A High-Accuracy Image Composition System Using a Mobile Robotic Camera

Abstract

The use of robotic cameras in program production was originally limited to applications in which it was too difficult or time-consuming for humans to do the job, such as filming from high places outdoors, or for long continuous periods from a fixed location. Developments in the field of robotic technology, as well as the improved availability of high-speed camera platforms and precise sensors have resulted in advanced robotic cameras. Even today, cameras for visual effects <sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">1,2</sup> and robotic cameras capable of imaging fast-moving subjects <sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">3</sup> are used in broadcast productions. Meanwhile, television program producers continue to look for efficient ways of making their programs more appealing, with limited time, human resources, and budgets. The production of programs using robotic technology allows for the creation of appealing content, however, with the use special camera equipment, an engineer with expert knowledge of such a system and a camera operator experienced in its operation are needed when creating new video effects. — To address these problems and to implement a system capable of efficiently capturing a more diverse range of pictures, a mobile robotic camera with a motorized pedestal as well as a motorized camera platform has been developed. All of the motor axes (pan, tilt, zoom, focus, and movement) can be driven simultaneously and accurately; thus it is capable of moving in a similar manner to a real camera operator. <sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">4–6</sup>