WO2004107760A1

WO2004107760A1 - Portable multiple view surveillance system

Info

Publication number: WO2004107760A1
Application number: PCT/US2003/015207
Authority: WO
Inventors: Fernando Docters
Original assignee: Fernando Docters
Priority date: 2003-05-14
Filing date: 2003-05-14
Publication date: 2004-12-09
Also published as: AU2003241448A1

Abstract

A plurality of fixed video cameras (12) each transmit a video image signal (13) upon a separate radio frequency to a portable monitor possessing a plurality of digital flat screen video displays (17). Selection of signal from a greater number of cameras than the number of video display screens automatically and manually is provided including automatic selection of a signal capturing motion. Hand held and headgear configurations are suggested along with a keypad for manual signal selection and remote camera control. Flexible and elastic straps are suggested for strapping to a forearm or head. Goggle and helmet headgear configurations are suggested with windows placed adjacent to the video display screens; particularly in between and to the side of video display screens arranged horizontally. Simultaneous monitoring of areas encompassed by a plurality of fixed video cameras and the areas in which a single mobile security personnel moves is enabled.

Description

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to use of a plurality of video monitors upon a single, portable, device, i.e. television, modular image display, Class 348, subclass 383, more particularly to special applications of television for observation of or from a specific location (e.g. surveillance) using plural cameras, i.e. 348/159, and most specifically to such observation for the purpose of intrusion detection using plural concealed cameras, i.e. 348/153 transmitting signals to a plurality of video display screens. General Background

The use of 'closed circuit television' for surveillance purposes wherein a plurality ofvideo cameras each possessing a fixed, preferably concealed, location connected by transmission cable to one or more separate monitors is considered to be well known. Use of a single monitor in selective reception of a plurality of 'cable feeds' each carrying a video signal from one of a plurality of television or video cameras is considered to be similarly well known. The monitors or display screens for the video images derived from the cameras are typically quite large, however, in order to provide a clear picture of the view encompassed by each camera and are invariably located in a room of a static structure, i.e. building, in which at least one member of security personnel must remain in order to watch the monitor(s).

The use of multiple surveillance cameras does mot, in many cases, wholly obviate the need for mobile personnel. Extensive grounds to an estate cannot be wholly encompassed, for example, and even if the entire perimeter to the area being protected against intrusion is viewable through the use of a plurality of video cameras and monitors an intrusion seen thereby still preferably requires a member of security personnel to apprehend the intruder while waiting for police. If simple signaling of the police were considered adequate an alarm system which merely detected intrusion would suffice and there would be no requirement for any member or security personnel on the premises. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

The use of a plurality of surveillance cameras and monitor(s) therefore essentially stipulates the use of security personnel employed in a capacity which preferably exceeds the mere watching of the monitor(s) and calling the police. And as a practical matter the use of at least two members of security personnel at all times is considered necessary to obtain the full benefits provided by a conventional security system utilizing a plurality of surveillance cameras. Discussion of the Prior Art

U.S. Patent 3,757,039 issued to Brewer on 4 Sept. 1973 for a 'Surveillance And Crime- Deterrent System' discloses a "surveillance and crime-deterrent system" using a plurality of closed circuit television cameras from which images are randomly selected on one monitor in which frequency and duration of viewing periods are variable.

U.S. Patent 4,992,866 issued to Morgan on 12 Feb. 1991 for a 'Camera Selection And Positioning System' discloses a "closed circuit television network having a plurality of video cameras" and "a plurality ofvideo display monitors" along with switching apparatus enabling control of which signals are displayed upon which monitors.

U.S. Patent 5,142,367 issued to Hong on 25 Aug. 1992 for a 'System For Divisional Displaying Plural Images On A Screen' discloses a system for displaying four different video images from four different cameras on one display screen.

U.S. Patent 4,779,134 issued to Mak on 18 Oct. 1988 for an Apparatus And Method For Viewing Of Multiple Television Stations And Switching Among Them' discloses a ' digital circuit' 'for selectively assigning television channels' to one main and a plurality of auxiliary monitors.

U.S. Patent 5,786,850 issued to Pritchett et al. on 28 July 1998 for a 'Multiple Room Portable Camera System' discloses use of a portable camera, a plurality of monitors each in a different room, and means for display on the monitor in which the camera is located.

