JP4307333B2 - Imaging device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus that displays an image related to image data created by imaging an imaging target.

  An imaging device such as a digital still camera or a digital video camera includes an imaging unit that captures an imaging target captured in an imaging field of the imaging device and creates image data, and a display unit that displays an image related to the created image data. Prepare. In addition, the imaging apparatus includes a storage unit that stores the created image data. Furthermore, an image pickup apparatus that includes a display unit configured by a touch panel and focuses on the position touched by the user when the user touches a desired position of the displayed image is used.

Furthermore, conventionally, an imaging apparatus that appropriately adjusts the aperture has been devised to prevent the image from becoming unnecessarily bright or darkened when the object to be imaged contains a high-luminance object. (See Patent Document 1).
JP 2000-41177 A

  When the conventional imaging device captures the imaging target in the imaging field of view of the imaging device, the imaging target image is displayed on the display unit. For this reason, a part of the image to be imaged cannot be enlarged and displayed. In other words, a user of a conventional imaging device captures a part of the imaging target, for example, one of the athletes as an enlarged image while capturing an imaging target such as an athletic field as a moving image. I couldn't use it on the display.

  When a part of the image to be imaged is enlarged and displayed, the conventional image pickup apparatus takes an image of the image to be picked up, and displays a part of the image that has been picked up after the image has been picked up. It is necessary to stop the imaging and recapture the imaging target related to a part of the image to be captured, that is, a part of the imaging target as a new imaging target in the imaging field of the imaging apparatus. For this reason, when a conventional image pickup apparatus enlarges and displays a part of an image to be picked up, the image pickup target cannot be continuously captured in the image pickup field of view of the image pickup apparatus. As a result, image data corresponding to the image pickup target is stored. I couldn't keep me in the department.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and when a user selects a part of an image displayed on the display unit, an enlarged image obtained by enlarging a predetermined image range including the selected part. The enlarged image data is created using image data created by imaging the imaging target, and the enlarged image related to the created enlarged image data is displayed on the display unit, thereby capturing the imaging target in the imaging field of view. An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of enlarging and displaying a part of an image to be imaged on a display unit.

  Another object of the present invention is to create image data in which the imaging unit is focused on an imaging target related to a selected part when the user selects a part of the image displayed on the display unit. By providing a configuration, an imaging apparatus capable of focusing on a part of the imaging target selected by the user, capturing the imaging target in the imaging field of view, and enlarging and displaying a part of the image of the imaging target on the display unit is provided. There is.

  Another object of the present invention is to create image data in which the aperture of the imaging unit is adjusted for an imaging target related to the selected part when the user selects a part of the image displayed on the display unit. With this configuration, the diaphragm is adjusted according to the brightness of a part of the imaging target selected by the user, the imaging target is captured in the imaging field of view, and a part of the imaging target image is enlarged and displayed on the display unit. An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device capable of performing the above.

  Another object of the present invention is to create image data in which white balance is adjusted with respect to a selected part when the user selects a part of the image displayed on the display unit, An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of adjusting a white balance according to a color tone of a part of an imaging target selected by a user and enlarging and displaying a part of the imaging target image on a display unit.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a configuration in which image data created by imaging an imaging target is stored in a storage unit even when the user selects a part of an image displayed on the display unit. An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device capable of capturing an imaging target in an imaging visual field and storing image data corresponding to the imaging target in a storage unit even when a part of the target image is enlarged and displayed on a display unit.

  Another object of the present invention is to display an enlarged image on the display unit for the user by displaying the enlarged image when the enlarged image related to the enlarged image data is displayed on the display unit. It is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus capable of notifying whether an image of the image is displayed or whether a part of the image to be imaged is enlarged.

  Still another object of the present invention is to enlarge and display an image in a range desired by a user by accepting the number of pixels in the image range and creating enlarged image data in which the image range of the accepted number of pixels is enlarged. An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device that can perform the above-described operation.

An imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an imaging target and creates image data, and a display unit that displays an image related to the image data created by the imaging unit during imaging by the imaging unit. In the imaging apparatus, a selection receiving unit that receives a selection of a part of an image displayed on the display unit, and a specification that specifies an image range including the selected part when the selection receiving unit receives the selection And an enlarging unit that creates enlarged image data relating to an enlarged image obtained by enlarging the image range specified by the specifying unit to a size equal to or smaller than the display size of the display unit, and the display unit captures an image by the imaging unit during the Ri Citea such expansion means displays an enlarged image of the enlarged image data created, when the display means displays the enlarged image, the imaging means is created Storage means for storing the image data, focus matching means for focusing the imaging means on the imaging target relating to the selected part of the image displayed on the display means, and alignment by the focus matching means. A focus matching command receiving unit that receives a focus execution command; and when the focus matching command receiving unit receives an execution command, the focus matching unit adjusts when the selection receiving unit receives the selection. It said imaging means and said Citea Rukoto to create image data by imaging the imaging target in focus.

An imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes an aperture adjustment unit that adjusts an aperture of the imaging unit with respect to an imaging target related to a selected part of an image displayed on the display unit, and an adjustment performed by the aperture adjustment unit . An aperture adjustment command accepting unit that accepts an execution command, and when the aperture adjustment command accepting unit accepts an execution command, when the selection accepting unit accepts the selection, the aperture adjustment unit adjusts the aperture with the aperture adjusted. The image pickup means picks up the image pickup object and creates image data.

An imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes a white balance adjusting unit that adjusts a white balance for a selected part of an image displayed on the display unit , and a white that receives an instruction to execute an adjustment by the white balance adjusting unit. A balance adjustment command accepting unit, and when the white balance adjustment command accepting unit accepts an execution command, when the selection accepting unit accepts the selection, the white balance adjusted by the white balance adjusting unit adjusts the imaging. The means is characterized by creating image data.

  The imaging apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that when the display unit displays the enlarged image, the imaging device includes an informing unit that informs that the enlarged image is being displayed.

  In the imaging apparatus according to the present invention, the display size of the image has a number of pixels of M × N (M and N are M or a natural number of 2 or more), and the number of pixels m and n (m and n are m ≦ n). (A natural number of M and n <N or m <M and n ≦ N)), and when the pixel number receiving unit receives the pixel numbers m and n, the specifying unit An m × n image range is used.

In the present invention, the imaging unit images the imaging target and creates image data corresponding to the imaging target, and during imaging by the imaging unit, the display unit creates an image related to the image data created by the imaging unit. indicate. In addition, the selection receiving unit receives a selection of a part of the image displayed on the display unit, and when the selection is received, the specifying unit specifies an image range including the selected part. Further, the enlarging means creates enlarged image data related to the enlarged image obtained by enlarging the image range specified by the specifying means to a size equal to or smaller than the display size of the display means, using the image data created by the imaging means.

