JP4143791B2 - Image acquisition method, imaging apparatus, and imaging information transmission system - Google Patents

Description

図１２に、撮像装置から画像情報受信装置に送信するディレクトリの情報の記述例を示す。
【００８２】
同図に示すようにディレクトリの情報には、現在のディレクトリ（カレントフォルダ）がルートディレクトリであることを示す”￥”と、現在のディレクトリに登録されているディレクトリ名やファイル名が登録されているフォルダリストとが記載されている。
【００８３】
また、「／Ｄ」の区分フラグが記載されている行はディレクトリの名称を表示していることを示しており、「／Ｆ」の区分フラグが記載されている行はファイルの名称を表示していることを示している。また、「／Ｓ」の区分フラグはファイルのサイズ情報を示している。”ＬａｓｔＳｈｏｔ．ｊｐｇ”は撮像済の画像ファイル名であるので実際のファイルサイズ「／Ｓ＝１９５ＫＢ」を示している。ところが、”Ｓｈｏｏｔ．ｊｐｇ”は未だ撮像していない仮想ファイル名である。したがって、表示されている「／Ｓ＝２００ＫＢ」は撮像条件や画像の性質を示すパラメータに基づいて情報処理手段が算出した予想ファイルサイズである。また、ファイル名が読み出し専用に指定してあることを示す「読み出し専用」の属性や、利用者に対して表示しないファイル名であることを示す「非表示」の属性情報を付加してもよい。
【００８４】
画像情報受信装置は、この予想ファイルサイズ情報に基づいてファイルを取得するのに必要な通信時間を算出して、該予想通信時間を表示してもよい。また、取得する画像ファイルのサイズが大きすぎて画像情報受信装置の受信能力を越えてしまう場合や、所定の時間よりも通信に時間がかると予想される場合には、警告を通知したり、画像の受信を中止してもよい。
【００８５】
図１２に示されているディレクトリの情報を、画像情報受信装置が受信して利用者に通知する場合には、例えば図５の表示手段８８に示されている表示を行う。また、図５の表示手段８８に表示されている状態で「Ｄ：００１Ｖａｃａｔｉｏｎ」を選択した場合には、表示手段８８の表示は図１３に示されるフォルダブラウズ表示に遷移する。
【００８６】
図１３に示す表示は、ディレクトリ「００１Ｖａｃａｔｉｏｎ」に登録されている撮像済の画像ファイル名１２９、１２９…のリストを表示している。
【００８７】
同図で所望の画像ファイル名を選択すると、選択されたファイル名の画像が撮像装置から送信され、画像情報受信装置は所望の画像を取得することが可能となる。また、同図に示されている「Ｄ：．．」の表示部は上位の階層の親ディレクトリ（又はフォルダ）表示に遷移することを指示するときに選択する。なお、ディレクトリの情報の表示は、図５や図１３に示したようにファイル名を表示してもよいし、図１０や図１１に示したようなツリー構造を表示してもよい。
【００８８】
図１４に、撮像装置と画像情報受信装置とがお互いに実施する通信の処理手順を示す。
【００８９】
同図に示される通信方法は、利用者が通信機器８０（例えば携帯頻度の高い携帯電話など）を操作して、電子カメラ１０に記録されている画像を容易に取得することが可能なプルモデルである。
【００９０】
図１４に示すように、ステップＳ１００「通信モードに設定」（以下Ｓ１００のように略して記載する）にて、電子カメラ１０の動作モードを通信モードに設定し、通信機器８０の動作モードをＳ１０２「画像取得メニューに設定」にて画像取得メニューに設定する。すると、通信機器８０は通信を開始するためにＳ１０４「接続要求」にて、電子カメラ１０に対してコマンドを発信する。電子カメラ１０は「接続要求」コマンドを受信し、Ｓ１０６「接続完了」にて、以降通信接続を実施する応答を通信機器８０に対して送信する。なお、電子カメラ１０が省電力モードになっていた場合には、前記「接続要求」を受信した際に電子カメラ１０は自動で省電力モードを解除して以降の通信処理を実施する。
【００９１】
通信の接続が完了すると、通信機器８０はＳ１０８「フォルダリスト要求」にて、電子カメラ１０に対してフォルダリスト情報取得のコマンドを送信する。
【００９２】
電子カメラ１０が「フォルダリスト要求」のコマンドを受信すると、Ｓ１１０「フォルダリスト情報」にて、ディレクトリ（フォルダ）に関する情報の送信処理を実施する。ここでは情報処理手段４４が、記憶手段内に記憶されている撮像条件や画像の性質を示すパラメータごとに分類したファイル名やディレクトリ名の情報を送信する。また、最初にフォルダリスト要求を受信した場合には、カレントディレクトリを記録媒体５４のルートディレクトリに設定してもよいし、利用率の高いディレクトリに予め設定しておいてもよい。
【００９３】
通信機器８０はＳ１１２「フォルダリスト表示」にて、受信したフォルダリスト情報に基づいてフォルダリスト情報を表示（ブラウジング）する。この表示するフォルダリスト情報は、文字によるフォルダリスト表示であってもよいし、図１０や図１１に示したようなツリー表示であってもよい。
【００９４】
次に利用者は、表示されているフォルダリスト表示から（ブラウジング）を行い、利用者はＳ１１４「カレントディレクトリにターゲットファイルがあるか？」にて、取得する画像のターゲットファイルが存在するか否かの判断を行う。
【００９５】
もし、取得するターゲットファイルが存在していない場合には、図５に示したポインタ１３０、１３０を選択するか、他のディレクトリを選択して所望の撮像条件画像を選択する（Ｓ１１６「移動先フォルダ選択」）。すると通信機器８０の処理プログラムは、Ｓ１１８「カレントフォルダ変更（ＳｅｔＰａｔｈ）要求」にて、電子カメラ１０に対してカレントフォルダ変更要求を送信する。電子カメラ１０は、前記フォルダ変更要求に基づいてカレントフォルダ（カレントディレクトリ）の変更を実施する。カレントフォルダの変更が終了すると、電子カメラ１０はＳ１２０「カレントフォルダ変更完了」にて、通信機器８０にカレントフォルダ変更が完了したことを通知する。
【００９６】
通信機器８０が、該カレントフォルダ変更完了の通知を受信すると、通信機器８０の実行プログラムはＳ１０８の前に分岐し、再び所望のフォルダリスト要求を電子カメラ１０に対して送信する。そして次のフォルダリストを表示する。
【００９７】
もし、取得するターゲットファイルが存在している場合には、Ｓ１２２「ターゲットファイル選択」に分岐する。そして所望の撮像条件のファイル名を、指定手段９０に設けられている十字キーや設定ボタン等を用いて選択設定する。すると電子カメラ１０に対してＳ１２４「ファイル送信（ＧＥＴ）要求」にて、選択指定されたファイル名の画像送信を要求する。
【００９８】
電子カメラ１０では、Ｓ１２６「要求されたファイルは機能ファイル？」にて要求されたファイルが機能ファイルであるか否かの判断を行う。もし要求されたファイルが機能ファイルである場合にはＳ１２８「要求されたファイルの機能フォルダ、及び機能ファイルの内容に従って撮像パラメータセット」に進み、指定されたフォルダ名とファイル名に基づいて撮像のパラメータをセットして撮像条件を設定する。
【００９９】
Ｓ１３０「撮像実行」では、前記設定した撮像条件に従ってセットされた撮像条件にて、撮像処理を実施する。撮像が終了したら、必要に応じて指示された画像の性質に画像データを変換し、Ｓ１３２「ファイルデータ送信」にて画像データを通信機器８０に対して送信する。
【０１００】
また、Ｓ１２６で、要求されたファイルが機能ファイルでない場合（要求されたファイルは撮像済のファイル等である場合）には、次のＳ１３４「記録媒体からターゲットファイル読み出し」にて、記録媒体５４に記録されている画像データを読み出して、必要に応じて指示された画像の性質に画像データを変換し、Ｓ１３２「ファイルデータ送信」にて、画像ファイルを通信機器８０に対して送信する。
【０１０１】
画像情報受信装置が画像ファイルを受信すると、Ｓ１３４「受信したデータをメモリに格納ｏｒ公衆回線に送信」にて、受信したデータをメモリに格納するか又は、公衆回線を介して他の機器に転送する処理を実施する。
【０１０２】
Ｓ１３６「他にも取得するファイルあり？」では、利用者に対して他のファイル取得を行うか否かの問い合わせを行っている。もし他のファイルを取得する要求がある場合には、Ｓ１１２に分岐する。もし、他のファイルを取得しない場合には、通信機器８０はＳ１３８「切断要求」にて、電子カメラ１０に対して通信を終了するための切断要求コマンドを送信する。そしてＳ１４０「終了」にて、画像を取得する処理を終了する。
【０１０３】
電子カメラ１０が前記切断要求コマンドを受信すると、Ｓ１４２「終了」にて画像送信の処理を終了する。
【０１０４】
上述のように、撮像条件に応じて分類したフォルダリスト情報（ディレクトリの情報）を通信機器８０に送信して、通信機器８０の表示手段８８に表示することにより、利用者は、素早く用途に応じた希望する種類の撮像条件を選択して撮像画像を取得することが可能となる。また、撮像装置の多様な撮像条件や画像の性質を示すパラメータに関する設定情報を通信機器８０側で予め持つ必要がないので通信機器８０側の処理プログラムの負担を少なくすることができるという利点がある。
