JP2000224453A - Communication equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a communication device capable of recording, communicating and utilizing photograph images by simple operations. SOLUTION: An image pickup unit 100 is provided with an image pickup element 14 for converting optical images to electric signals and a recording medium 300 is provided with a recording element capable of recording a large amount of information. A processing unit 200 is provided with an output device 106 provided with an image display device, an operation unit 108 and a communication control circuit 110, controls the image pickup unit 100 corresponding to the operation and setting conditions of the operation unit 108 and supplies photographing image information from the image pickup unit 100 to the recording medium 300. A control circuit 102 gives priority to image pickup by the image pickup unit 100 over communication by the communication control circuit 110 in an image pickup priority mode, and gives priority to the communication over the image pickup in a communication priority mode. The image pickup unit 100 is freely attachable and detachable to/from the processing unit 200 and the recording medium 300 is freely attachable and detachable to/from the processing unit 200.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a communication device for communicating and outputting a photographed image.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An electronic still camera for recording a captured image as a still image on a recording medium such as an optical disk device, a magneto-optical disk device, or a memory card having a solid-state memory element is well known. Since a memory card has no moving parts and is convenient to carry, it is expected to be used as a recording or storage medium of a small information device such as an electronic organizer or a portable computer and as a data carrier.

[0003]

However, for example, when it is desired to use an image taken by an electronic still camera on a portable computer, in a conventional example, a memory card storing the taken image is connected to the portable computer. If you want to transfer to a remote location, start the application software (for example, communication software),
An operation of reading the photographed image information must be performed. Therefore, even if the photographed image is immediately used on a portable computer, it is necessary to perform a troublesome operation,
Inconvenient. In addition, a separate electronic still camera and portable computer must be carried together, which is also inconvenient.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to eliminate such inconveniences and to present a communication device which can record, communicate, and utilize photographed images by a simple operation.

[0005]

According to the present invention, there is provided a communication apparatus comprising: an image pickup means for picking up an image of a subject to obtain a picked-up image; It is characterized by having communication means for transmitting, and control means for automatically operating the imaging means by moving the imaging means over a predetermined range.

A communication device according to the present invention is a foldable communication device having an image pickup function and a communication function, and has a power supply and control means for controlling the power supply by moving the fold over a predetermined range. It is characterized by.

[0007]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. Reference numeral 100 denotes an imaging unit, and 200 denotes a processing unit that records and reproduces an image captured by the imaging unit 100 on a recording medium 300, communicates with the outside, and uses the same. The imaging unit 100 is detachable from the processing unit 200, and the recording medium 300 is attached to the processing unit 200.
It is removable.

The configuration of the imaging unit 100 will be described. 1
0 is a photographing lens, 12 is a shutter having an aperture function,
An image sensor 14 converts an optical image into an electric signal, and an A / D converter 16 converts an analog output of the image sensor 14 into a digital signal. Image sensor 14 and A / D converter 16
In some cases, a process circuit for performing known camera signal processing such as gamma correction, color balance adjustment, and conversion into a luminance / color difference signal may be provided between them.

Reference numeral 18 denotes an image memory, 20 denotes a compression / expansion circuit for compressing / expanding image data by adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT) or the like, and 22 controls writing / reading of the image memory 18 and data input / output of the compression / expansion circuit 20. Memory control circuit. The memory control circuit 22 first writes the captured image data from the A / D converter 16 into the image memory 18.

When compressing the image data stored in the image memory 18, the memory control circuit 22 reads out the image data stored in the image memory 18 and supplies the read image data to the compression / expansion circuit 20. Is written to the image memory 18. When expanding the compressed image data stored in the image memory 18, the memory control circuit 22 reads out the compressed image data stored in the image memory 18 and supplies it to the compression / expansion circuit 20. Is written to the image memory 18.

Reference numeral 24 denotes an image pickup control circuit (CPU) for controlling the entire image pickup unit 100. Reference numeral 26 denotes an image pickup element 14 under the control of the memory control circuit 22 and the image pickup control circuit 24.
A clock generation circuit that supplies a predetermined clock to the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22.

A shutter driving circuit 28 for driving the shutter 12; a lens driving circuit 30 for driving the focusing lens and the zooming lens of the photographing lens 10;
32 is a distance measuring circuit for measuring the distance to the subject, 34 is a photometric circuit for measuring the brightness of the subject, and 36 is a flash.

Reference numeral 38 denotes a rechargeable battery for supplying power to each unit in the imaging unit 100.
0 may be detachable or fixed, and further, a part may be fixed and the rest may be detachable. Battery 38 is
A capacitor having a capacity that can sufficiently cope with the charging of the flash 36 and the peak current caused by the motor drive of the shutter drive circuit 28 and the lens drive circuit 30 is used.

Reference numeral 40 denotes a mounting detection circuit for detecting the mounting of the battery 38, a voltage detection circuit for detecting the output voltage of the battery 38,
This is a power supply control circuit including a DC-DC converter and a switch for selectively controlling a block to be energized. The power supply control circuit 40 detects whether or not the battery 38 is mounted, the type of the battery, and the remaining amount of the battery 38.
The DC-DC converter is controlled in accordance with the instruction of No. 4, and a required voltage is supplied to each unit in the imaging unit 100 for a required period.

Reference numeral 42 denotes a program storage circuit (ROM) for storing operation programs and control constants of the imaging control circuit 24 and the processing unit 200; 44, photographic image data;
An interface 46 for bidirectionally transferring an operation program, control data, and the like to and from the information unit 200, and a connector 46 for connecting the imaging unit 100 to the processing unit 200. The connector 46 includes not only a data signal line and a control signal line but also a power line for supplying power from the processing unit 200 to the interface 44 and the program storage circuit 42. The power control circuit 40 receives a control signal and a charging current of the battery 38 from the processing unit 200 via the connector 46. The power control circuit 40 can also supply current from the battery 38 to the processing unit 200.

