GB2537390A

GB2537390A - A camera apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2537390A
Application number: GB1506370.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Peck Michael
Original assignee: SCENEPRO Ltd
Current assignee: SCENEPRO Ltd
Priority date: 2015-04-15
Filing date: 2015-04-15
Publication date: 2016-10-19
Also published as: GB201506370D0

Abstract

Camera comprising body 12, centre axis 26, first axis 32 at first angle to centre axis on right-hand side of body defining right field of view (FOV) 36, and second axis 34 at second angle to centre axis on left-hand side defining left FOV 40, wherein first/second angles are equal and camera provides combined image with both left/right FOVs. Central axis may define one or two centre FOVs. First/second axes may intersect centre axis at same point. All axes may be in common plane. Each FOV may be provided by a digital camera imager. Side apex angles of left/right FOVs may be 90° and first/second angles may be 45 degrees to centre axis. Combined image may be recorded and displayed on remote computer via wireless communication. Geographical positioning device or GPS may provide combined image with location information. Camera body may be securely mounted to windscreen / windshield of vehicle with centre axis horizontal or aligned with direction of travel. Centre FOV, or left/right FOVs, may recreate human ocular perspective or human peripheral perspective. This in-vehicle camera recreates the perspective of driver by capturing video footage of events prior to accident to be used by police or evidence in court.

Description

A Camera Apparatus

Technical Field

The invention relates to a camera apparatus, and in particular a camera apparatus for recording a video from a vehicle.

Background

Following an accident involving a vehicle the Police Service, or other organisations such as accident investigators or collision scene investigators, often reconstruct events prior to the accident happening. The vehicle may be a road going vehicle such as a car, lorry or motorcycle, or it may be a railed vehicle such as a train or tram, or it may be a boat or an aircraft. In order to reconstruct events prior to the accident happening a video recording may be made from the vehicle following a route before the scene of the accident. The video recording may provide useful evidence to a Court or to investigators.

It is known to produce the video recording by mounting a video camera in the vehicle and recording a view from the vehicle as it moves toward the scene where the accident took place. In the case of a road going vehicle a view of the road is recorded as the vehicle moves towards the scene where the accident took place. The video camera typically has a non-standardised setup and is generally ad-hoc in nature.

A problem with such a video camera is that the video recording may be of poor quality.

Furthermore the video recording may not accurately capture or recreate a view from the vehicle of the route that the vehicle would have followed, or the scene of the accident, or what the driver or pilot of the vehicle could have seen prior to the accident taking place. Due to the non-standardised set-up die camera may produce a distorted or incorrect view of what could be seen by the driver or pilot of the vehicle. For example, the video camera may have an inappropriate lens fitted, or it may not be mounted to the vehicle in the correct position.

Typically the known video recording may not re-create the required view from the vehicle that the driver or pilot could have seen prior to the accident happening, and may not be of a sufficient standard or quality to provide evidence to a Court, or to investigators. Overall, the known video camera wastes time in the planning, setting up and production of the video recording.

It is broadly an object of the present invention to address one or more of the above mentioned disadvantages of the previously known video camera.

Summary

What is required is a camera apparatus which may reduce or minimise at least some of the above-mentioned problems.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a camera apparatus, comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-hand side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, the first axis defining a right-hand field of view, and the second axis defining a left-hand field of view, wherein the camera apparatus is operable to provide a combined image with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view.

Such a camera apparatus has the advantage that it can be used to more accurately recreate a video recording of what was there to be seen ahead of the driver or operator of the vehicle, and/or by a passenger of the vehicle, prior to and at the scene of an accident. Such an advantage is provided by the combined image of the right-hand and left-hand fields of view, which shows what was able to be seen from the cabin or cockpit of the vehicle as it moves. It will be appreciated that the first and second angles are greater than 0°. The video recording may be used by the Police Service or investigators to more thoroughly recreate what was ahead of the driver or pilot of the vehicle. The camera apparatus has a standardised setup and can be used to provide accident reconstructions more easily and with an improved standard Accordingly, the camera apparatus proves an improved standard in the investigation and reconstruction process, and provides for the collection of evidence to a sufficiently high standard and quality to provide evidence to a Court, or to investigators. Overall, the camera apparatus saves time in the planning, setting up and production of such a drive-through video. Furthermore the camera apparatus is quick and simple to deploy, and is more cost effective than known arrangements. In addition, the combined image eliminates the time consuming editing processes to provide two or more images in one video recording in a controlled, calibrated and repeatable manner. Such repeatability of the video recording is important because a Court may require the video recording to be re-recorded to recheck what the diiver or pilot could have seen.

Preferably the centre axis defines at least one centre field of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide the combined image with the at least one centre field of view. Preferably the centre axis defines at least two centre fields of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide the combined image with the at least two centre fields of view. Such an arrangement has the advantage that the central camera operates to simulate a view if the driver or operator of the vehicle looks directly ahead.