【０１０５】
また、撮像装置が撮像条件や画像の性質を示すパラメータごとに分類したディレクトリ（フォルダ）情報を通信機器８０に送信して所望の画像を選択指定するようにしたので、通信機器８０側は通常広く利用されているファイル閲覧用のプログラムを備えているだけで、複数種の画像を選択指定することが可能となる。そして、通信機器８０側の処理プログラムも、利用者が通常よく利用する使用頻度の高い使い慣れたツールを利用すればよいため、負担が少なく、快適な操作性を得ることが可能となる。
【０１０６】
また、電子カメラを省電力モードに設定しておき、通信機器８０から「接続要求」のコマンドを受信した際に前記省電力モードを解除して通信及び情報処理を開始するように構成してもよい。このように構成することによって、撮像装置をスタンバイモードから必要なときのみ自動で通信モードを起動することが可能であるとともに、消費電力を抑えて電池の寿命を延ばすことが可能となる。
【０１０７】
上記の実施の形態では、本発明に係る撮像装置を撮像手段を備えた電子カメラとした例で説明したが、本発明は電子カメラに限定されるものではなく、撮像手段を備えたスキャナーとしてもよい。
【０１０８】
また、上記の実施の形態では、通信機器８０は無線通信手段を用いて公衆回線を経由して他の通信機器と無線通信する例で説明したが、本発明は無線通信に限定されるものではなく、有線を利用した通信手段であってもよいし、有線の通信ネットワークと通信を行う通信手段であってもよい。
【０１０９】
また、上記の実施の形態では、情報処理手段４４が変換する画像ファイルは、元の画像ファイルに対して画像データの圧縮率を変更した画像ファイル、画素数を変更した画像ファイルの場合について説明したが、本発明はこれに限定されるものではなく、階調、彩度等の色調を変更した画像ファイル、ホワイトバランスを変更した画像ファイル、シャープネスを変更した画像ファイル、輝度信号と色差信号とに変換するＹＣＣ４２０、ＹＣＣ４２２等のサンプリング変換を行った画像ファイル、赤色、緑色、青色の３原色に変換するＲＧＢ変換を行った画像ファイル、白黒変換を行った画像ファイル、セピア色変換を行った画像ファイル、異なった画像記録形態のファイル等を新たに登録してもよい。
【０１１０】
また、通信機器８０の表示手段８８がカラー表示を行うことが可能な表示手段である場合には、自動でカラー画像の仮想ファイルを指定し、表示手段８８が白黒表示の機能しか備えていない表示手段である場合には、自動で白黒画像の仮想ファイルを指定するようにして、利用者の操作に関する負担を減少させるようにしてもよい。
【０１１１】
また、上記で説明した通信機器（画像情報受信装置等）は、携帯式の通信端末機であってもよいし、リモコンに代表されるような簡単な通信機器であってもよい。
【０１１２】
また、上記の説明では、通信機器が撮像装置から画像を取得する例で説明したが、本発明はこれに限定されるものではなく、通信機器（情報受信装置）が電子機器から提示されるディレクトリの情報に基づいて所望の機能を示すファイル名を選択して該機能ファイル名に対応する動作を前記電子機器に要求し、前記要求により電子機器は機能ファイル名に割り当てられた機能を実行するとともに、応答を情報受信装置に送信してもよい。この応答は、コマンド形式の応答であってもよいし、電子機器の動作の結果を示す記述があるファイルであってもよい。
【０１１３】
【発明の効果】
以上説明したように本発明に係る画像取得方法によれば、撮像装置は、ファイル要求がされた際に撮像するとともに、その撮像時に得た画像ファイルを送信する機能を有し、少なくとも機能を示す機能ファイル名が登録されているディレクトリの情報を画像情報受信装置に送信し、前記画像情報受信装置は、前記送信されたディレクトリの情報に基づいて所望の機能ファイル名を選択することにより、該機能ファイル名に対応する画像ファイルを前記撮像装置に要求し、前記撮像装置は、前記ファイル要求により前記機能ファイル名に割り当てられた機能を実行し、前記画像情報受信装置は前記機能ファイル名に割り当てられた機能の実行によって送信された画像ファイルを受信するようにしたので、画像情報受信装置から容易に撮像装置のリモート制御を行うことが可能となる。
【０１１４】
また、本発明に係る撮像装置によれば、画像ファイルを受信する画像情報受信装置と情報の送受信を行うことが可能な通信手段と、少なくとも撮像を行う機能を示す機能ファイル名が登録されているディレクトリの情報を、前記通信手段を介して前記画像情報受信装置に送信する指示を行う情報処理手段と、前記画像情報受信装置から機能ファイル名に対応するファイルの送信要求がなされた際に機能ファイル名に割り当てられた撮像を行う撮像手段とを備え、前記情報処理手段は、前記撮像して得た画像ファイルを前記通信手段を介して前記画像情報受信装置に送信させるようにしたので、画像情報受信装置から容易に撮像装置のリモート制御を行うことが可能となる。
【０１１５】
また、本発明に係る撮像情報送信システムによれば、画像ファイルを受信する画像情報受信装置と情報の送受信を行うことが可能な通信手段と、少なくとも撮像を行う機能を示す機能ファイル名が登録されているディレクトリの情報を、前記通信手段を介して前記画像情報受信装置に送信する指示を行う情報処理手段と、前記画像情報受信装置から機能ファイル名に対応するファイルの送信要求がなされた際に機能ファイル名に割り当てられた撮像を行う撮像手段と、を備え、前記情報処理手段は、前記撮像して得た画像ファイルを前記通信手段を介して前記画像情報受信装置に送信させる撮像装置と、前記撮像装置と情報の送受信が可能な第１の通信手段と、前記撮像装置から提示されたディレクトリの情報を表示する表示手段と、前記表示したディレクトリの情報に基づいて所望の機能を示す所望の機能ファイル名を選択指定する選択手段とを備えた画像情報受信装置とから構成されているので、画像情報受信装置から容易に撮像装置をリモート制御するとともに画像を取得し、取得した画像を他の通信機器に送信することが可能となる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】撮像装置の外観斜視図
【図２】モード切替ダイヤルに設けられている各種モードの表示を示す図
【図３】電子カメラの信号処理系ブロック図
【図４】電子カメラがセットアップモードに設定されている場合に表示される表示内容を示す図
【図５】通信機器の外観図
【図６】通信機器の通信処理系ブロック図
【図７】撮像情報送信システムを用いて情報を送受信する際の各種通信機器の接続構成を示す図
【図８】電子カメラにおける画像ファイルの記録ディレクトリ構造を示す図
【図９】画像ファイルの内部構造を示す図
【図１０】撮像済の画像ファイル名と、これから撮像する仮想のファイル名を撮像条件ごとに分類した場合の仮想ディレクトリパスをツリー構造で示した図
【図１１】撮像条件を示すパラメータと、画像の性質を示すパラメータとに分類した仮想ディレクトリ名と仮想ファイル名とのパスをツリー構造で示した図
【図１２】撮像装置から画像情報受信装置に送信する、ディレクトリの情報の記述例を示す図
【図１３】ディレクトリ「００１Ｖａｃａｔｉｏｎ」に登録されている撮像済画像ファイル名のリスト表示図
【図１４】撮像装置と画像情報受信装置とがお互いに実施する通信の処理手順を示す図
【符号の説明】
１０…電子カメラ、１２…撮像レンズ、１６…表示手段、２２…モード切替ダイヤル、３２…通信モード、４２…撮像手段、４３…発光手段、４４…情報処理手段、４６…画像処理手段、４８…フレームメモリ、５０…入力手段、５２…圧縮解凍手段、５４…記録媒体、５６…記録媒体インターフェース、５８…メモリ、６０…送受信手段、６２…アンテナ、６４…通信コネクタ、８０…通信機器、８２…アンテナ、８４…無線通信手段、８８…表示手段、９０…指定手段、９６…通信コネクタ、９８…無線通信手段、１００…送受信手段、１０２…送受信手段、１０４…送受信バッファ、１０６…ＣＰＵ、１０８…ＰＲＯＭ、１１０…ＲＡＭ、１２０…サーバ、１２６…実行モード表示、１２８…画像ディレクトリファイル名、１２９…ファイル名、１３０…ポインタ、１４０…ディレクトリ群、１４２…ファイル群、１４６…サムネイル、１４８…主画像[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image acquisition method, an imaging apparatus, and an imaging information transmission system, and in particular, an image acquisition method, an imaging apparatus, and an image acquisition method capable of acquiring an image by remote control from another communication device connected by communication. The present invention relates to an imaging information transmission system.
