JP2000180704A - Automatic focusing camera - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow a photographer to select an optional selection mode from among automatic selection mode and arbitrary selection mode and to select an intended area for the optional selection mode, without newly adding an operating member, and without enforcing the photographer to perform a complicated operation. SOLUTION: This automatic focusing camera is constituted so with an automatic selection mode of automatically selecting focusing information to be used for driving a photographic lens out of respective pieces of focusing information obtained in plural areas in a photographing screen or the optional selection mode of using the focusing information obtained in the area selected among plural areas by the photographer's intention so as to drive the photographic lens may be selected. In this case, the camera is provided with area-setting means #403 to #410 for switching from one mode selected at the present to the other mode, among the automatic selection mode and the optional selection mode in response to the operation of a 1st operating member, and for allowing the photographer to select the optional area out of the plural areas by the 2nd operating member when the optional selection mode is selected.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improvement in an automatic focus camera having a plurality of areas in a photographic screen for obtaining focus adjustment information used for driving a photographic lens.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a photographing screen has an area (hereinafter also referred to as AF point) for obtaining a plurality of defocus amounts (focus adjustment information used for driving a photographing lens). There has already been proposed a multiple focus detection type automatic focus adjustment device in which a focus detection is performed by selecting an arbitrary AF point.

For example, in a camera using a passive type (passive type) automatic focus adjustment device using natural light of a subject, focus detection is performed at a plurality of AF points, and the result of focus detection at the plurality of points is used to determine the focus of the photographer. One intentional AF point is estimated and selected. Then, the focus state of the photographing lens is controlled based on the focus detection information.

According to this kind of function, since the focus is automatically adjusted irrespective of the position of the subject in the photographing screen, there is an advantage that the photographer can concentrate on drawing and composition.

[0005] However, in a single-lens reflex camera or the like, there are many uses in which a photographer pursues a desired drawing by using an advanced photographing technique. In such a case, it is preferable that the photographer himself / herself directly control the AF point through some kind of input means, rather than having the camera automatically select the AF point.

For example, when the camera is fixed on a tripod and operated, the AF lock technique cannot be used, so that the AF point control by the photographer's will is extremely effective. Further, even in a composition in which there is an obstacle nearer to the main subject, it is difficult to automatically discriminate between the two, so selection by input of the photographer's will is preferable.

[0007]

As described above, there are two methods for selecting one (or a small number of) AF points to be actually used for controlling the photographing lens from the focus detection results of a plurality of AF points. There is a way. One is an automatic selection method, and the other is an arbitrary selection method based on a photographer's intention input.

A configuration in which a single camera is provided with two selection means based on the above two selection methods and the photographer can arbitrarily switch is as follows, for example.

FIG. 17 shows an example of a display state on an external display when the camera is left unattended. In this state, when a button (referred to as an AF point setting button) for setting an automatic selection method and an arbitrary selection method provided in the camera is pressed, the camera enters an AF point setting mode. FIG. 18 shows an example of a display state on the external display at this time. The display state shown in FIG. 18 indicates the automatic selection state, and indicates that the camera is currently in the automatic selection state.

In this state, when the dial switch of the camera is rotated rightward by one click, the camera is in a state of selecting an outside left AF point by a will selection method. The display state on the external display at this time is as shown in FIG. Continue turning the dial to the right one click at a time,
It switches in the order of top → center → bottom → right middle → right outside → automatic selection. Also, if you rotate the dial to the left one click at a time, automatic selection → right outside → middle right → bottom → center →
It switches in the order of top → middle left → outside left → automatic selection.

When the AF point is selected in this way and another operation button is pressed, the AF point at this time is set.

[0012] However, shooting has been performed by an arbitrary selection up to now, but when it is intended to change to automatic selection, or when switching between arbitrary selection and automatic selection while keeping the AF point by the arbitrary selection method fixed. (For example, when shooting by switching between the center AF point and automatic selection alternately)
In each case, two operations of the AF point setting button and the dial switch are required each time, so that not only does the photographer perform many changing operations, but also it takes time for the changing operations, and in some cases, a shutter chance is missed. Problem. This problem becomes more serious as the number of AF points increases.

Further, when an operation button for returning to the automatic selection is newly added, there is a problem that the camera becomes large.

(Object of the Invention) An object of the present invention is to provide a system without adding a new operation member or forcing a complicated operation.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an automatic focusing camera that allows a photographer to select an arbitrary mode between the automatic selection mode and the arbitrary selection mode and to select an intended area in the arbitrary selection mode.

[0015]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention automatically selects focus adjustment information used for driving a photographic lens from each focus adjustment information obtained in a plurality of areas within a photographic screen. An auto-selection camera capable of selecting an auto-selection mode to select an auto-selection mode and an optional selection mode for driving a photographic lens by using focus adjustment information obtained in an area selected by a photographer from the plurality of areas. In response to the operation of the operation member of the automatic selection mode and the arbitrary selection mode, switch from one currently selected mode to the other mode, when the arbitrary selection mode is selected, An autofocus camera having an area setting unit that allows selection of an arbitrary area from the plurality of areas by a second operation member.

