CN100365627C - Image management apparatus and image managing method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides an image manage device and an image manage method which aims to carry out adequate deletion of the same image, which belongs to two or more groups, while consumption of the recording amount at a recording unit is restricted. According to a direction to delete a prescribed one out of an image data file 14-n, a photographing list 16 for indicating ones taken by a camera 10 out of the image data file 14-n is changed, or a list of prescribed album, which indicates a relation with the image data file 14-n, out of an album list 17 for indicating a relation of the assigned image data file 14n and an album, which includes the image data file 14-n, is changed so that the relation, which is indicated there, is dissolved. As a result, the image data film 14-n, of which relation is not indicated now in the photographing list 16 and in a list of each album shown in the album list 17, is deleted from an image root folder 12.

Description

Image management apparatus and image management method

Technical field

The present invention relates to the image management technology, particularly relating to image is the technology that unit manages with the group.

Background technology

Existing will be by a large amount of images that store of institutes such as photography of digital camera (following is called " camera "), the photograph album software that carries out Classification Management according to the activity of for example taking day and shooting place or athletic meeting and tourism etc.

In the past, because photograph album software is to go up the mode of carrying out with the PC (personal computer) in being arranged on user's dwelling house etc. to use, thereby the function that is provided by photograph album software, the for example making of photograph album, photograph album is carried out appending of image and deletes, other photograph album is carried out the functions such as reading of image transposing, photograph album, can only in user's dwelling house etc., carry out.On the other hand, also sell recently the camera that possesses album function etc. on the market, at the floor of image or there is not the tourist site etc. of PC at one's side, can satisfy user's want to read hope of photograph album etc.

Below, with reference to Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the method for the image data management of the camera that possesses album function is described.

Figure 1A and Figure 1B are illustrated in the management structure of image data file of the storage medium of the storage card of having stored view data in the camera etc., and Figure 1A represents image data file is implemented the example of management of example, Figure 1B presentation video catalogue file of the management that repeats.

In the folder structure shown in Figure 1A, image root folder DCIM and photograph album root folder ALBUM are configured under the root directory.

The image root folder is the root folder of store images data file, contains as the 100OLYMP file of image storage with file at this document folder internal memory.In Figure 1A, contain the image data file of the captured image of camera at this 100OLYMP file internal memory.That is, in the figure, 100OLYMP file internal memory contain 001.JPG, 002.JPG, 003.JPG ... Deng image data file.

On the other hand, the photograph album root folder is for storing the root folder of the image data file that photograph album comprised, this document folder internal memory contain ALBUM1, ALBUM2 ... Deng the photograph album file.In Figure 1A, be illustrated in the photograph album file internal memory that wherein constitutes ALBUM1 contain XXX.JPG, 003.JPG, YYY.JPG ... Deng image data file, the structure of this document folder represents that the image that is showed by these image data files is included in the photograph album that constitutes " ALBUM1 ".

But in this Figure 1A, the image data file 003.JPG that is marked with arrow is stored in respectively in image root folder and the photograph album root folder.That is, owing in this storage medium, have two image data files that the data content is identical, thereby caused the invalid waste of storage area.In camera,, thereby be undesirable because the invalid waste of such storage area will cause taking the minimizing of number.And the waste of this storage area belongs at same image data file under the situation of a plurality of photograph albums and can further increase.

On the other hand, in the folder structure shown in Figure 1B, image root folder DCIM and photograph album catalogue file ALBUM.PVM are stored under the root folder.

The image root folder of Figure 1B is also identical with Figure 1A, is the root folder about image data file, thereunder, stores as the 100OLYMP file of image storage with file.But, in Figure 1B, in this 100OLYMP file, store image data file, and store the image data file that photograph album comprises about the captured image of camera.In addition, in the figure, 100OLYMP file internal memory contain 001.JPG, 002.JPG, 003.JPG ..., XXX.JPG, YYY..JPG ... Deng image data file.

The photograph album catalogue file is the relation information file of the relation of the photograph album of (comprising this image data file) under the image data file stored of presentation video root folder and this image data file.This image directory file shown in Figure 1B, have will belong to each photograph album the filename of image data file by the data structure of arranging respectively by photograph album, according to the arrangement of the filename of this each photograph album, the subordinate relation of coming presentation video data file and photograph album.According to the data example of the ALBUM.PVM shown in Figure 1B, the image data file that for example belongs to the photograph album of formation " ALBUM1 " be XXX.JPG, 003.JPG, YYY.JPG ... Deng and Figure 1A same, the relation of presentation video data file and photograph album.In addition, in the data example of the ALBUM.PVM shown in Figure 1B, omitted the information (100OLYMP) that expression stores the file of image data file.

Owing to pass through the method for the subordinate relation of image directory representation of file image data file shown in this Figure 1B of employing and photograph album, eliminate Figure 1A such, contain the invalid waste of the storage area of a plurality of identical image data files at the storage medium internal memory, thereby can effectively utilize the storage medium of the camera that memory capacity restricted.

In addition, for the method that adopts the image directory file to carry out the photograph album management, MPV (the Music Photo Video) specification that the standardisation bodies OSTA (Optical Storage Technology Association) of with good grounds optical memory is developed is proposed also.

In addition, as other technology, for example have the spy and open disclosed technology in the open communique of flat 9-73530 Japan's patented claim, promptly, in the image file collating unit that carries out the image file arrangement, in the middle of the image of the original copy that the MO medium is stored, according to the indication that plain pape is deleted in operator's execution, automatically the plain pape image is selected and from the MO medium, deleted.

As mentioned above, adopt the image directory file shown in Figure 1B to come the method for the subordinate relation of presentation video data file and photograph album, represent that with image data file is repeated shown in Figure 1A the method for its subordinate relation compares, effect with storage area of conserve memory medium, but some problem points are also arranged.One of its problem is the deletion of image data file.

If the management structure of the image data file shown in employing Figure 1A, for example under the situation of the indication of having accepted from the user image is deleted from photograph album, as long as will delete image data file deletion from the file of the photograph album of this deletion indication of the image of indication.

But, under the situation of the management structure that adopts the image data file shown in Figure 1B, because the image of indicating from user's deletion not only is included in the photograph album of deletion indication, also can in other photograph album, repeat to comprise, therefore when when storing with file from image the image data file of the image of deletion indication, deleting, in the reading of these other photograph album, can not carry out the demonstration of its image.

In addition, as mentioned above, in the management structure shown in Figure 1B, the image data file of the image that camera is captured also is stored in the image storage with in the file, but after such photographs is signed in to photograph album, receive from the user under the situation of the indication that photographs is deleted, when from image storage usefulness file, merely the image data file of this photographs being deleted, in the reading of this photograph album of having logined photographs, just can not carry out the demonstration of this photographs.

And, after photographs is signed in to photograph album, receiving from the user under the situation of the indication that this photographs is deleted from this photograph album, when from image storage with the file during merely with the image data file deletion of the image of this photographs, at this moment, already the image data file of the image that gets off with camera has just caused and has lost under the situation of the photographs deletion indication that does not receive the user.

Summary of the invention

The present invention is in view of the above-mentioned problems and produces, its objective is: by will repeatedly belonging to the effect that this image-erasing under a plurality of groups the situation is kept the storage occupancy that suppresses storage part at same image rightly.

The image management apparatus of one of embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, comprising: storage part is used to store a plurality of image data files; The subordinate relation information memory cell stores the subordinate relation information of the subordinate relation that is used to represent image data file that described storage part is stored and the group under this image data file; Subordinate relation is removed the unit, when the indication that the predetermined picture data file that is subordinated to predetermined group is deleted is arranged, by deleting the subordinate relation information in the described subordinate relation information memory cell, remove the subordinate relation of represented relevant this predetermined picture data file of this subordinate relation information about this predetermined group; The data file delete cells, removing described subordinate relation by described subordinate relation releasing unit, and make and this predetermined picture data file is deleted from described storage part under the situation of the subordinate relation information that do not have expression arbitrary group the subordinate relation relevant with described predetermined picture data file in the described subordinate relation information memory cell.

