruction, the display controller 35 outputs a drive signal to the
display panel 36 so that a screen 62 (see FIG. 10) indicating that the imaging apparatus
2 is the sub-apparatus is displayed on the viewfinder. In this example, the imaging
apparatus 2 is set so as to correspond to the right eye, and therefore "Right" is
displayed together with "3D-Sub".
[0073] Through the various types of processing described above, the imaging apparatus 1
and the imaging apparatus 2 enter the state in which the imaging apparatus 1 and the
imaging apparatus 2 can capture a stereoscopic video.
[0074] As described above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is
provided a structure in which, in the case where two imaging apparatuses are
connected to each other by a dedicated cable and the two imaging apparatuses are set
to be a main apparatus and a sub-apparatus, input circuits and output circuits provided
to the respective input and output I/Fs of the imaging apparatuses are switched.
Therefore, even if any of the two imaging apparatuses is set to be the main apparatus
or the sub-apparatus, the two imaging apparatuses can be caused to function as a
stereoscopic video imaging system.
With this structure, a single conductive wire (for example, coaxial wire) for
transmitting a genlock signal and a single conductive wire (for example, coaxial wire)
for transmitting a time code signal only need to be prepared in a single dedicated cable.
In other words, one cable is connected between two imaging apparatuses, with the
result that the two imaging apparatuses are synchronized with each other and the time
codes are matched with each other.
Therefore, a plurality of conductive wires for synchronizing the two imaging ap
paratuses and matching time codes are integrated into one cable, with the result that the
number of cables can be reduced. Therefore, since it is unnecessary to connect the
plurality of cables to the two imaging apparatuses of the stereoscopic video imaging
system, time and effort for shooting preparation can be saved.
[0075] (2. Others)
(Example of reflecting camera setting value from main imaging apparatus to subimaging
apparatus)
After the genlock signals and the time code signals are synchronized in the two
imaging apparatuses 1 and 2, when the assignable button 7 (to which a function of
transmitting setting data of the main imaging apparatus has been assigned) of the
imaging apparatus 1 set to be a main apparatus is pressed, a camera setting value
(shooting parameter) of the imaging apparatus 1 is transmitted to the imaging
apparatus 2 as a sub-apparatus and stored in the memory 40. Accordingly, the camera
setting value of the imaging apparatus 1 is reflected on the imaging apparatus 2. Items
of camera setting that are to be transmitted at that time include, for example, a shutter
timing, gamma correction, white balance, a gain, and a matrix. The state during which
the camera setting value is being reflected is displayed on the viewfinder as a screen
6 1A as shown in FIG. 11, for example.
[0076] A time required for an operation in which settings of two imaging apparatuses for
capturing a stereoscopic video are matched with each other can be shortened sig
nificantly, with the result that time and effort for shooting preparation can be saved.
[0077] It should be noted that in this example, the camera operator presses the assignable
button to transmit the camera setting value from the main apparatus to the subapparatus.
However, a dedicated button may be provided, or an item for transmitting
setting data of the imaging apparatus 1 is selected from a menu so that the transmission
function described above may be executed. Alternatively, after the genlock signals and
the time code signals are synchronized in the two imaging apparatuses 1 and 2, a
structure in which a camera setting value is automatically transmitted from the main
apparatus to the sub-apparatus to share the camera setting value therebetween may be
adopted.
[0078] In this example, the processing of reflecting the camera setting value of the main
imaging apparatus 1 on the sub-imaging apparatus 2 is assumed only when the camera
operator executes an operation of transmitting the setting data as described above. In
other words, after the camera setting value of the main imaging apparatus 1 is reflected
on the sub-imaging apparatus 2, the camera setting values of the main imaging
apparatus and the sub-imaging apparatus are not constantly in conjunction
(synchronization) with each other, and setting values of the shooting parameters can be
changed for each imaging apparatus. This is because an individual difference is
slightly caused in the imaging apparatuses due to, for example, a color of lens glass of
an optical system and items whose setting values are desired to be slightly changed
appear between the two imaging apparatuses. In this way, it is possible not only to set
the same camera setting values for the two imaging apparatuses, but also to give offset
thereto, and shooting suitable for the two imaging apparatuses actually used can be
performed.