[0002]
[Prior art]
An imaging system, a computer system for controlling the electronic camera and the electronic camera, and a control for the imaging system that allows the control parameters of the electronic camera such as exposure amount and various balance controls to be set on the host computer side coupled via a communication path The method is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-219422.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the imaging system, the electronic camera, the computer system for controlling the electronic camera, and the control method thereof disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-219422, the electronic camera is remotely controlled from the computer coupled with the electronic camera. Although it is possible to acquire the parameter setting and the imaging operation at the time of imaging by the electronic camera and the captured image from the electronic camera, various parameter settings of the electronic camera and acquisition of the captured image are possible. It was necessary to prepare a dedicated command in advance for the computer.
[0004]
There is no problem if the computer to which the electronic camera is connected is a device dedicated to controlling the electronic camera. For example, the electronic camera is connected to a personal computer, PDA (personal digital assistant), mobile phone, etc. In such a case, it is necessary for these connection destination devices to have a dedicated command for controlling the electronic camera in advance. Since control of an electronic camera is generally not a general use method for each of the connection destination devices, the use method becomes unfamiliar to the user and troublesome installation of a device driver dedicated to electronic camera control to the user. It was necessary to force an appropriate setting. In particular, when each of the connection destination devices is a small communication device such as a mobile phone, the hardware configuration is limited because resources for storing device drivers and information processing are limited. Due to the above relationship, it was difficult to respond.
[0005]
In addition, the computer control mode combined with the conventional electronic camera has a problem in that the imaging mode and the image transfer mode are completely separated, so that it is not possible to give instructions for imaging freely from the computer side. It was.
[0006]
Conventionally, when an instruction to acquire an image is given from the computer side, there is only a function for acquiring a captured image recorded in the electronic camera. Such a continuous operation cannot be instructed, and the operation is complicated.
[0007]
The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and the imaging apparatus and the image information receiving apparatus are connected via a communication path, and the image information receiving apparatus does not implement a control command dedicated to the imaging apparatus. An object of the present invention is to provide an image acquisition method, an imaging apparatus, and an imaging information transmission system that enable remote control such as imaging control of an imaging apparatus, setting of control parameters, and transfer of a captured image.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the object, the invention according to claim 1 provides , Shooting Image equipment But ,at least Take an image Information on the directory where the function file name indicating the function is registered The picture The image information receiving apparatus transmits an image file corresponding to the function file name to the imaging apparatus by selecting a desired function file name based on the transmitted directory information. The imaging device executes the function assigned to the function file name by the file request, and the image information receiving device receives the image file transmitted by executing the function assigned to the function file name. It is characterized by doing.
[0009]
According to the present invention, an imaging device Small At least Take an image Information on a directory in which a function file name indicating a function is registered is transmitted to the image information receiving apparatus, and the image information receiving apparatus selects a desired function file name based on the transmitted directory information. Requesting an image file corresponding to the function file name to the imaging device, the imaging device executes a function assigned to the function file name by the file request, and the image information receiving device receives the function file name. Since the image file transmitted by the execution of the function assigned to is received, it is possible to easily perform remote control of the imaging apparatus from the image information receiving apparatus.
[0010]
And claim for achieving the object. 19 According to the invention described in the above, information on a directory in which a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging and a communication unit capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from an image information receiving apparatus that receives an image file is registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission to the image information receiving device via the communication means, and imaging assigned to the function file name when a request for transmission of a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving device Imaging means for performing image processing, wherein the information processing means transmits the image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means.
[0011]
According to the present invention, information on a directory in which a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging and a communication unit capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from an image information receiving device that receives an image file is registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission to the image information receiving device via the communication means, and imaging assigned to the function file name when a request for transmission of a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving device And the information processing means transmits the image file obtained by the imaging to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means, so that the image information receiving apparatus can easily capture images. It becomes possible to perform remote control of the apparatus.
[0012]
And claim for achieving the object. 32 According to the invention described in the above, information on a directory in which a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging and a communication unit capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from an image information receiving apparatus that receives an image file is registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission to the image information receiving device via the communication means, and imaging assigned to the function file name when a request for transmission of a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving device Imaging means for performing image processing, wherein the information processing means transmits an image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means, and transmits and receives information to and from the imaging apparatus. Based on the first communication means that can be displayed, display means for displaying information on the directory presented from the imaging device, and information on the displayed directory It is characterized by comprising the image information receiving apparatus that includes a selection means for selecting and designating a desired function file name indicating a desired function.
[0013]
According to the present invention, in the imaging information transmission system, a communication means capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from an image information receiving apparatus that receives an image file, and a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging are registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission of directory information to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means, and a function file when a request for transmitting a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving apparatus An imaging unit that performs imaging assigned to a name, wherein the information processing unit transmits the image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving device via the communication unit, and the imaging A first communication means capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from the apparatus; a display means for displaying directory information presented from the imaging apparatus; Since the image information receiving apparatus includes a selection unit that selects and designates a desired function file name indicating a desired function based on the information of the directory, the image pickup apparatus can be easily remotely controlled from the image information receiving apparatus. In addition, it is possible to acquire an image and transmit the acquired image to another communication device.
[0014]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of an image acquisition method, an imaging apparatus, and an imaging information transmission system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0015]
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the imaging apparatus.
[0016]
As shown in the figure, an electronic camera 10 (imaging device) includes an imaging lens 12 that forms a subject image on an imaging unit, a display unit 16 that displays various information such as image data and a frame number display 14, and the electronic camera 10. A power switch 18 for inputting start and stop of the function, a release button 20 for a user to instruct imaging, a mode switching dial 22 for switching and setting various modes provided in the electronic camera 10, and display means 16, a delete button 24 that is specified when deleting a desired item from the items displayed on the display 16, a setting button 26 for registering a desired item from the items displayed on the display unit 16, and a display unit 16. Decrement the increment button 28 to be operated when incrementing the current frame number and the frame number displayed on the display means 16. And a decrement button 30 for operating when that.
[0017]
In addition, when information such as image data is transmitted / received to / from an external device by communication, an antenna 62 for transmitting / receiving a carrier wave and data is provided.
[0018]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display of various modes provided on the mode switching dial 22.
[0019]
According to the figure, the mode switching dial 22 includes a communication mode 32 (described as “Wireless” in FIG. 2) for performing communication with other communication devices (image information receiving apparatus or the like), and an imaging mode for performing imaging. 34, a reproduction mode 36 for reproducing the recorded image, and a setup mode 38 for setting the date, the number of imaging pixels, the setting of the power-off time, the volume of the warning sound, and the like.
[0020]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a signal processing system of the electronic camera.
[0021]
The electronic camera 10 is provided with an image pickup means 42 that forms an image of a subject on a light receiving surface, photoelectrically converts it and outputs it as image data, and a light emitting means 43 that emits a flash to compensate for the brightness of the subject. Yes. The imaging means 42 includes a focus adjusting means for focusing the subject image on the light receiving surface, an aperture adjusting section for adjusting the exposure amount, a shutter speed adjusting means for adjusting the exposure time, and a zoom adjusting means for adjusting the angle of view. include.