According to this structure, even owing to receive from of the indication of predetermined group with the deletion of predetermined picture data file, also from storage part deletion by being stored in this specific subordinate relation information any subordinate relation information table in addition in the subordinate relation information memory cell image data file of the subordinate relation of itself and other group is shown, thereby can not produce because of losing the above-mentioned problem that this image data file takes place.Like this, because the subordinate relation to other groups can not exert an influence, thereby can be in the effect of the storage occupancy of the storage part of keeping the group management that suppresses to have adopted subordinate relation information, will repeatedly belong to this image-erasing under a plurality of groups the situation at same image rightly.

In addition, in above-mentioned image management apparatus of the present invention, this image management apparatus for example also can be a camera.

In addition, at this moment, the image data file that described predetermined group also can be stored in by the shooting by camera in the storage part in this camera constitutes, and the indication of described deletion also can be the indication with the shooting acquired image data file delete by described camera.

According to this structure, can be in the effect of the storage occupancy of the storage part of keeping management that suppress to adopt the photographs that subordinate relation information carried out, rightly will be at this image-erasing under the situation of the group beyond same image repeatedly belongs to the group of the captured image of camera.

In addition, in above-mentioned image management apparatus of the present invention, described group constitutes the photograph album of having gathered the image of being represented by the image data file that belongs to this group,

Described deletion indication is the indication that the image data file of the image that appointed photograph album comprised in described photograph album is deleted from this predetermined photograph album.

According to this structure, can keep the effect of storage occupancy of storage part of the management of the photograph album that suppresses to have adopted subordinate relation information, can carry out the deletion that same image repeatedly belongs to this image under the situation of a plurality of photograph albums rightly.

In addition, the image management method of one of other embodiment of the present invention, it is characterized in that: having when being subordinated to the indication of predetermined picture file delete of predetermined group, by the subordinate relation information about this group of being scheduled to of deletion in the subordinate relation information of a plurality of image data files of storing of expression storage part and the subordinate relation of the group under this each image data file, remove the subordinate relation of represented relevant this predetermined picture data file of this subordinate relation information; Removing described subordinate relation, and making and from described storage part, this predetermined picture data file to be deleted under the situation of the subordinate relation information do not have expression arbitrary group the subordinate relation relevant with described predetermined picture data file.

According to this method, its result can reach the action effect identical with above-mentioned image management apparatus of the present invention, also can reach the purpose of the invention described above.

As mentioned above, according to the present invention, can keep the effect of the storage occupancy that suppresses storage part, and can be rightly with this image-erasing that repeatedly belongs at same image under a plurality of groups the situation, because the image of the group that belongs to other is not carried out the deletion indication, do not delete, thereby can reach the effect of the subordinate relation that does not influence itself and other group.

Description of drawings

Figure 1A is the key diagram of first example of image-data management method that possesses the camera of album function.

Figure 1B is the key diagram of second example of image-data management method that possesses the camera of album function.

Fig. 2 is the figure of summary of the embodiment of explanation album function.

Fig. 3 A is the figure of the hardware configuration of expression camera shown in Figure 2.

Fig. 3 B is the figure of the hardware configuration of expression PC shown in Figure 2.

Fig. 4 is the process flow diagram that the expression photographs is obtained the contents processing of processing.

Fig. 5 A be the contents processing of expression photograph album operational processes process flow diagram (one of).

Fig. 5 B is the process flow diagram (two) of the contents processing of expression photograph album operational processes.

Fig. 6 is the figure of the picture example of expression photograph album operation screen.

Fig. 7 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of expression front cover image making processing.

Fig. 8 is the figure of the picture example of expression front cover image making picture.

Fig. 9 is the process flow diagram of the synthetic contents processing of handling of expression title.

Figure 10 is the figure of the picture example of expression title input picture.

Figure 11 is the process flow diagram that the expression photograph album transmits the contents processing of handling.

Figure 12 is the process flow diagram that the expression photograph album receives the contents processing of handling.

Figure 13 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of expression photograph album reproduction processes.

Figure 14 A is the figure that expression photograph album operating function is selected the picture example of picture.

Figure 14 B is the figure of picture example of the complete list display frame of expression photograph album surface plot picture.

Figure 14 C is the figure of picture example of a lattice display frame of expression photograph album surface plot picture.

Figure 15 is the process flow diagram that the expression photograph album is selected the contents processing of processing.

Figure 16 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of presentation video photograph album login process.

Figure 17 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of indicated object image particular procedure.

Figure 18 A is the figure of an example of the state before the deletion of presentation video data file.

Figure 18 B is the figure of the situation of the expression deletion of carrying out photographs " P006 " from the state of Figure 18 A.

Figure 18 C be illustrated in carried out the deletion action shown in Figure 18 B after, the also figure of the situation of deleted image " P006 " from " photograph album A ".

Figure 19 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of expression photographs deletion processing.

Figure 20 is the process flow diagram of the contents processing of expression photograph album image-erasing processing.

Figure 21 A be the expression photograph album operating function figure that selects the picture example of picture (one of).

Figure 21 B is the figure of picture example of the complete list display frame of the expression image that photograph album comprised.

Figure 21 C is the figure of picture example of a lattice display frame of the expression image that photograph album comprised.

Figure 21 D is the figure that the picture of the cancellation indication handled of the deletion of the expression cancellation image that photograph album comprised shows example.

Figure 21 E is the figure that picture that the execution indication that the deletion of the image that photograph album comprised handles is carried out in expression shows example.

Embodiment

Below, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings embodiments of the present invention are described.

At first, with reference to Fig. 2 the summary of the album function of embodiments of the invention is described.

Fig. 2 represents that camera 10 and PC40 by USB (the Universal Serial Bus USB (universal serial bus)) situation that bus 60 is connected, can receive and dispatch various data mutually.In the present embodiment, in a single day camera 10 captured images are sent to PC40, carry out the making of the photograph album of this image at PC40, and by PC40 the photograph album of made are sent to camera 10.Like this, as long as the user has carried camera 10, even there is not PC40 also can appreciate photograph album at one's side.

Fig. 2 is further described.Loading and unloading storage card 11 freely is installed in camera 10, can be in storage card 11 with various data storing.In this storage card 11, store image root folder 12 and photograph album catalogue file 15, they all are configured under the root directory of storage area of storage card 11.

The images that camera 10 is recently captured as image data file 14-1,14-2 ... 14-n ... (following with " 14-n " as representing) stores in the image storage folder (" 100 OLYMP " file) 13 in the image root folder (" DCIM " file) 12.In addition, as hereinafter described, owing in image root folder 12, not only store camera 10 nearest captured images but also especially do not store the image data file that is logged the image of (photograph album comprises) in the photograph album with distinguishing in addition, thereby the filename of the image data file 14-n of the nearest captured image of camera 10 write troactively in the represented photography catalogue (" SHOT ") 16 of photograph album catalogue file 15 in proper order by photography.Like this, when camera 10 was sent to PC40, camera 10 carried out following processing, promptly at the images that camera 10 is recently captured, find out the image data file 14-n of the represented filename of photography catalogue 16 in the image root folder 12, and be sent to PC40.The image data file 14-n that PC40 will be sent by camera 10 as photographic image data file 43-1,43-2 ..., 43-n ... (following with " 43-n " as representing) stores in the photographs file (" MYCAMERA " file) 42.Photographs file 42 is set in the storage area of the HDD (Hard DiskDrive) 41 with PC40.

Photograph album catalogue file (" ALBUM.PVM " file) the 15th is represented each image data file 14-n and comprises the file of relation (subordinate relation) of the photograph album of image data file 14-n (image data file 14-n under) that the photograph album catalogue 17 that is aligned to each photograph album that includes this document by the filename with each file is represented its relation.In the arrangement of the filename of this photograph album catalogue 17, the filename of image data file of surface plot picture that will be equivalent to the front cover of this photograph album is recorded in its foremost.This surface plot looks like to be equivalent to above-mentioned specify image.

In addition, as mentioned above, in photograph album catalogue file 15, also expression has photography catalogue 16.