U.S. Patent 6,091,771 issued to Seeley et al. on 18 July 2000 for a 'Workstation For Video Security System' discloses a "workplace" with multiple monitors separately providing 'equipment status', 'a plurality of thumbnail images' and a 'snapshot' display selected from the thumbnails. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

The prior art discloses use of different closed circuit television cameras producing video signals randomly or selectively displayed upon, and display of four video images displayed simultaneously upon a single, stationary, monitor as well as use of a plurality of stationary monitors for display of selected television channels; output from a portable camera; and status, multiple small images, and one large image from surveillance cameras. Statement of Need

Because the use of a plurality of surveillance cameras and monitors does not obviate the need for mobile security personnel for purposes of apprehension and surveillance of areas which are not encompassed by the views provided by said surveillance cameras it is hence considered that a need exists for a system enabling an mobile, preferably ambulant, member of security personnel to monitor the views provided form a plurality of surveillance cameras while remaining mobile and hence capable of apprehending intruders, investigating areas of detected intrusion, and looking directly at selected areas encompassed and not encompassed by the surveillance cameras.

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Objects of the Invention

The encompassing object of the present invention is to provide a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras.

A first auxiliary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras and directly view various proximate areas

A second auxiliary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras, directly view various proximate areas, and have at least one hand free for use in apprehending an intruder.

A third auxiliary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras, directly view various proximate areas, and have both hands free for use in apprehending an intruder.

A first ancillary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras including any remote view in which motion is captured.

A second ancillary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras including automatic selection of the remote views is provided

A third ancillary objective of the present invention is a security system enabling a mobile member of security personnel to monitor a plurality of remote views obtained by a plurality of stationary surveillance cameras including manual selection by the member of security personnel of the remote views provided. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

Principles Relating to the Present Invention

In achievement of the above stated objectives it is considered that a plurality of stationary, preferably concealed, surveillance video or television cameras each be provided with the capability of transmitting by radio frequency a video image signal of the view obtained by the camera to a portable monitor possessing the capability of receiving each video image signal and presenting the same upon one of a plurality of digital flat screen video displays hereinafter known as video display screens. The portable monitor must be small enough and possess a configuration facilitating carrying by one person in a position which enables viewing of each of said plurality ofvideo display screens as well as direct viewing of an area proximate to the user.

Hand held, strapped on, and head gear configurations are suggested whereby the user may, respectively, hold the portable monitor in one hand, have the portable monitor strapped onto a forearm, or wear the portable monitor on one's head. Helmet and goggle head gear configurations as suggested as is the use rigid handles and flexible straps for facilitating the holding of the portable monitor in a hand or strapping the portable monitor to a forearm or to a hand or to the head. Arrangement of the plurality ofvideo display screens upon one substantially continuous surface is suggested to facilitate viewing of all the remote views presented thereupon simultaneously. Windows enabling direct viewing of a proximate area located adjacent to the video display screens are recommended for goggle and full helmet headgear configurations.

It is also considered desirable to have the capability of selecting from a number of remote surveillance camera video image signals which exceeds the number of video display screens. Automatic selection is suggested with various programs including random and predetermined selection and intervals. Manual selection is also suggested and a keypad recommended for facilitating the same. It is also recommended that automatic selection of a video image signal be effected in consequence to capturing motion in the view thus transmitted regardless of the selection mode and further that an alarm indicating that motion has been captured in a remote view be triggered to catch the attention of the user of the portable monitor, preferably in a manner which will not reveal the presence of the user to others in the vicinity. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

Other advantages and benefits to be obtained in accordance with the above described principles relating to the present invention may be appreciated with a reading of the detailed discussion of the preferred embodiment of the present invention following, especially if conducted with reference to the drawings attached hereto and briefly described immediately below.

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG 1 is a schematic representation of a surveillance system in preferred accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 2 is a plain elevational view taken from the top of a hand held portable monitor possessing two video display screens intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 3 is a plain elevational view taken from the top of a hand held portable monitor possessing three video display screens intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 4 is a plain elevational view taken from the top of a hand held portable monitor possessing four video display screens intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 5 is a plain elevational view taken from the side of a hand held portable monitor intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention illustrating possession of a rigid handle.

IG 6 is a plain elevational view taken from the side of a hand held portable monitor intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention illustrating possession of an adjustable strap.

continued Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

FIG 7 is a plain elevational view taken from the top of a goggle style portable monitor possessing an elastic strap intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 8 is an interior elevational view taken from the back of the goggle style portable monitor depicted FIG 7 illustrating possession of two video display screens adjacently interposed with three windows.