The imaging control circuit 24 outputs a signal to the photographing lens 10 via a lens driving circuit 30 in accordance with the measurement result of the distance measuring circuit 32.
Is driven to control the taking lens 10 to be in focus. The imaging control control circuit 24 also determines the opening time of the shutter 12 by the shutter drive circuit 28 so as to obtain the optimum exposure amount based on the measurement result of the photometry circuit 34. Since these are very general techniques and are not characteristic of the present invention, detailed description will be omitted.

The configuration of the processing unit 200 will be described. 1
02 is a control circuit (CPU) for controlling the entire processing unit 200; 104 is a ROM and a RAM;
A storage circuit for storing the operation program of U102 and various control variables and the like, and an output device 106 including a liquid crystal display device for displaying characters and images as images and a speaker for audio output.

Reference numeral 108 denotes an operation device for inputting predetermined instructions to the image pickup unit 100 and the processing unit 200. The operation unit 108 includes a main switch, an image pickup switch for designating a mode for executing photographing, a release button, and a ten-key pad for dialing. A switch and a communication switch for instructing the start of communication are provided. The ranging photometering switch for instructing the ranging and photometry by the ranging circuit 32 and the photometry circuit 34 is closed during the operation of the release switch, and the shooting start switch for instructing the start of the shooting is completed when the operation of the release button is completed. Is closed.

The operating device 108 includes an output device 106
Needless to say, characters, graphics, pictograms, etc., corresponding to various operation elements may be displayed on the display device, and these may be operated and input using a mouse, a track ball, a touch panel, and an input pen. Nor.

Reference numeral 110 denotes a communication control circuit (CCU) for controlling connection to a communication line, for example, an ISDN line, and includes an incoming call detection circuit 112 therein. Reference numeral 114 denotes a connector for connecting to a communication line.

Reference numeral 116 denotes an interface for communication with the imaging unit 100; 118, a connector connected to the connector 46 of the imaging unit 100; 120, an imaging unit for mechanically, electrically, or optically detecting attachment / detachment of the imaging unit 100; This is a detachment detection circuit.

Reference numeral 122 denotes a power supply which is detachable from the processing unit 200 and comprises a battery 124 and a connector 126. Connector 126 connects to connector 128. 130 is
A power supply control circuit similar to the power supply control circuit 40,
22, a voltage detection circuit for detecting the output voltage of the battery 124 of the power supply 122, a DC-DC
A converter and a switch for selectively controlling a block to be energized are provided. The power supply control circuit 130 includes a battery 124
, The type of battery and the remaining battery level are detected, and the power is exchanged with the battery 38 of the imaging unit 100 via the connector 46 and the power supply control circuit 40.

Reference numeral 132 denotes an interface for communication with the recording medium 300, and reference numeral 134 denotes a connector for connecting the recording medium 300.

The control circuit 102, the storage circuit 104, the output device 106, the operation device 108, the communication control circuit 110, the interface 116, the image pickup unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 12
0, power supply control circuit 130 and interface 132
Are connected to each other via a bus 136.

The recording medium 300 includes a recording element 202, an interface 204 for communication with the processing unit 200, and a connector 206 connected to a connector 134 of the processing unit 200. The recording element 202 includes, for example, a hard disk drive, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a solid-state memory element, and the like. In this embodiment, the flash
Uses solid state memory devices such as memory, battery backed dynamic random access memory, and programmable read only memory (PROM).

Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of the main routine of this embodiment.

By connecting the power supply 122 to the processing unit 200, the output of the battery 124 of the power supply 122 is applied to the power supply control circuit 130 via the connectors 126 and 128. The power supply control circuit 130 supplies a necessary power supply voltage to the control circuit 102 and the storage circuit 104, and the control circuit 102 executes a predetermined program stored in the storage circuit 104, and first performs initialization (S1).

The control circuit 102 checks the main switch of the operating device 108 (S2). If the main switch is off (S2), the control circuit 102
After the predetermined end processing is executed in each of the units 0, the power supply control circuit 130 stops the power supply to the entire processing unit 200 (S3). If the main switch is on (S
2), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the entire processing unit 200, and causes the video display device of the output device 106 to display predetermined video such as characters and icons (S4).

When the entire processing unit 200 is turned on, when there is an incoming call (S5), the communication switch is turned on / off.
It is checked whether it is off (S6) and whether or not the imaging unit 100 is connected (S7). The presence or absence of the connection of the imaging unit 100 can be detected by the imaging unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 120,
When the imaging unit 100 is not mounted (S
7) A predetermined warning by video and / or audio is output from the output device 106 (S8), and the process returns to S2.

Incoming call detecting circuit 11 in communication control circuit 110
2 detects an incoming call request from a communication line connected to the connector 114 or an external device. When there is an incoming call request, the incoming call detection circuit 112 notifies the control circuit 102 and the control circuit 10
2 notifies the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system (S9). The communication control circuit 110 connects the line (S10) and executes communication (S11). After executing communication,
The communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S12), and the power supply control circuit 130 stops supplying power to the communication system (S1).
3) Return to S2.

When the user desires communication, the operating device 1
Operate the communication switch included in 08. Control circuit 10
2 is a power supply control circuit 1 according to the operation of the communication switch.
30 is supplied with power to the communication system (S14). And
The control circuit 102 sends a call (calls) to the communication control circuit 110 in accordance with the telephone number or address of the other party input or registered with the ten keys of the operation device 108 or the like.
Is output (S15). The address includes a user address, a user code, a user ID, and the like in a network such as a WAN or a LAN, or an e-mail.

When a line with an external device or a communication partner is established (S10), communication is executed (S11). Thereafter, the communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S12), and the power supply control circuit 130 connects to the communication system. The power supply is stopped (S13),
Return to S2.

The imaging unit 100 is a processing unit 200
(S7), the control circuit 102 checks the imaging switch of the operation device 108 (S16). When the imaging switch is on (S16), the imaging program (imaging unit 1) stored in the program storage circuit 42
00 to control the interface 44,
The data is read through the connectors 46 and 118, the interface 116, and the bus 136, and stored in the storage circuit 104 (S17).