In addition, in the present embodiment, the number of the photograph album of being managed with photograph album catalogue 17 is prior the decision, in each photograph album, be set with " ALBUM1 ", " ALBUM2 ", " ALBUM3 " ... Deng title.

Photograph album catalogue file 15 is to be sent out from PC40 with the image data file 14-n that represents the image that photograph album comprised.Camera 10 is stored into image data file 14-n in the image storage folder 13 when being sent image data file 14-n and photograph album catalogue file 17 by PC40, photograph album catalogue file 15 is write under the root directory of storage area of storage card 11.But the file before at this moment, photography catalogue 16 will write is in statu quo preserved.In addition, when storage card 11 that will not store photograph album catalogue file 15 is installed in the camera 10, because the information of image that need camera 10 is captured records in the photography catalogue 16, thereby to regenerate photograph album catalogue file 15 and store in the storage card 11.

As mentioned above, in the storage card 11 of the camera 10 of present embodiment, the management structure of image data file has adopted the management structure of the image directory file shown in Figure 1B, it is characterized in that the filename of image data file of surface plot picture that will be equivalent to the front cover of this photograph album records the foremost of arrangement of the filename of photograph album catalogue 17.

In addition, for the purpose of simplifying the description, in the present embodiment, the filename of the data file that data content is different can not duplicate in image root folder 12.Like this, only the filename shown in use photography catalogue 16 and the photograph album catalogue 17 comes the image data file 14-n in unique specific image root folder 12.Here, for example also can be on the basis of time on making date of file and filename, with the information representation of the memory location etc. of expression file in photography catalogue 16 and photograph album catalogue 17, even the filename of image data file 14-n repeats in image root folder 12, also can with image data file 14-n specific be unique.

Below, Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3 B are described.Camera 10 shown in these figure presentation graphs 2 and the hardware configuration of PC40, Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3 B represent the structure of camera 10, the structure of PC40 respectively.

In Fig. 3 A, shooting handling part 23, image processing part 24, RAM25, memory I/F26, display control unit 27, USB I/F29 and CPU30 all are connected with bus 33, under the management of CPU30, can carry out the transmitting-receiving of various data mutually.

Shot object image by camera lens 21 imagings for example is converted into electric signal by CCD (Charge CoupledDevice) image pickup part 22, and is imported into shooting handling part 23.In shooting handling part 23, be amplified to the size of regulation at the electric signal that will be imported after, carry out Analog-digital conversion, the view data of the image of output expression shot object image.

The γ that the view data that 24 pairs of image processing parts shooting handling part 23 is exported is implemented the image that this view data shows proofreaies and correct and Flame Image Process such as the edge is emphasized, white balance correction.In addition, when arriving image data storage in the storage card 11, as required this view data is carried out data compression process.Also have, when the reproduction of the image that the view data of being stored in carrying out storage card 11 is represented shows, as required the view data of being read from storage card 11 is carried out data decompression and handle.

RAM25 is for when image processing part 24 and CPU30 carry out various processing, as required, employed computing random access memory.

The interface of memory I/F (interface) 26 for storage card 11 is connected with bus 33 under the management of CPU30, can carry out various data write to storage card 11.

Display process portion 27 will carry out the digital-analogue conversion by the view data that bus 33 is sent, and offer display part 28.

Display part 28 for example is LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and the image that the view data that is input to display process portion 27 is represented shows.

The interface of USB (Universal Serial Bus) I/F25 for usb bus 60 shown in Figure 2 is connected with bus 33 can be received and dispatched various data between camera 10 and PC40.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) 30 carries out the action control of these camera 10 integral body.

ROM31 is the ROM (read-only memory) of employed various data as required for the performed control program of storage CPU30 and when carrying out, and CPU30 can carry out above-mentioned action control by carrying out this control program.

Operation inputting part 32 belongs to the operated Switch by the user of camera 10, obtain from the corresponding user's of content the indication of operation, and export to CPU30.

Below, the structure of PC40 shown in Fig. 3 B is described.

In Fig. 3 B, CPU51, ROM52, RAM53, HDD41, input part 54, data fetch device 55, display part 56 and USB I/F57 all are connected with bus 58, under the management of CPU51, can carry out the transmitting-receiving of various data mutually.

CPU51 carries out the action control of the integral body of this PC40.

ROM52 is the ROM (read-only memory) of employed various data as required for the performed primary control program (PCP) of storage CPU51 and when carrying out, and CPU51 can carry out the action control of the integral body of PC40 by carrying out this primary control program (PCP).

RAM53 be CPU51 when carrying out various processing, as required, as the employed random access memory of operation.

HDD41 is a disk storage device, except above-mentioned photographic image data file 43-n, and employed as required various data in the time of also can storing performed various control programs of CPU51 and execution thereof.

Input part 54 constitutes indicating member with mouse etc. for example and key board unit etc., obtain from indication to the corresponding user of content of operation of these unit.

Data fetch device 55 for example is CD (Compact Disc)-ROM driver and DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM driver, the device of the various data of being stored for the storage medium 59 that reads CD-ROM and DVD-ROM etc.The described image management software in back is configured to be stored in the storage medium 59.In PC40, read this image management software by data fetch device 55 from storage medium 59, store in advance in the HDD41, when the indication of this management software of execution of user entered into input part 54, CPU51 read this image management software that HDD41 stores and carries out.

In addition, as storage medium 59, also can be to have the memory storage of bringing into play the computer system of function as the procedure service device that is connected with the communication line of internet etc.In this case, to pass through to be the communication line of transmission medium according to the resulting transmission signals of data signal modulation carrier wave of represent images management software, be transferred to this computing machine by the procedure service device, in PC40, possesses the device that is connected with this communication line, and, can in CPU51, carry out this image management software thus by receiving this transmission signals, demodulation, reproduced image management software.

Display part 56 is LCD and CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) etc., shows the image of regulation according to the indication of CPU51.

USB I/F25 is the interface that usb bus shown in Figure 2 60 is connected with bus 58, can receive and dispatch various data between PC40 and camera 10.

In addition, PC40 has the structure that the general standard computing machine is had.

Below, the image management software performed to the CPU51 of PC40 describes.This software provides by PC40 camera 10 captured images is taken in the PC40, the making and the editor of photograph album, the making of surface plot picture of front cover that is equivalent to photograph album and the function that photograph album is sent in the camera 10 etc. be provided.Below, to describing by the various control and treatment that the carries out image management software is carried out by CPU51.

At first, Fig. 4 is described.This figure obtains the contents processing of processing with the flowcharting photographs.This be treated to from camera 10 receive the captured image of camera 10 image data file 14-n, store processing in the photographs file 42 in the HDD41 into as photographic image data file 43-n.In addition, this is handled in the PC of carries out image management software, when the indication that begins this processing in expression sends to input part 54, for example by the carries out image management software, in the shown picture of display part 56, when input part 54 being implemented to click the operation that the button of expression " reading in image " shows, carry out and just begin by indicator.In addition, also can when being connected by usb bus 60 with camera 10, PC40 just begin automatically detecting by CPU51.

At first, in step S101, carry out the processing that data is sent the camera 10 that requires to transmit photographs by USB I/F57.

In camera 10, when receiving this transmission that is transmitted by usb bus 60 when requiring data, the photography catalogue 16 of being stored with reference to storage card 11, from image root folder 12, read out in the represented image data file 14-n of filename here, and carry out the image data file 14-n that is read being sent to the processing of PC40 by CPU30 by USBI/F29.Then, in having finished photography catalogue 16, during the transmission of the represented all image data file 14-n of filename, undertaken to represent that by USB I/F29 the data of the notice that the transmission of photographs is over send to PC40 by CPU30.

In step S102, carry out obtaining the processing of the image data file 14-n that sends by usb bus 60 by camera 10 like this by USB I/F57, then in step S103, carry out storing obtained image data file 14-n in the photographs file 42 in the HDD41 processing as photographic image data file 43-n.

Then, in step S104, judge the processing whether data of the notice that is over of transmission of expression photographs have been sent by camera 10, received this notice (judged result is a "Yes") if be judged as, in step S105, the picture that is over of obtaining of expression photographs is shown to display part 56, finishes this photographs then and obtain processing.On the other hand, in step S104, also do not receive this notice (judged result is a "No"), then turn back to the processing of step S102, above-mentioned repeatedly processing if be judged as.