Preferably the at least one centre field of view has a first apex angle between 42" to 62".

Preferably the first apex angle is substantially 52'. Such an arrangement has the advantage that the at least one centre field of view approximates the angle of an ocular perspective for an average human eye.

Preferably the first and second axes intersecting the at least one centre axis at substantially the same point. Preferably the first and second axes are in a common plane. Such arrangements provide for a standardised setup of the camera apparatus.

Preferably the centre axis is in the common plane. Such an arrangement has the advantage that the fields of view are in the same plane, which may be used to more accurately show what was there to be seen from the vehicle.

Preferably one or more of the fields of view are provided by at least one digital camera.

Preferably each field of view is provided by a respective digital camera. The use of one or more digital cameras is a convenient way of providing the combined image in a digital format.

In one embodiment each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view have a side apex angle of between 70° to 1100. Preferably the side apex angle of each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view is substantially 90". Such urangements may be used to provide the combined image with a 180° peripheral view to recreate what could have been seen by the operator or driver of the vehicle.

In another embodiment each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view have a side apex angle of between 42° to 62°. Preferably the side apex angle of each of the right-band field of view and the left-hand field of view is substantially 52'. Such arrangements may be used to provide the combined image with a view to recreate what could have been seen if the operator or driver of the vehicle should turn their head to the right or left.

Preferably each of the first and second angles are between 30" to 60" to the central axis. Preferably the first and second angles are substantially 45° to the central axis. Such arrangements may be used to accurately set, i.e. calibrate, the positions of the right and left-hand fields of view at the time of manufacture of the camera apparatus to provide a repeatable combined image.

Preferably the camera apparatus further indudes a recorder device for recording the combined image. Preferably the camera apparatus is provided in wireless communication with a remote computer. Preferably the remote computer is operable to view the combined image. Preferably the recorder device is provided at the remote computer. Such arrangements provide the advantage of improved flexibility for how the camera apparatus may be operated.

Preferably the camera apparatus further includes a geographical positioning device operable to provide the combined image with a geographical location. Such an arrangement may be used to accurately locate the geographical position of the combined image.

Preferably the body is planer. Preferably the body is elongate, and wherein the fields of view are provided from a first end of the body. Preferably the body has one or more mounting points. Preferably the one or more mounting points are provided at a second end of the body. Such arrangements provide the advantage that the first end can be positioned at a required position from where the combined image is required.

Preferably the one or more mounting points are screw threaded holes. Preferably the one or more mounting points are provided on a top surface of the body. Preferably the camera apparatus further includes at least one mounting device attachable to the one or more mounting points. Preferably the at least one mounting device is for securing the camera apparatus to a windscreen. Such an arrangement provides the advantage that the camera apparatus can hang down from an inclined windscreen with the fields of view looking out of the windscreen.

Preferably the body is of lightweight alloy. Preferably the body is provided by two clamshell halves. Such arrangements provide for a ready way to construct the camera apparatus, and to set the first and second angles during manufacture.

Preferably one or more of the fields of view comprise a right cone. Such an arrangement provides an accurate reconstruction without distortion of what the driver or pilot of the vehicle could have seen from the cabin or cockpit.

Preferably in use the centre axis is substantially horizontal, or at least aligned with a direction of travel. Such an arrangement may assist a person setting up the camera apparatus in the cabin or cockpit prior to recording the video particularly when the centre axis is in the common plane.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a method of operating a camera apparatus, comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-haml side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, the first axis defining a right-hand field of view, and the second axis defining a left-hand field of view, the method including: operating the camera apparatus to provide a combined image with the right-hand

field of view and the left-hand field of view.

Such a method of operating a camera apparatus has the advantage that it can be used to more accurately recreate a video recording of what was there to be seen ahead of the driver or operator of the vehicle, and/or by a passenger of the vehicle, prior to and at the scene of an accident. Such an advantage is provided by the combined image of the right-hand and left-hand fields of view, which shows what was able to be seen from the cabin or cockpit of the vehicle as it moves. It will be appreciated that the first and second angles are greater than 0°. The video recording more thoroughly recreates what was ahead of the driver or pilot of the vehicle. The method has a standardised setup and can be used to provide accident reconstructions more easily and with an improved standard. Accordingly, the method proves an improved standard in the investigation and reconstruction process, and provides for the collection of evidence to a sufficiently high standard and quality to provide evidence to a Court, or to investigators. Overall, the method saves time in the planning, setting up and production of such a drive-through video. Furthermore the method is quick and simple to deploy, and is more cost effective than known arrangements. hi addition, the combined image eliminates the time consuming editing processes to provide two or more images in one video recording in a controlled, calibrated and repeatable manner. Such repeatability of the video recording is important because a Court may require the video recording to be re-recorded to recheck what the driver or pilot could have seen.