After storing the imaging program in the storage circuit 104 (S17), the power supply control circuit 4 of the imaging unit 100
0, the imaging unit 100 is set to the power supply state (S18). Next, the imaging program stored in the storage circuit 104 is executed to cause the imaging unit 100 to execute imaging (S19). Although details of the photographing routine (S19) will be described later with reference to FIG. 3, predetermined characters and images related to image pickup are displayed on the display device of the output device 106, and the image pickup unit 100 is operated according to a predetermined operation of the operation device 108. Control. In the imaging unit 100, image data of an image captured by the imaging element 12 or compressed data thereof is stored in the image memory 18.

After the end of the imaging process (S19), the control circuit 102 of the processing unit 200 instructs the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 to turn off the power supply to each part of the imaging unit 100 (S20). . After this, S2
Return to

When the imaging switch is off (S16), predetermined characters and images are displayed on the display device of the output device 106,
In a state where the input of the operation device 108 can be received, S
Return to 2.

FIG. 3 is a detailed flowchart of the imaging routine shown in S19 of FIG. The control circuit 102 displays characters and images necessary for imaging on the display device of the output device 106, and the imaging control circuit 24 of the imaging unit 100
According to an instruction from the control circuit 102, the imaging unit 100
Are initialized (S21).

Displayed on the display device of the output device 106 are operation modes such as single photographing, continuous photographing, and self-timer photographing, distance measurement / photometry information, operation state of the flash 36, and gain for increasing the sensitivity of the image sensor 12. The up operation state, the use state of the image memory 18, the operation state of the compression / expansion circuit 20, the recording operation state of the recording medium 300, the number of shots, the shot capacity, and the remaining capacity. Furthermore, release,
Buttons, e-dial, mode select dial, and other general camera operation members are displayed as images,
It goes without saying that operation input may be performed by a mouse, a track ball, a touch panel, and an input pen.

The control circuit 102 continuously displays the photographed image of the image pickup device 14 on the entire screen or a part of the screen of the display device of the output device 106, and / or records the image on the recording medium 300 or the storage circuit 106. Set the finder function to play and display the stored image. The former is called a through mode or a through mode display, and the latter is called a memory mode or a memory mode display. The same area of the screen may be used by switching between the through mode and the memory mode, or different areas of the screen may be allocated between the through mode and the memory mode.

When the imaging switch of the operation device 108 is turned on (S22) and there is no incoming call (S23), the control circuit 102
In addition, even if there is an incoming call, the mode is the imaging priority mode (S33).
Wait for the release switch operation while confirming that

That is, the control circuit 102 first operates the operating device 1
It is checked whether or not the imaging switch 08 is on (S22). If the imaging switch is off, the imaging control circuit 24 is instructed to execute the end processing for the imaging unit 100 (S22).
36), the imaging display and the finder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are ended, and the imaging process (S19) is ended.

When the imaging switch is ON (S22), it is checked whether or not there is an incoming call notification from the incoming call detection circuit 112 (S2).
3). If there is an incoming call request (S23), it is confirmed whether the operation device 108 is set to the imaging priority mode in which imaging is prioritized or the communication priority mode in which communication is prioritized (S33).

In the case of the communication priority mode (S33), the control circuit 102 gives a warning on the display device of the output device 106 that communication processing is given priority and the imaging processing is terminated (S35), and instructs the imaging control circuit 24. Then, a termination process for the imaging unit 100 is executed (S36), the imaging display and the finder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are terminated, and the imaging process (S19) is terminated.

In the case of the imaging priority mode (S33), the control circuit 102 displays, on the display device of the output device 106, that communication processing is prohibited in order to give priority to the imaging processing, and displays the telephone number of the destination and the user. The incoming information such as the ID is displayed (S34), and the release operation is monitored.

When the distance measurement / photometry switch is turned on by the release switch (S24), the control circuit 102 instructs the imaging control circuit 24 to perform distance measurement and photometry. Imaging control circuit 2
4 sets the focus of the photographing lens 10 on the subject and determines the shutter time according to the distance measurement and the light measurement by the distance measurement circuit 32 and the light measurement circuit 34 (S25). Details of the distance measurement and the photometry operation will be described later.

While the distance measurement / photometry switch is on, the distance measurement and photometry operation (S2) is performed until the photographing start switch is turned on.
Repeat 5). If there is an incoming request during this time (S2
6), it is checked whether the mode is the imaging priority mode or the communication priority mode (S
33). In the case of the communication priority mode (S33), the control circuit 1
02 is a display device of the output device 106, which warns that the communication process is to be prioritized and the imaging process is terminated (S35), and instructs the imaging control circuit 24 to execute the termination process of the imaging unit 100 (S36). The imaging display and the finder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are ended, and the imaging process (S19).
To end. In the end processing (S36), an image that has not been recorded on the recording medium 300 as a photographed image
The process of recording 0 is also performed.

In the case of the imaging priority mode (S33), the control circuit 102 displays, on the display device of the output device 106, that communication processing is prohibited in order to give priority to the imaging processing, and also displays the telephone number of the call destination and the user. Incoming information such as an ID is displayed (S34), and the process proceeds to S27.

When the shooting start switch is turned on (S2
7), the control circuit 102 checks whether or not the captured image can be stored or recorded in the storage circuit 106 or the recording medium 300 (S28). If there is no recordable free area or the recording medium 300 has been removed, a predetermined warning is output by the display device of the output device 106 (S32), and the process returns to S22. When recording is possible, the control circuit 102 instructs the imaging control circuit 24 to execute shooting, and the imaging control circuit 24 controls the shutter 12 and the like to execute shooting according to the instruction, and stores the shot image data in the image memory 18. (S2
9). Details of the shooting operation will be described later.

If the shooting is to be continued as in the continuous shooting mode (S30), the flow advances to S26 to wait until the shooting start switch is turned on (S27). If the shooting is not continuous (S30), the control circuit 102 commands the imaging control circuit 24 to perform a recording operation. As a result, the image data stored in the image memory 18 is transferred to the storage circuit 106 or the recording medium 300, stored or recorded (S31), and the process returns to S26.