Above processing is for photographs is obtained processing.

Below, Fig. 5 A and Fig. 5 B are described.This figure contents processing of flowcharting photograph album operational processes.The processing that this is treated to the surface plot picture that carries out the photograph album editor, make the front cover be equivalent to photograph album, caption text is synthesized to the surface plot picture and photograph album is sent to camera 10.In addition, this is handled in the PC of carries out image management software, when the indication that begins this processing when expression sends to input part 54, for example in the picture that is presented at by the carries out image management software on the display part 56, in the operation of clicking by indicator etc., when being sent to input part 54, the indication of operation photograph album just begins to carry out.

At first, in the step S111 of Fig. 5 A, carry out the photograph album operation screen is shown to the processing of display part 56.

In Fig. 6 illustration the photograph album operation screen.In addition, in the present embodiment, at this moment, read the stored photographic image data file 43-n of photographs file 42 in the HDD41, and the complete list of the image (this image is called " photographs ") that each this photographic image data file 43-n is represented is shown to the photographs display part 71 of Fig. 6.

In step S112, carry out obtaining processing that the user sends, that selection is indicated as the selection of the photograph album of this photograph album operand from input part 54.In addition, the selection of this photograph album is carried out the indicator clicking operation and is waited and implement by the photograph album of Fig. 6 being selected to show 73.

In step S113, carry out in the stored file of HDD41, with reference to processing by the corresponding file of photograph album (this document folder is called " photograph album file ") of the obtained indication of the processing of preceding step.

In step S114, read with reference in the photograph album file in stored image data file, the complete list of the image that the image data file of reading is represented (this image being called " photograph album image ") just is shown to the processing in the photograph album operation screen in display part 56 shows.In picture example shown in Figure 6, the complete list of this image is shown in the photograph album image displaying part 72.In addition, include at this photograph album file under the situation of image data file of surface plot picture, the surface plot that this image data file is represented looks like to be shown to front cover image displaying part 74.

In step S115, obtain from the processing of the corresponding user's of operation that input part 54 is carried out indication.In addition, in picture example shown in Figure 6, this is designated as image is appended the clicking operation that instruction button 75, image-erasing instruction button 76, surface plot picture selection instruction button 77, title input instruction button 78 and photograph album transmit any one button in the instruction button 79.

In step S116, judge by obtained the indicating whether of the processing of step S115 for the image among Fig. 6 being appended the indication of instruction button 75, promptly, judge whether to photograph album being appended the processing of the indication of photographs, only when this judged result is "Yes", in step S117, just carry out image data file with indicated photographs move to referring now in the processing of photograph album file.

In addition, in Fig. 6, append instruction button 75, be provided with " all appending " button and " appending " button as image." all append " button for the image data file of photographs is moved to referring now in the indication of photograph album file, " appending " button is, only will by to the operation of input part 54, in photographs the image data file of prior selected image move to referring now in the indication of photograph album file.

In addition, in picture example shown in Figure 6, with the mobile while of this image data file, the demonstration place of the photographs that indication is related moves to the rearmost end of the image complete list of photograph album image displaying part 72 from photographs display part 71.

In step S118, judge by obtained the indicating whether of the processing of step S115 and be indication the image-erasing instruction button 76 among Fig. 6, promptly, judge whether processing for the indication of from the photograph album of photograph album image, deleting, only when this judged result is "Yes", in step S119, just carry out with the image data file of the related photograph album image of indication from referring now to the photograph album file in the processing of deleting.

In addition, in Fig. 6, the click of image-erasing instruction button 75, for only will by to the operation of input part 54, in the photograph album image prior selected image image data file from referring now to the photograph album file in the indication of deleting.

In addition, in picture example shown in Figure 6,, the demonstration of indicated photograph album image is left out from the image complete list of photograph album image displaying part 72 with the deletion while of this image data file.

In step S120, judge by the processing of step S115 obtained indicate whether with the surface plot picture make relevant, whether be the processing of the surface plot picture among Fig. 6 being selected the indication of instruction button 77 or title input instruction button 78, only when this judged result is "Yes", in step S121, carry out the front cover Flame Image Process.In addition, the details of this front cover image making processing is narrated in the back.

Processing enters into Fig. 5 B, in step S122, judge obtained the indicating whether of processing for the photograph album among Fig. 6 being transmitted the indication of instruction button 79, promptly judging whether to camera 10 being transmitted the processing of the indication of photograph album by the step S115 of Fig. 5 A, only when this judged result is "Yes", in step S123, carries out photograph album and transmit processing.In addition, the details of this photograph album transmission processing is narrated in the back.

In step S124, judge that obtained the indicating whether of processing by the step S115 of Fig. 5 A is the processing that expression finishes the indication of this photograph album operational processes.And, when this judged result is "Yes", in step S125, close the processing of the shown photograph album operation screen of display part 56, finish this photograph album operational processes then.On the other hand, when the judged result of this S124 is "No", turn back to the processing of the step S115 of Fig. 5 A, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

The above photograph album operational processes that is treated to.

Below, the front cover image making as the processing of step S121 (Fig. 5 A) in the above-mentioned photograph album operational processes handled describing.The contents processing of in Fig. 7, handling with the image making of flowcharting front cover.

At first, in step S141, judge by the processing of the step S115 of above-mentioned photograph album operational processes obtained indicate whether for to the indication of the input of the title among Fig. 6 instruction button 78, promptly whether be to setting the processing of the surface plot that finishes as the indication of input header, if this judged result is a "Yes", then enter into the processing of step S149.On the other hand, if this judged result is a "No", that is, be the indication of the surface plot picture among Fig. 6 being selected instruction button 77, then enter into the processing of step S142.

In step S142, open the processing of front cover image making picture (being shown to display part 56).In Fig. 8 illustration front cover image making picture.

In step S143, all read referring now in the photograph album file in the processing of image data file, next, in step S144, the complete list that carries out the photograph album image that each image data file of being read is represented is shown to the processing in the front cover image making picture in display part 56 shows just.In the picture example of Fig. 8, the complete list of this photograph album image is shown to surface plot as candidate display part 81.Here, these photograph album images are the candidate of surface plot picture, when input part 54 is carried out with the user temporarily when wherein having selected the corresponding operation of indication of an image, this image is shown to front cover image displaying part 82.

In step S145, judged whether to obtain the reference of change institute file, change surface plot picture the candidate image indication, whether obtained by processing the indication of the file of the operation change institute reference of the click of file configuration part 83 in the picture example of Fig. 8 etc.And, if this judged result is a "Yes", then in step S146, carried out processing with reference to the file of obtained indication after, turn back to the processing of step S143, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.This processing can be selected the surface plot picture as the photograph album of photograph album operand from the image beyond the photograph album image that its photograph album comprised.On the other hand, if the result of the judgment processing of step S145 is a "No", then enter into the processing of step S147.

In step S147, judged whether to obtain decision surface plot picture indication, whether carried out processing to the operation of the decision button 84 in the picture example of Fig. 8.And, if this judged result is a "Yes", then in step S148, read the filename of the image data file of the image that determines indication as the image data file (front cover image data file) of surface plot picture, and temporarily store the interior processing in zone that RAM53 stipulates into, next, in step S149, carry out the synthetic processing of title, then, enter into the processing of step S151.The synthetic details of handling of this title is narrated in the back.In addition, in the picture example of photograph album operation screen shown in Figure 6, the display image display part 74 shown images till will arriving this moment change in the surface plot picture of this decision indication.

On the other hand, when the result of the judgment processing of step S147 is "No", enter into the processing of step S150.

In step S150, judged whether to obtain the indication that the image making of cancellation front cover is handled, whether carried out processing the operation of the cancel button 85 in the picture example of Fig. 8.And, if this judged result is a "Yes", then enter into the processing of step S151, if this judged result is a "No", then turn back to the processing of step S145, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

In step S151, close the processing of the front cover image making picture that (leaving out) display part 56 showing.Then, the closure cover image making is handled, and turns back to the photograph album operational processes of Fig. 5 A.