[0016]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on illustrated embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a main part of a first embodiment when the present invention is applied to a single-lens reflex camera. FIGS. 2A and 2B show the present invention applied to a single-lens reflex camera. It is the schematic of an upper surface and a back surface at the time of application. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram in the viewfinder field of FIG.

In these figures, reference numeral 1 denotes a photographing lens, which is shown by two lenses for convenience, but is actually composed of more lenses. Reference numeral 2 denotes a main mirror which is inclined to the photographing optical path or retreats according to the state of observation of the subject by the finder system and the state of photographing of the subject image.
Reference numeral 3 denotes a sub-mirror, which reflects a light beam transmitted through the main mirror 2 toward a later-described focus detection device 6 below the camera body. 4 is a shutter and 5 is a film.

Reference numeral 6 denotes a focus detection device, which includes a field lens 6a and reflection mirrors 6b and 6 arranged near the image plane.
c, a secondary imaging lens 6d, an aperture 6e, a sensor 6f, and the like. Focus detection device 6 in the present embodiment
Uses a well-known phase difference method, and as shown in FIG.
A plurality of areas (seven places) in the observation screen (in the viewfinder field) are set as AF points, and the AF points can be detected in focus.

Reference numeral 7 denotes a focusing plate arranged on a predetermined image forming plane of the photographing lens 1, 8 denotes a pentaprism for changing a finder optical path, 9 and 10 each denote an image forming lens for measuring the luminance of a subject in an observation screen. This is a photometric sensor, and the imaging lens 9 is conjugated to the focus plate 7 and the photometric sensor 10 via a reflection optical path in the pentaprism 8.

Reference numeral 11 denotes an eyepiece disposed behind the exit surface of the pentaprism 8, and is used for observing the focus plate 7 with the photographer's eye 15. The AF point mark 201 in FIG.
202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207
It is engraved on the focus plate 7 so that the photographer can grasp the position of the focus detection area (AF point) in the photographing screen.

Reference numeral 23 denotes a field mask for forming a finder field area, and 24 denotes an LCD in the finder for displaying photographing information outside the field of view of the finder.
(LED) 25. The LCD 24
Is transmitted to the viewfinder by the triangular prism 26, and is displayed outside the viewfinder as shown by 220 in FIG. 3, so that the photographer can know the shooting information.

Reference numeral 31 denotes an aperture provided in the taking lens 1;
A diaphragm driving device including a diaphragm driving circuit 111 described later;
Reference numeral 3 denotes a lens driving motor; 34, a lens driving member including a driving gear and the like; 35, a photocoupler;
The rotation of the pulse plate 36 interlocking with No. 4 is detected and transmitted to the lens focus adjustment circuit 115. The focus adjustment circuit 115
Drives the lens drive motor by a predetermined amount based on this information and the information on the lens drive amount from the camera side, and moves the photographing lens 1 to the in-focus position. Reference numeral 37 denotes a mounting contact that serves as an interface between a known camera and a lens.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 41 denotes a release button.
Reference numeral 42 denotes a monitor LCD as an external monitor display device, which includes a fixed segment display section 42a for displaying a predetermined pattern and a 7-segment display section 4 for displaying a variable numerical value.
2b. 44 is an AF point setting button. 5
Reference numeral 0 denotes a mode dial for setting a shooting mode and the like. 55 is a back cover.

The other operating members are not necessary for understanding the present invention, and therefore are omitted.

FIG. 4 shows a detailed view of the mode dial 50. By matching the display with the index 51 printed on the camera, the photographing mode can be set based on the display contents.

In FIG. 4, reference numeral 50a denotes a lock position for disabling the camera. Reference numeral 50b denotes a creative zone in which a photographer can set photographing contents, and has respective photographing modes of a program AE, a TV priority AE, an AV priority AE, and a manual exposure. Reference numeral 50c denotes a fully automatic mode position where full automatic photographing can be performed by the camera. 50
Reference numeral d denotes an image zone in which full-automatic shooting can be performed according to the situation of the camera, and includes a portrait mode suitable for portrait shooting, a landscape mode suitable for landscape shooting, a close-up mode suitable for close-up shooting, and a movement such as an athletic meet. It has each shooting mode of sports mode suitable for shooting of the subject.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration incorporated in the camera according to the embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

A central processing unit (hereinafter, referred to as a CPU) 100 in a microcomputer built in the camera body.
Includes a photometry circuit 102, an automatic focus detection circuit 103, a signal input circuit 104, an LCD drive circuit 105, an LED drive circuit 106, a shutter control circuit 107, and a motor control circuit 1.
08, the film detection circuit 109 is connected. A focus adjustment circuit 115 disposed in the taking lens 1;
The aperture driving circuit 116 is the mount contact 3 shown in FIG.
Transmission of a signal is performed via.