[0079] (Example of recording start and reproduction stop)
When the camera operator presses a recording button of the main imaging apparatus
1 or a recording button of a remote controller to instruct the imaging apparatus 1 to
perform recording, the main controller 37 of the imaging apparatus 1 transmits a
recording command to the sub-imaging apparatus 2. Since the imaging apparatus 1 and
the imaging apparatus 2 have already been synchronized with each other, when the
imaging apparatus 1 transmits recording start frame information to the imaging
apparatus 2, the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 can start recording
(shooting) at the same time. Similarly, when the camera operator presses a stop button
of the operation unit 38 of the main imaging apparatus 1 or a stop button of the remote
controller, the imaging apparatus 1 and the imaging apparatus 2 can stop recording at
the same time. Further, in the case where a free space of a recording medium (for
example, memory card 43) of the imaging apparatus 1 or the imaging apparatus 2 is
not left or the case where a recording medium is out of order, the imaging apparatus 1
and the imaging apparatus 2 can stop recording at the same time.
[0080] As described above, according to the present disclosure, the recording start and
recording stop of two imaging apparatuses can be reliably executed by one operation.
[0081] In the embodiment described above, the imaging apparatus 1 is set to be a main
apparatus and the imaging apparatus 2 is set to be a sub-apparatus, but they may be
reversely set as a matter of course.
[0082] Further, in the embodiment described above, the structure in which the coaxial wires
are used for transmitting a genlock signal and a time code signal is adopted (see FIGS.
3 to 5), but it may be the same structure as that of the conductive wires for transmitting
a data signal.
[0083] It should be noted that the present disclosure may be structured as follows
(deletion)
[0084] It should be noted that a series of processing in the embodiment described above can
be executed by hardware, but it may also be executed by software. In the case where a
series of processing is executed by software, the series of processing can be executed
by a computer in which a program constituting the software is incorporated in dedicate
hardware (or control apparatus such as CPU) or a computer in which programs for
executing various functions are installed. For example, a program constituting desired
software may be installed in a general-purpose personal computer or the like for
execution.
[0085] Further, a recording medium on which a program code of the software that achieves
the function of the embodiment described above is recorded may be supplied to a
system or an apparatus. Furthermore, it is needless to say that the function is also
achieved when a computer of the system or apparatus reads out the program code
stored in the recording medium and executes it.
[0086] As the recording media for supplying a program code in this case, for example, a
flexible disc, a hard disk, an optical disc, an magneto-optical disc, a CD-ROM, a CDR,
a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, and a ROM can be used.
[0087] Further, by execution of the program code read out by the computer, the function of
the embodiment described above is achieved. In addition, based on an instruction of
the program code, an OS or the like that is operating on the computer performs part of
or all of actual processing. The case where the function of the embodiment described
above is achieved by the processing is also included.
[0088] Further, in this specification, processing steps describing time-series processing also
include, in addition to processing that are performed in time series along the described
order, processing that are executed in parallel or individually though not processed
chronologically (for example, parallel processing or processing by object).
[0089] As describe above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment described
above and can take various modified examples and application examples without
departing from the gist described in the Claims.
[0090] The present application contains subject matter related to that disclosed in Japanese
Priority Patent Application JP 201 1-125188 filed in the Japan Patent Office on June 3,
201 1, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Additionally, the present technology may also be configured as below.
(1)
A stereoscopic video imaging system, comprising:
a first imaging apparatus;
a second imaging apparatus coupled to the first imaging apparatus and arranged to
take a 3D image;
a single cable to connect the first imaging apparatus to the second imaging apparatus;
a switching device for selecting one of the first and second imaging apparatuses to be
a main imaging apparatus and the remaining imaging apparatus to be a sub imaging
apparatus,
wherein the main imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a synchronization signal,
the synchronization signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through
the single cable.
(2)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to (1), wherein the main imaging
apparatus is enabled to generate a time code signal for matching a time code for the
main imaging apparatus with a time code of the sub imaging apparatus, the time code
signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through the single cable.