The above front cover image making that is treated to is handled.

Below, the synthetic processing of title of the processing of the step S149 that above-mentioned front cover image making is handled describes.In Fig. 9, synthesize the contents processing of handling with the flowcharting title.

At first, in step S161, open the processing of title input picture (being shown to display part 56).In Figure 10 illustration title input picture.

In step S162, obtain the processing of the input content that is listed as with the corresponding word of operation that input part 54 is carried out by the user.In picture example shown in Figure 10, the content of the word row that this moment is obtained is shown to input text display part 86.

In step S163, the input of the word row that judge whether to be through with, whether obtained decision as the indication of the word row of title, whether carried out processing to the operation of the decision button 87 in the picture example of Figure 10.And,, then enter into the processing of step S165 if this judged result is a "Yes".On the other hand, if this judged result is a "No", then in step S164, has judged whether to obtain the synthetic indication of handling of cancellation title, whether carried out processing the operation of the cancel button 88 in the picture example of Figure 10.And, if this judged result is a "Yes", then enter into the processing of step S166, if this judged result is a "No", then turn back to the processing of step S162, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

In step S165, generate expression by the word row image of the obtained word of the processing of step S162 row, and with the word row doubling of the image that this generated be synthesized to that the processing of handling the step S147 of (Fig. 7) by above-mentioned front cover image making is stored into that the represented surface plot picture of front cover image data file in the regulation zone of RAM53 is interior, processing in this zone of the image data file of resulting composograph being stored again into RAM53 as the front cover image data file.In addition, in the picture example of Figure 10, as this word row image, the word row image of the shape size color that generation style configuration part 89 sets.

In step S166, carry out the filename processing of giving the front cover image data file of being stored in the regulation zone of RAM53 with regulation, next, in step S167, carry out with this front cover image data file be appended to referring now in the photograph album file in and the processing of storing.In addition, in the picture example of photograph album operation screen shown in Figure 6, the display image display part 74 shown images till will arriving this moment change to and have carried out in the synthetic display image of this literal.

In step S168, close the processing of the title input picture that (leaving out) display part 56 showing.Then, finish the synthetic processing of title, the front cover image making that turns back to Fig. 7 is handled.

The above title that is treated to synthesizes processing.Like this, be synthesized in the surface plot picture by the word row image that will represent title, even be the camera 10 of the character font data of the literal that do not have Chinese character etc., the title that also can carry out photograph album shows, the literal of representing this title also can be used as diversified title and shows.

Below, the photograph album of the processing of the step S123 (Fig. 5 B) of above-mentioned photograph album operational processes transmitted to handle describe.In Figure 11, transmit the contents processing of handling with the flowcharting photograph album.

At first, in step S171, obtain with referring now in the processing of title of the corresponding photograph album of photograph album file.

In step S172, carry out camera 10 being sent the processing of the data that the transmission of the photograph album catalogue file 15 that the storage card 11 of expression cameras 10 stored requires by USB I/F57.For the details of the processing of in the camera 10 that receives this transmission requirement, being carried out, narrate in the back.

In step S173, USB I/F57 is received and obtain the processing that is fit to photograph album catalogue file 15 above-mentioned requirements, that sent by camera 10.

In addition, detailed condition is narrated in the back, at this moment, also has to be sent by camera 10 and informs that there is not the data conditions of the information of photograph album catalogue file 15 in expression, is sent out in these data under the situation of coming, and receives and obtain the processing of this notice.Therefore, in step S174, judge the processing that in camera 10, whether once had photograph album catalogue file 15, only when never having (judged result is a "No"), just in step S175, make the processing of photograph album catalogue file 15 again.

In step S176, carry out with reference to according to the catalogue of the photograph album of the obtained photograph album name of the processing of the step S171 of the photograph album catalogue 17 in the photograph album catalogue file 15, will referring now in HDD41 in the filename of the image data file that comprised of photograph album file write the processing of tail end of arrangement of the filename of the represented image data file of this catalogue one by one troactively.

In step S177, judge whether image data file with the surface plot picture store into referring now in the photograph album file in processing, if this judged result is a "Yes", then enter into step S178, if be "No", then enter into step S181, handle respectively.

In step S178, judged whether to obtain the processing of the transmission indication of title image, if this judged result is a "Yes", then enter into step S180, if be "No", then enter into step S179, handle respectively.In addition, the transmission of this title image indication is in the picture example of photograph album operation screen shown in Figure 6, by whether the image making of photograph album front cover being confirmed that frame 80 has added the affirmation symbol and judged.

In step S179, carry out by USB I/F57 will referring now in the image data file that comprised of photograph album file in removed the surface plot picture all images send to the processing of camera 10, then, enter into the processing of step S182.

In step S180, carry out in the catalogue of the photograph album that writes troactively of having implemented filename by the processing of step S176, will referring now in the top processing of moving and being inserted into this catalogue of the filename of image data file of the stored surface plot picture of photograph album file.Handle by this, the filename of the image data file of surface plot picture is indicated on the foremost of catalogue of its photograph album of photograph album catalogue 17.

In addition, contents processing by changing this step S180, carry out with referring now in the processing of moving and being inserted into the tail end of this catalogue of the filename of image data file of the stored surface plot picture of photograph album file, when reproducing the photograph album image successively, can reproduce the display cover image the most afterwards at it.Can use like this just like the such sensation of the back cover of photograph album and handle surface plot picture by above-mentioned processing made.

In step S181, carry out by USB I/F57 to camera 10 send referring now in the processing of all images data file that comprised of photograph album file.

In step S182, carry out camera 10 being sent the processing of the photograph album catalogue 17 of filename having been implemented the photograph album catalogue file 15 that writes troactively by USB I/F57, then, finish this photograph album and transmit and handle, turn back to the photograph album operational processes of Fig. 5 B.

The above photograph album that is treated to transmits processing.

Below, the control and treatment that CPU30 carried out by camera 10 is described.The control program that these processing are all stored in ROM31 by the CPU30 execution is realized.

At first, describe in Figure 12, receiving processing with the photograph album shown in the process flow diagram.This is treated to the processing that receives the relevant data of the photograph album that sends with PC40 at camera 10, receive PC40 and carry out above-mentioned photograph album and transmit and handle, during data that the transmission of expression photograph album catalogue file 15 requires, just begin this processing when detect USB I/F29 by CPU30.

At first, in step S201, search for storage card 11, judged whether to store the processing of photograph album catalogue file 15, when having stored (when judged result is "Yes"), in step S202, read photograph album catalogue file 15 and send to the processing of PC40 by USB I/F29, when not storing (when judged result is "No"), in step S203, carry out to inform that by USB I/F29 the data of the content that does not have photograph album catalogue file 15 send to the processing of PC40.Receive data that processing sent by carrying out PC40 that above-mentioned photograph album transmits the processing of the step S173 that handles by this step S202 or step S203.

In step S204, carry out according to by the data that processing sent out of step S202 or step S203, make USB I/F29 obtain the processing of the data of sending from PC40.

In step S205, judge whether by the obtained data of the processing of preceding step be the processing of image data file.And, when this judged result is "Yes", in step S206, carry out storing obtained image data file in the image storage folder 13 in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11 processing, then, turn back to the processing of step S204, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

On the other hand, when the judged result of step S205 is "No", judge in step S207 whether by the obtained data of the processing of step S204 be the processing of photograph album catalogue file 15.Carrying out above-mentioned photograph album transmits among the PC40 that handles, S179 and S181 and the performed processing of S182 by Figure 11, after the transmission that has been all over as the image data file of transmission object, again photograph album catalogue file 15 is sent, thereby be under the situation of "Yes" in the judged result of step S207, can think that the performed photograph album of PC40 transmits processing and is through with, enter into the processing of step S208 then.On the other hand, be under the situation of "No" in the judged result of step S207, turn back to the processing of step S204, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

In step S208, carry out the processing that to write on by the obtained photograph album catalogue file 15 of the processing of step S204 under the root directory of storage card.But the photograph album catalogue file 15 represented files before at this moment, photography catalogue 16 will write are in statu quo preserved.Then, finish this photograph album and receive processing.