The photometric circuit 102 amplifies the output from the photometric sensor 10, performs logarithmic compression and A / D conversion, and transmits the result to the CPU 100 as luminance information of each sensor. The photometric sensor 10 is provided with a left outer AF in the finder visual field shown in FIG.
SPC-S1 for metering area 211 including point 201, area 212 including middle left AF point 202 in viewfinder field of view
SPC-S2, which measures the light, upper AF in the viewfinder
SPC-S3 for photometry of an area 213 including the point 203, an area 214 including a center-side AF point 204 in the finder visual field
SPC-S4, which measures the light, the lower AF in the viewfinder
SPC-S5 for photometry of area 215 including point 205, area 216 including right middle AF point 206 in viewfinder field
SPC-S6 for photometry, outside right A in viewfinder
SPC-S7 for photometry of area 217 including F point 207,
It is composed of eight photodiodes SPC-S8 for photometry of the peripheral area 218.

As shown in FIG. 3, the line sensor 6f shown in FIG. 5 includes seven sets of line sensors CCD-LL and CCD-L corresponding to the seven AF points 201 to 207 in the screen.
C, CCD-C, CCD-RC, CCD-RR, CCD
-U, a known CCD line sensor composed of CCD-D.

The automatic focus detection circuit 103 performs A / D conversion of the voltage obtained from the line sensor 6f,
Send to 0.

The signal input circuit 104 is for inputting a state of an operation member or the like of the camera.
The switch connected to No. 4 will be described.

The switch SW1 is a first switch of the release button 41.
A switch that is turned on by a stroke and starts photometry, AF, and the like, and a switch SW2 is a release switch that is turned on by a second stroke of the release button 41. Switch SWA
FSEL is a switch that is turned on when the AF point setting button 44 is pressed, and is a button for performing an AF point setting operation. The switch SWDIAL1 and the switch SWDIAL2 are input to the up / down counter of the signal input circuit 104 by a dial switch provided in the electronic dial 45, and count the rotation click amount of the electronic dial. When the electronic dial 45 is rotated to the right, it counts up, and when it is rotated to the left, it counts down.

Switches SWMODE1 to SWMODE4
Is a switch interlocked with the mode dial 50, and a switch SWMO
The ON and OFF states of DE1 to SWMODE4 are configured to be different. FIG. 7 shows a correspondence table between the states of the switches SWMODE1 to SWMODE4 and the shooting modes.

The switch SWBP is a switch that is turned on and off in conjunction with the opening / closing operation of the back cover 55, and is turned on when the back cover 55 is opened and turned off when the back cover 55 is closed. The switch SWPTIN is a switch for detecting whether or not there is a film in the film storage room. The switch is turned off when there is a film and turned on when there is no film.

The state signal of each switch is input to the signal input circuit 104 and transmitted to the CPU 100 via the data bus.

The LCD drive circuit 105 is a well-known circuit for driving and driving a liquid crystal display element LCD.
In accordance with the signal from 100, the display of the aperture value, shutter time, and various settings can be simultaneously displayed on both the monitor LCD 42 and the finder LCD 24.
The LCD drive circuit 105 includes a circuit for driving a sounding body (not shown), and can emit a focused sound or the like at the time of focusing according to a signal from the CPU 100.

The LED driving circuit 106 includes an illumination LE.
D (F-LED) 25 is turned on and off. The shutter control circuit 107 includes a magnet MG1 for running the front curtain when energized, and a magnet MG2 for running the rear curtain when energized.
To expose the film 5 with a predetermined amount of light. The motor control circuit 108 includes a motor M1 for winding and rewinding the film 5, a main mirror 2 and a shutter 4
To control the motor M2 that charges the battery. The film detection circuit 109 includes the photo sensor 1
This is for detecting the feeding speed of the film 5 and the position of the film during the film feeding based on the signal from 10.
When a predetermined signal is output from the photo sensor 110 during the film feeding, it is possible to detect that the feeding of one frame has been completed.

A series of release sequences are performed by the shutter control circuit 107, the motor control circuit 108, the film control circuit 109 and the like.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show the monitor LCD 4.
2 and the contents of all display segments of the LCD 24 in the finder.

In FIG. 6 (A), a known display mode or the like is provided in the fixed display segment section 42a. The fixed display segment section 42a includes an AF point display section for displaying information about an AF point, a film mark indicating the presence or absence of a film, and the like. The 7-segment section 42b for displaying a variable numerical value includes a 4-digit 7-segment 62 for displaying the shutter speed and a 2-digit 7-segment 6 for displaying the aperture value.
It is composed of three, a decimal point 64, and a two-digit seven-segment 65 indicating the number of films.

In FIG. 6B, reference numerals 73, 74, and 75 denote the same display segments as the shutter time display and the aperture value display, and 76 denotes information about the AF point.
The same display segment as the point F display section, 77 is a flash charging completion mark, and 79 is a focusing mark indicating the focusing state of the taking lens.

Next, the operation of the camera will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

When a battery is inserted into the camera, the power of the camera is turned on (# 100), and the CPU 100 starts operating.

Steps # 101 to # 102 are steps for performing initialization when a battery is inserted. First, in step # 101, the variable FP_MODE is set to "0" to set the AF point automatic selection mode. Variable FP_M
ODE indicates an AF point automatic selection mode or an AF point arbitrary selection mode.
"1" indicates the AF point arbitrary selection mode. In the next step # 102, a variable F_POIN is set to set the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode to the center AF point.
Set T to “4”. The variable F_POINT represents an arbitrary AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode, where “1” is the outer left AF point, “2” is the middle left AF point, and “3” is the upper AF point. , "4", the center AF point, "5", the lower AF point, "6", the middle right AF point,
"7" indicates the right outer AF point.