FIG 9 is a plain elevational view taken from the side of an abbreviated helmet style portable monitor intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

FIG 10 is an interior elevational view taken from the back of the abbreviated helmet style portable monitor depicted FIG 7 illustrating possession of three flat digital display screens.

FIG 11 is a cross sectional view taken from the side of a full helmet style portable monitor intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003 Surveillance System

NOMENCLATURE

10 surveillance system 30 contoured surface

11 portable monitor 31 adjustable strap

12 video camera 32 fixed end

13 video image signal 33 free end

14 antenna 34 zoom

15 receiver 35 roller

16 digital processor 36 hook and loop attachment

17 video display screen 37 window

18 remote reception device

19 power supply 39 elastic strap

20 exterior surface 50 interior surface

21 keypad 51 forward portion

22 input key 52 rearward portion

23 motion indicator 53 arcuate ends

24 alarm

25 rigid handle 55 upper edge

26 keyboard 56 lower edge

27 connector cable 57 audio transceiver 9 control signal 59 speaker

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG 1 depicts a surveillance system 10 in preferred accordance with the principles relating to the present invention possessing at least one portable monitor 11, of which various physical configurations are further seen in FIGS 2 - 10, and a plurality of stationary, preferably concealed, surveillance video cameras 12 which are each capable of transmitting a video image signal 13 by radio frequency transmission at a particular frequency with regard to the others. As depicted in FIG 1 each portable monitor 11 possesses a multiple channel radio frequency receiver 15 including an antenna 14 capable of receiving each of the video image signals 13 transmitted by the surveillance video cameras 12 and forwarding a plurality of the same as analog or digital input to a digital processor 16 which includes analog to digital, A/D, signal conversion if needed. A plurality ofvideo image signals 13 in digital form is sent by the digital processor 16 to one of a plurality ofvideo display screens 17 and displayed thereupon in operation. The video cameras 12 can readily be supplied with power via a line or battery as desired but the portable monitor requires an independent power supply 19; preferably a rechargeable battery, for powering the receiver 15, the processor 16, and the multiple video display screens 17.

It is noted that the number ofvideo cameras 12 utilized in surveillance from fixed, remote, locations preferably exceeds the number of video display screens 17 possessed by a single portable monitor 11 which may, as depicted in FIG 2, for example, have only two video display screens 17 presented upon an exterior surface 20. It is expected that more than two video image signals 13 from more than two video cameras 12 will be available and hence the capability of selecting from the available video image signals 13 with the processor 16 is suggested. This can be done manually using a keypad 21, for example, upon a portable monitor 11 as depicted in FIG 2 operably connected to a processor 16 programmed to receive this input for selecting radio frequencies for different video cameras 12 providing video image signals 13 for display on either of the two video display screens 17 presented by this portable monitor 11 upon a single exterior surface 20. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

The portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 1 also preferably has a transceiver for the receiver 15 which is capable of transmitting a radio frequency control signal 29 to a remote device 18 possessing a radio frequency receiver as indicated by the antenna 14. It is desired that manual input from, for example, the keypad 21 depicted in FIG 2 upon a portable monitor 11 perform at least two main functions by transmission of the control signal 29 to a remote device 18. One main function is the activation of an alarm 24, depicted in FIG 1 as a wave emanating from the remote device 18, which is intended to represent both an audio alarm 24 and a radio frequency alarm 24 signal to the proper authorities. This alarm 24 signal is preferably a telephonic signal which is initially a radio frequency alarm 24 signal as shown which is received and converted into a line signal transmission using a telephone system private branch exchange (PBX).

The second main function of transmission of the control signal 29 to a remote device 18 is control of at least one video camera 12. Control in this case specifically encompasses control of the direction of the video camera 12, especially rotation as shown in FIG 1, which achieves scanning by the video camera 12. And it also specifically encompasses control of the effective focal length of the optics of the video camera 12 which is commonly known as zoom 34 control whereby the lens of the video camera 12 is telescopic and extension results in a longer effective focal length, or close up, and retraction a shorter effective focal length, or long shot. It is also suggested that an alarm 24 can be activated by the detection of motion in a video image signal from a video camera 12 but this does not require a control signal 29 resulting from manual input by a member of security personnel carrying a portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

The keypad 21 depicted in FIG 2 is located upon the same exterior surface 20 presenting both video display screens 17 and facilitates manual input to the processor 16 in governance of video camera 12 selection and activation of a control signal 29 for the purposes discussed above without losing view of the video display screens 17. This mode of operation, however, requires the use of two hands as one hand is expected to hold the portable monitor 11. This shortcoming is obviated with location of input keys 22 on the side of a portable monitor 11 dimensioned to fit Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

in the palm of an adult hand as depicted in FIG 3. Other input keys 22 or similar controls specifically for activation of a control signal 29 for the purposes discussed above are also suggested. A single input key 22 can be dedicated to activation of an alarm 24 and two input keys 22 used to direct both rotation, in two directions, and zoom 34, in and out.