The above photograph album that is treated to receives processing.

Below, to describing with the photograph album reproduction processes of the represented contents processing of process flow diagram at Figure 13.This is treated in camera 10 and reads by the processing of the photograph album that PC40 sent.

This photograph album reproduction processes, be user's operating operation input part 32, will be when illustrated and photograph album operation function associated selects picture to be shown to display part 28 among Figure 14 A, by operation inputting part 32 is begun when further the function of " photograph album reproduction " has been selected in operation.

At first, in step S211, carry out photograph album and select to handle.This is treated to the processing of selecting reading from a plurality of photograph albums that camera 10 is stored, and its details is narrated in the back.

In step S212, carry out the represented photograph album catalogue 17 of the photograph album catalogue file stored with reference to storage card 11 15, obtain the processing of the top filename in the filename of the corresponding arrangement of selecting with the treatment of selected of step S211 of photograph album.

In step S213, carry out in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11, finding out and obtain processing by the image data file 14-n of the obtained filename of the processing of just having carried out before.

In step S214, carry out with indication send to image processing part 24 and display process portion 27, the obtained represented image of file of step is shown to the processing of display part 28 in front.

In step S215, judge whether to have obtained the processing that the image changing of display image from present demonstration of the operation of operation inputting part 32 being implemented by the user with display part 28 is the indication of image before and after it, if obtained this indication (judged result is a "Yes"), then enter into step S216, if do not obtain this indication (judged result is a "No"), then enter into step S217, handle respectively.

In step S216, carry out the represented photograph album catalogue 17 of the photograph album catalogue file stored with reference to storage card 11 15, in the filename of the corresponding arrangement of selecting with the treatment of selected of step S211 of photograph album, obtain the processing of filename that processing by step S215 is judged as the order of acquired indication, then, turn back to the processing of step S213, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

In step S217, judge whether to have obtained the processing that the photograph album of the operation of operation inputting part 32 being implemented by the user reproduces the indication that finishes, if obtained this indication (judged result is a "Yes"), in step S218, carry out once more the processing that the photograph album operating function shown in the displayed map 14A is selected picture, finish this photograph album reproduction processes then.On the other hand,, then turn back to the processing of step S215, above-mentioned repeatedly processing if the judged result of step S217 is a "No".

The above photograph album reproduction processes that is treated to.

Below, the photograph album of the processing of the step S211 of above-mentioned photograph album reproduction processes selected to handle describing.In Figure 15, select the contents processing of processing with the flowcharting photograph album.

At first, in step S221, carry out from storage card 11, reading photograph album catalogue file 15, with reference to the processing of photograph album catalogue 17.

In step S222, judge by the user the why processing of the content of sample of the instruction content of the operation of operation inputting part 32 display packing performed, that the surface plot of photograph album looked like to be shown to display part 28.Here, if this instruction content looks like to carry out the indication that complete list shows (index demonstration) for the surface plot with illustrated a plurality of photograph albums among Figure 14 B, then enter into the processing of step S223, on the other hand, if this instruction content then enters into the processing of step S228 for the surface plot picture of illustrated photograph album among Figure 14 C being shown one by one the indication of (lattice demonstration).

In step S223, obtain the processing of the top filename in the arrangement of filename of image data file 14-n of each photograph album of photograph album catalogue 17.In addition, this top filename is by the processing that above-mentioned photograph album transmits the step S180 (Figure 11) that handles, and becomes the filename of image data file 14-n of the surface plot picture of each photograph album.

In step S224, carry out in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11, finding out respectively and obtain processing by the image data file 14-n of the obtained filename of the processing of preceding step.

In step S225, carry out with indication send to image processing part 24 and display process portion 27, will look like to be shown to the processing of display part 28 by the represented respectively surface plot of the obtained image data file 14-n of the processing of preceding step.

In step S226, judge the processing of selecting one indication by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, in the surface plot picture that shows of the complete list that whether carried out in display part 28, being carried out, (before judged result is "Yes") processing of this step S226 repeatedly before this indication is carried out.

In step S227, judge by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, whether obtained one indication is selected in decision in indicated surface plot picture processing, when having carried out this decision indication (when judged result is "Yes"), finish this photograph album and select to handle, turn back to original processing.On the other hand, when not carrying out this decision indication (when judged result is "No"), turn back to the processing of step S226, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

In step S228, obtain top filename, the i.e. processing of the filename of the image data file 14-n of the surface plot picture of this photograph album in the arrangement of filename of image data file 14-n of photograph album name " ALBUM1 " of photograph album catalogue 17.

In step S229, carry out in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11, finding out and obtain processing by the image data file 14-n of the obtained filename of the processing of just having carried out before.

In step S230, carry out with indication send to image processing part 24 and display process portion 27, will look like to be shown to the processing of display part 28 by the represented surface plot of the obtained image data file 14-n of the processing of preceding step.

In step S231, judge by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, whether obtained the processing of the indication of the photograph album of selecting other different with the photograph album during representative image in display part 18 shows, when having obtained this indication (when judged result is "Yes"), in step S232, obtain the processing of the top filename in the arrangement of filename of image data file 14-n of photograph album of this indication of photograph album catalogue 17, then, turn back to the processing of step S229, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

On the other hand, in step S231, when not obtaining such indication (when judged result is "No"), in step S233, judge by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, whether obtained one indication is selected in decision in indicated surface plot picture processing.Here, when having carried out this decision indication (when judged result is "Yes"), finish this photograph album and select to handle, turn back to original processing.On the other hand, when not carrying out this decision indication (when judged result is "No"), turn back to the processing of step S231, above-mentioned repeatedly processing.

The above photograph album that is treated to is selected to handle.

Carry out various processing discussed above respectively by the CPU51 of PC40 and the CPU30 of camera 10, not only can suppress the storage occupancy of storage card 11, but also can manage the relation of the surface plot picture of photograph album and this photograph album.

In addition, in the above-described embodiments, be the Production Editor who on PC40, carries out photograph album, but, also can on camera 10, carry out the Production Editor of photograph album by in the CPU30 of camera 10, carrying out in the various processing shown in Fig. 5 A, Fig. 5 B, Fig. 7, Fig. 9.In addition, in the above-described embodiments, be that the photograph album that comprises the demonstration of representative image in camera 10 reproduces, but, also can comprise the photograph album reproduction of the demonstration of representative image by PC40 by in the CPU51 of PC40, carrying out in the various processing shown in Figure 11 and Figure 12.

Below, the image photograph album login process that goes out contents processing with flowcharting in Figure 16 is described.This processing is to append the login treatment of picture that photographs and other photograph albums comprised in photograph album.

When the user passes through operating operation input part 32, when sending the indication of carrying out this processing, just begin to carry out this image photograph album login process.

At first, in step S301, judge the processing of position of image of the object that appends login of this indication.Here, if be judged as this indication and be photographs, then in step S302, carry out the processing of photography catalogue 16 that the photograph album catalogue file 15 that storage card 11 is stored is comprised as selection result as the object that appends login, then, enter the processing of step S304.On the other hand, in step S301, if be judged as this indication and be image that photograph album is comprised as the object that appends login, then in step S303, carry out above-mentioned photograph album and select to handle (Figure 15), as its execution result, will be in the represented photograph album of photograph album catalogue that photograph album catalogue file 15 is comprised 17 one as selection result.

In step S304, carry out the particular procedure of object images.This is treated in the filename of the represented image data file of selected catalogue the image that appends the login object is carried out specific processing, and the details of this processing is narrated in the back.

In step S305, carry out from the photography catalogue 16 of selecting by the treatment of selected of step S302 or photograph album catalogue 17 by the photograph album of step S303 select to read in the catalogue of the photograph album that treatment of selected selects expression by the processing of preceding step the processing of filename of image data file 14-n of specific image.

In step S306, re-execute above-mentioned photograph album and select to handle (Figure 15), as its execution result, will be in the represented photograph album of photograph album catalogue that photograph album catalogue file 15 is comprised 17 one as selection result.