[0022]
The electronic camera 10 controls the entire electronic camera 10 and controls sampling timing of image data, control of the light emission means 43, exposure control including aperture and shutter speed, focus control, zoom control, white balance setting, image Data recording control, communication control, display control, virtual directory (virtual folder) generation, virtual file generation, image data pixel number conversion processing, various types of image data conversion processing, control of power saving mode setting and cancellation, etc. Is provided with information processing means 44 (including the function of converted image generation means). The information processing unit 44 stores an operation program of the electronic camera 10 and various constants, parameters indicating imaging conditions, parameters indicating image properties, information on virtual directories, information on virtual files, and the like; A memory 58 constituted by a RAM, which is a storage means serving as a work area during program execution, is connected.
[0023]
Further, the electronic camera 10 includes an image processing means 46 that performs processing such as changing the number of pixels, sharpness correction, gamma correction, contrast correction, and white balance correction, and a frame memory 48 that temporarily stores image data. Input means 50 including a release button 20, an erase button 24, a setting button 26, an increment button 28, a decrement button 30, and the like, and compression control of information such as image data by a technique represented by JPEG or MPEG, The compression / decompression unit 52 (including the function of the converted image generation unit) that performs processing for controlling expansion / decompression of the data compressed in accordance with an instruction from the information processing unit 44, and the image data is recorded on or read from a removable recording medium 54. Therefore, a recording medium interface 56 for converting data is provided. The recording medium 54 is a detachable recording unit represented by a semiconductor such as a memory card or MO, magnetic recording, or optical recording.
[0024]
The wireless communication means of the electronic camera 10 used when transmitting / receiving image data etc. to / from other devices encodes image data, directory information data, etc. in accordance with a command from the information processing means 44 and transmits them on a carrier wave. Alternatively, it includes a transmitting / receiving means 60 for receiving, an antenna 62 for transmitting / receiving a carrier wave and data, and a communication connector 64 for connecting each other's devices for transmitting / receiving information such as image data with a cable to perform wired communication. Has been. Via the communication means configured in this way, image files, data stored in the RAM, ROM, and frame memory 48 are transmitted to other communication devices, and information is received from other communication devices. It becomes possible to store in each of the storage means.
[0025]
When transmitting / receiving information to / from other communication devices via the connector 64, the devices that transmit / receive the information are connected with a cable, and the information is converted into an electric signal or an optical signal and wired. Communicate with.
[0026]
The electronic camera 10 also includes a D / A converter 66 for displaying image data on the display means 16 and a character generator for converting code information commanded from the information processing means 44 into display character or message data. 68 and a calendar clock 70 for keeping the date and time.
[0027]
When a command for inquiring about the directory structure and file information of image data in relation to imaging conditions and transfer of image data is received from another communication device (image information receiving device or the like) by communication, information processing means 44 transmits to the image information receiving apparatus information on a directory in which file names classified for each parameter indicating imaging conditions and parameters indicating image properties are registered. The directory information as the classification information is composed of information including a virtual directory (including a virtual folder) and a virtual image file, or a path name of the virtual image file, and the information is stored in advance in ROM (storage means). ) Or may be generated based on the imaging conditions of the electronic camera 10 and the nature of the convertible image.
[0028]
FIG. 4 shows the display contents displayed on the display means 16 when the mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to the setup mode 38.
[0029]
According to the figure, when the setup mode 38 is set, display for changing the date and time, changing the imaging mode, changing the number of recording pixels, setting the auto-off time, and adjusting the volume of the warning sound are displayed. By operating the input means 50 provided in the electronic camera 10, these settings can be changed.
[0030]
Note that the date and time display shows the date and time that the calendar clock 70 is currently engraved, and when the user changes the numerical value by making a selection to change the numerical value, information on the input date and time or information is displayed. It is transmitted from the processing means 44 to the calendar clock 70 and starts to input the input date and time.
[0031]
The imaging modes displayed on the display means 16 include various imaging modes having different image data compression rates of “FINE”, “NORMAL”, and “ECONOMY”. In the example of FIG. However, this is a low compression setting with the largest amount of image data.
[0032]
As the number of recorded pixels, the number of pixels (resolution) of VGA (640 × 480) and XGA (1024 × 768) is shown. Therefore, when high-quality printing is performed, recording is performed in advance under conditions of a high number of pixels and a low compression rate. In addition, when the image data is used for the purpose of transferring to other communication devices, etc., the recording is performed with a low number of pixels and a high compression rate. Set the amount of data.
[0033]
The auto-off time is an automatic power saving mode after a predetermined time has elapsed (for example, a mode in which the processing speed of the information processing means 44 is reduced or power supply to unused peripheral elements is stopped). It is the setting of the timeout time to enter. When the electronic camera 10 is activated from the power saving mode, the user operates any of the input means 50 or transmits a command prompting activation from another communication device via communication. Start by. The power saving mode setting means for setting and canceling the power saving mode may be implemented by the information processing means 44, or a dedicated power saving mode setting means may be provided.
[0034]
In the warning sound setting, a beep volume is set when a warning is issued to the user when the electronic camera 10 is activated, when communication processing is completed, or when imaging is performed. Each information of the date time, the imaging mode, and the recording pixel number is displayed together with the image at the time of reproduction as displayed on the display unit 16 of FIG.
[0035]
An imaging process performed by the electronic camera 10 configured as described above will be described.
[0036]
The subject image to be imaged is formed on the light receiving surface of the imaging means 42, and the formed subject image is photoelectrically converted and output to the image processing means 46. The obtained image data is subjected to amplification and noise reduction processing by the image processing means 46 and is temporarily stored in the frame memory 48. The information processing means 44 sequentially transmits the image data stored in the frame memory 48 to the D / A converter 66 and displays it on the display means 16.
[0037]
When a release button 20 provided on the input unit 50 is pressed or an imaging instruction is received via communication, a mode for imaging a subject is entered. Then, the information processing means 44 performs imaging under the specified predetermined exposure conditions, flash emission conditions, zoom conditions, and focus conditions. The subject image formed on the light receiving surface of the imaging means 42 is photoelectrically converted and output to the image processing means 46, subjected to amplification and noise reduction processing, and temporarily stored in the frame memory 48. The information processing means 44 instructs a process of converting the image data stored in the frame memory 48 with a predetermined number of pixels, a compression rate, a sampling method, and color information. Then, the recording medium interface 56 is instructed to sequentially record image data on the recording medium 54 or to transmit image data to another device via the transmission / reception means 60.
[0038]
The information processing unit 44 instructs the light emitting unit 43 on the amount of emitted light and instructs the light emission timing according to predetermined imaging conditions. Depending on the imaging conditions, imaging may be performed at a predetermined zoom position or focus position, or imaging may be performed under a predetermined white balance condition.
[0039]
When the captured image data is manually transmitted to another device, the mode switch dial 22 is designated as the communication mode 32 and the transmission button set in the input means 50 is pressed. Then, the information processing means 44 sequentially reads the designated image data from the recording medium 54 or the frame memory 48, converts it into a predetermined data format, and transmits it to the outside via the transmission / reception means 60 and the antenna 62 or the communication connector 64. Execute the process.
[0040]
FIG. 5 is an external view of the communication device.
[0041]
As shown in the figure, a communication device 80 (image information receiving device) includes an antenna 82 for wireless communication with a public line, wireless communication means 84 for wireless communication with other peripheral communication devices such as an electronic camera, Display means 88 composed of a color liquid crystal display or the like for displaying the communication information and the thumbnail image 86 of the selected image file, designation / selection of the telephone number, character, image, audio file name, and data of the file name ... For designating output destination devices, addresses, etc., a speaker 92 that serves as a telephone handset and outputs sound, a microphone 94 that inputs sound, and other peripheral communication devices such as an imaging device The communication connector 96 is used for wired communication. The communication device 80 may be a device in which the above function is added to a mobile phone. In addition, the communication function of the communication device 80 is not limited to the electronic camera 10 as a communication target device for communication, and may be a general-purpose communication function capable of communicating with a computer, an MP3 audio player, and other communication devices. Good.
[0042]
Further, according to FIG. 5, the display means 88 includes a battery remaining capacity display 122 that indicates the remaining capacity of the battery that is the power source of the communication device 80, a received radio wave intensity display 124 that displays the radio received radio wave intensity, Of the display mode (folder browsing mode), directory names 128, 128... File names 129, 129... Displayed based on the directory information transmitted from the imaging apparatus, and further upward. Alternatively, pointers 130 and 130 for scroll-displaying directory names 128... Or file names 129.
[0043]
When the user designates an execution mode, a directory name, or a file name, the designated frame is moved and set using a cursor key or the like provided in the designation means 90. As shown in FIG. 5, in the folder browsing mode, the currently displayed directory name 128 (display character string represented by D: + directory name as in D: 001 Vacation) and file name 129 ( As shown in F: Shot.jpg, “CAM ¥ ROOT” indicating that the root directory of the electronic camera 10 in which F: + (display character string represented by a file name) is stored is displayed.