That is, the imaging apparatus of the present invention includes image data (hereinafter referred to as original image data) corresponding to the imaging target created by the imaging means and a part of an image related to the original image data (hereinafter referred to as original image). Enlarged image data related to an enlarged image with an enlarged image range is created. When the selection accepting unit accepts selection of a part of the original image, the display unit displays an enlarged image related to the enlarged image data created by the enlarging unit during imaging by the imaging unit .
Further, when the selection receiving unit receives a selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit, the storage unit stores the original image data created by the imaging unit when the display unit displays an enlarged image. To do. That is, the enlarged image data is not stored in the storage unit.

In the present invention, the focus matching command receiving unit receives a focusing execution command from the focus matching unit, and the selection receiving unit selects a part of the original image displayed on the display unit. when the accepted, the focus matching means, to focus the imaging means to the imaging target in accordance with a selected portion, the imaging means, by imaging the imaging object in focus to suit the in-focus means original image data Create
When the focus matching command receiving unit has not received a focus execution command from the focus matching unit, even when the selection receiving unit receives a selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit The focus matching unit does not focus the imaging unit on the selected imaging target. If the enlarged image is stored in the storage unit, the enlarged image data of the enlarged image that is not focused on the selected imaging target is stored in the storage unit.

In the present invention, the aperture adjustment command accepting unit accepts an execution command for adjusting the aperture by the aperture adjustment unit, and the selection accepting unit receives a part of the original image displayed on the display unit. when accepting the selection, throttle adjusting means adjusts the aperture of the imaging means with respect to the imaging target in accordance with a selected portion, the imaging means, the original by imaging the imaging target in iris aperture control means is adjusted Create image data.
If the aperture adjustment command accepting unit has not accepted the aperture adjustment execution command by the aperture adjustment unit, the selection accepting unit has received a selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit. However, the aperture adjustment unit does not adjust the aperture of the imaging unit with respect to the selected imaging target. If the storage unit stores the enlarged image, the storage unit stores the enlarged image data of the enlarged image in which the aperture is not adjusted for the selected imaging target. .

In the present invention, the white balance adjustment command receiving means receives a white balance adjustment execution command from the white balance adjusting means, and the selection receiving means receives the original image displayed on the display means. when accepting a part of the selection, the white balance adjusting means adjusts the white balance against a selected portion, the imaging means, creates an original image data with the white balance white balance adjustment means is adjusted.
When the white balance adjustment command accepting unit has not accepted an execution command for white balance adjustment by the white balance adjusting unit, when the selection accepting unit accepts selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit Even so, the white balance adjusting means does not adjust the white balance with respect to the imaging target related to the selected part. If the enlarged image is stored in the storage unit, the enlarged image data of the enlarged image in which the white balance is not adjusted for the selected imaging target is stored in the storage unit. End up.

  In the present invention, when the selection receiving unit receives a selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit, the notification unit is displaying the enlarged image when the display unit displays the enlarged image. Notify that.

  In the present invention, the original image has a display size of the number of pixels M × N. The pixel number accepting unit accepts the pixel numbers m and n. When the pixel number accepting unit accepts the pixel numbers m and n, the selection accepting unit accepts a selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit. Then, the specifying unit specifies an m × n image range including the selected part. Further, the enlarging means creates enlarged image data related to the enlarged image obtained by enlarging the image range specified by the specifying means to a size equal to or smaller than the display size of the display means, using the original image data created by the imaging means.

  According to the imaging apparatus of the present invention, when a part of the original image is not selected, original image data relating to the original image, that is, original image data corresponding to the image to be imaged is created, and the display means An original image that is an image can be displayed. On the other hand, when a part of the original image is selected, the original image data corresponding to the image to be imaged and the enlarged image data related to the enlarged image obtained by enlarging the part of the original image, that is, the image of the part to be imaged Corresponding enlarged image data is created, and the display means can display an enlarged image obtained by enlarging a part of the image to be imaged.

  As a result, when the imaging target is captured in the imaging field of view of the imaging apparatus, the imaging apparatus of the present invention displays the image of the imaging target on the display unit, and also selects the part of the imaging target image. The part can be enlarged and displayed. That is, for the user of the imaging apparatus, for example, while capturing an imaging target such as an athletic field as a moving image with the imaging apparatus, a part of the imaging target, for example, one of the athletes is displayed as an enlarged image on the display unit of the imaging apparatus. You can use it as you would confirm with Further, when displaying an enlarged image, there is no need to end or stop imaging of the imaging target. Therefore, the imaging apparatus can continue to capture the imaging target in the imaging field of view of the imaging apparatus even when a part of the image to be captured is enlarged and displayed on the display unit, that is, when the enlarged image is displayed on the display unit.

Such an imaging apparatus can display the original image on the display unit or display the enlarged image while continuing to capture the imaging target according to the user's request. For this reason, the imaging device can improve user convenience.
Further, when a part of the original image is selected, when the display means displays the enlarged image, the original image data can be stored instead of the enlarged image data. That is, the imaging apparatus can continue to capture the imaging target in the imaging field of view of the imaging apparatus even when displaying a part of the image to be captured on the display means, that is, when displaying the enlarged image on the display means. As a result, the image data corresponding to the imaging target can be continuously stored in the storage unit.
Furthermore, when the enlarged image data is necessary, the enlarged image data can be created by using the original image data stored in the storage unit after the completion of imaging, for example. For this reason, for example, the storage capacity of the storage means can be reduced as compared with the case where the original image data and the enlarged image data are stored simultaneously, and the data storage processing of the imaging device during imaging can be simplified. it can.

By the way , when a focusing execution command is received, when a part of the original image is selected, original image data focused on the imaging target related to the selected part is created. For this reason, it is possible to capture an original image in which a part of the imaging target desired by the user is focused. Also, the enlarged image data can be created using the original image data created at this time, and therefore the enlarged image focused can be displayed on the display means. As a result, the imaging apparatus can improve user convenience.

According to the imaging apparatus of the present invention, when an aperture adjustment execution command is received, when a part of the original image is selected , the original image in which the aperture is adjusted with respect to the imaging target related to the selected part Data is created. For this reason, it is possible to capture an original image whose aperture is adjusted according to the brightness of a part of the imaging target desired by the user. Also, the enlarged image data can be created using the original image data created at this time, and therefore, the enlarged image with the aperture adjusted can be displayed on the display means. As a result, the imaging apparatus can improve user convenience.

According to the imaging apparatus of the present invention, when a white balance adjustment execution command is received, when a part of the original image is selected, the original image data in which the white balance is adjusted with respect to the selected part is obtained. Created. For this reason, it is possible to capture an original image in which the white balance is adjusted according to a part of the color of the imaging target desired by the user. Also, the enlarged image data can be created using the original image data created at this time, and therefore, the enlarged image with the white balance adjusted can be displayed on the display means. As a result, the imaging apparatus can improve user convenience.