In the next step # 103, a subroutine "setting of shooting mode" is called to set the shooting mode. Details of this subroutine "setting of shooting mode" will be described later. In the following step # 104,
It is determined whether or not the shooting mode is locked. If the shooting mode is locked (when the lock position 50a is selected), the process proceeds to step # 105. At this time, since the camera is in an inoperative state, a display is made in step # 105 when the shooting mode is locked. A display example is shown in FIG. Thereafter, the flow returns to step # 103.

If the photographing mode is not locked, the process proceeds to step # 106, and the open / closed state of the back cover 55 is detected.
If the back cover 55 is open and the switch SWBP is on, the process proceeds to step # 108. If the back cover 55 is closed and the switch SWBP is off, the process proceeds to step # 107. In step # 107, it is detected whether or not a film exists in the patrone storage room. If there is a film in the patrone storage room and the switch SWPTIN is off, the process proceeds to step # 109. If there is no film in the patrone room and the switch SWPTIN is on, the process proceeds to step # 108.

In step # 108, the number of shots F
Clear RAMER. The number of shots FRAMER represents the number of shots. The number of shots FRAMER is “0” when there is no film, becomes “1” after the film has been skipped, increases by one every time one frame is shot, and increases by one frame when the film is rewound. Each time it is rewound, it is decremented by one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step # 111.

In step # 109, the number of shots F
It is determined whether or not RAMER is "0". Number of shots FRA
If the MER is "0", the process proceeds to step # 110 to cause the film to be skipped, and the routine "idle feed" is called to execute the film skip. The details of this subroutine "idling" will be described later. When returning from the subroutine "idling", the process returns to step # 103.

If the number of frames FRAMER is not "0", the process proceeds from step # 109 to step # 111,
It is determined whether or not the shooting mode is the creative zone.
If the shooting mode is a creative zone, step #
Proceed to 112, otherwise proceed to step # 114. In step # 112, it is determined whether or not the AF point setting button 44 has been pressed. If the AF point setting button 44 has been pressed and the switch AFSEL has been turned on, then step # 1
13; otherwise, to step # 114.

By the above steps # 111 to # 112,
Only when the shooting mode is in the creative zone, the AF point setting button 44 is accepted, that is, the operation for changing the AF point can be performed.

In step # 113, a subroutine "setting of AF point" is called, and processing of an AF point setting operation and the like are performed. Details of this subroutine "setting of AF point" will be described later. When returning from the subroutine "Setting of AF point", the process returns to step # 103.

In step # 114, the release button 41 is pushed to the first stroke and the switch SW
It is determined whether 1 is on. If the switch SW1 is on, the process proceeds to step # 116 in FIG. 9. If the switch SW1 is off, the process proceeds to step # 115.
The display is performed in a state where the release button 41 is not pressed. FIG. 21 shows a display example at this time. In this display example, the shooting mode is set to the program mode, and the AF point automatic selection is set. Thereafter, the flow returns to step # 103.

In step # 116 of FIG. 9, a photometric operation is performed. First, a photometric value BV is obtained from the luminances of a plurality of areas in the photographing range. Next, the photometric value BV, shooting mode,
The shutter speed and the aperture value are obtained from the film sensitivity and the like. In the following step # 117, focus detection for all AF points is detected. Then, in the next step # 118, one focus detection result is selected from the focus detection results of the plurality of AF points. In the AF point automatic selection mode, the main subject is estimated from the focus detection result (defocus amount) of each AF point, and the AF point estimated as the main subject is selected. In this embodiment, the AF point located closest to the camera is assumed to be the main subject. In the case of the AF point arbitrary selection mode, the designated AF point is selected.

In the next step # 119, it is determined whether or not the current focus state is in focus, based on the focus detection result selected in step # 118. If the camera is in focus, the process proceeds to step # 120, and in step # 120 and the next step # 121, processing for notifying the photographer that the camera is in focus is performed.

That is, in step # 120, C
The PU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to emit a focusing sound. Then, in the next step # 121, a display during the photometry and focus detection operation in the in-focus state is performed. Specifically, first, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to cause the monitor LCD 42 and the LCD 24 in the finder to display the shutter speed, the aperture value, and the like.
Also, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to control the A and B of the monitor LCD 42 and the LCD 24 in the finder.
Information about the AF point is displayed on the F point display section. In the case of the AF point automatic selection mode, the AF point selected in step # 118 and the AF point within the focusing range are displayed. In the case of the AF point arbitrary selection mode, only the designated AF point is displayed. Also, the focus mark 79 on the LCD 24 in the finder is turned on. FIG. 22 shows a display example at this time.

In the display example shown in FIG. 22, the shooting mode is program, the shutter speed is 1/125, the aperture value is F5.6, and A
In the point F automatic selection mode, the center A
This is a display when point F is selected and the middle right AF point and the middle left AF point are within the focusing range.