Preferably the centre axis defines at least one centre field of view, the method including operating the camera apparatus to provide the combined image with the at least one centre field of view. Preferably the centre axis defines at least two centre fields of view, the method including operating the camera apparatus to provide the combined image with the at least two centre fields of view. Such a method has the advantage that the central camera operates to simulate a view if the driver or operator of the vehicle looks directly ahead.

Preferably the method further includes recreating a human ocular perspective with the at least one centre field of view. In one embodiment the method further include recreating a human ocular perspective with each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view. Such an ocular perspective is for an average human eye, and provides the advantage of more accurately showing what was there to be seen ahead of the driver or operator of the vehicle, and/or by a passenger of the vehicle, and/or what could have been seen if the operator or driver of the vehicle should turn their head to the right or left.

In another embodiment the method further includes recreating a human peripheral view with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view.

Preferably a recorder device is included, the method including recording the combined image. Preferably a remote computer is included, the method including viewing the combined image using the remote computer. Preferably the method further includes recording the combined image using the remote computer. Such arrangements provide the advantage of improved flexibility for bow the camera apparatus may be operated.

Preferably a geographical positioning device is included, the method including providing the combined image with a geographical location. Such an arrangement may be used to accurately locate the geographical position of the combined image.

Preferably the method further includes securing the camera apparatus to a windscreen.

Preferably the method further includes mounting the centre axis substantially horizontally, or at least aligned with a direction of travel during use of the camera apparatus.

According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a camera apparatus, comprising a body having a centre axis, wherein the centre axis defines a field of view with an apex angle to recreate a human ocular perspective.

According to another alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a camera apparatus comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-hand side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, wherein at least one of the centre axis, the first axis and the second axis define at least one field of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide an image with the at least one field of view.

According to an alternative characterisation of the invention there is provided a camera apparatus comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-hand side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, wherein each of the centre axis, the first axis and the second axis define respective fields of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide a combined image comprising at least two of said fields of view.

According to another characterisation of the invention there is provided a method of operating a camera apparatus according to the above alternative characterisation of the invention.

Any preferred or optional features of one aspect or characterisation of the invention may be a preferred or optional feature of other aspects or characterisations of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Other features of the invention will be apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments shown by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which; Figure 1 shows a perspective view from above and to one side of a camera apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view from above and to a front of the camera apparatus shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a plan view of the camera apparatus of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 shows a perspective view from above and to one side of a camera apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention; Figure 5 shows a side view of the camera apparatus of Figures 1 to 3 mounted on a windscreen, and with a recorder device; Figure 6 shows a plan view of various viewing angles for the camera apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 7 shows steps of a method according to an embodiment of the invention;

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a perspective view from above and to one side of a camera apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 10. The camera apparatus 10 has a body 12 which is generally planer with a front end 14 and a back end 16. The front end 14 has a central camera 18, and two side cameras 20,22 on either side of the central camera 18. A top surface 23 of the body 12 has a plurality of mounting points 24, which are screw threaded holes. There are six mounting points 24 shown in a row along the length of the body 12. The row of mounting points 24 starts from the back end 16. The cameras 18, 20, 22 are digital cameras.

Figure 2 shows a perspective view from above and to a front of the camera apparatus 10 shown in Figure 1. In Figure 2 like features to the arrangements of Figure 1 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 2 the three cameras 18, 20, 22 can be seen at the front end 14 of the body 12. The body 12 may be of lightweight alloy which is accurately machined in two halves, i.e. clamshell halves, each half being along the plane of the body 12.

Figure 3 shows a plan view of the camera apparatus 10 of Figures 1 and 2. In Figure 3 like features to the arrangements of Figures 1 and 2 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 3 the body 12 is shown to have a centre axis 26, which runs between the front and back ends 12, 14 of the body 12. The centre axis 26 represents a line of symmetry of the body 12 when the camera apparatus 10 is viewed from above. The six mounting points 24 of the body 12 are aligned with the centre axis 26 when the camera apparatus 10 is viewed from above.

The central camera 18 is aligned with the centre axis 26 such that a field of view 28 of the central camera 18 has an axis 29 which is common with the centre axis 26. The field of view 28 has an apex angle 30, which is the angle between the lines that define the apex of the field of view 28. The apex angle 30 is between 42" to 62" in order to approximate the angle of an ocular perspective for an average human eye. Typically the apex angle 30 is about 52°. It will be appreciated that the field of view 28 is a cone, and the apex ande 30 defines a three dimensional solid angle at the apex of the field of view 28. The apex angle 30 may also be termed an opening angle in geometry. It will be understood that the field of view 28 is a right cone i.c a regular symmetrical cone, and the field of view 28 is away from the body 12. Whereas the term "ocular perspective" has been used in relation to the centre camera 18 it will be understood that this relates to the visual perspective and the way in which objects appear to the human eye based on their spatial attributes.