[0044]
For example, when the file name 129 of “F: Shot.jpg” is selected from this display, the communication device 80 transmits a command requesting the electronic camera 10 to transmit the file of “Shoot.jpg”. Then, the electronic camera 10 executes imaging, transmits image data obtained by imaging to the communication device 80, and the communication device 80 can acquire the requested image data.
[0045]
In addition, a system that is easy to use can be configured so that it is possible to collectively specify the transmission of the acquired image data to other communication devices. For this purpose, a pull model that allows the communication device 80 to acquire an image from the electronic camera 10 is suitable.
[0046]
The display program in the folder browsing mode is not a dedicated program for acquiring an image file from the electronic camera 10 but a general general-purpose file display program (filer program). Therefore, not only the electronic camera 10 but also a personal computer or digital audio player connected via a communication means can acquire and transmit a file in the same manner.
[0047]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a communication processing system of the communication device.
[0048]
According to the figure, the transmission / reception portion of the communication device 80 includes public line wireless communication means 98 for wireless transmission / reception of voice information and image data via the public line, public line transmission / reception means 100, and others. Wireless communication means 84 for wireless communication with other communication devices, communication connector 96 for connecting a communication cable when performing wired communication, transmission / reception means 102, and transmission / reception for temporarily storing data to be transmitted and received in real time And a buffer 104.
[0049]
The communication device 80 includes a CPU 106 that controls the entire device, a PROM 108 in which programs for operating the CPU 106, various constants, telephone numbers, communication destination addresses, and the like are written, and when the CPU 106 executes processing. A RAM 110 serving as a storage area serving as a work area, and a calendar clock 112 that records the date and time are provided.
[0050]
The CPU 106 in the communication device 80 and each peripheral circuit including the display unit 88 and the designation unit 90 are connected by a communication unit such as a bus line or I / O, and the CPU 106 can control each peripheral circuit. It is possible.
[0051]
The communication means between the wireless communication means 84 and the electronic camera 10 is a communication means using light such as radio waves, ultrasonic waves, and infrared rays as a carrier wave. When radio waves are used, it may be based on the specifications of “Bluetooth” and wireless LAN (local area network), which have been attracting attention in recent years, or when infrared rays are used, interface means based on IrDA specifications may be used. Good.
[0052]
Further, as communication means when communicating using wired communication means, serial communication means such as RS-232, RS-422, and USB may be used, or interface means using parallel signals may be used.
[0053]
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a connection configuration of various communication devices when information is transmitted and received using the imaging information transmission system.
[0054]
As shown in the figure, the imaging information transmission systems 118 and 118A are composed of electronic cameras 10 and 10A and communication devices 80 and 80A. The user operates the communication devices 80 and 80A to select and read the images captured or stored by the electronic cameras 10 and 10A, and reads out the desired server 120 or other communication (not shown) via the public line network. Transmit to the device. The server 120 may perform a print service in which an image is printed on a sheet based on the transmitted image information and delivered to a user.
[0055]
In addition, the communication device 80 receives image data from the electronic camera 10 by simultaneously starting a communication network such as a public line and short-range communication for communicating with a communication device existing in the vicinity of the communication device 80. It is also possible to transmit the image data being received to the server 120 or the like.
[0056]
FIG. 8 shows a recording directory structure of image files in the recording medium 54 of the electronic camera 10.
[0057]
According to the figure, the directory structure related to the captured image file includes a root “Root”, each of the directory groups 140 of “001 Vacation” and “002 Birthday” indicating that the image is captured while the user is on vacation, and “ Dscf0001.jpg ”,“ Dscf0002.jpg ”... The above directory name is generally represented by “nnnXXX... X”, where nnn is assigned a number representing a directory number from 001 to 999, and XXX... X is given an arbitrary alphabetic name. The file name is generally expressed as “Dscfmmmm.jpg”, where Dscf is an identifier indicating an image file captured by the electronic camera, mmmm is a file number from 0001 to 9999, and jpg is a JPEG format. It is an identifier indicating that the image data is recorded by the compression method.
[0058]
Using the directory number and the file number, the path of the image file can be expressed by a 7-digit number of nnn-mmmm. (Refer to the display “001-0001” of the display means 16 shown in FIG. 1)
FIG. 9 shows the internal structure of the image file.
[0059]
As shown in the figure, the image file is composed of a tag 144 describing image ancillary information such as an imaging condition, a thumbnail 146 that is heading image data, and a main image 148. The tag 144 includes an imaging date, whether or not the flash is used, an exposure mode state (set with aperture priority in FIG. 9), a set white balance (set with daylight in the example shown in FIG. 9), Attached information of image data such as title, focus information, imaging position information obtained when a GPS device or the like is connected is attached. When the value of each piece of information is unknown, “UNKNOWN” can be described.
[0060]
The thumbnail 146 stores the main image 148 (the number of pixels such as VGA and XGA) with image data obtained by reducing the number of pixels to about 160 × 120 for heading. In the main image 148, information about each designated number of pixels such as VGA and XGA and image data compressed at a predetermined compression rate is recorded. The thumbnail 146 is not limited to the format shown in the figure, and a plurality of pieces of image information with different numbers of pixels may be recorded.
[0061]
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a tree structure of a virtual directory path when a captured image file name and a virtual file name to be captured from now on are classified for each imaging condition.
[0062]
When the electronic camera receives from the communication device 80 a command for inquiring about the directory structure of the image file regarding the transfer of the image, the information processing means 44 uses the virtual directories (including virtual folders) classified as shown in FIG. Information on the directory including the image file name is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0063]
According to the figure, directories “001 Vacation” and “002 Birthday” in which the names of captured image files are stored are provided below the directory “Root”. The following file names and directory names are registered as virtual file names for acquiring captured image data and virtual directory names in which virtual file names are registered.
[0064]
“Shoot.jpg” is a basic function file name for imaging. When the virtual file name is selected by the user, the communication device 80 transmits a file transmission request for acquiring the file to the electronic camera 10. When the electronic camera 10 receives the transmission request, the electronic camera 10 sets all the imaging parameters such as the exposure mode and the flash to the automatic mode and executes imaging. The image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80. At this time, the captured image data may be transmitted to the communication device 80 and recorded on the recording medium 54 in the electronic camera 10. In addition, when imaging again under the same conditions as the previous imaging conditions, the image file obtained by imaging the previous time may be discarded and an image obtained by newly imaging may be overwritten, or obtained by imaging the previous time. You may change the file name of the saved image file and save it. Note that the setting mode, imaging conditions, and the like at the time of imaging are described in the image file tag 144.
[0065]
“LastShot.jpg” is also a basic function file name. When the file name is selected by the user, the electronic camera 10 transmits the image data previously captured and recorded on the recording medium 54 to the communication device 80. The image data obtained by the previous imaging may be image data manually captured by operating the release button 20 of the electronic camera 10 or image data instructed to be imaged through communication. Good.
[0066]
The directory “StrobeAuto” indicates that a mode for capturing an image with automatic flash light emission control is selected. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is performed with the flash emission set to the automatic mode, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0067]
Thus, by providing a hierarchy in the function directory, a plurality of imaging parameters can be classified and set.
[0068]
The directory “StrobeOn” indicates a mode in which flash is forcibly emitted to capture an image. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is performed with the flash emission set to the forced emission mode, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0069]
The directory “StrobeOff” indicates that a mode for imaging without flash is selected to capture a night scene or the like. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is performed without performing flash emission, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0070]
The directory “AutoExposure” indicates that a mode in which exposure control such as aperture and shutter speed is automatically captured in accordance with a predetermined program is selected. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is performed by automatic exposure control, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0071]
The directory “Shutter Priority” indicates that the shutter speed is prioritized and exposure control is automatically performed to select a shooting mode. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is executed by automatic exposure control with shutter speed priority, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0072]
The directory “Aperture Priority” indicates that exposure control is automatically performed with priority given to the aperture, and a mode for imaging is selected. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is executed by aperture-priority automatic exposure control, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0073]
The virtual file name “AutoExposure.jpg” registered in the hierarchy below the directory “StrobeAuto” indicates that a mode for automatically taking an image of exposure control such as aperture and shutter speed according to a predetermined program is selected. Yes. When a virtual file name stored in this virtual directory is selected, imaging is performed by automatic exposure control, and image data obtained by imaging is transmitted to the communication device 80.