If it is determined in step # 119 that the current focus state is not in focus, the process proceeds to step # 122, where the processing for driving the photographing lens 1 is performed. That is, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the lens focus adjustment circuit 110 to drive the photographing lens 1 by a predetermined amount. At this time, the lens is driven by a predetermined amount based on the focus detection result of the AF point selected in step # 118. Then, in the next step # 123, the display during the photometry and focus detection operations when the subject is not in focus is performed. Specifically, first, the CPU
100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105, and sends a signal to the monitor LCD 42 and the LCD 24 in the finder when the shutter time is up.
The aperture value and the like are displayed. Further, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to display information about the AF point on the monitor LCD 42 and the AF point display section of the LCD 24 in the finder. In the case of the AF point automatic selection mode, all the AF points are displayed because focusing has not yet been achieved. AF
In the case of the point selection mode, only the designated AF point is displayed. FIG. 23 shows a display example in the AF point automatic selection mode.

In the display example shown in FIG. 23, the shooting mode is program, the shutter speed is 1/125, the aperture value is F5.6, and A
This is a display in the case of the F point automatic selection mode.

In the next steps # 124 to # 125, it is determined whether or not the release operation is permitted.

If it is determined in step # 124 that the subject is not in focus, the process returns to step # 103. If the subject is in focus, the process returns to step # 125 to determine whether or not the release button 41 has been pressed. move on. If the release button 41 has been pressed and the switch SW2 has been turned on, the process proceeds to step # 126. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step # 126.
Return to 103. In step # 126, the control jumps to release control to perform a release operation.

Next, the operation of the subroutine "jump feed" will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The subroutine "jump feed" is a part for performing the jump feed operation of the film.

First, at step # 151, a display for informing that the film is being fed in the idle state is displayed. Therefore, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to turn on the film mark of the monitor LCD 42. In addition, the film number display section is turned off. In the next step # 152, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the motor drive circuit 108 to drive the motor M1 in the normal rotation direction in order to start the idle feeding of the film. Further, a signal is sent to the film detection circuit 109, and a signal from the photo sensor 110 is used to make it possible to detect a film position during film feeding. In the following step # 153, the signal from the photo sensor 110 is continuously monitored, and the process stands by until the film has been fed up to the first frame.

When the feeding of the film up to the first frame is completed, the process proceeds to step # 154, where the CPU 100 sends a signal to the motor control circuit 108 to stop the motor M1, and in the next step # 155, the number of frames FRAMER is set to " 1 ". Next, at step # 156, in order to cancel the display indicating that the film is being skipped,
The CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to turn on the film mark on the monitor LCD 42. Further, the content of the number of frames FRAMER is displayed on the film number display section. Then, in the next step # 157, the subroutine "idling" is completed, and the routine returns.

Next, the operation of the subroutine "setting of photographing mode" will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. This subroutine “setting of shooting mode” is a part for performing processing related to setting of shooting mode.

First, in step # 201, the on / off state of the switch SWMODE4 is determined. As a result, if the switch SWMODE4 is not on, the process returns to the step # 230. If the switch SWMODE4 is on, the process returns to the step # 20.
The process proceeds to step 2, where the ON / OFF state of the switch SWMODE3 is determined. If the switch SWMODE3 is off, the process proceeds to step # 210, the shooting mode is set to lock, and the process proceeds to step # 211. If the switch SWMODE3 has been turned on, step # 203
Proceed to.

In step # 203, the switch S
The ON / OFF state of WMODE2 is determined. Switch S
If WMODE2 is on, the process proceeds to step # 204, where the on / off state of switch SWMODE1 is determined. If the switch SWMODE1 is on, the process proceeds to step # 205, the shooting mode is set to manual exposure, and the process proceeds to step # 211. Also, switch SW
If MODE1 is off, the process proceeds to step # 206, where the shooting mode is set to AV priority AE, and step # 2 is performed.
Proceed to 11.

If it is detected in step # 203 that the switch SWMODE2 is off, the flow advances to step # 207.
The on / off state of is determined. As a result, the switch SWM
If ODE1 is on, the process proceeds to step # 208, where the shooting mode is set to TV priority AE, and step # 21
Proceed to 1. If the switch SWMODE1 has been turned on, the process proceeds to step # 209, the photographing mode is set to the program AE, and the process proceeds to step # 211.

In step # 230 of FIG. 12, the on / off state of switch SWMODE3 is determined. If the switch SWMODE3 is off, the process proceeds to step # 238, the shooting mode is set to the sports mode, and the process proceeds to step # 240. If the switch SWMODE3 has been turned on, the process proceeds to step # 231, where the on / off state of the switch SWMODE2 is determined. As a result, if the switch SWMODE2 is on, step # 23
Go to step # 2, otherwise go to step # 235.

In step # 232, the switch S
The ON / OFF state of WMODE1 is determined, and the switch SW
If MODE1 is on, the process proceeds to step # 233, the photographing mode is set to the fully automatic mode, and the process proceeds to step # 240. If the switch SWMODE1 is off, the process proceeds to step # 234, the shooting mode is set to the portrait mode, and the process proceeds to step # 240.