  According to the imaging apparatus of the present invention, when a part of the original image is selected, when the display unit displays the enlarged image, the display unit displays whether the original image is displayed on the display unit. Can be informed. For this reason, the user can easily grasp the type of image displayed on the display means, and the imaging apparatus can improve the convenience for the user.

  According to the imaging apparatus of the present invention, the pixel number receiving means receives the pixel numbers m and n. In this case, the configuration may be such that numerical values are received as the number of pixels m and n, and the number of pixels m and n related to the received option are received by presenting options related to the combination of the number of pixels m and n and receiving selection of the options. It may be configured. Also, a plurality of points or straight lines that should form a rectangle or one straight line that should be a diagonal line of the rectangle is received, and the number of pixels m and n of one side of the received rectangle and the other side continuous to the one side are obtained. May be configured to accept the number of pixels m and n.

  In this case, the display means can display an enlarged image obtained by enlarging the m × n image range in the original image. That is, the present invention has an excellent effect that the image range of the size desired by the user can be enlarged and displayed, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings illustrating embodiments thereof.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an imaging apparatus 1 according to the present invention. The imaging device 1 is a digital video camera that captures moving images, displays and records them, and includes a CPU 10, a ROM 11, a RAM 12, an operation unit 13, a display unit 14, an imaging unit 15, an image processing unit 16, and a recording unit 17. The CPU 10 is a control center of the image pickup apparatus 1 and is connected to each of the ROM 11, RAM 12, and the like via a bus or a signal line. The CPU 10 controls each unit according to the control program and data stored in the ROM 11 and executes various processes using the RAM 12 as a work area. In this case, the CPU 10 sends an operation instruction and data for operating each unit to each unit, and each unit operates according to the received operation instruction and data.

  The imaging device 1 includes a lens that transmits external light, and the imaging unit 15 moves the CCD and the lens by moving the CCD, a diaphragm mechanism (hereinafter referred to as an iris) for adjusting the amount of light incident on the CCD, and the lens. And an optical zoom mechanism (not shown) for optically focusing by changing the distance between the two. Light from the imaging target passes through the lens, passes through the iris, and enters the CCD. The CCD of the imaging unit 15 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the incident light to the image processing unit 16.

  The image processing unit 16 includes a signal processing unit 161 and an enlargement processing unit 162. The signal processing unit 161 receives an electrical signal output from the CCD of the imaging unit 15 and performs predetermined signal processing using a buffer memory (not shown) as a work area, thereby creating original image data of a moving image. Further, the signal processing unit 161 detects the luminance (brightness) and chromaticity (hue) of the pixel designated by the CPU 10 among the pixels constituting the original image using the original image data, and sends the detected pixel to the CPU 10. To do. The enlargement processing unit 162 uses a buffer memory (not shown) as a work area, and uses the original image data created by the signal processing unit 161 to obtain enlarged image data related to the enlarged image obtained by enlarging a part of the original image related to the original image data. Has a digital zoom function to create.

  The CPU 10 causes the signal processing unit 161 to create original image data and does not operate the enlargement processing unit 162. In this case, the CPU 10 inputs the original image data to the display unit 14 and inputs the original image data to the recording unit 17 when recording the image. Further, the CPU 10 causes the signal processing unit 161 to create original image data and the enlargement processing unit 162 to create enlarged image data. In this case, the CPU 10 causes the enlarged image data to be input to the display unit 14 and causes the recording unit 17 to input original image data when recording an image. The original image data and the enlarged image data may both be input to the recording unit 17 and recorded, or only the enlarged image data may be input to the recording unit 17 and recorded. You may comprise as follows.

  The display unit 14 includes a liquid crystal display panel. The operation unit 13 includes a touch panel 130 stacked on the liquid crystal display panel of the display unit 14 and a plurality of hard keys 131, 132,. The touch panel 130 detects that the user's finger is touched, that is, is operated by the user, and virtual coordinates of the operated position, and the operation unit 13 is a coordinate signal indicating the coordinates detected by the touch panel 130. Is sent to the CPU 10. Here, each coordinate of the touch panel 130 corresponds to each pixel of the image displayed on the display unit 14. The coordinate signal is a signal indicating the coordinates of a plurality of points included in the range in which the user's finger touches the touch panel 130. The coordinate signal may be a signal indicating the coordinates of one point included in the range in which the user's finger touches the touch panel 130.

  The CPU 10 provides various soft keys at predetermined coordinates on the touch panel 130 of the operation unit 13. The ROM 11 stores a coordinate signal indicating predetermined coordinates and an operation command for the CPU 10 in association with each other. The CPU 10 receives a command from the operation unit 13 when a soft key is operated, that is, when a soft key is provided. When a coordinate signal indicating a predetermined coordinate is received, an operation command corresponding to the received coordinate signal is read from the ROM 11 and operated according to the read operation command to control each unit.

  The hard keys 131, 132,... Of the operation unit 13 are an imaging key 131, a recording key 132, an OK key 133, a cancel key 134, and the like, and when each is operated, an imaging signal, a recording signal, an OK signal, and a cancel key. Different operation signals such as signals are sent to the CPU 10. The ROM 11 stores various operation signals sent from the operation unit 13 to the CPU 10 and operation commands for the CPU 10 in association with each other. When receiving an operation signal, the CPU 10 detects that the operation unit 13 has been operated, reads an operation command corresponding to the received operation signal from the ROM 11, operates according to the read operation command, and controls each unit. . The hard keys 131, 132,... May be provided on the touch panel 130 as soft keys.

  The display unit 14 includes an original image being captured by the imaging apparatus 1, an enlarged image obtained by enlarging a part of the original image being captured, an original image that has been captured, an operating state of the imaging apparatus 1, an operation instruction to the user, and the like. The user gives various operation commands to the imaging apparatus 1 by operating the operation unit 13 while visually recognizing the display unit 14. The given operation command is stored in the RAM 12 until at least the CPU 10 operates according to the provided operation command.

  The recording unit 17 accommodates a portable recording medium, and records the input original image data on the accommodating recording medium. Further, the recording unit 17 detects the free space of the stored recording medium and sends a signal corresponding to the detection result to the CPU 10. When the free capacity of the recording medium is equal to or less than the predetermined amount, the CPU 10 does not record the original image data in the recording unit 17 or ends the recording of the original image data performed by the recording unit 17. The case where the start / end of recording is controlled according to the user's operation command will be described. The recording unit 17 may be a built-in HDD.

  When the original image data output from the signal processing unit 161 or the original image data read from the recording unit 17 is input, the display unit 14 converts the input original image data into a buffer memory (not shown) as a work area. Such an original image is displayed. Further, when the enlarged image data output from the enlargement processing unit 162 is input, the display unit 14 displays an enlarged image related to the input enlarged image data.