The body 12 has first and second side axes 32..34. The central axis 26 and the two side axes 32, 34 lie in a common plane, which is common to the plane of the body 12. The first axis 32 is at an angle of 45' to the central axis 26 on a right-hand side of the body 12. The second axis 34 is at an angle of 45" to the central axis 26 on a left-hand side of the body 12. The first and second axes 32, 34 are at an angle of 90° to each other. The first axis 32 may be at an angle of between 30° to 60° to the central axis 26 on a right-hand side of the body 12. The second axis 34 may be at an angle of between 300 to 60 ° to the central axis 26 on a left-hand side of the body 12. The angle between each axis 32, 34 and the central axis 26 is substantially the same, and is greater than 00, for example greater than 5° or 10° . The first camera 20 is aligned with the first axis 32 such that a field of view 36 of the first camera 20 has an axis 37 which is common with the first axis 32. The field of view 36 has an apex angle 38 which is the angle between the lines that define the apex of the field of view 36. The apex angle 38 is 90°. In one embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 70° to 1100 to re-create a peripheral view of an average human. In another embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 42" and 62° to recreate an ocular perspective if a person had turned their head to the right.

The second camera 22 is aligned with the second axis 34 such that a field of view 40 of the second camera 22 has an axis 41 which is common with the second axis 34. The field of view 40 has an apex angle 42 which is the angle between the lines that define the apex of the field of view 40. The apex angle 42 is 90°. In one embodiment the apex angle 42 is between 70° to 110° to re-create a peripheral view of an average human. In another embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 42" and 62° to recreate an ocular perspective if a person had turned their head to the left.

Each field of view 36, 40 is a cone, and the apex angles 38, 42 are three dimensional solid angles at the apex of each field of view 36, 40. The apex angles 38, 42 may also be termed opening angles in geometry. It will be understood that each field of view 36, 40 is a right cone. Each field of view 36, 40 is away from the body 12.

The apex angles 30, 38, 42 may he set with a lens (not shown) having an appropriately set focal length, and/or an aperture size of each camera 18, 20, 22, 25. Alternatively, or in addition, the apex angles 30, 38, 42 may be set using an appropriately sized Charge Couple Device (CCD) array of each camera 18, 20, 22, 25. Alternatively the apex angles 30, 38, 42 may be set using software which may re-size or crop an image size captured by each camera 18, 20, 22, 25.

Figure 4 shows a perspective view from above and to one side of a camera apparatus according to another embodiment of the invention, generally designated 50. In Figure 4 like features to the arrangements of Figures 1 to 3 are shown with like reference numerals. Whereas Figures 1 to 3 show that the body 12 has a general Y-shape with an additional central bar along the centre axis 26 of the body, the embodiment of Figure 4 is generally cuboid in shape and is more compact. There are eight mounting points 24 shown on the top surface 23 of the body 12, which are generally towards a rear of the body 12.

Figure 5 shows a side view of the camera apparatus 10 of Figures 1 to 3 mounted on a windscreen 52 of a vehicle, and with recorder device 54. In Figure 5 like features to the arrangements of Figures 1 to 4 are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 5 the centre axis 26 is shown which is along the plane of the body 12. The body 12 is mounted to the windscreen 52 with two mounting devices of know kind. Each mounting device has a suction device 56, a connector rod 58 and an attachment part 60. The attachment part 60 is secured to one of the mounting points 24 with a screw thread. The connection between the attachment part 60 and the connector rod 58 is a pivotable connection that can be locked into a desired position. The connection between the suction device 56 and the connector rod 58 is also a pivotable connection that can be locked into a desired position. As such, each mounting device can be locked in position and provides a rigid connection between the camera apparatus 10 and the windscreen 52.

The recorder device 54 may also be secured to the windscreen 52 with one or more mounting devices (not shown) of know kind. Alternatively the recorder device 54 may be mounted on a frame (not shown) secured to a floor of the vehicle. A cable 62 connects the camera apparatus 10 to the recorder device 54. Alternatively the camera apparatus 10 may be in wireless communication with the recorder device 54.

Alternatively the recorder device 54 may be combined with the camera apparatus 10 in the body 12. The recorder device 54 has a display 64, a keypad 66, and a port 68 for a compact flash memory card. The recorder device 54 is a battery operated computer device with a micro-processor, and is operable to record images from the camera apparatus 10 and to store the images on the memory card, or other storage media.