In step S307, carry out to be appended to by the filename that the processing of step S305 is read in photograph album catalogue 17 processing of tail end of selecting the catalogue (arrangement of the filename of image data file 14-n) of the photograph album that treatment of selected selects by the photograph album of step S306, finish this image photograph album login process then.

The above image photograph album login process that is treated to.

Below, the object images particular procedure of the processing of the step S304 of above-mentioned photograph album login process is described.In Figure 17 with flowcharting the contents processing of object images particular procedure.In addition, by Figure 17 and Figure 15 are compared as can be known, the contents processing of this object images particular procedure selects the contents processing of processing similar to above-mentioned photograph album.

At first, in step S311, carry out with reference to the photography catalogue 16 of selecting by the treatment of selected of step S302 or in photograph album catalogue 17, select the processing of the catalogue of the photograph album that treatment of selected selects by the photograph album of step S303.

In step S312, carry out following processing, that is: judge that the user is the processing of what kind of content by the content at the indication that image is presented at the display packing on the display part 28 that operating operation input part 32 sent.Here, if the content of this indication is that a plurality of images are carried out the indication that complete list shows (index demonstration), the processing that then enters step S313, on the other hand, if the content of this indication is for showing image one by one the indication of (lattice demonstration), the processing that then enters step S318.

In step S313, obtain the processing of the represented filename of above-mentioned selected catalogue in order, then in step S314, carry out in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11, finding out respectively and obtaining the processing of the image data file 14-n of this obtained filename.

In step S315, carry out image processing part 24 and display process portion 27 are sent instruction, will be by the processing that looks like to be shown to display part 28 by the obtained represented respectively surface plot of image data file 14-n of the rapid processing of previous step.

In step S316, judge by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, whether carried out in the image that the complete list that display part 28 is carried out shows, selecting the processing of one indication, (before judged result is "Yes") repeats the processing of this step S316 before carrying out this indication.

In step S317, judge whether to have obtained by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, one indication is selected in decision in indicated image processing, when having carried out this decision indication (when judged result is "Yes"), finish this object images particular procedure, turn back to original processing.On the other hand, when not carrying out this decision indication (when judged result is "No"), turn back to the processing of step S316, repeat above-mentioned processing.

In step S318, obtain the processing of the top filename in the arrangement of the filename shown in the above-mentioned selected catalogue.

In step S319, carry out in the image root folder 12 of storage card 11, finding out respectively and obtain processing by the image data file 14-n of the obtained filename of performed before processing.

In step S320, carry out image processing part 24 and display process portion 27 are sent instruction, will be by the processing that looks like to be shown to display part 28 by the obtained represented surface plot of image data file 14-n of the rapid processing of previous step.

In step S321, judge whether to have obtained by the user to the operation of operation inputting part 32, in above-mentioned selected catalogue, select the processing of indication of image of filename of front and back order of filename of the image data file of expression display part 18 image in shown, when having obtained this indication (when judged result is "Yes"), in step S322, carry out in selected catalogue, obtaining the processing of the filename of this indicated order, turn back to the processing of step S319 then, repeat above-mentioned processing.

On the other hand, in step S321, when not obtaining such indication (when judged result is "No"), in step S323, judge whether to have obtained the operation to operation inputting part 32, make it determine the processing of the indication of the image that selection display part 18 is showing by the user.Here, when having sent this decision indication (when judged result is "Yes"), finish this object images particular procedure is turned back to original processing.On the other hand, when not sending this decision indication (when judged result is "No"), turn back to the processing of step S321, repeat above-mentioned processing.

The above object images particular procedure that is treated to.

Below, describe in conjunction with the delet method of the image data file 14-n that stored in Figure 18 A, Figure 18 B and Figure 18 C the image root folder 12 storage card 11.

Figure 18 A, Figure 18 B and Figure 18 C have represented all to be stored in the data content of the photograph album catalogue file 15 in the storage card 11 and the memory state of the image data file 14-n in the image root folder 12, and, will carry out display frame under the situation that complete list shows at display part 58 at the photographs in this memory state or photograph album image and carry out medelling and represent.

In each figure of Figure 18 A, Figure 18 B and Figure 18 C, in the data content of photograph album catalogue file 15, photography catalogue 16 has in statu quo been represented its content, and attached symbol with " 17A " is represented the catalogue of " photograph album A " photograph album in the photograph album catalogue 17.In addition, the content of the catalogue of the photography catalogue 16 when photographs complete list demonstration 91 has been represented according to this, the complete list display frame of the photographs that display part 28 is shown, the complete list of the image of " photograph album A " shows 92 the contents of catalogue of photograph album catalogue 17-A of " photograph album A " when having represented according to this, the complete list display frame of the photograph album image that display part 28 is shown.

In addition, in this embodiment, camera 10 does not have " photograph album A " photograph album in addition.

Figure 18 A represents the example of the memory state before the deleted image data file 14-n.

In the example of this Figure 18 A, being arranged as of the filename of the image data file 14-n that photography catalogue 16 is represented " P001, P002 ..., P005, P006, P007 ..., P012 ", in this case, the photographs complete list shows 91 complete lists that become by the represented image of the image data file 14-n that has been endowed these filenames.In addition, in this embodiment, being arranged as of the filename of the image data file 14-n that the photograph album catalogue 17-A of " photograph album A " is represented " P001, P003, P004, P006, P009 ..., P020 ", in this case, the complete list of the image of " photograph album A " shows 92 complete lists that become by the represented image of the image data file 14-n that has been endowed these filenames.At this moment, in the image storage folder 13 in image root folder 12, stored and had " P001, P002, P003, P004, P005, P006, P007 ..., P009 ... P012 " the image data file 14-n of filename.

The state of Figure 18 B is according to the indication of the photographs of being sent by the user of camera 10 that is intended to deletion " P006 ", the data in the storage card 11 have been carried out the situation after the data manipulation in the state of this Figure 18 A.

Forwarding to the process of Figure 18 B from this Figure 18 A, the filename of " P006 " is deleted from photography catalogue 16.The photographs of " P006 " shows 91 deleted from the photographs complete list like this, at this moment.But, in Figure 18 A, because as the photograph album image, in the photograph album catalogue 17-A of " photograph album A ", include " P006 ", thereby at this moment the image data file 14-n of " P006 " is not deleted from image root folder 12 yet.Like this, even at this moment, the image that also can carry out " P006 " shows, at this moment, shows the image that is showing " P006 " in 92 at the complete list of the image of " photograph album A ".

Then, the indication of the photograph album image that is intended to deletion " P006 " that the state representation of Figure 18 C is further sent according to the user by camera 10 in the state of this Figure 18 B has been carried out the situation after the data manipulation to the data in the storage card 11.

Forwarding to the process of Figure 18 C from this Figure 18 B, the filename of " P006 " is deleted from the photograph album catalogue 17-A of " photograph album A ".The photograph album image of " P006 " is also shown deletion 92 by the complete list from the image of " photograph album A " like this, at this moment.All there is not the filename of " P006 " in its result in any one of the photograph album catalogue 17-A of photography catalogue 16 and " photograph album A ".Therefore, in this case, the image data file 14-n of " P006 " is deleted from image root folder 12.

As mentioned above, after in any one catalogue of catalogue by not being present in each photograph album shown in photography catalogue 16 and the photograph album catalogue 17 at filename, to have the image data file 14-n deletion of this document name, can rightly the image data file 14-n under the situation about repeating in a plurality of catalogues at same image be deleted.

Below, to describing by the processing that CPU30 carried out in order in camera 10, to implement the delet method of above-mentioned image data file 14-n.

At first, Figure 19 is described.This figure with flowcharting the contents processing handled of photographs deletion.This is treated to: when the deletion indication that has obtained photographs from the user, filename that will this indicated photographs from photography catalogue 16 is deleted, and, only under the situation in this document name is not indicated on photograph album catalogue 17, just the image data file 14-n with this document name deletes from image root folder 12.That is, handle, even under the situation that in photograph album, includes the indicated photographs of the deletion indication that obtains from the user as the photograph album image, also can carry out the deletion of image data file 14-n rightly by this.