That is, the image pickup control circuit 24 operates in the image memory 1
8, and transfers the captured image data to the processing unit 200 via the memory control circuit 22, the interface 44, and the connector 46. The processing unit 200 transmits the image data received from the imaging unit 100 to the interface 116 and the bus. 136 to the storage circuit 104, or further to the recording medium 300 via the interface 132 and the connector 134. In the recording medium 300, the received data is written to the recording element 202.

When the distance measurement / photometry switch is turned off (S2
4) Returning to S22, it is confirmed again whether or not the imaging switch is ON (S22), and the above processing is repeated.

FIG. 4 is a detailed flowchart of the distance measuring / photometric operation in S25 of FIG. The distance to the subject is measured by the distance measuring circuit 32, and the imaging control circuit 24 stores the measured distance data in the internal memory (S41).
The brightness of the subject is measured by the photometry circuit 34, and the imaging control circuit 24 stores the photometric data in the internal memory (S42). It is determined whether or not a flash is necessary based on the photometric value (S43). If necessary, a flash flag is set and the flash 36 is charged (S44).

FIG. 5 is a detailed flowchart of the photographing operation in S29 of FIG. The imaging control circuit 24 reads the subject distance data stored in the internal memory, drives the focusing lens of the taking lens 10 by the lens driving circuit 30, and focuses on the subject (S5).
1). Further, the imaging control circuit 24 opens the shutter 12 by the shutter driving circuit 28 in accordance with the photometric data stored in the internal memory to expose the imaging device 14 (S5).
2,53). It is determined whether or not a flash is necessary based on the flash flag (S54). If necessary, the flash 36 is caused to emit light (S55). Waiting for the end of exposure of the image sensor 14 (S56), the shutter 12 is closed (S5).
7), the charge signal is read from the image sensor 14 and the image memory 1 is read via the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22.
Then, the photographed image data is written in 8 (S58).

FIG. 6 shows a detailed flowchart of the communication processing in S11 of FIG. The control circuit 102 performs start processing such as initial setting necessary for communication by the communication control circuit 110 (S61). When the communication switch of the operation device 108 is on (S62) and the imaging switch is off (S63), Communication is performed (S64). When the communication is continued (S65), the process returns to S62. When the communication is not continued, a predetermined end process is performed on the communication control circuit 110 (S66), and the communication process is ended.

When the communication switch is off (S62),
A predetermined end process is performed on the communication control circuit 110 (S66), and the communication process ends.

When the imaging switch is on (S63), it is checked whether the imaging priority mode or the communication priority mode is set by the operation device 108 (S67). In the communication priority mode (S67), the display device of the output device 106 is determined. Displays that the imaging process is prohibited and the communication process is prioritized (S
68), and proceeds to S64 to execute communication. In the imaging priority mode (S67), the display device of the output device 106 interrupts the communication process and warns that the imaging process has priority (S6).
9) The communication control circuit 110 performs predetermined termination processing (S66), and terminates the communication processing.

In S63, the branching is performed based on the ON / OFF of the imaging switch. However, the branching may be performed in response to an input operation regarding the operation of the imaging unit 100, such as a release button or a mode switch.

According to the operation described above, in this embodiment,
Communication and imaging can be operated appropriately, and any one can be given priority over the other. For example, when an incoming call is received during an imaging operation, in the communication priority mode, the imaging operation is terminated and the communication operation is executed. In the imaging priority mode, shooting is continued while displaying the incoming call. Also, in the case where the user wants to take a picture during the communication operation, in the imaging priority mode, the communication operation can be immediately terminated and the photographing can be started.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a second main operation of the apparatus shown in FIG. According to FIG. 7, when the imaging switch is operated during communication, the communication line is suspended and imaging can be performed.

When the power supply 122 is connected to the processing unit 200, the output of the battery 124 of the power supply 122 is applied to the power supply control circuit 130 via the connectors 126 and 128. The power supply control circuit 130 supplies a necessary power supply voltage to the control circuit 102 and the storage circuit 104, and the control circuit 102 executes a predetermined program stored in the storage circuit 104, and first performs initialization (S101).

The control circuit 102 checks the main switch of the operating device 108 (S102). If the main switch is off (S102), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to stop supplying power to the entire processing unit 200 after executing predetermined termination processing in each unit of the processing unit 200 (S103). ). If the main switch is on (S102), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the entire processing unit 200, and causes the image display device of the output device 106 to display predetermined images such as characters and icons. (S104).

When the power of the entire processing unit 200 is turned on, the presence / absence of an incoming call (S105), the ON / OFF of a communication switch (S106), and the presence / absence of connection of the imaging unit 100 (S107) are checked. The presence or absence of the connection of the imaging unit 100 can be detected by the imaging unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 120. When the imaging unit 100 is not mounted (S107), a predetermined warning by video and / or audio is output from the output device 106 (S108). ), S102
Return to

Incoming call detecting circuit 11 in communication control circuit 110
2 detects an incoming call request from a communication line connected to the connector 114 or an external device. When there is an incoming call request, the incoming call detection circuit 112 notifies the control circuit 102 and the control circuit 10
2 notifies the power control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system (S109). The communication control circuit 110 connects the line (S110) and executes communication (S111). If the imaging switch is turned on during communication, S1
07 (S112), and when the imaging switch remains off (S112), the communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S113), and the power supply control circuit 130 stops supplying power to the communication system (S114). ), And return to S102.

When the user desires communication, the operation device 1
Operate the communication switch included in 08. Control circuit 10
2 is a power supply control circuit 1 according to the operation of the communication switch.
30 is supplied with power to the communication system (S115). Then, the control circuit 102 causes the communication control circuit 110 to output a call request (call) in accordance with the telephone number or address of the other party input or registered with the ten keys of the operation device 108 (S116). This address contains W
A user address, a user code, a user ID, and the like in a network such as an AN or a LAN or an e-mail are included.

When a line with an external device or a communication partner is established (S110), communication is executed (S111). When the imaging switch is turned on during the execution of the communication, S10
7 (S112), and when the imaging switch remains off (S112), the communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S113), and the power supply control circuit 130 stops supplying power to the communication system (S114). ), And return to S102.