(3)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to any of (1) or (2), wherein the
main imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a data signal containing a shooting
parameter, the data signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through
the single cable.
(4)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim according to any of (1) to
(3), wherein the single cable includes a first conductive wire for transmitting the syn
chronization signal and a second conductive wire for transmitting the time code signal,
and each of the first imaging apparatus and the second imaging apparatus includes
a circuit provided in the imaging apparatus,
a first input circuit that is connected to the circuit of the imaging apparatus and
receives an input of a synchronization signal of the second imaging apparatus via the
single cable,
a first output circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first imaging apparatus and
outputs a synchronization signal of the imaging apparatus via the single cable,
a second input circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first imaging apparatus and
receives an input of a time code signal of the second imaging apparatus via the single
cable,
a second output circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first imaging apparatus
and outputs a time code signal of the first imaging apparatus via the single cable,
a first switching unit that is connected to the first conductive wire and switches
between the first input circuit and the first output circuit in accordance with a setting of
the first imaging apparatus,
a second switching unit that is connected to the second conductive wire and switches
between the second input circuit and the second output circuit in accordance with the
setting of the first imaging apparatus, and
a controller that sets, based on an operation input signal, the imaging apparatus to be
one of a main apparatus and a sub imaging apparatus and instructs the first switching
unit and the second switching unit to perform switching in accordance with the setting.
(5)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to (4), wherein
the controller instructs, when the first imaging apparatus is set to be the main
apparatus, the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the first
output circuit and the second output circuit and instructs, when the first imaging
apparatus is set to be the sub-apparatus, the first switching unit and the second
switching unit to switch to the first input circuit and the second input circuit.
(6)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to any of (4) or (5), wherein
the controller transmits, after the switching by the first switching unit and the second
switching unit is completed, the synchronization signal to the second imaging
apparatus via the first conductive wire of the single cable and transmits the time code
signal to the second imaging apparatus via the second conductive wire of the single
cable.
(7)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to any of (1) to (4), comprising a
controller configured to provide a first switching signal to the second imaging
apparatus when the first imaging apparatus is selected to be the main apparatus, the
first switching signal indicating the second imaging apparatus is to be switched to a
sub imaging apparatus.
(8)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to (7), wherein the controller is
configured to receive a second switching signal from the second imaging apparatus,
the second switching signal causing the switching device to switch the first imaging
apparatus to be a sub imaging apparatus.
(9)
The stereoscopic video imaging system according to (4), wherein
the first conductive wire and the second conductive wire of the cable are center cores
of a coaxial wire.
(10)
An imaging device, comprising:
a single cable;
a receiver to receive signals from a main imaging apparatus through the single cable;
a transmitter to transmit signals to a sub imaging apparatus through the single cable;
and
a switching device to switch the imaging device to either a main imaging apparatus
mode or a sub imaging apparatus mode,
wherein the imaging device is enabled to generate a 3D image in communication with
a second imaging apparatus,
wherein when in the main imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to
generate a synchronization code, the synchronization signal being communicated to the
second imaging apparatus through the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to
receive a synchronization code, the synchronization signal being communicated from
the second imaging apparatus through the single cable.
(11)
The imaging device according to (10), wherein when in the main imaging apparatus
mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a time code signal for matching a time
code for the imaging apparatus with a time code of the sub imaging apparatus, the time
code signal being communicated to the second imaging apparatus through the single
cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to
receive a time code signal, the time code signal being communicated from the second
imaging apparatus through the single cable.
(12)
The imaging device according to any of (10) or ( 11), wherein when in the main
imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a data signal
containing a shooting parameter, the data signal being communicated to the second
imaging apparatus through the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to
receive a data signal, the data signal being communicated from the second imaging
apparatus through the single cable.