The recorder device 54 may be in wireless communication with a remote computer 70, which is at a remote location as shown by the two-headed arrow 72. Such wireless communication may be via a mobile telephone network and/or the Internet, and the recorder device 54 and the remote computer 70 are enabled for such communication. A video 71 recorded by the recorder device 54 may be transferred to the remote computer 70 using the memory card or via wireless communication. The video 71 is a digital video. The remote computer 70 may use known Picture in Picture (PIP) software to display the video 71 The remote computer 70 may be linked in real-time to the camera apparatus 10 for the recording and viewing of images by the remote computer 70. The format of the video 71 is, for example, Phase Alternating Line (PAL) or National Television System Committee (NTSC).

The recorder device 54 also has a geographical positioning device 74 such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) device. Such a geographical positioning device 74 operates to imprint the recorded video 71 with a geographical location, for example, when the video 71 is recorded as the vehicle is driven. With such an arrangement the video 71 is automatically synchronised with the geographical information and may also be date and/or time stamped. The speed of the vehicle may also be imprinted on the recorded video 71. The recorder device 54 also has a microphone (not shown) for the operator or driver to record any relevant voice notes, or to record other audio information as required. The recorder device 54 may also have a plurality of accelerometers and/or gyroscopes (not shown) to record forces in the fore/after, right/left, up/down directions.

The remote computer 70 has a display 76 which shows the video 71 that has been recorded by the recorder device 54. The video 71 shows a combined image from the cameras 18, 20, 22. The video 71 has three parts which correspond to the field of view 28, 36, 40 recorded by each camera 18, 20, 22. A central image 80 shows the field of view 28 recorded by the central camera 18. A left-hand image 82 shows the field of view 40 recorded by the left-hand camera 22. A right-hand image 84 shows the field of view 36 recorded by the left-hand camera 20. The video 71 is a combined image with the left-hand image 82, die right-hand image 84, and die central image 80, or a combination of one or more of the images 80, 82, 84. It will be understood that the combined image is recorded whether or not it is actually shown on the display 76.

In one embodiment the camera apparatus 10, 50 is operable to record the video 71 with two parts which correspond to the field of view 36, 40 recorded by each camera 20, 22. The left-hand image 82 shows the field of view 40 recorded by the left-hand camera 22.

The right-hand image 84 shows the field of view 36 recorded by the right-hand camera 20. With such an arrangement the video 71 would have the left-hand image 82 and the right-hand image 84 next to each other.

It will be appreciated that together the first and second cameras 20, 22 may provide a view which extends to 180°. The first camera 20 operates to simulate a peripheral view out of the windscreen 52, or a view if a person should turn their head to the right. The second camera 22 operates to simulate a peripheral view out of the windscreen 52, or a view if a person should turn their head to the left. The central camera 18 operates to simulate a view out of the windscreen 52 if a person looks directly ahead. Whereas the view may extend to 180° it will be understood that a conscious view of the person, i.e. the view that the person may actual be able to readily perceive, may be 140°. The view between 140° and 180" may be termed a peripheral view of the person.

In use the position of the camera apparatus 10, 50 relative to the windscreen 52 can be varied by changing the position of attachment of the mounting device to the camera apparatus 10, 50 using the mounting points 24. In other words, the attachment part 60 of a respective mounting device may be located in a different mounting point 24. The general 'Y' shape of the camera apparatus 10 is designed to enable it to be positioned close to the windscreen 52 using the six mounting points 24 provided on the top surface 23 of the body 12. With such an arrangement the camera apparatus 10 provides multiple mounting options to mount the camera apparatus 10 correctly to allow it to acquire the desired images 80, 82, 84. The provision of two mounting devices instead of one mounting device provides a more secure mounting to the windscreen 52, and also provides a level of redundancy and resilience in the event that one of the mounting devices fail during use.

It will be appreciated that the camera device 50 of Figure 4 can be positioned on the windscreen 52 so that it is mounted behind a rear view mirror (not shown) of the windscreen 52. Such an arrangement is possible because the body 12 of the camera device 50 is relatively shorter along than the body 12 of the camera device 10. Typically the body 12 of the camera device 10 shown in Figure 1 has a length along the central axis 26 of about 20cm to 25cm. Typically the body 12 of the camera device 50 shown in Figure 4 has a length along the central axis 26 of about 10 to 13 cm. The body 12 of the camera apparatus 50 has a shape that permits it to be semi-permanently mounted between the rear view minor and the windscreen 52. Such an arrangement is advantageous because it is out of the view of the driver and out of the 'swept area' of the windscreen wipers thus achieving the recording capability whilst avoiding any obstruction of the driver's forward view from the vehicle whilst driving.

In use the centre axis 26, and the plane of the body 12 are intended to be substantially horizontal, or at least aligned with a direction of travel, when mounted to the windscreen 52. The body 12 may be provided with a levelling device such as a spirit level (not shown) to achieve an accurate adjustment of the mounting devices to achieve such horizontal mounting. Such a horizontal mounting provides a correct orientation and positioning of the parts 80, 82, 84 of the video 71.