When the communication switch is off (S106),
Or, when the imaging switch is turned on during communication (S11
2) It is checked whether or not the imaging unit 100 is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S107). When the imaging unit 100 is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S
107), the control circuit 102 checks the imaging switch of the operation device 108 (S117). When the imaging switch is turned on (S117), the imaging program (the program for controlling the imaging unit 100) stored in the program storage circuit 42 is transmitted to the interface 44 and the connectors 46 and 1.
18, read via the interface 116 and the bus 136, and stored in the storage circuit 104 (S118).

After storing the imaging program in the storage circuit 104 (S118), the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 is instructed to put the imaging unit 100 in a power supply state (S119). Next, an imaging program stored in the storage circuit 104 is executed to cause the imaging unit 100 to execute imaging (S120). This photographing routine (S12
Details of (0) will be described later with reference to FIG.

After the end of the imaging process (S120), the control circuit 102 of the processing unit 200 instructs the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 to turn off the power supply to each part of the imaging unit 100 (S121). . After this,
It returns to S102.

When the imaging switch is off (S117), predetermined characters and images are displayed on the display device of the output device 106, the input of the operation device 108 can be received, and the process returns to S102.

FIG. 8 is a detailed flowchart of the imaging routine shown in S19 of FIG. The difference from FIG. 3 is that in the imaging priority mode, when the imaging switch is turned on during communication, the line processing and the power supply control processing to the communication system (S
144, 147, and 148).

The control circuit 102 displays characters and images necessary for image pickup on the display device of the output device 106. The image pickup control circuit 24 of the image pickup unit 100 initializes each part of the image pickup unit 100 according to an instruction from the control circuit 102. (S131).

Displayed on the display device of the output device 106 are operation modes such as single photographing, continuous photographing, and self-timer photographing, distance measurement / photometry information, operation state of the flash 36, and gain for increasing the sensitivity of the image sensor 12. The up operation state, the use state of the image memory 18, the operation state of the compression / expansion circuit 20, the recording operation state of the recording medium 300, the number of shots, the shot capacity, and the remaining capacity. Furthermore, release,
Buttons, e-dial, mode select dial, and other general camera operation members are displayed as images,
It goes without saying that operation input may be performed by a mouse, a track ball, a touch panel, and an input pen.

The control circuit 102 continuously displays the captured image of the image sensor 14 on the entire screen or a partial screen of the display device of the output device 106, and / or records or records the captured image on the recording medium 300 or the storage circuit 106. Set the finder function to play and display the stored image. The former is called a through mode or a through mode display, and the latter is called a memory mode or a memory mode display. The same area of the screen may be used by switching between the through mode and the memory mode, or different areas of the screen may be allocated between the through mode and the memory mode.

The control circuit 102 turns on the imaging switch of the operation device 108 (S132), and there is no incoming call (S13).
3) Even if there is an incoming call, the mode is the imaging priority mode (S
143) Wait for operation of the release switch while confirming that

That is, the control circuit 102 first operates the operating device 1
It is checked whether or not the imaging switch 08 is turned on (S132).
If the imaging switch is off, the imaging control circuit 24 is instructed to execute the termination processing for the imaging unit 100 (S146), and the imaging display and the finder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are terminated, and the imaging processing is performed. (S120) ends.

When the imaging switch is on (S132),
It is checked whether there is an incoming call notification from the incoming call detection circuit 112 (S
133). If there is an incoming call request (S133), it is confirmed which of the imaging priority mode in which imaging is prioritized and the communication priority mode in which communication is prioritized is set in the operation device 108 (S143).

In the case of the communication priority mode (S 143), the control circuit 102 uses the display device of the output device 106 to warn that the communication process has priority and the imaging process is to be ended (S 145).
The imaging control circuit 24 is instructed to execute the termination processing for the imaging unit 100 (S146), and the imaging display and the finder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are terminated, and the imaging processing (S120) is terminated.

In the case of the imaging priority mode (S143), the control circuit 102 determines whether or not the connected communication line should be held (S144). Is displayed, and incoming information such as the telephone number of the call destination and the user ID are displayed, and the flow advances to S137 to monitor the release operation.

When the communication line is not held (S14)
4), the control circuit 102 displays, on the display device of the output device 106, a message indicating that communication processing is prohibited, and displays incoming information such as a destination telephone number and a user ID in order to give priority to imaging processing; The communication line is cut off by the communication control circuit 110 (S147), the power supply to the communication system is cut off by the power supply control circuit 130 (S148), and the process proceeds to S137 to monitor the raise operation.

When the distance measurement / photometry switch is turned on by the release switch (S134), the control circuit 102 commands the imaging control circuit 24 to perform distance measurement and photometry. The imaging control circuit 24 focuses the photographing lens 10 on the subject according to the distance measurement and the light measurement by the distance measurement circuit 32 and the light measurement circuit 34,
The shutter time is determined (S135). Details of the distance measuring and photometric operations are shown in FIG.

While the distance measurement / photometry switch is on (S13)
4) Until the shooting start switch is turned on (S13)
7) The distance measurement and the photometry operation (S135) are repeated. If there is an incoming request during this time (S136), it is checked whether the mode is the imaging priority mode or the communication priority mode (S143). In the case of the communication priority mode (S143), the control circuit 102
The display device of 06 warns that the communication process is to be prioritized and the imaging process is to be ended (S145), and instructs the imaging control circuit 24 to execute the end process of the imaging unit 100 (S14).
6) The imaging display and the viewfinder display on the display screen of the output device 106 are terminated, and the imaging process (S120) is terminated. In the end process (S146), a process of recording an image that has not been recorded on the recording medium 300 as a captured image on the recording medium 300 is also performed.

In the case of the imaging priority mode (S143), the control circuit 102 determines whether or not the connected communication line should be held (S144). Is displayed, and incoming information such as the telephone number of the call destination and the user ID are displayed, and the flow advances to S137 to monitor the release operation.

When the communication line is not held (S14)
4), the control circuit 102 displays, on the display device of the output device 106, a message indicating that communication processing is prohibited, and displays incoming information such as a destination telephone number and a user ID in order to give priority to imaging processing; The communication line is cut off by the communication control circuit 110 (S147), the power supply to the communication system is cut off by the power supply control circuit 130 (S148), and the process proceeds to S137 to monitor the raise operation.