(13)
A stereoscopic video imaging method, comprising:
generating a first image in a first imaging apparatus;
generating a second image in a second imaging apparatus coupled to the first imaging
apparatus and arranged to take a 3D image;
connecting the first imaging apparatus to the second imaging apparatus by a single
cable;
selecting one of the first and second imaging apparatuses to be a main imaging
apparatus and the remaining imaging apparatus to be a sub imaging apparatus,
wherein, when first imaging apparatus is selected to be the main imaging apparatus,
the first imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a synchronization signal, the syn
chronization signal being communicated to the sub imaging apparatus through the
single cable.
(14)
An imaging method, comprising:
coupling between a main imaging apparatus and sub imaging apparatus through a
single cable;
receiving signals from the main imaging apparatus through the single cable when in
the sub imaging apparatus mode;
transmitting signals to the sub imaging apparatus through the single cable when in the
main imaging apparatus mode; and
switching to either the main imaging apparatus mode or the sub imaging apparatus
mode,
wherein the main imaging apparatus and the sub imaging apparatus are enabled to
generate a 3D image,
wherein when in the main imaging apparatus mode, generating a synchronization code,
the synchronization signal being communicated to an imaging apparatus in the sub
imaging apparatus mode through the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode, receiving a synchronization code,
the synchronization signal being communicated from an imaging apparatus in the main
imaging apparatus mode through the single cable.
Reference Signs List
1,2 imaging apparatus
3 dedicated cable
7 assignable button
8 recording button
10 stereoscopic video imaging system
1 1A, 11B connector (male)
12, 13 coaxial wire
14 to 17 conductive wire
2 1 connector (female)
22 input and output I/F
23 input circuit
24 output circuit
25 switching unit
31 imaging unit
32 signal processing unit
33 memory
34 recording/reproducing processing unit
35 display controller
36 display panel (viewfinder)
37 main controller
38 operation unit
39 imaging controller
40 memory
4 1 communication controller
51 command analysis unit
52 dedicated cable detection unit
53 negotiation unit
54 input/output switching controller
55 synchronization controller
WO 2012/164858 PCT/JP2012/003294
Claims
[Claim 1] A stereoscopic video imaging system, comprising:
a first imaging apparatus;
a second imaging apparatus coupled to the first imaging apparatus and
arranged to take a 3D image;
a single cable to connect the first imaging apparatus to the second
imaging apparatus;
a switching device for selecting one of the first and second imaging ap
paratuses to be a main imaging apparatus and the remaining imaging
apparatus to be a sub imaging apparatus,
wherein the main imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a synchro
nization signal, the synchronization signal being communicated to the
sub imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 2] The stereoscopic video imaging system of claim 1, wherein the main
imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a time code signal for
matching a time code for the main imaging apparatus with a time code
of the sub imaging apparatus, the time code signal being communicated
to the sub imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 3] The stereoscopic video imaging system of claim 2, wherein the main
imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a data signal containing a
shooting parameter, the data signal being communicated to the sub
imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 4] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 3, wherein
the single cable includes a first conductive wire for transmitting the
synchronization signal and a second conductive wire for transmitting
the time code signal, and each of the first imaging apparatus and the
second imaging apparatus includes
a circuit provided in the imaging apparatus,
a first input circuit that is connected to the circuit of the imaging
apparatus and receives an input of a synchronization signal of the
second imaging apparatus via the single cable,
a first output circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first imaging
apparatus and outputs a synchronization signal of the imaging
apparatus via the single cable,
a second input circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first imaging
apparatus and receives an input of a time code signal of the second
imaging apparatus via the single cable,
WO 2012/164858 PCT/JP2012/003294
a second output circuit that is connected to the circuit of the first
imaging apparatus and outputs a time code signal of the first imaging
apparatus via the single cable,
a first switching unit that is connected to the first conductive wire and
switches between the first input circuit and the first output circuit in ac
cordance with a setting of the first imaging apparatus,
a second switching unit that is connected to the second conductive wire
and switches between the second input circuit and the second output
circuit in accordance with the setting of the first imaging apparatus, and
a controller that sets, based on an operation input signal, the imaging
apparatus to be one of a main apparatus and a sub imaging apparatus
and instructs the first switching unit and the second switching unit to
perform switching in accordance with the setting.