[0074]
Similarly, in the virtual file name “ShutterPriority.jpg” registered in the hierarchy below the virtual directory “StrobeAuto”, it indicates that the shutter speed is prioritized and exposure control is automatically performed to select a mode for imaging. The virtual file name “AperturePriority.jpg” indicates that exposure control is automatically performed with priority given to the aperture, and a mode for imaging is selected.
[0075]
The virtual file name “AutoExposure.jpg” is registered in the hierarchy below the virtual directory “StrobeOn” shown in FIG. 10, but the virtual file names of “ShutterPriority.jpg” and “AperturePriority.jpg” are registered. Absent. In this way, when a forced flash emission is instructed, an imaging mode that is generally unnecessary may not be registered.
[0076]
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing, in a tree structure, paths of virtual directory names and virtual file names classified into parameters indicating imaging conditions and parameters indicating image properties.
[0077]
As shown in the figure, a virtual directory “Shoot” is registered, and virtual directories such as “QVGA”, “VGA”, and “SVGA” are further included in the directory for each parameter indicating the property relating to the number of pixels of the image. Register. In the virtual directory regarding the number of pixels, virtual files “Economy.jpg”, “Normal.jpg”, “Fine.jpg”, and the like indicating the compression conditions of the image are further registered. In addition, the above-described virtual directory group and virtual file group may be registered in the virtual directory “StrobeAuto”.
[0078]
The user can easily obtain a desired captured image by selecting a desired imaging condition and a file name indicating the nature of the image from these virtual file groups.
[0079]
The virtual directory “QVGA” is a virtual directory that stores a series of 1/4 VGA size virtual image files. The virtual directory “VGA” is a virtual directory that stores a series of VGA size image files, and the virtual directory “SVGA”. Indicates a virtual directory for storing a series of image files of SVGA size. The number of pixels is not limited to the above “QVGA”, “VGA”, and “SVGA”, but may be other numbers of pixels such as “QQVGA” and “XGA”. Further, the classification of the image compression rate is not limited to the above example.
[0080]
Table 1 below shows a correspondence example between the function directory name and the virtual file name, the imaging condition set by the imaging apparatus, and the conversion function of the captured image data.
[0081]
[Table 1]

FIG. 12 shows a description example of directory information transmitted from the imaging apparatus to the image information receiving apparatus.
[0082]
As shown in the figure, the directory information includes "\" indicating that the current directory (current folder) is the root directory, and the directory name and file name registered in the current directory. A folder list is described.
[0083]
In addition, a line in which the classification flag “/ D” is described indicates that the directory name is displayed, and a line in which the classification flag “/ F” is described indicates the name of the file. It shows that. The classification flag “/ S” indicates file size information. Since “LastShot.jpg” is the name of the image file that has been captured, it indicates the actual file size “/ S = 195 KB”. However, “Shot.jpg” is a virtual file name that has not yet been captured. Therefore, the displayed “/ S = 200 KB” is the expected file size calculated by the information processing means based on the imaging conditions and the parameters indicating the image properties. In addition, “read only” attribute indicating that the file name is designated as read-only, or “non-display” attribute information indicating that the file name is not displayed to the user may be added. .
[0084]
The image information receiving device may calculate a communication time necessary for acquiring the file based on the predicted file size information and display the predicted communication time. Also, if the size of the image file to be acquired is too large and exceeds the reception capability of the image information receiving device, or if communication is expected to take longer than the predetermined time, a warning is given, May be canceled.
[0085]
When the image information receiving apparatus receives the directory information shown in FIG. 12 and notifies the user thereof, for example, the display shown in the display means 88 in FIG. 5 is performed. When “D: 001 Vacation” is selected in the state displayed on the display means 88 of FIG. 5, the display of the display means 88 transitions to the folder browsing display shown in FIG.
[0086]
The display shown in FIG. 13 displays a list of captured image file names 129, 129... Registered in the directory “001 Vacation”.
[0087]
When a desired image file name is selected in the figure, an image with the selected file name is transmitted from the imaging apparatus, and the image information receiving apparatus can acquire the desired image. In addition, the display section “D:...” Shown in the figure is selected when instructing to shift to the parent directory (or folder) display of the upper hierarchy. The directory information may be displayed as a file name as shown in FIG. 5 or FIG. 13 or a tree structure as shown in FIG. 10 or FIG.
[0088]
FIG. 14 shows a communication processing procedure performed by the imaging apparatus and the image information receiving apparatus.
[0089]
The communication method shown in the figure is a pull model that allows a user to easily acquire an image recorded in the electronic camera 10 by operating a communication device 80 (for example, a mobile phone having a high frequency of carrying). is there.
[0090]
As shown in FIG. 14, in step S100 “set to communication mode” (hereinafter abbreviated as S100), the operation mode of the electronic camera 10 is set to the communication mode, and the operation mode of the communication device 80 is set to S102. Set to “Image acquisition menu” in “Set image acquisition menu”. Then, the communication device 80 transmits a command to the electronic camera 10 in S104 “connection request” to start communication. The electronic camera 10 receives the “connection request” command, and transmits a response to execute communication connection to the communication device 80 in S106 “connection complete”. If the electronic camera 10 is in the power saving mode, when receiving the “connection request”, the electronic camera 10 automatically cancels the power saving mode and performs subsequent communication processing.
[0091]
When the communication connection is completed, the communication device 80 transmits a folder list information acquisition command to the electronic camera 10 in S108 “Folder list request”.
[0092]
When the electronic camera 10 receives the “folder list request” command, it performs transmission processing of information relating to the directory (folder) in S110 “folder list information”. Here, the information processing means 44 transmits information on file names and directory names classified for each parameter indicating the imaging conditions and image properties stored in the storage means. When a folder list request is received for the first time, the current directory may be set as the root directory of the recording medium 54 or may be set in advance as a directory with a high utilization rate.
[0093]
In S112 “display folder list”, the communication device 80 displays (browses) the folder list information based on the received folder list information. The folder list information to be displayed may be a folder list display by characters or a tree display as shown in FIG. 10 or FIG.
[0094]
Next, the user performs (browsing) from the displayed folder list display, and the user checks in S114 “Is there a target file in the current directory?” Whether the target file of the image to be acquired exists. Make a decision.
[0095]
If the target file to be acquired does not exist, the pointers 130 and 130 shown in FIG. 5 are selected, or another directory is selected to select a desired imaging condition image (S116 “Destination Folder”). Choice"). Then, the processing program of the communication device 80 transmits a current folder change request to the electronic camera 10 in S118 “current folder change (SetPath) request”. The electronic camera 10 changes the current folder (current directory) based on the folder change request. When the change of the current folder is completed, the electronic camera 10 notifies the communication device 80 that the change of the current folder is completed in S120 “Completion of change of current folder”.
[0096]
When the communication device 80 receives the notification of the completion of the current folder change, the execution program of the communication device 80 branches before S108 and transmits a desired folder list request to the electronic camera 10 again. Then, the next folder list is displayed.
[0097]
If the target file to be acquired exists, the process branches to S122 “Select target file”. Then, the file name of the desired imaging condition is selected and set using a cross key or setting button provided in the specifying means 90. Then, the electronic camera 10 is requested to transmit an image of the file name selected and designated in S124 “Request file transmission (GET)”.
[0098]
In the electronic camera 10, it is determined whether or not the requested file is a functional file in S <b> 126 “Is the requested file a functional file?”. If the requested file is a function file, the process proceeds to S128 “Imaging parameter set according to the function folder of the requested file and the contents of the function file”, and imaging parameters are set based on the specified folder name and file name. Set and set the imaging conditions.
[0099]
In S <b> 130 “Imaging execution”, an imaging process is performed under the imaging conditions set according to the set imaging conditions. When the imaging is completed, the image data is converted into the instructed image properties as necessary, and the image data is transmitted to the communication device 80 in S132 “file data transmission”.
[0100]
In S126, when the requested file is not a function file (when the requested file is a captured file or the like), the next S134 “Read target file from recording medium” is set to the recording medium 54. The recorded image data is read, and the image data is converted into the instructed image properties as necessary, and the image file is transmitted to the communication device 80 in S132 “file data transmission”.
[0101]
When the image information receiving apparatus receives the image file, the received data is stored in the memory or transferred to another device via the public line in S134 “Store received data in memory or send to public line”. Perform the process.