The time for suspending the communication line may be a predetermined time or a time that can be arbitrarily selected by the operation device 108 or a plurality of predetermined values. Needless to say, if the use of the communication line is not started before the elapse of the hold time, the communication line is naturally disconnected.

When the photographing start switch is turned on (S13)
7), the control circuit 102 checks whether the captured image can be stored or recorded in the storage circuit 106 or the recording medium 300 (S138). When there is no recordable free area or when the recording medium 300 is removed, a predetermined warning is output from the display device of the output device 106 (S142), and S1 is performed.
Return to 32. When recording is possible, the control circuit 102 instructs the imaging control circuit 24 to execute imaging, and the imaging control circuit 2
In response to this, the shutter 4 controls the shutter 12 and the like to execute shooting, and stores the shot image data in the image memory 18 (S139). Details of the photographing operation (S139) are shown in FIG.

If the photographing is continued as in the continuous photographing mode (S140), the flow advances to S136 to wait until the photographing start switch is turned on (S137). If the shooting is not continuous (S140), the control circuit 102
4 instructs a recording operation. As a result, the image data stored in the image memory 18 is stored in the storage circuit 106 or the storage medium 3.
00, and stored or recorded (S141), and S1
Return to 36.

That is, the imaging control circuit 24 operates in the image memory 1
8, and transfers the captured image data to the processing unit 200 via the memory control circuit 22, the interface 44, and the connector 46. The processing unit 200 transmits the image data received from the imaging unit 100 to the interface 116 and the bus. 136 to the storage circuit 104, or further to the recording medium 300 via the interface 132 and the connector 134. In the recording medium 300, the received data is written to the recording element 202.

When the distance measurement / photometry switch is turned off (S1)
34), returning to S132, reconfirming whether or not the imaging switch is ON (S132), and repeating the above processing.

FIG. 9 is a detailed flowchart of the communication processing in S111 of FIG.

When the control circuit 102 holds the communication line (S151), the control circuit 102 releases the hold (S158).
Go to 55.

If the communication line is not on hold (S15
1) The control circuit 102 performs start processing such as initial setting necessary for communication by the communication control circuit 110 (S15).
2) When the communication switch of the operation device 108 is turned on (S15)
3) When the imaging switch is off (S154), communication is performed (S155). To continue communication (S
156) Returning to S153, if communication is not to be continued,
The communication control circuit 110 performs predetermined termination processing (S157), and terminates the communication processing.

When the communication switch is off (S15)
3) The communication control circuit 110 performs predetermined termination processing (S157), and terminates the communication processing.

When the imaging switch is on (S154),
It is checked whether the operation device 108 has set the imaging priority mode or the communication priority mode (S159).
In the communication priority mode (S159), the display device of the output device 106 displays a message that the imaging process is prohibited and the communication process is prioritized (S160), and the process proceeds to S155 to execute communication. In the imaging priority mode (S159), the communication line is put on hold, and a warning is given that the communication processing is interrupted on the display device of the output device 106 to give priority to the imaging processing (S16).
1), hold the imaging switch in the ON state (S16)
2) The communication control circuit 110 performs interruption processing necessary for holding the line (157), and terminates the communication processing.

In S154, the branching is performed based on the ON / OFF of the imaging switch. However, the branching may be performed in response to an input operation related to the operation of the imaging unit 100, such as a release button or a mode switch.

According to the operation described above, in this embodiment,
For example, when an incoming call is received during an imaging operation, in the communication priority mode, the imaging operation is terminated and the communication operation is executed, and in the imaging priority mode, the line is put on hold to continue imaging. In addition, even when it is desired to take a picture during the communication operation, in the picture taking priority mode, the picture taking can be started with the communication line held.

If an imaging command is input during the communication operation, the hold of the communication line is determined in S159 of FIG. 9 according to the determination of the priority mode. May be determined to hold or disconnect the line. When an incoming call is received during the imaging operation, FIG.
In 143, the hold of the communication line is determined according to the determination of the priority mode. However, the hold or disconnection of the line may be determined based on a telephone number or a user ID registered in advance.

Next, a third operation example of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 shows the main flowchart. FIG.
The automatic transmission function was added to 0.

When the power supply 122 is connected to the processing unit 200, the output of the battery 124 of the power supply 122 is applied to the power supply control circuit 130 via the connectors 126 and 128. The power supply control circuit 130 supplies a necessary power supply voltage to the control circuit 102 and the storage circuit 104, and the control circuit 102 executes a predetermined program stored in the storage circuit 106, and first performs initialization (S201).

The control circuit 102 checks the main switch of the operating device 108 (S202). If the main switch is off (S202), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to stop the power supply to the entire processing unit 200 after executing predetermined termination processing in each section of the processing unit 200 (S203). ). If the main switch is on (S202), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the entire processing unit 200, and causes the image display device of the output device 106 to display predetermined images such as characters and icons. (S204).

When the power of the entire processing unit 200 is turned on, it is checked whether there is an incoming call (S205), whether the communication switch is on / off (S206), and whether the imaging unit 100 is connected (S207). The presence or absence of the connection of the imaging unit 100 can be detected by the imaging unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 120. When the imaging unit 100 is not mounted (S207), a predetermined warning by video and / or audio is output from the output device 106 (S208). ), S202
Return to

Incoming call detecting circuit 11 in communication control circuit 110
2 detects an incoming call request from a communication line connected to the connector 114 or an external device. If there is an incoming call request (S20
5), the incoming call detection circuit 112 notifies the control circuit 102,
The control circuit 102 notifies the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system (S209). Communication control circuit 11
0 connects the line (S210) and executes communication (S2).
11). After the end of the communication, the communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S212), the power supply control circuit stops the power supply to the communication system (S213), and returns to S202.