  When the CPU 10 displays the original image on the display unit 14, the original image is displayed among the coordinate signals from the operation unit 13 in order to accept selection of a part of the original image displayed on the display unit 14. A coordinate signal indicating coordinates within a certain range is received. When the coordinate signal is received, the CPU 10 further receives a coordinate signal from the operation unit 13 in order to receive an image range to be enlarged. Note that the size m × n of the image range may be smaller than the size of the part 21 of the original image 2. In this case, for example, an m × n rectangle including the center point of the part 21 of the original image 2 is used as the image range.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 14. Here, a person walking on the road is present on the right hand on the near side as viewed from the imager (user of the image capturing apparatus 1), and a dog is present on the left hand on the near side, which is relatively separated from the person. The case where a field exists on the back side of the mountain and a mountain exists as a distant view on the back side is illustrated. In this case, the imaging target is a person, a dog, a field, and a mountain.

  FIG. 2A shows a case where the original image 2 obtained by imaging the imaging target is displayed on the entire display screen of the display unit 14 having the number of pixels M × N (M and N are natural numbers where M or N is 2 or more). Show. That is, the display size of the original image in this embodiment has the number of pixels of M × N. At this time, the original image data output from the signal processing unit 161 is input to the display unit 14.

  When the user wants to check the head of a person who is a part of the imaging target as an enlarged image on the display unit 14 while capturing the imaging target as a moving image, the position corresponding to the image of the person's head. A part 21 of the original image 2 displayed on the display unit 14 is selected by touching the screen, that is, the touch panel 130 of the operation unit 13 with a finger.

  After the part 21 of the original image 2 is selected, when the touch panel 130 of the operation unit 13 is not operated and the OK key 133 is operated, the original image 2 including the part 21 of the selected original image 2 is included. M × n (m and n are natural numbers such that m ≦ M and n <N or m <M and n ≦ N) smaller than the display size (in this embodiment, the size M × N of the entire display screen of the display unit 14). A rectangular image range 22 having the number of pixels is specified. FIG. 2 illustrates a case where the aspect ratio of the image range 22 is equal to the aspect ratio of the entire display screen of the display unit 14. In addition, when the OK key 133 is operated after the part 21 of the original image 2 is selected, for example, when a predetermined time elapses after the part 21 of the original image 2 is selected, the image The range 22 may be specified.

  Note that the size of the image range 22, that is, the number of pixels m and n of one side of the rectangular image range 22 and the other side orthogonal to the one side may be the number of pixels stored in the ROM 11 as a default. The number of images received by the user via the number of pixels stored in the RAM 12 may be accepted, but the size of m × n needs to be smaller than the display size M × N of the original image.

  FIG. 2B shows a case where an enlarged image 220 obtained by enlarging the image range 22 including the part 21 of the selected original image 2 is displayed on the entire display screen of the display unit 14. The enlarged image 220 includes an image 210 corresponding to a part 21 of the original image 2 selected during the display of the original image 2.

  When the enlarged image 220 is displayed on the display unit 14, the notification information 221 for notifying that the enlarged image is being displayed is simultaneously displayed on the display unit 14 so as to overlap the enlarged image 220. At this time, the enlarged image data output from the enlargement processing unit 162 is input to the display unit 14, and the enlarged image data includes the data of the notification information 221. Data of the notification information 221 is stored in the ROM 11.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating another example of the screen displayed on the display unit 14, and the imaging target is a person, a dog, a field, and a mountain as in the example illustrated in FIG. 2.

  FIG. 3A shows a case where the original image 3 obtained by imaging the imaging target is displayed on the entire display screen of the display unit 14. Hereinafter, the touch panel of the operation unit 13 is further selected after a part 31 of the original image 3 displayed on the display unit 14 is selected by the user touching the screen at a position corresponding to the image of the head of the person. A case where 130 is operated will be described.

  After selecting a part 31 of the original image 3, the user touches a part of the touch panel 130 of the operation unit 13 (a range corresponding to one of Δ marks shown in FIG. By moving a finger to a part (a range corresponding to the other of the Δ marks shown in FIG. 3A), a rectangular diagonal line including a part 31 of the selected original image 3 is drawn on the touch panel 130. In this case, it is preferable that a rectangular image having a drawn diagonal line is simultaneously displayed on the display unit 14 so as to overlap the original image 3. However, the size m × n of the rectangle including the part 31 of the selected original image 3 needs to be smaller than the display size of the original image 3 (the size M × N of the entire display screen of the display unit 14 in the present embodiment). is there.

  Instead of drawing a diagonal line of the rectangle, two to four sides of the rectangle may be drawn, or three or four points may be designated. Further, a rectangle that does not include the part 31 of the original image 3 or a rectangle that is smaller than the part 31 of the original image 3 may be used.

  The operation unit 13 continuously sends the coordinate signal of the operated portion to the CPU 10 while the diagonal line is drawn by the user, and the CPU 10 receives the first of the received coordinate signals. Of the selected original image 3 by using the coordinate signal of the position where the drawing of the diagonal line by the user is started and the coordinate signal received last, that is, the coordinate signal of the position where the drawing of the diagonal line is finished. An m × n image range 32 including a part 31 is specified. In FIG. 3, the aspect ratio of the image range 32 is different from the aspect ratio of the entire display screen of the display unit 14, and the case where the image range 32 is vertically elongated compared to the entire display screen of the display unit 14 is illustrated.

  FIG. 3B shows a case where an enlarged image 320 obtained by enlarging the image range 32 including the part 31 of the selected original image 3 is displayed on a part of the display unit 14. The enlarged image 320 includes an image 310 corresponding to a part 31 of the original image 3 selected during the display of the original image 3. In the enlarged image 320, the number of pixels in the vertical direction is equal to the number of pixels in the vertical direction on the entire display screen of the display unit 14, and the number of pixels in the horizontal direction is smaller than the number of pixels in the horizontal direction on the entire display screen of the display unit 14.

  Even when the enlarged image 320 is displayed on the display unit 14, notification information 321 for notifying that the enlarged image is being displayed is displayed on the display unit 14 simultaneously with the enlarged image 320.

  When the user gives the imaging apparatus 1 a rectangle that does not include part 31 of the original image 3 via the operation unit 13, the size is the same as the received rectangle size m × n, and one of the original images 3. A rectangle including the part 31 is used as the image range.

  When imaging using the imaging device 1, the user turns on the power of the imaging device 1, points the lens of the imaging device 1 toward the imaging target, and operates the imaging key 131 of the operation unit 13 to perform imaging. Start. When the imaging key 131 is operated, the operation unit 13 sends an imaging signal to the CPU 10.