The use of only one input key 22 each clearly associated by proximity to one of the three video display screens 17 as depicted in FIG 3 is recognized as restricting the complexity of manual input to the processor 16 readily available, however, a single input key 22 associated with each video display screen 17 is also considered sufficient to effect selection of one video image signal 13 from a plurality ofvideo cameras 12 to be displayed upon that video display screen 17. The operator can advance singly through a predetermined sequence of all the available video image signals 13 with each stroke of the pertinent input key 22, for example, or begin a scroll through the same sequence, and effect selection, each with a single stroke of the same relevant input key 22. In addition, these two modes of operation can readily combined with a double stroke for either the single advance or initiation of the automatic scroll, which preferably dwells on each available video image signal 13 for a predetermined period.

Another desirable feature represented in FIG 3 is the automatic selection, by the processor 16, of any video image signal 13 for presentation upon one video display screen 17 in response to motion having been captured or detected in the view obtained from one of the plurality of video cameras 12. This feature is obviously useful only in the condition that the number ofvideo display screens 17 on a portable monitor 11 is exceeded by the number ofvideo cameras 12 providing video image signals 13 but this is expected to be the typical or normal condition for a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention. The relative number ofvideo display screens 17 available is a factor and the portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 2 would hence preferably also have this feature it is emphasized that his feature and a motion indicator 23 is not necessary to automatic selection and provision of a video image signal 13 capturing motion. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

Visual indication that automatic selection of a video image signal 13 based on detection of motion captured thereby is generally preferred but it is strictly ancillary to the automatic selection which is considered a very valuable feature. The visual motion indicators 23 depicted in FIGS 3 & 4 are each associated by proximity to a particular video display screen 17 are therefore also representative of the more fundamental feature comprised of automatic selection of a video image signal 13 based on detection of motion captured therein. An annunciator, not shown, could also be used for audio indication of the activation of this feature. This would not specify a particular video display screen 17 which is secondary to the indication of motion detection as it is expected that the cause of the automatic selection so indicated will be readily evident and the location readily recognized. It is also considered undesirable to reveal one's presence with an alarm which is audible to others and visual indication is preferred for this reason.

The automatic selection of a video image signal 13 based on detection of motion captured therein is, moreover, preferably made by the processor 16 in response to a change in the video image signal 13 associated with motion or in recognition of an auxiliary detection signal from the video camera 12 concerned. The ability to differentiate between a static picture and a non-static picture is all that is necessary in the simplest case although a threshold level with regard to the size or length of object displacement may be desired. It is also suggested that two threshold levels be utilized with automatic selection of a video image signal 13 based on detection of any motion captured thereby and indication of a motion meeting the higher threshold level having been detected being further made by the motion indicator 23.

Both of the portable monitors 11 depicted in FIGS 2 & 3 are intended to be held in the palm of a hand whereby opposed sides of portable monitor 11 are grasped. This restricts the width of the portable monitor 11 available and, effectively, the number ofvideo display screens 17 which can be presented by a single exterior surface 20. The portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 4 is intended to be held by one hand but not in one hand and possesses a width which exceeds the capability of the an average sized adult hand to grasp by opposed sides. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

This portable monitor 11 can therefor be equipped with a rigid handle 25 as seen in FIG 5 on the bottom opposed to the top exterior surface 20 presenting four video display screens 17 in a two by two array as seen in FIG 4. It is emphasized that more than four video display screens 17 can be presented on a single exterior surface 20 of a portable monitor 11 intended for use in a system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention but use of more than six or eight video display screens 17 it is considered rather impractical simply because the surface area available is limited and while the size of each video display screen 17 can be quite small as a practical matter a video display screen of less than approximately two inches square is considered to be less than fully satisfactory for a hand held device intended to be viewed from over a foot away. A portable monitor 11 configured to be worn as headgear as depicted in FIGS 7 - 10 is considered to be different in this regard and portable monitors 17 of approximately one inch square is considered fully satisfactory.

The portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 4, moreover, is seen to be connected by a electrical cable to a full sized keyboard 26 possessing a plurality of input keys 22, including function keys permitting programming of the processor 16 contained in the portable monitor 11. This can be an optional feature for any portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention although if a keypad 21 is provided as depicted in FIG 2 it is preferred that programming of the processor 16 be facilitated thereby rather than requiring a keyboard 26 connected thereto by a connector cable 27, as depicted in FIG 4, or by 'wireless' radio frequency transmission or any other equivalent input means for alteration of the operating program of the processor 16.

It is emphasized that the capability of altering the operating program of the processor 16 is not necessary. Manual input by use of input keys 22 is satisfactorily restricted to video camera 12 selection as described above in relation to the portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 3, or eliminated altogether, as the processor 16 can be preprogrammed to operate without any manual input. The portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 4, for example, is meant to be used by itself, unconnected to any keyboard 26, and possesses no manual input means during use. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

It is noted that the portable monitors 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention depicted in FIGS 2 - 4 each comprise, in the current vernacular, 'hand-held devices' which are intended to require physical grasping with one hand during use, i.e. viewing the video display screens 17 presented thereon while ambulant and able to view a variable immediate vicinity. It has been previously mentioned that it is desirable for the operator, a mobile security personnel member, to have at least one hand free for operation of another device including a sidearm, flashlight, or portable 'two-way' radio, i.e. 'walkie talkie'. It is considered that any of the putatively hand held portable monitors 11 depicted in FIGS 2 - 4 and described above can be strapped on a forearm and viewed in much the same manner as if grasped by a hand while leaving both hands free to manipulate one or two other devices.

FIG 6 depicts a portable monitorll intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention as depicted in FIGS 2 - 4 except for having a bottom contoured surface 30 and an adjustable strap 31 which cooperate to comfortably secure the portable monitor 11 onto a forearm of a mobile security personnel member. The adjustable strap 31 depicted has one fixed end 32 and one free end 33 which is threaded about a roller 35 and fastens to itself with hook and loop structure 36.

This is considered the simplest construction known, however, it may be preferred to use a conventional adjustable strap 31 comprised of two lengths each having one fixed end 32 and one free end 33 with a buckle or clasp on one through which the other is threaded and held by a tongue through an aperture in the length threaded through the buckle or friction in being threaded about a medial cross piece of the clasp. Other types of fastening an adjustable strap 31 to itself or two lengths together are encompassed including a pivoting roller bar type buckle which mechanism is typical to 'engine turned' belt buckles typically for belts of 1 " width wherein the tension obtained keeps the splined roller pivoted against the adjustable strap 31 secured thereby. Regardless of the connection used tightening at least one adjustable strap 31 compresses the forearm against the contoured surface 30 and retains the portable monitor 11 thereupon. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

It is also suggested that a single preferably wide, i.e. over two inches width, web type elastic strap 39 which has two fixed ends 32 be utilized in place of the adjustable strap 31 depicted in FIG 6 on any portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention and, further, that any said portable monitor 11 be configured as headgear including the goggle and helmet styles depicted in FIGS 7 - 11. Use of an elastic strap 39 with two fixed ends 32 upon a goggle style portable monitor

11 is depicted in FIG 7 is seen therein to compress a contoured surface 30 with an upper edge 55 intended to fit against an operator's forehead and a bifurcated lower edge 56 against the cheeks and nose. A plurality ofvideo display screens 17, seen in FIG 8 upon an interior surface 50, are provided at an appropriate distance, preferably about three inches, in front of the operator's eyes. As further seen in FIG 8 it is also suggested that at least one window 37 be located adjacent to a video display screen 17, preferably in between and to the side of two video display screens 17 as depicted so that the remote views provided by the plurality ofvideo cameras

12 thereupon and the direct view of the immediate vicinity operator are simultaneously available.