When the user desires communication, the operation device 1
Operate the communication switch included in 08. Control circuit 10
2 causes the power control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system in response to the operation of the communication switch (S206) (S21).
4). Then, the control circuit 102 causes the communication control circuit 110 to output a call request (call) in accordance with the telephone number or address of the other party input or registered with the ten keys of the operation device 108 (S215). The address includes a user address, a user code, a user ID, and the like in a network such as a WAN or a LAN, or an e-mail.

When a line with an external device or a communication partner is established (S210), communication is performed (S211). After the communication ends, the communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S21).
2), the power supply control circuit 130 stops supplying power to the communication system (S213), and returns to S202.

When the communication switch is off (S206),
It is checked whether or not the imaging unit 100 is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S207). Imaging unit 100
Is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S20
7), the control circuit 102 checks the imaging switch of the operation device 108 (S216). When the imaging switch is turned on (S216), the imaging program (the program for controlling the imaging unit 100) stored in the program storage circuit 42 is transmitted to the interface 44 and the connectors 46 and 11.
8. The data is read through the interface 116 and the bus 136 and stored in the storage circuit 104 (S217).

After the imaging program is stored in the storage circuit 104 (S217), the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 is instructed to put the imaging unit 100 in a power supply state (S218). Next, the imaging program stored in the storage circuit 104 is executed to cause the imaging unit 100 to execute imaging (S219). This photographing routine (S21
Details of 9) may be the same as those in FIG.

After the end of the imaging process (S219), the control circuit 102 of the processing unit 200 instructs the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 to turn off the power supply to each unit of the imaging unit 100 (S220). . If automatic transmission is set (S221), the control circuit 102
A destination address such as a destination telephone number and a user ID is read from the program storage circuit 42 or the storage circuit 104 and set (S222), and the process proceeds to S214 to execute communication.

If automatic transmission is not set (S22
1) A predetermined image such as a character or an icon is displayed on the display device of the output device 106 so that the input of the operation device 108 can be received, and the process returns to S202.

When the imaging switch is off (S216), predetermined characters and images are displayed on the display device of the output device 106, the input of the operation device 108 can be received, and the process returns to S202.

In FIG. 10, an auto dial function is realized, and a photographed image can be automatically transmitted to a preset destination. Although the example in which the image is transmitted after the end of the imaging operation has been described, the transmission may be performed while imaging.

Next, a fourth operation example of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 11 shows the main flowchart. FIG.
1 includes information on the communication partner (telephone number and user ID)
) Together with the transmitted or received image.
Added the function to automatically register to.

When the power supply 122 is connected to the processing unit 200, the output of the battery 124 of the power supply 122 is applied to the power supply control circuit 130 via the connectors 126 and 128. The power supply control circuit 130 supplies a necessary power supply voltage to the control circuit 102 and the storage circuit 104, and the control circuit 102 executes a predetermined program stored in the storage circuit 104, and first performs initialization (S301).

The control circuit 102 checks the main switch of the operating device 108 (S302). If the main switch is off (S302), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to stop the power supply to the entire processing unit 200 after executing predetermined termination processing in each unit of the processing unit 200 (S303). ). If the main switch is on (S302), the control circuit 102 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the entire processing unit 200, and causes the image display device of the output device 106 to display predetermined images such as characters and icons. (S304).

When the power of the entire processing unit 200 is turned on, the presence / absence of an incoming call (S305), the ON / OFF of a communication switch (S306), and the presence / absence of connection of the imaging unit 100 (S307) are checked. The presence or absence of the connection of the imaging unit 100 can be detected by the imaging unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 120. When the imaging unit 100 is not mounted (S307), a predetermined warning by video and / or audio is output from the output device 106 (S308). ), S302
Return to

Incoming call detecting circuit 11 in communication control circuit 110
2 detects an incoming call request from a communication line connected to the connector 114 or an external device. When there is an incoming call request (S30
5), the incoming call detection circuit 112 notifies the control circuit 102,
The control circuit 102 notifies the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system (S309). Communication control circuit 11
0 connects the line (S310) and executes communication (S3).
11). After the communication ends, if the setting is made to automatically save the other party information such as the telephone number and the user ID (S312),
The partner information is associated with the transmitted image and the recording medium 3
00 is recorded (S313). The communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S314), the power supply control circuit 130 stops the power supply to the communication system (S315), and returns to S302.

When the user desires communication, the operating device 1
Operate the communication switch included in 08. Control circuit 10
2 causes the power supply control circuit 130 to supply power to the communication system in response to the operation of the communication switch (S306) (S31).
6). Then, the control circuit 102 causes the communication control circuit 110 to output a call request (call) in accordance with the telephone number or address of the other party input or registered with the ten keys of the operation device 108 (S317). The address includes a user address, a user code, a user ID, and the like in a network such as a WAN or a LAN, or an e-mail.

When a line with an external device or a communication partner is established (S310), communication is executed (S311). When the communication is set to automatically save the other party information such as the telephone number and the user ID after the communication is completed (S312), the other party information is recorded on the recording medium 300 in association with the transmitted image (S313). The communication control circuit 110 disconnects the line (S
314), the power supply control circuit 130 stops the power supply to the communication system (S315), and returns to S302.

When the communication switch is off (S306),
It is checked whether or not the imaging unit 100 is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S307). Imaging unit 100
Is mounted on the processing unit 200 (S30
7), the control circuit 102 checks the imaging switch of the operation device 108 (S318). When the imaging switch is turned on (S318), the imaging program (the program for controlling the imaging unit 100) stored in the program storage circuit 42 is transmitted to the interface 44, the connectors 46, and 11.
8, read via the interface 116 and the bus 136 and stored in the storage circuit 104 (S319).

After storing the imaging program in the storage circuit 104 (S319), the power supply control circuit 40 of the imaging unit 100 is instructed to put the imaging unit 100 in a power supply state (S320). Next, the imaging program stored in the storage circuit 104 is executed to cause the imaging unit 100 to execute imaging (S321). This photographing routine (S32
Details of 1) may be the same as FIG.

After the end of the image pickup processing (S321), the control circuit 102 of the processing unit 200 instructs the power supply control circuit 40 of the image pickup unit 100 to turn off the power supply to each part of the image pickup unit 100 (S322). . And
A predetermined image such as a character or an icon is displayed on the display device of the output device 106 so that the input of the operation device 108 can be received, and the process returns to S302.