  Further, when the user visually recognizes the original image displayed on the display unit 14 and determines whether to continue displaying the original image or to switch to a magnified image obtained by enlarging a part of the original image, the user switches to the magnified image. Operates the touch panel 130 of the operation unit 13. Furthermore, the user visually recognizes the enlarged image displayed on the display unit 14, determines whether to continue displaying the enlarged image, or cancel the display of the enlarged image and return to the original image display, and return to the original image. In this case, the cancel key 134 of the operation unit 13 is operated. When the cancel key 134 is operated, the operation unit 13 sends a cancel signal to the CPU 10.

  Further, the user visually recognizes the original image or the enlarged image displayed on the display unit 14, determines whether or not to record the original image captured by the imaging device 1, and when recording, records the recording key of the operation unit 13. 132 is operated. Furthermore, during the recording of the original image, the user determines whether or not to continue the recording of the original image. When the recording is finished, the user operates the recording key 132 of the operation unit 13 again.

  Further, the user ends the imaging by operating the imaging key 131 of the operation unit 13 again.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of imaging processing executed by the CPU 10.

  CPU10 determines whether the imaging signal from the operation part 13 was received (S11), and when not receiving (it is NO at S11), it waits until it receives. When the imaging signal from the operation unit 13 is received (YES in S11), the CPU 10 sends an imaging instruction to the imaging unit 15 (S12), thereby controlling the imaging unit 15 to start imaging, An electric signal corresponding to the incident light is output to the image processing unit 16. Further, the CPU 10 sends an original image data creation instruction to the signal processing unit 161 of the image processing unit 16 (S13), thereby controlling the signal processing unit 161 to create original image data.

  Next, the CPU 10 sends an output instruction of the original image data to the display unit 14 to the signal processing unit 161 (S14), and sends an original image display instruction to the display unit 14 (S15), thereby causing the signal processing unit 161 to output. Is controlled to output original image data to the display unit 14, and the display unit 14 is controlled to display the original image related to the original image data input to the display unit 14.

  Furthermore, the CPU 10 sets an enlarged image display flag FD indicating that an enlarged image is displayed on the display unit 14 and an original image recording flag FR indicating that the recording unit 17 is recording original image data. It is reset to 0 ″ (S16). When the flags FD and FR are set, that is, when the flags FD and FR = 1, the display unit 14 displays an enlarged image, and the recording unit 17 records original image data. When the flags FD and FR are not set, that is, when the flags FD and FR = 0, the display unit 14 does not display the enlarged image (the original image is displayed), and the recording unit 17 does not display the original image. No image data is recorded.

  The CPU 10 determines whether or not a recording signal from the operation unit 13 has been received (S17). When the recording signal is received (YES in S17), that is, when the user operates the recording key 132 of the operation unit 13, the CPU 10 performs the recording process. A subroutine to be executed (see FIG. 5) is called and executed (S18). After completion of the processing of S18 or when the recording signal from the operation unit 13 is not received (NO in S17), the CPU 10 determines whether or not the enlarged image display flag FD = 0 (S19), and FD = If 0 (YES in S19), it is determined whether a coordinate signal from the operation unit 13 has been received (S20). If FD = 1 (NO in S19), a cancel signal from the operation unit 13 is determined. Is determined (S21).

  When a coordinate signal is received from the operation unit 13 (YES in S20) or a cancel signal is received from the operation unit 13 (YES in S21), the CPU 10 performs a subroutine for performing display processing (see FIGS. 6 and 7). ) Is called and executed (S22). After completion of the process of S22, when the coordinate signal from the operation unit 13 is not received (NO at S20), or when the cancel signal from the operation unit 13 is not received (NO at S21), the CPU 10 It is determined whether or not the imaging signal from the unit 13 has been received again (S23). When the imaging signal is not received (NO in S23), the CPU 10 returns the process to S17 and continues the imaging until the imaging signal is received.

  When the imaging signal from the operation unit 13 is received again (YES in S23), the CPU 10 determines that the imaging is finished, sends an operation end instruction to each unit, temporarily terminates the imaging process, and returns the process to S11. Until the imaging signal is received, that is, until the imaging key 131 is operated by the user. When the imaging process is completed and the CPU 10 is on standby, the output of the electrical signal in the imaging unit 15 and the creation and output of the original image data in the signal processing unit 16 are not performed. For this reason, display of the original image or enlarged image on the display unit 14, creation and output of enlarged image data in the enlargement processing unit 162, recording of the original image data in the recording unit 17, and the like are not performed.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a recording processing procedure executed by the CPU 10. The CPU 10 determines whether or not the original image recording flag FR = 0 (S31). When FR = 0 (YES in S31), that is, when the original image is not recorded, the CPU 10 receiving the recording signal in S17 outputs the original image data to the recording unit 17 to the signal processing unit 161. By sending an instruction (S32) and sending an original image data recording instruction to the recording unit 17 (S33), the signal processing unit 161 is controlled to output the original image data to the recording unit 17, and the recording unit 17 is controlled. Then, the input original image data is recorded. Further, the CPU 10 sets “1” in the original image recording flag FR (S34), ends the recording process, and returns the process to the imaging process.

  When FR = 1 (NO in S31), that is, when the original image is recorded, the CPU 10 receiving the recording signal in S17 outputs the original image data to the recording unit 17 to the signal processing unit 161. By sending an end instruction (S35) and sending an original image data recording end instruction to the recording unit 17 (S36), the signal processing unit 161 is controlled to end the output of the original image data to the recording unit 17, The recording unit 17 is controlled to finish recording the original image data. Further, the CPU 10 resets the original image recording flag FR to “0” (S37), ends the recording process, and returns the process to the imaging process.

  6 and 7 are flowcharts showing a subroutine of a display processing procedure executed by the CPU 10.

  The CPU 10 determines whether or not the enlarged image display flag FD = 0 (S50). If FD = 0 (YES in S50), that is, if the original image is displayed on the display unit 14, CPU10 which received the coordinate signal from the operation part 13 in S20 determines whether the coordinate signal was further received (S61). That is, after the user selects a part of the original image, the CPU 10 draws a rectangular diagonal line related to the image range to be enlarged on the touch panel 130 and determines whether or not a series of coordinate signals related to the diagonal line drawing is received. .

  When a series of coordinate signals are further received (YES in S61), the CPU 10 calculates the number of pixels m and n based on the coordinates indicated by the coordinate signals received in S61 (S62). At this time, the CPU 10 uses the coordinate signals received at the beginning and end of the series of coordinate signals, and the representative of each one of the coordinates of the plurality of points indicated by the coordinate signals received at the beginning and end respectively. For example, the coordinates of the center point are calculated, and the size m × n of the rectangle drawn by the user is calculated based on the calculated coordinates.

  When a series of coordinate signals is not received (NO in S61), that is, after the user selects a part of the original image, for example, the OK key 133 is operated, and the operation unit 13 that has operated the OK key 133 is operated. When the CPU 10 accepts the OK signal, the CPU 10 reads out the default pixel numbers m and n stored in the ROM 11 or the pixel numbers m and n preset by the user stored in the RAM 12 (S63).