[Claim 5] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 4, wherein
the controller instructs, when the first imaging apparatus is set to be the
main apparatus, the first switching unit and the second switching unit to
switch to the first output circuit and the second output circuit and
instructs, when the first imaging apparatus is set to be the subapparatus,
the first switching unit and the second switching unit to
switch to the first input circuit and the second input circuit.
[Claim 6] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 5, wherein
the controller transmits, after the switching by the first switching unit
and the second switching unit is completed, the synchronization signal
to the second imaging apparatus via the first conductive wire of the
single cable and transmits the time code signal to the second imaging
apparatus via the second conductive wire of the single cable.
[Claim 7] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 1,
comprising a controller configured to provide a first switching signal to
the second imaging apparatus when the first imaging apparatus is
selected to be the main apparatus, the first switching signal indicating
the second imaging apparatus is to be switched to a sub imaging
apparatus.
[Claim 8] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 7, wherein
the controller is configured to receive a second switching signal from
the second imaging apparatus, the second switching signal causing the
switching device to switch the first imaging apparatus to be a sub
imaging apparatus.
[Claim 9] The stereoscopic video imaging system according to claim 4, wherein
WO 2012/164858 PCT/JP2012/003294
the first conductive wire and the second conductive wire of the cable
are center cores of a coaxial wire.
[Claim 10] An imaging device, comprising:
a single cable;
a receiver to receive signals from a main imaging apparatus through the
single cable;
a transmitter to transmit signals to a sub imaging apparatus through the
single cable; and
a switching device to switch the imaging device to either a main
imaging apparatus mode or a sub imaging apparatus mode,
wherein the imaging device is enabled to generate a 3D image in com
munication with a second imaging apparatus,
wherein when in the main imaging apparatus mode the imaging device
is enabled to generate a synchronization code, the synchronization
signal being communicated to the second imaging apparatus through
the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is
enabled to receive a synchronization code, the synchronization signal
being communicated from the second imaging apparatus through the
single cable.
[Claim 11] The imaging device of claim 10, wherein when in the main imaging
apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a time code
signal for matching a time code for the imaging apparatus with a time
code of the sub imaging apparatus, the time code signal being com
municated to the second imaging apparatus through the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is
enabled to receive a time code signal, the time code signal being com
municated from the second imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 12] The imaging device of claim 11, wherein when in the main imaging
apparatus mode the imaging device is enabled to generate a data signal
containing a shooting parameter, the data signal being communicated to
the second imaging apparatus through the single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode the imaging device is
enabled to receive a data signal, the data signal being communicated
from the second imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 13] A stereoscopic video imaging method, comprising:
generating a first image in a first imaging apparatus;
generating a second image in a second imaging apparatus coupled to
WO 2012/164858 PCT/JP2012/003294
the first imaging apparatus and arranged to take a 3D image;
connecting the first imaging apparatus to the second imaging apparatus
by a single cable;
selecting one of the first and second imaging apparatuses to be a main
imaging apparatus and the remaining imaging apparatus to be a sub
imaging apparatus,
wherein, when first imaging apparatus is selected to be the main
imaging apparatus, the first imaging apparatus is enabled to generate a
synchronization signal, the synchronization signal being communicated
to the sub imaging apparatus through the single cable.
[Claim 14] An imaging method, comprising:
coupling between a main imaging apparatus and sub imaging apparatus
through a single cable;
receiving signals from the main imaging apparatus through the single
cable when in the sub imaging apparatus mode;
transmitting signals to the sub imaging apparatus through the single
cable when in the main imaging apparatus mode; and
switching to either the main imaging apparatus mode or the sub
imaging apparatus mode,
wherein the main imaging apparatus and the sub imaging apparatus are
enabled to generate a 3D image,
wherein when in the main imaging apparatus mode, generating a syn
chronization code, the synchronization signal being communicated to
an imaging apparatus in the sub imaging apparatus mode through the
single cable,
wherein when in the sub imaging apparatus mode, receiving a synchro
nization code, the synchronization signal being communicated from an
imaging apparatus in the main imaging apparatus mode through the
single cable.