Figure 6 shows a plan view of various viewing angles for the camera apparatus 10, 50. In Figure 6 like features to the arrangements of Figures 1 -S are shown with like reference numerals. In Figure 6 two central cameras 18 are shown having respective fields of view 28. The two central cameras 18 are aligned with the centre axis 26 such that each field of view 28 of each central camera 18 has the axis 29 which is parallel with the centre axis 26. Each field of view 28 has the apex angle 30, which is between 42" to 62", and typically about 52".

In Figure 6 the first and second side axes 32, 34 are shown. Third and fourth side axes 33, 35 are also shown. The central axis 26 and the side axes 32, 33, 34, 35 lie in a common plane. The third axis 33 is at an angle of 45° to the central axis 26 on the right-hand side of the body 12. The fourth axis 35 is at an angle of 45° to the central axis 26 on the left-hand side of the body 12. The third and fourth axes 33, 35 are at an angle of 90° to each other. The third axis 33 may be at an angle of between 30° to 60° to the central axis 26 on the right-hand side of the body 12. The fourth axis 35 may be at an angle of between 300 to 600 to the central axis 26 on the left-hand side of the body 12.

Each axis 33, 35 has a respective third and fourth camera 25, 27. The third camera 25 is aligned with the third axis 33 such that the field of view 36 of the third camera 25 has an axis which is common with the third axis 33. The field of view 36 has an apex angle 38 of 90°. In one embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 70° to 1100 to re-create a peripheral view of an average human. In another embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 42" to 62" to recreate an ocular perspective if a person had turned their head to the right.

The fourth camera 27 is aligned with the fourth axis 35 such that a field of view 40 of the fourth camera 27 has an axis which is common with the fourth axis 35. The field of view 40 has an apex angle 42 of 90). In one embodiment the apex angle 42 is between 70° to 110° to re-create a peripheral view of an average human. hi another embodiment the apex angle 38 is between 42° to 62° to recreate an ocular perspective if a person had turned their head to the left.

Whereas Figure 6 shows five cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, it will be appreciated that in one embodiment there are four cameras comprising the two central cameras 18 and the two side cameras 20, 22, or the two side cameras 25, 27. In another embodiment there are four cameras comprising the two side cameras 20, 22, and the two side cameras 25, 27.

When there are four camera the video 71 shows the combined image therefrom. The central image 80 may show the fields of view 28 provided by the two central cameras 18. Alternatively the central image 80 may show the fields of view 38, 40 provided by a combination of the side cameras 20, 22, 25, 27. The left-hand image 82 shows the field of view 40 recorded by one or both left-hand cameras 22, 27. The right-hand image 84 shows the field of view 36 recorded by one or both right-hand cameras 20, 25. The video 71 is a combined image with the left-hand image 82, the right-hand image 84, and the central image 80, or a combination of one or more of the images 80, 82, 84.

Figure 7 shows steps of a method according to an embodiment of the invention, generally designated 90. It will be appreciated that the steps may be performed in a different order, and may not necessarily be performed in the order shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows a method 90 of operating a camera apparatus 10, 50, comprising a body 12 having a centre axis 26, a first axis 32 at a first angle to the centre axis 26 on a right-hand side of the body 12, and a second axis 34 at a second angle to the centre axis 26 on a left-hand side of the body 12, the first and second angles being substantially equal, the first axis 32 defining a right-hand field of view 36, and the second axis 34 defining a left-hand field of view 40. The method including operating the camera apparatus 10, 50 to provide a combined image 71 with the right-hand field of view 36 and the left-hand

field of view 40, as shown at 92.

The centre axis 26 defines at least one centre field of view 28, the method includes operating the camera apparatus 10.50 to provide the combined image 71 with the at least one centre field of view 28, as shown at 92. The centre axis 26 defines at least two centre fields of view 28, the method includes operating the camera apparatus 10, 50 to provide the combined image 71 with the at least two centre fields of view 28, as shown at 92.

The method includes recreating a human ocular perspective with the at least one centre field of view 28, the right-hand field of view 36 or the left-hand field of view 40, as shown at 94. The method includes recreating a human peripheral perspective with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view, as shown at 94. The method includes recording the combined image 71, as shown at. 96. The method includes viewing the combined image using a remote computer 70, as shown at 98. The method includes recording the combined image 71 using the remote computer 70, as shown at 100. The method includes providing the combined image with a geographical location, as shown at 102. The method further includes mounting the centre axis 26 substantially horizontally, or at least aligned with a direction of travel during use of the camera apparatus 10, 50.

The camera apparatus 10.50 is operable to provide the video 71 with the multiple images 80, 82, 84 with two human eye perspectives. The first human eye perspective is a 180° peripheral perspective view, for example provided by images 82, 84, to show what was there to be seen ahead of the driver/pilot or operator of the vehicle.