  Next, the CPU 10 specifies an image range to be enlarged and displayed (S64). When the coordinate signal is received in S61, the CPU 10 calculates the coordinates of the m × n rectangular image range based on the representative coordinates used to calculate the number of pixels m and n in S62. The original image data of the pixel group corresponding to the calculated coordinates is specified.

  However, when the coordinates indicated by the coordinate signal received in S20 are not included in the rectangular image range calculated here, the CPU 10 accepted in S20 based on the number of pixels m and n calculated in S62. An m × n rectangular image range including the coordinates indicated by the coordinate signal (for example, a rectangular image range in which the central point of the coordinate indicated by the coordinate signal received in S20 coincides with the central point of the m × n rectangular range). ) And the original image data of the pixel group corresponding to the calculated coordinates is specified.

  When the coordinate signal is not received in S61, the CPU 10 coordinates the m × n rectangular image range including the coordinates indicated by the coordinate signal received in S20 based on the number of pixels m and n read in S63. And the original image data of the pixel group corresponding to the calculated coordinates is specified.

  Next, the CPU 10 sends an output instruction to the enlargement processing unit 162 of the original image data corresponding to the image range to the signal processing unit 161 (S65), and sends an enlarged image data creation instruction to the enlargement processing unit 162. (S66), the signal processing unit 161 is controlled to output the original image data of the m × n pixel group corresponding to the image range specified in S64 to the enlargement processing unit 162, and the enlargement processing unit 162 is controlled to enlarge. Create image data. When creating enlarged image data, not only m × n original image data corresponding to an image range but also original image data in the vicinity of m × n original image data may be used in combination.

  Further, the CPU 10 reads out the notification information data from the ROM 11 (S67), and controls the enlargement processing unit 162 to include the read data in a predetermined position of the enlarged image data. Further, the CPU 10 sends an output end instruction to the display unit 14 for the original image data to the signal processing unit 161 (S68), and sends an output instruction to the display unit 14 for the enlarged image data to the enlargement processing unit 162 ( S69), an enlarged image and notification information display instruction is sent to the display unit 14 (S70). As described above, the CPU 10 controls the signal processing unit 161 to stop the output of the original image data to the display unit 14, and controls the enlargement processing unit 162 to display the enlarged image including the data of the notification information on the display unit 14. Data is output and the display unit 14 is controlled to display an enlarged image and notification information related to the inputted enlarged image data instead of the original image.

  After completing the process of S70, the CPU 10 sets “1” to the enlarged image display flag FD (S71), ends the display process, and returns the process to the imaging process.

  When FD = 1 (NO in S50), that is, when an enlarged image is displayed on the display unit 14, the CPU 10 that has received the cancel signal from the operation unit 13 corresponds to the image range to the signal processing unit 161. To send the original image data to the enlargement processing unit 162 (S81), send the enlarged image data creation end instruction to the enlargement processing unit 162 (S82), and send the original image data to the signal processing unit 161. Is sent to the display unit 14 (S83), and an original image display command is sent to the display unit 14 (S84).

  As described above, the CPU 10 controls the signal processing unit 161 to finish outputting the m × n original image data corresponding to the image range specified in S64 to the enlargement processing unit 162, and causes the enlargement processing unit 162 to Control to complete creation of enlarged image data and output to the display unit 14, control the signal processing unit 161 to output original image data to the display unit 14, and control the display unit 14 to control the enlarged image and notification Instead of the information, the original image related to the input original image data is displayed.

  After completing the process in S84, the CPU 10 resets the enlarged image display flag FD to “0” (S85), ends the display process, and returns the process to the imaging process.

  That is, after the completion of the imaging process S13, the output of the electrical signal in the imaging unit 15 and the creation of the original image data in the signal processing unit 161 are continued until YES is obtained in S23. If NO in S20 of the imaging process or YES in S21, the display of the original image on the display unit 14 is continued or executed. Further, if YES in S20 of the imaging process or NO in S21, creation of enlarged image data in the enlargement processing unit 162 and display of the enlarged image and notification information on the display unit 14 are executed or continued. Furthermore, after the process of S33 of the recording process is completed and until the process of S36 is completed, the original image data is recorded in the recording unit 17 regardless of whether the original image is displayed on the display unit 14 or the enlarged image is displayed. Is continued.

  Now, by default, the imaging apparatus 1 focuses on an imaging target related to, for example, the middle point of the original image displayed on the display unit 14, adjusts the aperture, and adjusts the white balance. In the case of the original image 2 shown in FIG. 2A, by default, the center field of the original image 2 is focused, and the aperture and white balance are adjusted.

  In the following, focusing is performed on an imaging target related to a selected part of the original image, that is, a part of the imaging target selected by the user, an aperture is adjusted, and white balance is applied to the selected part. The case of adjusting will be described. The user operates the operation unit 13 to focus on a part selected by the user to be imaged, an AE command to adjust the aperture for the part selected by the user to be imaged, and / or An AWB command for adjusting the white balance for a part of images selected by the user to be imaged is given to the imaging device 1 in advance.

  Since specific processing for adjusting the diaphragm for an imaging target related to a part of an image is described in detail in Patent Document 1, only the main points will be described here. When adjusting an aperture for an imaging target related to a part of an image, the imaging apparatus 1 causes the signal processing unit 161 to detect the brightness of image data corresponding to the part of the image, and detects the detected brightness (hereinafter, detection). (Referred to as luminance) and a predetermined reference luminance, and when the detected luminance matches the predetermined reference luminance, the current aperture is retained. On the other hand, when the detected luminance is larger than the predetermined reference luminance, the imaging apparatus 1 determines whether or not a parameter (hereinafter referred to as AGC) related to the aperture set in the signal processing unit 161 is larger than a predetermined minimum value. When AGC is larger than the minimum value, AGC is decreased by a predetermined value, and when AGC is the minimum value, the iris of the imaging unit 15 is closed.

  Further, when the detected luminance is smaller than the predetermined reference luminance, the imaging apparatus 1 determines whether or not the iris is fully opened. If the iris is fully opened, the AGC is increased by a predetermined value. If it is not fully open, open the iris. Each time the iris is opened / closed or the AGC is changed, the imaging apparatus 1 causes the signal processing unit 161 to newly detect the brightness of the image data corresponding to a part of the image, and the obtained detected brightness matches the predetermined reference brightness. Repeat the procedure to open / close the iris or change the AGC until

  When adjusting the white balance for a part of the image, the imaging apparatus 1 uses the chromaticity of the image data corresponding to the part of the image instead of the luminance, and adjusts in the same procedure as that for adjusting the aperture. To do.