[0102]
In S136 “There are other files to be acquired?”, The user is inquired whether or not to acquire another file. If there is a request to acquire another file, the process branches to S112. If no other file is acquired, the communication device 80 transmits a disconnection request command for ending communication to the electronic camera 10 in S138 “disconnect request”. In S140 “End”, the process of acquiring an image is ended.
[0103]
When the electronic camera 10 receives the disconnection request command, the image transmission process ends in S142 “End”.
[0104]
As described above, the folder list information (directory information) classified according to the imaging conditions is transmitted to the communication device 80 and displayed on the display unit 88 of the communication device 80, so that the user can quickly respond to the application. It is possible to acquire a captured image by selecting a desired type of imaging condition. Further, since it is not necessary for the communication device 80 to have in advance setting information relating to various imaging conditions of the imaging device and parameters indicating the properties of the image, there is an advantage that the burden of the processing program on the communication device 80 can be reduced. .
[0105]
In addition, since the imaging apparatus transmits directory (folder) information classified for each parameter indicating imaging conditions and image properties to the communication device 80 to select and specify a desired image, the communication device 80 side is usually widely used. It is possible to select and specify a plurality of types of images simply by providing a file browsing program that is used. Also, the processing program on the communication device 80 side only needs to use a frequently used tool that is frequently used by the user, so that it is possible to obtain a comfortable operability with less burden.
[0106]
Alternatively, the electronic camera may be set to the power saving mode, and when the “connection request” command is received from the communication device 80, the power saving mode is canceled and communication and information processing are started. Good. With this configuration, it is possible to automatically activate the communication mode only when the imaging apparatus is required from the standby mode, and it is possible to extend the battery life by suppressing power consumption.
[0107]
In the above-described embodiment, the imaging apparatus according to the present invention is described as an example of an electronic camera including an imaging unit. However, the present invention is not limited to an electronic camera, and may be a scanner including an imaging unit. Good.
[0108]
In the above embodiment, the communication device 80 has been described as an example of wireless communication with other communication devices via a public line using wireless communication means. However, the present invention is not limited to wireless communication. Instead, it may be a communication means using a wire or a communication means for communicating with a wire communication network.
[0109]
In the above embodiment, the case where the image file converted by the information processing unit 44 is an image file in which the compression rate of the image data is changed with respect to the original image file or an image file in which the number of pixels is changed has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an image file whose tone such as gradation and saturation is changed, an image file whose white balance is changed, an image file whose sharpness is changed, a luminance signal and a color difference signal YCC420, YCC422, and other image files that have undergone sampling conversion, RGB conversion images that have been converted to the three primary colors of red, green, and blue, black and white conversion image files, and sepia color conversion image files Alternatively, a file having a different image recording form may be newly registered.
[0110]
When the display unit 88 of the communication device 80 is a display unit capable of performing color display, a color image virtual file is automatically specified, and the display unit 88 has only a monochrome display function. If it is a means, a virtual file of a monochrome image may be automatically specified to reduce the burden on the user's operation.
[0111]
In addition, the communication device (image information receiving device or the like) described above may be a portable communication terminal or a simple communication device represented by a remote controller.
[0112]
In the above description, the example in which the communication device acquires an image from the imaging device has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the directory in which the communication device (information receiving device) is presented from the electronic device. A file name indicating a desired function is selected on the basis of the information, and an operation corresponding to the function file name is requested to the electronic device, and the electronic device executes a function assigned to the function file name by the request. The response may be transmitted to the information receiving device. This response may be a command-type response or a file containing a description indicating the result of the operation of the electronic device.
[0113]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the image acquisition method according to the present invention, the imaging device has a function of capturing an image when a file request is made, and transmitting an image file obtained at the time of the imaging, and at least exhibits the function. Information on the directory in which the function file name is registered is transmitted to the image information receiving device, and the image information receiving device selects the desired function file name based on the transmitted directory information. An image file corresponding to a file name is requested to the imaging device, the imaging device executes a function assigned to the function file name by the file request, and the image information receiving device is assigned to the function file name. Since the image file transmitted by executing the function is received, the image information receiving device can easily receive the image file. It is possible to perform remote control.
[0114]
In addition, according to the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, a communication unit capable of transmitting / receiving information to / from an image information receiving apparatus that receives an image file, and a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging are registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission of directory information to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means, and a function file when a request for transmitting a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving apparatus Imaging means that performs imaging assigned to a name, and the information processing means transmits the image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving device via the communication means. Remote control of the imaging device can be easily performed from the receiving device.
[0115]
Further, according to the imaging information transmission system according to the present invention, a communication unit capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from an image information receiving apparatus that receives an image file, and a function file name indicating at least a function of performing imaging are registered. Information processing means for instructing transmission of information on a directory to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means, and when a transmission request for a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving apparatus An imaging unit that performs imaging assigned to a function file name, and the information processing unit transmits an image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving device via the communication unit; First communication means capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the imaging apparatus; display means for displaying directory information presented from the imaging apparatus; and the table Since the image information receiving apparatus includes a selection unit that selects and designates a desired function file name indicating a desired function based on the directory information, the image pickup apparatus can be easily remoted from the image information receiving apparatus. It is possible to control and acquire an image, and transmit the acquired image to another communication device.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an imaging apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing display of various modes provided on the mode switching dial.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a signal processing system of an electronic camera.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing display contents displayed when the electronic camera is set to a setup mode.
FIG. 5 is an external view of a communication device.
FIG. 6 is a communication processing system block diagram of a communication device.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a connection configuration of various communication devices when transmitting and receiving information using the imaging information transmission system.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a recording directory structure of an image file in an electronic camera
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the internal structure of an image file
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a tree structure of a virtual directory path when a captured image file name and a virtual file name to be captured in the future are classified for each imaging condition;
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a tree structure of paths of virtual directory names and virtual file names classified into parameters indicating imaging conditions and parameters indicating image properties;
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a description example of directory information transmitted from the imaging apparatus to the image information receiving apparatus;
FIG. 13 is a list display diagram of captured image file names registered in the directory “001 Vacation”.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a communication processing procedure performed by the imaging apparatus and the image information receiving apparatus.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electronic camera, 12 ... Imaging lens, 16 ... Display means, 22 ... Mode switching dial, 32 ... Communication mode, 42 ... Imaging means, 43 ... Light emission means, 44 ... Information processing means, 46 ... Image processing means, 48 ... Frame memory 50 ... input means 52 ... compression decompression means 54 ... recording medium 56 ... recording medium interface 58 ... memory 60 ... transmission / reception means 62 ... antenna 64 ... communication connector 80 ... communication equipment 82 ... Antenna, 84 ... Wireless communication means, 88 ... Display means, 90 ... Designation means, 96 ... Communication connector, 98 ... Wireless communication means, 100 ... Transmission / reception means, 102 ... Transmission / reception means, 104 ... Transmission / reception buffer, 106 ... CPU, 108 ... PROM, 110 ... RAM, 120 ... server, 126 ... execution mode display, 128 ... image directory file name, 129 ... file Yl name, 130 ... pointer, 140 ... directory group 142 ... file group, 146 ... thumbnail, 148 ... main image

Claims (51)

Imaging device may transmit the information of the directory function file name indicating the function of performing at least imaging are registered in the images information reception apparatus,
The image information receiving device requests an image file corresponding to the function file name to the imaging device by selecting a desired function file name based on the transmitted directory information,
The imaging device executes a function assigned to the function file name by the file request,
The image information receiving apparatus receives an image file transmitted by executing a function assigned to the function file name. The function file name, image acquiring method according to claim 1, characterized in that it is sorted by at least one parameter among the parameters indicating the nature of the parameters and the image showing the imaging condition. The parameter indicating the imaging condition is at least one of an exposure condition, a flash emission condition, a white balance condition, a focus condition, and a zoom condition,