Alternatively the first human eye perspective is an ocular perspective for an average human eye should a person had turned their head to the left or the right where each left and right hand view is a 42" to 62's perspective view, for example provided by images 82, 84. The images 82, 84 may also show what was there to be seen by a passenger of the vehicle. The second human eye perspective is a 42° to 62° central perspective view provide by image 80, to approximate the angle of an ocular perspective for an average human eye. The central image 80 is a monocular or human eye 'true' perspective of the features and geography of the road, rail line, harbour, airport etc, ahead of the vehicle. The images 80, 82, 84 of the video 71 are synchronised with each other together with audio if recorded, and when viewed together in the video 71 provide the above mentioned first and second human eye perspectives at the same time. Alternatively the images 82, 84 of the video 71 are synchronised with each other together with audio if recorded, and when viewed together in the video 71 provide the above mentioned first human eye perspective.

The cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 above are shown with fixed positions with respective angles relative to the centre axis 26 of 0', +45', -45', +45', -45". In an alternative arrangement the respective angles of the cameras 20, 22, 25, 27 may be different, such as within the range +30" to +60", and -30" to -60" to provide a different view for the images 82, 84 of the video 71.

The embodiments of Figures 1 -5 show three cameras 18, 20, 22. In the embodiment of Figure 6 there are four or five cameras to provide an alternative view for the images of the video 71. For example, all four or five cameras may have a field of view with axes which are in a common plane, where the one or two central cameras have an axis which is substantially parallel to the central axis 26, and where the left and right hand cameras have respective angles relative to the centre axis 26 within the range +30" to +60", and -30" to -60". With such an arrangement the central axis 26 defines the two centre fields of view 28.

The body 12 of the camera apparatus 10, 50 is accurately machined to ensure that the desired axes 29, 33, 35, 37, 41 of the cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 are accurately set. In effect this calibrates the positions of the cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 at the time of manufacture of the camera apparatus 10, 50 to provide repeatable images 80, 82, 84 of the video 71. The calibrated positions of the cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 can be certified by the manufacturer of the camera apparatus 10, 50. Such repeatable images 80, 92, 84 provided by a calibrated camera apparatus 10, 50 are important so that the video 71 can be submitted to a Court to provide evidence if required.

It will be understood that the video 711s intended to show a realistic and accurate view of what was there to be seen by the driver or pilot of the vehicle for the purposes of recreating a scene prior to a collision or accident occurring. The camera apparatus 10, 50 proves an improved standard in the investigation and reconstruction process and the collection of best evidence. The camera apparatus 10, 50 is able to provide a calibrated and certified video 71 to reconstruct the scene prior to a collision or accident occurring for use by accident investigators of collision scene investigators.

Whereas the camera apparatus 10, 50 is shown for use with a vehicle such as a car or lorry, it may also be adapted for use with a motorcycle using a different mounting device. Alternatively the camera apparatus 10, 50 may be used with a railed vehicle such as a train or tram, or a water going vehicle such as a boat. Alternatively the camera apparatus 10,50 may be used with an aircraft.

The camera apparatus 10, 50 saves time in the planning, setting up and execution of providing a drive-through video 71. The camera apparatus 10, 50 also reduces the need for investigators or a Jury to re-visit the scene of the accident, which may typically be required to check the validity of emerging detail relating to the accident. For example, the camera apparatus 10, 50 can be used to properly introduce the Jury to the scene of the accident by displaying map locations supported by a drive-through video 71 of what a scene looked like at the time of the incident. The video 71 provides a helpful grounding upon which the Jury may base their deliberations and subsequent decisions by placing the members of the Jury back at the scene of the accident. Accordingly, the video 71 provides a clearer understanding of evidence to contextualise the scene of the accident and to provide a record of video evidence to clear up ambiguities. The video 71 may also be used by other departments within the Police Service, or other national departments or agencies, or other third parties.

It will be appreciated that the camera apparatus 10, 50 and the recorder device 54 is a camcorder and may have the geographical position device 74 that produces a digital video recording with geographical information embedded therein. The camera apparatus 10, 50 and the recorder device 54 is a vehicle mounted video camera for generating a driver or cabin perspective video reconstruction or survey.

Whereas the embodiments of Figure 1 to 6 show multiple cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 which have fields of view 28, 36, 41 along the respective axes 29, 33, 35, 37, 41 it is also envisaged that a single panoramic camera may be used to provide the central image 80, the left-hand image 82 and the right-hand image 84. With such an arrangement the images 80, 82, 84 are split optically using one or more lenses, and/or prisms, and/or using software within the recorder device 54 and/or the remote computer 70. It is also envisaged that the fields of view 28, 36, 40 along the respective axes 29, 33, 35, 37, 41 may he provided by three optic fibres having respective lenses at one end, and one or more cameras at the other end.