  Further, when focusing on an imaging target related to a part of an image, the imaging apparatus 1 performs a procedure substantially the same as that for adjusting the aperture, but changes the position of the lens instead of opening and closing the iris. Different. Each time the lens position is changed or the focal parameter is changed, the imaging apparatus 1 newly acquires the luminance of the image data corresponding to a part of the image, and the lens position until the obtained luminance reaches a maximum value. Or repeat the procedure to change parameters. However, in order to obtain the maximum value of luminance, the luminance acquired last time is used as the reference luminance to be compared with the luminance acquired this time. When focusing, only one of the parameters relating to the lens position and focus may be changed (only one of optical zoom and digital zoom is performed).

  8 and 9 are flowcharts showing a subroutine of the image adjustment processing procedure executed by the CPU 10. The image adjustment process is executed by appropriately interrupting the imaging process or the display process when YES in S20 of the imaging process, that is, when selection of a part of the original image is accepted.

  The CPU 10 determines whether or not an AF command for focusing on a part selected by the user to be imaged is stored in the RAM 12 (S91), and determines that the AF command is stored (S91). YES), the pixel group corresponding to the coordinates received in S20 is specified, and a luminance detection instruction for causing the signal processing unit 161 to detect the luminance of the specified pixel group is sent to the signal processing unit 161 (S92). Receiving the luminance detection instruction, the signal processing unit 161 detects the luminance of the pixel group specified by the CPU 10 and sends the detected luminance (detected luminance) to the CPU 10.

  The CPU 10 determines whether or not the detected luminance is a maximum value by comparing the received detected luminance with the reference luminance related to the focus (S93). If the detected luminance is not the maximum value (NO in S93), the imaging is performed. Depending on the detected luminance, the unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 is driven to change the lens position by driving the optical zoom mechanism of the imaging unit 15 or to change a required parameter related to the focus set in the signal processing unit 161. A state change instruction is sent (S94). The imaging unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 that has received the state change instruction changes the lens position or parameter. Further, the CPU 10 changes the reference luminance related to the focus for determining whether or not the detected luminance is the maximum value in S93 according to the detected luminance detected in S92 (S95), and stores it in the RAM 12 to execute the processing in S92. Return to.

  When the detected luminance is the maximum value (YES in S93) or when it is determined that the AF command is not stored in the RAM 12 (NO in S91), the CPU 10 stops the aperture for a part selected by the user to be imaged. It is determined whether or not the AE command for adjusting the AE command is stored in the RAM 12 (S96). If it is determined that the AE command is stored (YES in S96), the pixel group corresponding to the coordinates received in S20 And a luminance detection instruction for causing the signal processing unit 161 to detect the luminance of the specified pixel group is sent to the signal processing unit 161 (S97). The signal processing unit 161 that has received the luminance detection instruction detects the luminance of the pixel group specified by the CPU 10 and sends the detected luminance to the CPU 10.

  Next, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the detected brightness matches the reference brightness by comparing the received detected brightness with the reference brightness related to the aperture (S98), and if the detected brightness and the reference brightness do not match (S98). (NO in S98), the imaging unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 is instructed to change the iris opening / closing of the imaging unit 15 or change the AGC set in the signal processing unit 161 according to the detected luminance. Send out (S99). The imaging unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 that has received the state change instruction changes the degree of opening / closing of the iris or the AGC. Further, the CPU 10 returns the process to S97.

  When the detected luminance matches the reference luminance (YES in S98), or when it is determined that the AE command is not stored in the RAM 12 (NO in S96), the CPU 10 applies the partial image selected by the user to be imaged. On the other hand, it is determined whether or not an AWB command for adjusting the white balance is stored in the RAM 12 (S101). If it is determined that the AWB command is stored (YES in S101), the coordinates received in S20 are set. A corresponding pixel group is specified, and a chromaticity detection instruction for causing the signal processing unit 161 to detect the chromaticity of the specified pixel group is sent to the signal processing unit 161 (S102). The signal processing unit 161 that has received the chromaticity detection instruction detects the chromaticity of the pixel group specified by the CPU 10 and sends the detected chromaticity (detected chromaticity) to the CPU 10.

  Next, the CPU 10 determines whether or not the detected chromaticity matches the reference chromaticity by comparing the received detected chromaticity with the reference chromaticity related to white balance (S103), and the detected chromaticity and the reference color are determined. When the degrees do not match (NO in S103), the imaging unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 is changed to open / close the iris of the imaging unit 15 or is set in the signal processing unit 161 according to the detected chromaticity. A state change instruction for changing a predetermined parameter relating to white balance is sent (S104). The imaging unit 15 or the signal processing unit 161 that has received the state change instruction changes the degree of opening / closing of the iris or the parameter. Further, the CPU 10 returns the process to S102.

  When the detected chromaticity matches the reference chromaticity (YES in S103), or when it is determined that the AWB command is not stored in the RAM 12 (NO in S101), the CPU 10 ends the image adjustment process.

  In this way, when the focus, aperture, and white balance are changed, the changed focus, aperture, and white balance always affect the original image data created by the signal processing unit 161 after the change. Therefore, the influence of the changed focus, aperture, and white balance extends to the original image data recorded in the recording unit 17 and the enlarged image data created by the enlargement processing unit 162, and further to the display unit 14. It extends to the displayed original image or enlarged image.

  The imaging unit 15 and the signal processing unit 161 in the imaging process, the recording process, the display process, and the image adjustment process as described above are controlled by the CPU 10 and function as an imaging unit that captures an imaging target and creates image data. The display unit 14 functions as a display unit that displays an image related to the image data created by the imaging unit. Further, the CPU 10 functions as selection accepting means for accepting selection of a part of the image displayed on the display means by accepting coordinate information from the operation unit 13 in S20.

  When the selection receiving unit receives selection of a part of the image displayed on the display unit, the CPU 10 functions as a specifying unit that specifies an image range including the selected part. Further, the enlargement processing unit 162 functions as an enlargement unit that is controlled by the CPU 10 and creates enlarged image data related to an enlarged image obtained by enlarging the image range specified by the specifying unit to a size equal to or smaller than the display size of the display unit. Further, the display means displays an enlarged image related to the enlarged image data created by the enlargement means. Note that the size of the enlarged image may be received. Further, when the size of the enlarged image is smaller than the display size of the display unit 14, an image obtained by combining the enlarged image and a part of the original image may be displayed on the display unit 14.

  Further, the CPU 10 inputs the image data output from the signal processing unit 161 to the recording unit 17 and records the image data on a recording medium, and does not input the image data output from the enlargement processing unit 162 to the recording unit 17. 17 does not record the image data output by the enlargement processing unit 162 on the recording medium. That is, the recording unit 17 functions as a storage unit that stores image data created by the imaging unit when the display unit 14 that is a display unit displays an original image and when the display unit displays an enlarged image. .