In step # 235, the switch S
The ON / OFF state of WMODE1 is determined, and the switch SW
If MODE1 is ON, the process proceeds to step # 237, the shooting mode is set to the landscape mode, and the process proceeds to step # 240. If the switch SWMODE1 is off, the process proceeds to step # 236, where the shooting mode is set to the close-up mode, and the process proceeds to step # 240.

In the following steps # 240 and # 241, the photographing mode is the fully automatic mode, or the AF point in the image zone is automatically set.

First, in step # 240, AF
The variable FP_MODE is set to “0” to set the automatic point selection mode. Then, in the next step # 241, the variable F_POINT is set to "4" in order to set the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode to the center AF point.
After that, the subroutine “Setting the shooting mode” is completed,
Go to step # 211.

By the above steps # 240 to # 241,
In the fully automatic mode or the image zone, the AF point automatic selection mode is automatically set.

Next, using the flowchart of FIG.
The operation of the release control will be described below.

Step # 30 via step # 300
In step 1, the main mirror 2 is first moved up in preparation for exposing the film 5 to light. For this purpose, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the motor control circuit 108 to start driving the motor M2 in the normal rotation direction. Thereafter, the phase signals CMSP1 and CMSP2 of the phase substrate (not shown) are continuously monitored. When the phase signals reach the mirror-up position, a signal is sent to the motor control circuit 108 to stop driving the motor M2. Further, a signal is sent to an aperture driving device 32 including the aperture driving circuit 11, and the aperture 31 is stopped down by a predetermined amount.

In the next step # 302, the film 5 is exposed. Specifically, first, a signal is sent to the shutter control circuit 107 to energize the MG 1 and open the front curtain of the shutter 4. The aperture value of the aperture 31 and the shutter speed of the shutter 4 are determined by the photometry in step # 116. Then, after the elapse of a predetermined shutter time, a signal is sent to the shutter control circuit 107 to energize the MG 2 and close the rear curtain of the shutter 4. Thus, the exposure of the film 5 is completed.

In the next step # 303, since the exposure of the film 5 has been completed, the main mirror 2 is lowered and the shutter is charged. For this purpose, the CPU 100
Sends a signal to the motor control circuit 108 to start driving the motor M2 in the forward direction. Thereafter, the phase signals CMSP1 and CMSP2 of the phase substrate (not shown) are continuously monitored, and when the phase signals reach the mirror-down position, the motor control circuit 108
To stop the driving of the motor M2. Further, a signal is sent to an aperture driving device 32 including the aperture driving circuit 11,
The aperture 31 is returned to the open state.

In the next step # 304, a signal is sent to the motor control circuit 108 to wind the film 5, and the motor M1 starts to be driven in the normal direction. Further, a signal is sent to the film detection circuit 109, and a signal from the photo sensor 110 is used to make it possible to detect a film position during film feeding. In the subsequent step # 305, the process stands by until winding of one frame is completed. When the winding for one frame is completed, the process proceeds to step # 306, where the CPU 100 sends a signal to the motor control circuit 108 to stop driving the motor M1.

In step # 307, since the winding of one frame has been completed, "1" is added to the number of shots FRAMER. Then, in the next step # 308, if the photographing of the last frame of the film is completed, the process proceeds to step # 309, and if not, the process returns to step # 103. In step # 309, a subroutine "rewind" is called. This subroutine "rewind" is a part for rewinding the film, and details thereof will be described later. When returning from this subroutine "rewind", the process returns to step # 103.

Next, the operation of the subroutine "rewind" will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

At step # 351, a display for notifying that rewinding is being performed is performed. Therefore, C
The PU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to turn on the film mark of the monitor LCD 42. Also,
The content of the number of frames FRAMER is displayed on the number-of-films display section. In the next step # 352, to start rewinding the film, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the motor driving circuit 108 to drive the motor M1 in the reverse direction. Further, a signal is sent to the film detection circuit 109, and a signal from the photo sensor 110 is used to make it possible to detect a film position during film feeding.

In step # 353, the signal from the photo sensor 110 is continuously monitored, and the process stands by until the frame is rewound by one frame. In the subsequent step # 354, since the frame has been rewound by one frame, the number of frames FRAMER to be photographed is reduced by "1". Then, in step # 355, during rewinding of the film, each time the film is rewound by one frame, the monitor L
The display of the number of films on the CD 42 is decremented by one. Therefore, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to display the content of the number of frames FRAMER on the number-of-films display section of the LCD 42 for monitoring.

At step # 356, it is determined whether or not the film rewinding is completed. The determination as to whether or not rewinding is completed is made based on whether or not the number of shots FRAMER is “0”.
When the number of frames FRAMER is “0”, that is, when the rewinding is completed, the process proceeds to step # 357, and otherwise, the process returns to step # 353. In step # 357, since the rewinding of the film 5 is completed,
100 sends a signal to the motor control circuit 108, and the motor M
Stop 1 Then, in the next step # 358, a display for notifying that the rewinding has been completed is performed. Therefore, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to blink the film mark on the monitor LCD 42. In addition, the film number display section is turned off.