An adjustable strap 31 is also suggested for the helmet style portable monitor 11 depicted in FIGS 9 & 10, though not shown therein, in a conventional manner. Rather than provide a window 37 adjacent to a video display screen 17 it is suggested, as shown in FIGS 9 & 10, that several video display screens be located directly adjacent to each other upon an interior surface 50 above a lower edge 56 of a forward portion 51 which is immediately above eye level. The area in front of the operator' s face below eye level is simply left open in order to provide simultaneous viewing of the remote views provided by the plurality ofvideo cameras 12 upon the video display screens 17 and the immediate vicinity of the operator. Alternatively, a full helmet style portable monitor 11 having a forward portion 51 extending below the mouth to about the same level as reached by the rearward portion 52 is depicted in FIG 11 which preferably has at least one window 37 which, in the example seen therein, is located above at least two video display screens 17 which are just below eye level. An audio transceiver 57 is further seen below this, located in front of the mouth. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

A pair of speakers 59 are located on an interior surface 50 in a position intended to be adjacent an operator's eyes when wearing the portable monitor 11 depicted in FIG 11 which are ancillary to the audio transceiver 57 and a microphone, not depicted, is incorporated therein. A pair of plug style ear phones can also be utilized. In addition to this option considered appropriate to a full helmet style portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention other components considered necessary to operation are also represented in FIG 11: receiver 15, digital processor 16, video display screens 17, and power supply 19. These components necessarily operate together as discussed earlier in relation to FIG 1 to provide the remote views obtained by a plurality ofvideo cameras 12 transmitting a plurality ofvideo image signals 13 viewable on a plurality of video display screens 17 by the operator and are possessed of every portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention regardless of the style or configuration utilized, e.g. hand-held, strapped on, goggle, abbreviated helmet, full helmet.

It is considered fairly obvious that each video display screen 17 must be of a digital, 'flat screen' variety, which is opposed to a cathode ray tube (CRT) construction which is much too bulky and heavy to permit a plurality ofvideo display screens 17 being presented upon a single surface of a portable monitor 11 carried by a single mobile security personnel member. CRTs require substantial distance behind the screen for projection. Also, CRTs can be controlled by digital devices but are fundamentally analog, and require an analog or simulated analog signal. All known types of digital flat screens as typically found on 'laptop' computers, are considered suitable for use in the plurality ofvideo display screens 17 presented by a single surface of a portable monitor 11 intended for use in a surveillance system 10 in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention.

More importantly, perhaps, than the specific type ofvideo display screens 17 presented by a portable monitor 11 intended for use in a system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention is consideration of the distance between the video display screens 17 and Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

the eyes of the operator during use. It has been mentioned above that portable monitors 11 intended to be held by a hand or strapped to a forearm preferably possess video display screens 17 of a size measuring at least two inches square because of the distance from the same to the eyes in use is expected to exceed a foot in distance but that the video display screens 17 presented by a portable monitor 11 possessing a headgear configuration could be much smaller, of approximately one inch square, as the distance to the eyes in use is much less, preferably about three inches. It is noted that one foot is four times greater than three inches, that a two inch square video display screen 17 has four times the surface area as one inch squared, and hence a preferred ratio of screen size to distance in use from the eyes is observed.

It is also noted in this regard that it is preferred to have the capability of adjusting the distance from the eyes of an operator possessed by the video display screens 17 presented by a portable monitor 11 intended for use in a system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention. If the portable monitor 11 is hand held or strapped to forearm adjustment of this distance is obviously already available to the operator in positioning of one's hand or arm. If the portable monitor 11 possess a headgear configuration, however, it is considered that this adjustment can be provided with one of two basic approaches: physical displacement of the video display screens 17 relative the portable monitor 11; or physical displacement of the portable monitor 11 relative to the operator's eyes which, effectively, means forward and backward adjustment of the portable monitor 11 upon the operator's head. This is considered readily achievable with appropriate use of padding in front of or in back of the head to provide a 'custom' fit.

The foregoing is intended to provide one practiced in the art with the best known manner of making and using a system in accordance with the principles relating to the present invention and is not to interpreted as restrictive in any manner of the scope of said invention or the rights and privileges secured by Letters Patent in protection of the same and for which I claim:

Claims

Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003Surveillance System

1. A surveillance system intended to provide multiple views from different locations to a mobile security personnel member comprising: a plurality ofvideo cameras each possessing a different, fixed, location and at least one portable monitor possessing a receiver, a digital processor, a power supply, and a plurality of digital video display screens; each said video camera being capable, in operation, of transmitting a video image signal upon a single radio frequency different than the radio frequency utilized for image transmission by each other said video camera; said receiver being capable, in operation, of receiving each video image signal transmitted by said plurality ofvideo cameras and forwarding said video image signals as input to the digital processor which forwards one of these video image signals to each digital video display screen; each said digital video display screen possessing sufficiently diminutive planar dimensions to permit arrangement of said plurality of digital video display screens upon one substantially continuous surface of said portable monitor which further possesses sufficiently diminutive dimensions and mass to be carried by an ambulant adult; whereby multiple remote views from different fixed locations, in addition to direct viewing of an immediate and variable location, can be reviewed by a mobile security personnel member carrying one said portable monitor in operation.

2. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses two digital video display screens.

3. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses three digital video display screens.

4. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses more than three digital video display screens. Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

5. The surveillance system of claim 1 including the capability of connecting a keyboard to said portable monitor for manual input to said digital processor.

6. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said substantially continuous exterior surface of said portable monitor possessing said plurality of digital video display screens possesses a width of sufficiently diminutive dimension to be held by an adult hand.

7. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses a substantially rigid handle located on a face opposed to said surface possessing said plurality of digital video display screens which facilitates holding of said portable monitor wtih one hand.

8. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses an adjustable strap located on a contoured face opposed to said surface possessing said plurality of digital video display screens.

9. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses an elastic strap located on a contoured face opposed to said surface possessing said plurality of digital video display screens.

10. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor possesses an abbreviated helmet configuration with said plurality of video display screens located above a lower edge of a front portion located immediately above eye level of the security personnel member carrying said portable monitor.

11. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said receiver possessed by said portable monitor is a transceiver further possessing the capability of transmitting a control signal in response to manual input by said mobile security personnel member carrying one said portable Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

monitor in operation.

12. The surveillance system of claim 11 wherein activation of an alarm signal by a remote device is enabled by transmission of said control signal in response to manual input.

13. The surveillance system of claim 11 wherein remote control of at least one said video camera is enabled by transmission of said control signal in response to manual input.

14. The surveillance system of claim 13 wherein remote control of at least one said video camera enabled by transmission of said control signal in response to manual input includes rotation of camera viewing direction.

15. The surveillance system of claim 13 wherein remote control of at least one said video camera enabled by transmission of said control signal in response to manual input includes video camera zoom control.

16. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein said portable monitor is configured as headgear including at least one window disposed adjacent to at least one said digital video display screen.

17. The surveillance system of claim 16 wherein said portable monitor possesses a goggle configuration including a strap for securement to the head of a security personnel member.

18. The surveillance system of claim 17 wherein at least one said window is disposed on either side of one said digital video display screen.

continued Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

19. The surveillance system of claim 16 wherein said portable monitor possesses a full helmet configuration with a forward portion extending below the eyes of the wearer.

20. The surveillance system of claim 19 wherein said window is disposed above said digital video display screens.

21. The surveillance system of claim 19 wherein said portable monitor includes an audio transceiver.

22. The surveillance system of claim 21 wherein said audio transceiver includes at least one speaker.

23. The surveillance system of claim 1 wherein the number of said plurality of fixed position video cameras exceeds the number of said plurality of digital video display screens possessed by said portable monitor and said digital processor selects video image signals for display upon said plurality of digital video display screens.

24. The surveillance system of claim 23 having automatic selection of each said video image signal for display upon one of said plurality of digital video display screens as the default mode of operation.

25. The surveillance system of claim 23 having manual selection of each said video image signal for display upon one of said plurality of digital video display screens as the default mode of operation.

26. The surveillance system of claim 23 wherein said portable monitor possesses at least one input key associated with each said video display screen capable of causing said digital processor Fernando Docters Portable Multiple View 14 May 2003

Surveillance System

to advance through a predetermined sequence of the video image signals obtained from said plurality ofvideo cameras.

27. The surveillance system of claim 23 wherein said portable monitor possesses a keypad containing a plurality of input keys facilitating manual input to said digital processor in selection of said video image signals for display upon said plurality ofvideo display screens.

28. The surveillance system of claim 23 wherein said digital processor automatically selects each said video image signal for display upon one of said plurality of digital video display screens in accordance with a predetermined sequence.

29. The surveillance system of claim 23 wherein automatic selection of each said video image signal for display upon one of said plurality of digital video display screens is inclusive of automatic selection of a video image signal capturing motion.

30. The surveillance system of claim 29 wherein automatic selection of a video image signal capturing motion is indicated by a motion indicator.

31. The surveillance system of claim 30 wherein said motion indicator is a visual indicator associated by proximity to one of said plurality ofvideo display screens.