  Further, the display unit 14 functions as a notification unit that displays that the enlarged image is being displayed when the display unit displays the enlarged image by displaying the notification information together with the enlarged image. In addition, it is not the structure which displays alerting | reporting information on the display part 14, For example, by providing LED in the imaging device 1 and making LED light / extinguish / blink, it alert | reports to a user that an enlarged image is being displayed. It may be configured.

  Furthermore, the CPU 10 receives the coordinate signal from the operation unit 13 in S61, and calculates the number of pixels m and n based on the coordinates indicated by the received coordinate signal, thereby accepting the number of pixels m and n. Functions as a means. When the pixel number receiving means receives the pixel numbers m and n, the CPU 10 as the specifying means uses an m × n image range as the image range including the selected part.

  Note that the operation unit 13 may be provided with a numeric keypad, and the user may directly input numerical values of the number of pixels m and n from the numeric keypad. In addition, when a choice such as a half size of the original image and a quarter size of the original image is presented to the user and selected, the number of pixels m and n corresponding to the selected option is selected. It may be configured to determine that is input.

  Further, the CPU 10 functions as a focus matching unit that focuses the imaging unit on the imaging target related to the selected part when the selection receiving unit receives selection of a part of the image displayed on the display unit. The image pickup means picks up the image pickup object with the focal point set by the focus matching means and creates image data. Further, when the selection accepting unit accepts selection of a part of the image displayed on the display unit, the CPU 10 serves as an aperture adjustment unit that adjusts the aperture of the imaging unit with respect to the imaging target related to the selected part. The imaging means functions to create an image data by imaging an imaging target with the aperture adjusted by the aperture adjustment means.

  Furthermore, the CPU 10 functions as a white balance adjustment unit that adjusts the white balance for the selected part when the selection reception unit receives selection of a part of the image displayed on the display unit, and performs imaging. The means creates image data with the white balance adjusted by the white balance adjusting means.

  The imaging apparatus 1 as described above can display an original image on the display unit 14 when a part of the original image is not selected. When a part of the original image is selected, the imaging device 1 can display an enlarged image on the display unit 14. As a result, when it is desired to check a part of the image to be captured on the display unit 14 while the image capturing target 1 is being imaged, the user touches a part of the image corresponding to the part of the image capturing target. As a result, it is possible to display a large part of the image to be imaged on the display unit 14. In addition, the imaging apparatus 1 continues to capture the imaging target while displaying a part of the imaging target image in an enlarged manner, that is, while displaying the enlarged image, and stores the original image data in the storage unit 17. It can be memorized.

  The imaging apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment does not record enlarged image data, but can create enlarged image data using original image data recorded in the storage unit 17 after, for example, completion of imaging. For this reason, for example, the storage capacity of the storage unit can be reduced as compared with the case where the original image data and the enlarged image data are stored simultaneously, and the data storage processing of the imaging device 1 during imaging is simplified. Can do.

  In addition, when a part of the original image is selected, the imaging apparatus 1 can create original image data focused on the imaging target related to the selected part, and the selected one image It is possible to create original image data in which the aperture is adjusted for the imaging target according to the section, and it is also possible to create original image data in which white balance is adjusted for the selected part.

  Further, the imaging apparatus 1 can display an enlarged image on the display unit 14 and can also display notification information. Whether the original image is displayed on the display unit 14 or an enlarged image is displayed to the user. Can be notified. Furthermore, the imaging apparatus 1 can receive the size of the image range to be enlarged and display the enlarged image range of the size desired by the user.

  In the present embodiment, a digital video camera is exemplified as the imaging device 1, but a digital still camera may be used. In the present embodiment, both the original image and the enlarged image are moving images, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the enlarged image may be a still image. Furthermore, the structure which can select a part of enlarged image and can display the enlarged image which expanded the image range containing the selected part may be sufficient. Furthermore, when a magnified image is displayed by enlarging a part of the original image, it is magnified by digital zoom in this embodiment, but may be magnified by optical zoom.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows an example of the screen displayed on the display part of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the other example of the screen displayed on the display part of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the imaging process of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the recording processing procedure of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the display processing procedure of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the display processing procedure of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the image adjustment process sequence of the imaging device which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the subroutine of the image adjustment process sequence of the imaging device which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 Imaging device 10 CPU
11 ROM
12 RAM
13 Operation unit 130 Touch panel 14 Display unit (display means, notification means)
15 Imaging unit (imaging means)
16 Image processing unit 161 Signal processing unit (imaging means)
162 Enlargement processing unit (enlarging means)
17 Recording unit (storage means)

Claims (5)

An imaging apparatus comprising: an imaging unit that captures an imaging target and creates image data; and a display unit that displays an image related to the image data created by the imaging unit during imaging by the imaging unit.
Selection accepting means for accepting selection of a part of the image displayed on the display means;
When the selection receiving unit receives the selection, a specifying unit that specifies an image range including the selected part;
Enlarging means for creating enlarged image data relating to an enlarged image obtained by enlarging the image range specified by the specifying means to a size equal to or smaller than the display size of the display means,
The display means, in the imaging by the imaging means, Ri Citea to display an enlarged image of the enlarged image data to which the enlarging means is created,
Storage means for storing image data created by the imaging means when the display means displays the enlarged image;
A focus matching unit that focuses the imaging unit on an imaging target related to a selected part of the image displayed on the display unit;
A focus matching command receiving means for receiving a focus execution command by the focus matching means;
Further comprising
When the focus matching command accepting unit accepts an execution command and the selection accepting unit accepts the selection, the imaging unit captures the imaging target with the focus set by the focus matching unit, and image data is obtained. imaging device according to claim Citea Rukoto to create. An aperture adjustment unit that adjusts the aperture of the imaging unit with respect to an imaging target related to the selected part of the image displayed on the display unit ;
Aperture adjustment command receiving means for receiving an instruction to execute adjustment by the aperture adjustment means ,
When the aperture adjustment command accepting unit accepts an execution command, when the selection accepting unit accepts the selection, the imaging unit captures the imaging target with the aperture adjusted by the aperture adjustment unit , and obtains image data. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus is created. White balance adjustment means for adjusting white balance for a selected part of the image displayed on the display means ;
A white balance adjustment instruction receiving means for receiving an instruction to execute adjustment by the white balance adjustment means ,
When the white balance adjustment command accepting unit accepts an execution command, when the selection accepting unit accepts the selection, the imaging unit creates image data with the white balance adjusted by the white balance adjusting unit. the imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that are. When said display means displays said enlarged image, the imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises an informing means for informing that it is being displayed enlarged image. The display size of the image has the number of pixels of M × N (M and N are M or N is a natural number of 2 or more),
Pixel number receiving means for receiving the number of pixels m and n (m, n is a natural number of m ≦ M and n <N or m <M and n ≦ N);
If該画prime reception unit receives the number of pixels m and n, said specifying means, any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that you have to use a picture range of m × n as the image range The imaging device described in one.

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