The image acquisition method according to claim 2, wherein the parameter indicating the property of the image is at least one of the number of pixels, the compression rate, the sampling method, and the color information.   4. The image acquisition according to claim 2, wherein the imaging apparatus transmits the image file to be transmitted by executing the function assigned to the function file name, with the parameter classified for each function attached thereto. Method.   5. The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus records an image obtained by executing a function assigned to the function file name on a recording medium.   6. The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the directory information is a path name or a folder to which the function file name belongs.   The image acquisition method according to claim 2, wherein the directory information is registered with a name representing an imaging condition or an image property.   8. The image acquisition method according to claim 2, wherein the directory has a hierarchical structure and is classified for each of a plurality of imaging conditions and parameters indicating image properties.   The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the directory information includes a file name of a captured image.   10. The directory information includes a file name as well as an expected file size after imaging based on an imaging condition and a parameter indicating the nature of the image. Image acquisition method.   The image information receiving apparatus displays at least one of a file name, a directory name, a file path name, and a file size based on directory information presented from the imaging apparatus. The image acquisition method according to any one of 1 to 10.   The image information receiving device calculates an expected communication time required to acquire the file based on the file size, and acquires the image when the calculated expected communication time is greater than a predetermined communication time threshold. The image acquisition method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the image acquisition method is not performed.   The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the image information receiving apparatus displays the directory information as a tree based on the directory information presented from the imaging apparatus.   The image information receiving apparatus transmits / receives information to / from another communication apparatus by performing transmission / reception of information with a communication apparatus other than the imaging apparatus via a public line or a communication network. The image acquisition method according to claim 1.   When performing transmission / reception of the information, connecting each other's devices performing transmission / reception of the information with a cable, converting the information into an electric signal or an optical signal and performing transmission / reception of information by wired communication, or The image acquisition method according to claim 1, further comprising a step of converting information into a radio wave signal or an optical signal and transmitting and receiving information by wireless communication. 2. The image information receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image information receiving apparatus is capable of transmitting / receiving information and a voice signal to / from a communication device other than the imaging apparatus via a public line or a communication network. The image acquisition method according to any one of items 15 to 15.   The imaging apparatus sets a power saving mode in which the power consumption of the apparatus is reduced, and cancels the power saving mode when receiving information from the image information receiving apparatus during the power saving mode setting. The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the image acquisition method is an image acquisition method. The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup apparatus has a function of taking an image when a file request is made and transmitting an image file obtained at the time of the image pickup. A communication means capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from an image information receiving device that receives an image file;
Information processing means for instructing to transmit at least information on a directory in which a function file name indicating a function for performing imaging is registered to the image information receiving device via the communication means;
Imaging means for performing imaging assigned to the function file name when a transmission request for a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving device,
The image processing apparatus, wherein the information processing unit causes the image information receiving apparatus to transmit the image file obtained by the image capturing via the communication unit. The information processing means uses the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means for directory information obtained by classifying the function file name into at least one of a parameter indicating an imaging condition and a parameter indicating an image property. The imaging apparatus according to claim 19 , wherein an instruction to transmit to is issued. A converted image generating means for generating a converted image in which a parameter indicating a property of the image is changed as necessary with respect to the image obtained by the imaging;
21. The imaging apparatus according to claim 20 , wherein the information processing means transmits the generated converted image to the image information receiving apparatus. The parameter indicating the imaging condition is at least one of an exposure condition, a flash emission condition, a white balance condition, a focus condition, and a zoom condition,
Parameter that indicates the nature of the image, the number of pixels, compression rate, sampling method and an imaging apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that at least is one of the color information. Said information processing means causes the image file to be transmitted by the execution of the assigned to the function filename function claims, characterized in that to transmit by comes the parameters for classifying each said function 20, 21 or 22 Imaging device. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 23 , wherein the information processing unit records an image obtained by executing a function assigned to the function file name on a recording medium. The information of the directory, the imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that the path name or the folder function file name belongs is registered. The information of the directory, the imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 25, characterized in that the name representing the nature of the imaging conditions or images are registered. The directory, the imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 26, characterized in that hierarchical structure classified by the parameters indicating the characteristics of a plurality of imaging conditions and image are registered. Information of the directory, the imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 27, characterized in that it comprises a file name of the captured-image-. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 19 to 28 , wherein the information processing unit also registers an expected file size after imaging based on an imaging condition and an image property parameter together with a file name. . The communication means is a communication means for connecting the devices that transmit and receive the information with a cable and converting the information into an electric signal or an optical signal to transmit and receive the information by wired communication. imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 29, characterized in that by converting the signal or light signal is a communication means for transmitting and receiving information in a wireless communication. The information processing unit sets a power saving mode in which the power consumption of the imaging apparatus is reduced, and cancels the power saving mode when information is received from the image information receiving apparatus during the power saving mode setting. imaging device according to any one of claims 19 to 30, characterized in that it comprises a power-saving setting means for. A communication means capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from an image information receiving device that receives an image file;
Information processing means for instructing to transmit at least information on a directory in which a function file name indicating a function for performing imaging is registered to the image information receiving device via the communication means;
Imaging means for performing imaging assigned to the function file name when a transmission request for a file corresponding to the function file name is made from the image information receiving device;
The information processing means transmits an image file obtained by imaging to the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means; and
First communication means capable of transmitting and receiving information to and from the imaging device;
Display means for displaying directory information presented from the imaging device;
Selection means for selecting and specifying a desired function file name indicating a desired function based on the displayed directory information;
An image information receiving device comprising:
An imaging information transmission system comprising: The information processing means uses the image information receiving apparatus via the communication means for directory information obtained by classifying the function file name into at least one of a parameter indicating an imaging condition and a parameter indicating an image property. 33. The imaging information transmission system according to claim 32 , wherein an instruction to transmit to is sent. A converted image generating means for generating a converted image in which a parameter indicating a property of the image is changed as necessary with respect to the image obtained by the imaging;
34. The imaging information transmission system according to claim 33 , wherein the information processing means causes the generated converted image to be transmitted to the image information receiving device. The parameter indicating the imaging condition is at least one of an exposure condition, a flash emission condition, a white balance condition, a focus condition, and a zoom condition,
35. The imaging information transmission system according to claim 33 or 34 , wherein the parameter indicating the property of the image is at least one of a number of pixels, a compression rate, a sampling method, and color information. Said information processing means causes the image file to be transmitted by the execution of the assigned to the function File Name Function, claim 33, characterized in that transmitting by comes the parameters for classifying each said function, 34 or 35 Imaging information transmission system. It said information processing means, the imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 36, characterized in that to record the image obtained by the execution of the assigned to the function file name Function in the recording medium. Imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 37, characterized in that the information of the directory, the path name feature file name belongs or folder is registered. The imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 38 , wherein the directory information includes a name indicating an imaging condition or an image property. Imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 39 in the directory, characterized in that the hierarchical structure classified by the parameters indicating the characteristics of a plurality of imaging conditions and the image is registered. Information of the directory, the imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 40, characterized in that it comprises a file name of the captured-image-. The imaging information according to any one of claims 32 to 41 , wherein the information processing means also registers an expected file size after imaging based on an imaging condition and a parameter indicating a property of the image together with a file name. Transmission system. 33. The display unit according to claim 32 , wherein the display unit displays at least one of a file name, a directory name, a file path name, and a file size based on directory information presented from the imaging apparatus. 42. The imaging information transmission system according to any one of 42 . The image information receiving device calculates an expected communication time required to acquire a file based on the file size, and acquires an image when the calculated expected communication time is greater than a predetermined communication time threshold. 44. The imaging information transmission system according to claim 42 or 43 , wherein: The display means, based on information directories presented by the image pickup apparatus, the imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 44, characterized in that the tree display information of the directory. The image information receiving device includes a second communication unit capable of transmitting and receiving information with a communication device other than the imaging device via a public line or a communication network,
The second communication means, the imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 45, characterized in that transmitting the desired image file in which the selected relative to the other communication devices. The communication means is a communication means for connecting the devices that transmit and receive the information with a cable and converting the information into an electric signal or an optical signal to transmit and receive the information by wired communication. 47. The imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 46 , wherein the imaging information transmission system is a communication unit that performs radio communication to transmit and receive information by converting into a signal or an optical signal. The second communication unit is capable of transmitting and receiving information and transmitting and receiving audio signals with a communication device other than the imaging device via a public line or a communication network. 46 or 47 imaging information transmission system. A power saving mode in which the power consumption of the apparatus is reduced is set, and when the communication means receives information from the image information receiving apparatus during the power saving mode setting, the power saving mode is canceled. imaging information transmission system according to any one of claims 32 to 48, characterized in that it comprises a power mode setting means. Electronic equipment, and transmits the information in the directory in which at least functions file name indicating the function of the electronic apparatus is registered in the information receiving apparatus,
Before Kijo paper receiving device by selecting the desired function file name on the basis of information of the transmitted directory requests an operation corresponding to the function the file name to the electronic device,
The electronic device executes the function assigned to the function file name by the request, and transmits a response corresponding to the execution of the function to the information receiving apparatus,
The remote control method, wherein the information receiving device receives the response. 51. The remote control method according to claim 50 , wherein the response transmitted by the electronic device is a file having a description indicating the result of the operation.

Images