At step # 359, it is determined whether or not the film has been taken out. In order to take out the film, it waits until the back lid 55 is opened and the switch SWBP is turned on. Then, in the next step # 360,
The display for notifying that the film rewind has ended is released. Finally, in step # 361, the subroutine "rewind" is terminated, and the routine returns.

Next, using the flowchart of FIG.
The operation of the subroutine "set AF point" will be described below. This subroutine "set AF point" performs processing of an AF point setting operation and the like.

First, in step # 401, the currently set AF point setting state is displayed. Therefore, the CPU 100 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit 105 to cause the AF point display section of the monitor LCD 42 to display the state of the currently set AF point. FIG. 24 shows a display example at this time. This display example indicates that the camera is currently in the AF point automatic selection mode. In the next step # 402, a setting timer (6 seconds) for continuing the AF point setting operation is started. The setting timer is updated when the AF point setting button 44 is operated or the electronic dial 45 is operated in the AF point arbitrary selection mode. When the setting timer is typed up, the AF point setting operation is automatically canceled.

In the next step # 403, it is determined whether or not the AF point setting button 44 has been pressed again. If the AF point setting button 44 has been pressed again, the process proceeds to step # 404.
Otherwise, go to step # 408. Step # 4
In step 04, if the mode is the AF point arbitrary selection mode, that is, if the variable FP_MODE is "1", step #
Proceed to 405 to change to the AF point automatic selection mode.
The variable FP_MODE is set to “0”. Also, the variable FP_
If MODE is "0", the process proceeds to step # 406, where A
Variable FP_MOD to change to F point arbitrary selection mode
Set E to “1”.

At the next step # 407, the set timer is updated. At the next step # 408, whether or not the AF point arbitrary selection mode is set, that is, the variable FP_MODE
Is "1" or not, and if "1", step # 4
09, otherwise to step # 410.
In step # 409, a subroutine "change AF point in arbitrary selection mode" is called. The subroutine "change AF point in arbitrary selection mode" performs an operation of changing the AF point (one point) in the arbitrary AF point selection mode. The details of the subroutine "change AF point in arbitrary selection mode" will be described later.

In step # 410, a display during the AF point selecting operation is performed. For this reason, the CPU 100
A signal is sent to the drive circuit 105, and A
The state of the currently set AF point is displayed on the F point display section. Display examples at this time are shown in FIGS.

FIG. 25 shows the AF point automatic selection mode. FIG. 26A shows the AF point arbitrary selection mode, in which the left outside AF point is set. FIG.
6 (B) is the AF point arbitrary selection mode, which indicates that the left middle AF point is set. FIG.
This is the point F arbitrary selection mode, in which the upper AF point is set. FIG. 27B shows the AF point arbitrary selection mode, in which the center AF point is set.
FIG. 28A shows the AF point arbitrary selection mode, in which the lower AF point is set. FIG. 28B shows the AF
This is a point selection mode, in which the right middle AF point is set. FIG. 29 shows the AF point arbitrary selection mode in which the outside right AF point is set.

In the next step # 411, it is determined whether or not the set timer has expired. If the set timer has expired, the flow advances to step # 412; otherwise, the flow returns to step # 403. Step # 412
Then, the subroutine "AF point setting" is completed, and the routine returns.

Next, using the flowchart of FIG.
The operation of the subroutine "Change AF point in arbitrary selection mode" will be described below. This subroutine “change AF point in arbitrary selection mode” is a part for performing an operation of changing the AF point (one point) in the arbitrary AF point selection mode.

First, in step # 501, the count value of the electronic dial 45 is input from the signal input circuit 104, and is replaced with a dial count value DIALR which is a variable. In the next step # 502, the electronic dial 45 is not operated, and if the dial count value DIALR is "0", the flow proceeds to step # 510; otherwise, the flow proceeds to step # 503. In step # 503, the electronic dial 45 is operated rightward, and if the dial count value DIALR is a positive number, the process proceeds to step # 504.
The process proceeds to step # 520 if it is a negative number.

In the next steps # 504 to # 507, every time the dial 45 is operated by one click, a process for circulating the AF point rightward is performed.

First, in step # 504, the dial count value DIALR is decremented by one. In the next step # 505, one variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode is added. In the following step # 506, if the variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode is "8", the process proceeds to step # 507, otherwise, the process proceeds to step # 507.
Proceed to 508. In step # 507, a variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode
Is set to "1", and the routine proceeds to step # 508.

In steps # 520 to # 523,
Every time the dial 45 is operated by one click, a process for circulating the AF point to the left is performed.

First, in step # 520, one is added to the dial count value DIALR. In the next step # 521, one is subtracted from the variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode. In the following step # 522, if the variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode is "0", the flow proceeds to step # 523;
Proceed to 508. In step # 523, a variable F_POINT representing the AF point in the AF point arbitrary selection mode
Is set to "7", and the routine proceeds to step # 508.

In the next step # 508, the set timer is updated. In the following step # 509, it is determined whether or not the dial count value DIALR is "0".
If "0", the process proceeds to step # 510; otherwise, the process returns to step # 503. In step # 510, this subroutine "change of AF point in arbitrary selection mode" ends, and the routine returns.