In addition, when the user operates operation inputting part 32, when sending the indication of deletion photographs, this processing just begins.

At first, in step S331, carry out from the photograph album catalogue file 15 that storage card 11 is stored, selecting the processing of photography catalogue 16, follow in step S332, the specific photographs that becomes the deletion object that goes out to be implemented above-mentioned object images particular procedure (Figure 17).

In step S333, carry out from photography read the catalogue 16 by the rapid processing of previous step the processing of filename of specific photographs.

In step S334, obtain the processing of affirmation indication that the deletion of photographs is carried out in affirmation that the user undertaken by operating operation portion 32, then in step S335, judge that this indicates whether the unerase processing of the indication handled of expression.

Here, if this judged result is a "Yes", then finishes this photographs deletion immediately and handle.On the other hand, if this judged result is a "No", judge in step S336 that then this indicates whether is the processing that the indication of deletion is carried out in expression, when this judged result is "Yes", enter into the processing of step S337, for "No" the time, turn back to the processing of step S334, repeat above-mentioned processing.

In step S337, carry out the processing of the filename deletion that from photography catalogue 16, will read by the processing of step S333.

In step S338, judge the processing of the filename that the processing that whether exists by step S333 is read from photography catalogue 16 in the catalogue of the filename of the image data file 14-n of each photograph album of the photograph album catalogue 17 of photograph album catalogue file 15, if in photograph album catalogue 17, there is this document name (judged result is a "Yes"), then directly finishes this photographs deletion and handle.On the other hand, if do not have this document name (judged result is a "No"), the processing of then in step S339, carrying out in image root folder 12, finding out and deleting the image data file 14-n of this document name in the photograph album catalogue 17.Then, finishing this photographs deletion after the processing of having finished step S339 handles.

The above photographs deletion that is treated to is handled.

Below, Figure 20 is described.This figure with flowcharting the contents processing handled of photograph album image-erasing.This is treated to: when the indication that has obtained from user's deletion photograph album image, from photograph album catalogue 17, will indicate the filename of indicated photograph album image to delete, and only under the situation in this document name is not indicated on any one of photography catalogue 16 and photograph album catalogue 17, the just processing that the image data file 14-n of this document name is deleted from image root folder 12.That is, handle,, also can carry out the deletion of image data file 14-n rightly even be under the situation of photographs or under the situation for the photograph album image that also comprises in the photograph album at other at the photograph album image of the deletion indication that obtains from the user by this.

The user to operation inputting part 32 operate, in the time of will selecting picture to be shown to display part 28 with the operation of illustrated photograph album in Figure 21 A function associated, and further when the operation of operation inputting part 32 having been selected the function of " removing login ", this photograph album image-erasing is handled beginning.

At first, in step S341, select to handle, select to comprise by carrying out above-mentioned photograph album and select to handle the photograph album that (Figure 15) becomes the photograph album image of deletion object.

Follow in step S342 the specific photographs that becomes the deletion object by above-mentioned object images particular procedure (Figure 17).The processing of having represented the step S315 by this object images particular procedure in Figure 21 B is shown to the picture example of the complete list display frame of the photograph album image on the display part 28 of camera 10, has represented that in Figure 21 C processing by step S320 is shown to the picture example of display frame of lattice of the photograph album image in the display part 28.

In step S343, carry out reading the catalogue of the photograph album selected from the treatment of selected of the step S341 by photograph album catalogue 17 by the processing of preceding step the processing of filename of specific photograph album image.

In step S344, obtain the processing of affirmation indication that the deletion of photograph album image is carried out in affirmation that the user undertaken by operating operation input part 32, then in step S345, judge that this indicates whether the unerase processing of the indication handled of expression.Here, if this judged result is a "Yes", then finishes this photograph album image-erasing immediately and handle.On the other hand, if this judged result is a "No", judge in step S346 that then this indicates whether is the processing that the indication of deletion is carried out in expression, when this judged result is "Yes", enter into the processing of step S347, for "No" the time, just turn back to the processing of step S344, repeat above-mentioned processing.

Processing about above-mentioned steps S344, in Figure 21 D expression for indicate unerase the photograph album treatment of picture and on display part 28 shown picture, in Figure 21 E expression in order to indicate the deletion of carrying out the photograph album image on display part 28 shown picture.

In step S347, the processing of carrying out the catalogue of the photograph album selected from the treatment of selected of the step S341 by photograph album catalogue 17, will deleting by the filename that the processing of step S343 is read.

In step S348, judge the processing of the filename that the processing that whether exists by step S343 is read from photograph album catalogue 17 in the catalogue of the filename of the image data file 14-n of each photograph album of photograph album catalogue 17, even if in photograph album catalogue 17, there is this document name (judged result is a "Yes"), then directly finishes this photograph album image-erasing and handle.On the other hand, if one of this document name does not exist yet in photograph album catalogue 17 (judged result is a "No"), then enter into the processing of step S349.

In step S349, judge the processing that whether has the filename that the processing by step S343 read from photograph album catalogue 17 in photography in the catalogue 16, if there is this document name (judged result is a "Yes"), then directly finishes this photograph album image-erasing and handle.On the other hand, if in photography catalogue 16, do not have this document name (judged result is a "No"), the processing of then in step S350, carrying out in image root folder 12, finding out and deleting the image data file 14-n of this document name.Then, just finishing this photograph album image-erasing after the processing of having finished step S350 handles.

The above photograph album image-erasing that is treated to is handled.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, be the regeneration of photograph album that in camera 10, comprises the demonstration of representative image, but also can carry out Figure 13 and various processing shown in Figure 15, in PC40, comprise the regeneration of the photograph album that representative image shows by the CPU51 that makes PC40.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, be in the CPU30 of camera 10, to carry out photograph album image-erasing shown in Figure 20 to handle, but in PC40, used the management of the image data file of image directory file to possess under the situation of album function by employing, the deletion that makes the CPU51 of PC40 carry out this photograph album image is handled, also can be rightly with this image-erasing that repeatedly belongs at same image under the situation of a plurality of photograph albums.

In addition, the present invention is not limited to above-mentioned embodiment, in the scope that does not break away from technical conceive of the present invention, can carry out various improvement changes.

Claims (5)

1. an image management apparatus is characterized in that, comprising:

Storage part is used to store a plurality of image data files;

The subordinate relation information memory cell stores the subordinate relation information of the subordinate relation that is used to represent image data file that described storage part is stored and the group under this image data file;

Subordinate relation is removed the unit, when the indication that the predetermined picture data file that is subordinated to predetermined group is deleted is arranged, by deleting the subordinate relation information in the described subordinate relation information memory cell, remove the subordinate relation of represented relevant this predetermined picture data file of this subordinate relation information about this predetermined group;

The data file delete cells, removing described subordinate relation by described subordinate relation releasing unit, and make and this predetermined picture data file is deleted from described storage part under the situation of the subordinate relation information that do not have expression any one group subordinate relation relevant with described predetermined picture data file in the described subordinate relation information memory cell.

2. image management apparatus according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Described image management apparatus is a camera.

3. image management apparatus according to claim 2 is characterized in that:

Described predetermined group is made of the image data file that the shooting by described camera is stored in the described storage part that this camera possesses,

The indication of described deletion is the indication with the shooting acquired image data file delete by described camera.

4. image management apparatus according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Described group constitutes the photograph album of having gathered by the represented image of the image data file that belongs to this group,

The indication of described deletion is the indication that the image data file of the scheduled image that photograph album comprised in the described photograph album is deleted from this predetermined photograph album.

5. image management method is characterized in that:

Having when being subordinated to the indication of predetermined picture file delete of predetermined group, by the subordinate relation information about this group of being scheduled to of deletion in the subordinate relation information of a plurality of image data files of storing of expression storage part and the subordinate relation of the group under this each image data file, remove the subordinate relation of represented relevant this predetermined picture data file of this subordinate relation information;

Removing described subordinate relation, and making and from described storage part, this predetermined picture data file to be deleted under the situation of the subordinate relation information do not have expression arbitrary group the subordinate relation relevant with described predetermined picture data file.

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