It will be appreciated that the cameras 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 above are operable to provide respective fields of view 28, 36, 40. The central camera 18 is operable to provide the field of view 28 which has an ocular perspective for an average human eye. Each side camera 20, 22, 25, 27 is operable to provide respective fields of view 36, 40 which have an ocular perspective for an average human eye if a person should turn their head to the right or the left, or to simulate a peripheral view of an average human if the person looks directly ahead.

Claims

CLAIMSI. A camera apparatus, comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-hand side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, the first axis defining a right-hand field of view, and the second axis defining a left-hand field of view, wherein the camera apparatus is operable to provide a combined image with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view.
2. A camera apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the centre axis defines at least one centre field of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide the combined image with the at least one centre field of view.
3. A camera apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the centre axis defines at least two centre fields of view, and the camera apparatus is operable to provide the combinedimage with the at least two centre fields of view.
4. A camera apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one centre field of view has a first apex angle between 42° to 62°.
A camera apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first apex angle is substantially 52°.
6. A camera apparatus according to any of claims 2 -5, wherein the first and second axes intersecting the at least one centre axis at substantially the same point.
7. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second axes are in a common plane.
8. A camera apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the centre axis is in the common plane.
9. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the fields of view are provided by at least one digital camera.
10. A camera apparatus according to claim 9, wherein each field of view is provided by a respective digital camera.
11. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view have a side apex angle of between 70" to 110°.
12. A camera apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the side apex angle of each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view is substantially 90°.
13. A camera apparatus according to any of claims 1 -10, wherein each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view have a side apex angle of between 42° to 62".
14. A camera apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the side apex angle of each of the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view is substantially 52".
15. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the first and second angles are between 30" to 60" to the central axis.
16. A camera apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first and second angles are substantially 45° to the central axis.
17. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, and further including a recorder device for recording the combined image.
18. A camera apparatus according to claim 17 which is provided in wireless communication with a remote computer.
19. A camera apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the remote computer is operable to view the combined image.
20. A camera apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the recorder device is provided at the remote computer.
21. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, and further including a geographical positioning device operable to provide the combined image with a geographical location.S
22. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the body is planer.
23. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the body is elongate, and wherein the fields of view are provided from a first end of the body.
24. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the body has one or more mounting points.
25. A camera apparatus according to claim 24, when appended to claim 23, wherein the one or more mounting points are provided at a second end of the body.
26. A camera apparatus according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the one or more mounting points are screw threaded holes.
27. A camera apparatus according to claim 24, 25 or 26, wherein the one or more mounting points are provided on a top surface of the body.
28. A camera apparatus according to any of claims 24 -27, and further including at least one mounting device attachable to the one or more mounting points.
29. A camera apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the at least one mounting device is for securing the camera apparatus to a windscreen.
30. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the body is of lightweight alloy.
31. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the body is provided by two clamshell halves.
32. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more ofthe fields of view comprise a right cone.
33. A camera apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein in use the centre axis is substantially horizontal, or at least aligned with a direction of travel.
34. A camera apparatus as substantially described herein with reference to Figures 1 -3 and 5, or Figure 4 or 6 of the accompanying drawings.
35. A method of operating a camera apparatus, comprising a body having a centre axis, a first axis at a first angle to the centre axis on a right-hand side of the body, and a second axis at a second angle to the centre axis on a left-hand side of the body, the first and second angles being substantially equal, the first axis defining a right-hand field of view, and the second axis defining a left-hand field of view, the method including: operating the camera apparatus to provide a combined image with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view.S
36. A method according to claim 35, wherein the centre axis defines at least onecentre field of view, the method including:operating the camera apparatus to provide the combined image with the at least one centre field of view.
37. A method according to claim 36, wherein the centre axis defines at least twocentre fields of view, the method including:operating the camera apparatus to provide the combined image with the at least two centre fields of view.
38. A method according to claim 36 or 37, and further including recreating a human ocular perspective with the at least one centre field of view.
39. A method according to any of claims 35 -38, and further including recreating a human ocular perspective with each of the right-hand field of view and the left-handfield of view.
40. A method according to claim 36 or 38, and further including recreating a human peripheral perspective with the right-hand field of view and the left-hand field of view.
41. A method according to claim 35 -40, and further including a recorder device, the method including recording the combined image.
42. A method according to any of claims 35 -41, and further including a remote computer, the method including viewing the combined image using the remote computer.
43. A method according to claim 42, and further including recording the combined image using the remote computer.
44. A method according to any of claims 35 -43, and further including a geographical positioning device, the method including providing the combined image with a geographical location.
45. A method according to any of claims 35 -44, and further including securing the camera apparatus to a windscreen.
46. A method according to any of claims 35 -45, and further including mounting the centre axis substantially horizontally, or at least aligned with a direction of travel during use of the camera apparatus.
47. A method of operating a camera apparatus as substantially described herein with reference to Figure 7 of the accompanying drawings.