In the above embodiment, first, AF
When the point setting button 44 is pressed, an AF point setting operation starts (see FIG. 8).
# 112 to # 113 (to FIG. 15)). When the AF point setting button 44 is pressed again during the AF point setting operation (# 403 in FIG. 15), the current AF mode is selected from the AF point automatic selection mode and the AF point arbitrary selection mode. If the mode is the mode, the mode is switched to the AF point arbitrary selection mode, and if the mode is the AF point arbitrary selection mode, the mode is switched to the AF point automatic selection (# 404 to # 406). In addition, when the AF point arbitrary selection mode is set (# 408), the AF point can be changed in the AF point arbitrary selection mode (# 409).
(See FIG. 16) At this time, the AF intended by the photographer in the AF point arbitrary selection mode in which the electronic dial 45 is operated.
Point can be changed (# 501 to # 50 in FIG. 16).
9).

As described above, it is possible to switch between the automatic AF point selection mode and the arbitrary AF point selection mode by simply pressing the AF point selection button 44 again.
By operating the electronic dial 45 while selecting the point selection mode, the intended AF point can be easily set.

In other words, the shooting has been performed by the arbitrary selection (AF point selection in the AF point selection mode). In the case where the camera is used while switching between arbitrary selection and automatic selection while the AF point by the method is fixed (for example, when shooting is performed by alternately switching between the central AF point and automatic selection), automatic selection from arbitrary selection is performed. Can be changed quickly. In addition, a change operation from automatic selection to optional selection can be performed quickly. In this way, even if the number of AF points is large, operability is improved, such as automatic return to automatic selection.

Also, without adding a new operation button,
The operability as described above can be improved.

(Correspondence between the Invention and the Embodiment) In the above embodiment, the part of the CPU 100 which performs the operations shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 corresponds to the area setting means of the present invention, and the AF point setting button 44 corresponds to the present invention. The electronic dial 45 corresponds to a first operation member, and the electronic dial 45 corresponds to a second operation member of the present invention. Further, a plurality of AF points correspond to a plurality of regions of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the area for focus detection (area for obtaining the defocus amount) is set as the AF point. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be similarly applied to a camera having the above-described ranging area, and the plurality of areas of the present invention include the above-described ranging area.

[0107]

As described above, according to the present invention,
To allow the photographer to select an arbitrary mode from the automatic selection mode and the arbitrary selection mode and to select an intended area in the arbitrary selection mode without adding a new operation member or forcing a complicated operation. It is possible to provide a self-focusing autofocus camera.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a main part according to an embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a single-lens reflex camera.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an upper surface and a rear surface of a single-lens reflex camera to which the present invention is applied.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram in the viewfinder field of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a detailed view of a mode dial shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the single-lens reflex camera of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a monitor L provided in the single-lens reflex camera of FIG.
It is explanatory drawing of a CD and LCD in a finder.

FIG. 7 is a switch S provided in the single-lens reflex camera of FIG. 1;
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the state of WMODE1 to SWMODE4 and the shooting mode.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a part of the operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the operation in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subroutine “idling” according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subroutine “setting of a shooting mode” according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the operation in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subroutine “release control” according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subroutine “rewind” according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a subroutine “AF point setting” according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation of a subroutine “change of an arbitrary point” according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a display example of a conventional camera.

FIG. 18 is a view showing a display example of a conventional camera.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a display example of a conventional camera.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a display example at the time of locking according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a display example in a state where the release button is not pressed in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a display example in a focused state according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a display example in a case where an image is not in focus in one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a state in which an AF point setting operation has been started according to the embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a display example during an AF point setting operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating a display example during an AF point setting operation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a display example during an AF point setting operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a display example during an AF point setting operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a display example during an AF point setting operation according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 6 Focus detection device 41 Release button 44 AF point setting button 45 Electronic dial 100 CPU 102 Photometry circuit 103 Focus detection circuit 104 Signal input circuit 105 LCD drive circuit 115 Focus adjustment circuit 201-207 AF point mark

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. An automatic selection mode for automatically selecting focus adjustment information used for driving a photographic lens from each focus adjustment information obtained in a plurality of areas in a shooting screen, and a photographer selecting one of the plurality of areas from among the plurality of areas. In an autofocus camera capable of selecting an arbitrary selection mode in which focus adjustment information obtained in an area selected by the user is used for driving a photographing lens, the automatic selection mode is selected in response to an operation of a first operation member. The mode is switched from the currently selected one mode to the other mode among the arbitrary selection modes, and when the arbitrary selection mode is selected, an arbitrary one of the plurality of areas by the second operation member is selected. An auto-focus camera comprising an area setting means for allowing an area to be selected. 2. The automatic focusing camera according to claim 1, wherein the first operation member is a pressing operation member, and the second operation member is a rotary operation member. 3. The first operation member is a member exclusively used for switching between the automatic selection mode and the arbitrary selection mode, and the second operation member is used for information selection other than the region selection. The autofocus camera according to claim 1, wherein the camera is also used.