When the imaging switch is off (S318), predetermined characters and images are displayed on the display device of the output device 106, the input of the operation device 108 can be received, and the process returns to S302.

In FIG. 11, when transmitting a photographed image, partner information such as a recipient address is automatically saved. The storage of the partner information may be performed after the communication is completed or during the communication.

FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of the image pickup unit 100 as viewed from the front side, and FIG. 13 is an external perspective view of the image pickup unit 100 as viewed from the connector 46 side. In front, the window 3 of the flash 36
02, a window 304 for distance measurement by the distance measurement circuit 32, a light receiving window 306 for color balance adjustment, a window 308 for photometry by the photometry circuit 34, and a window 310 for photographing are arranged.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view seen from the operation side when the image pickup unit shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is mounted on the processing unit 200, and FIG. 15 is a perspective view seen from the image pickup window side. As shown in FIG. 14, through mode or memory mode
The image is displayed in the mode, and the operation state and operation method of the imaging unit 100 are displayed. It goes without saying that a part or all of the operation device 108 may be formed as a transmissive touch panel and integrated with the display device.

FIGS. 16 and 17 are external views of a radio device type configuration. FIG. 16 is a perspective view seen from the operation side, and FIG. 17 is a perspective view seen from the imaging window side. The outer shape is similar to a small mobile phone. Here, a display window for displaying an image in the through mode or the memory mode is superimposed on a display window for displaying an operation state, an operation method, and the like of the imaging unit 100.

The imaging switch and the communication switch may be turned on or off in accordance with the angle of the imaging unit 100 with respect to the processing unit 200. That is, when the imaging unit 100 is set at a predetermined angle with respect to the processing unit 200, the above-described imaging switch may be turned on, and when the imaging unit 100 is shifted from the position, the imaging switch may be turned off. Also,
When opened at an angle suitable for communication such as telephone communication, the imaging switch may be turned off.

For example, when the processing unit 200 is opened at an angle of 90 degrees or more to the extent that a user can hold a call next to the face, the imaging switch is turned off. Processing unit 20
When 0 is opened at about 90 degrees, the imaging unit 100 is used and the imaging switch is turned on. For this purpose, the imaging switch may be arranged near the hinge of the processing unit 200.

A cover may be provided to cover a part or all of the windows 302 to 310 of the image pickup unit 100. When the cover is removed, the image pickup switch is turned on, and when the cover is put on, the image pickup switch is turned off. .

In the above embodiment, a semiconductor memory is used as the recording element 202 of the recording medium 300, but the present invention is not limited to the type of recording medium. That is, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, a magnetic tape, or the like can be used. The recording element 202 may be a combination of these different types of recording elements. In addition, it is apparent that the processing unit 200 can be connected to a plurality of recording media 300. Recording medium 300
May be fixed, and the rest may be removable.

The communication control circuit 110 is connected to the processing unit 200.
May be detachable, or a plurality of them may be provided.

Although only the image input circuit is shown in the image pickup unit 100, an audio input circuit may be provided so that image pickup and recording can be performed simultaneously. The basic processing is the same as that described in the above operation examples.

[0132]

As can be easily understood from the above description, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a communication system which is excellent in portability and easy to operate. Select communication and imaging with good operability,
I can do it.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a main flowchart of a first operation example of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a detailed flowchart of S19 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a detailed flowchart of S25 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a detailed flowchart of S29 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a detailed flowchart of S11 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a main flowchart of a second operation example of the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a detailed flowchart of S120 in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a detailed flowchart of S111 in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a main flowchart of a third operation example of the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a main flowchart of a fourth operation example of the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is an external perspective view of the imaging unit 100 of the present embodiment as viewed from the front.

FIG. 13 is an external perspective view of the imaging unit 100 of the present embodiment as viewed from the back.

FIG. 14 is an overall perspective view seen from the operation side.

FIG. 15 is an overall perspective view seen from an imaging window side.

FIG. 16 is an overall perspective view of a wireless device type as viewed from the operation side.

FIG. 17 is an overall perspective view of a wireless device type as viewed from an imaging window side.

[Explanation of symbols]

 100: imaging unit 200: processing unit 300: recording medium 10: photographing lens 12: shutter 14: imaging device 16: A / D converter 18: image memory 20: compression / expansion circuit 22: memory control circuit 24: imaging control circuit ( CPU) 26: Clock generation circuit 28: Shutter drive circuit 30: Lens drive circuit 32: Distance measurement circuit 34: Photometry circuit 36: Flash 38: Battery 40: Power supply control circuit 42: Program storage circuit 44: Interface 46: Connector 102: Control circuit (CPU) 104: storage circuit 106: output device 108: operating device 110: communication control circuit 112: incoming call detection circuit 114: connector 116: interface 118: connector 120: imaging unit attachment / detachment detection circuit 122: power supply 124: battery 126 : Connector 12 : Connector 130: Power supply control circuit 132: Interface 134: Connector 136: Bus 202: Recording element 204: Interface 206: Connector 302: Flash window 304: Distance measuring window 306: Light receiving window for color balance adjustment 308: Photometric window 310: Photographing window

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] January 27, 2000 (2000.1.2
7)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0001

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communication device for communicating and outputting a captured image.

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0002

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An electronic still camera for recording a captured image as a still image on a recording medium such as an optical disk device, a magneto-optical disk device, or a memory card having a solid-state memory element is well known. Since a memory card has no moving parts and is convenient to carry, it is expected to be used as a recording or storage medium of a small information device such as an electronic organizer or a portable computer and as a data carrier. There
To carry images taken with an electronic still camera, for example.
If you want to use it on a belt-type computer, record the captured image
Memory card to the portable computer,
If you want to transfer to a remote location,
Software (eg, communication software)
Is activated and the target image information is read and transmitted.
You have to do that. That is, the captured image is
Troublesome operation even when used on a portable computer
You have to work, which is inconvenient. Also, separate
Electronic still camera and portable computer together
To carry around, which is also inconvenient .
As a means for solving this, it is configured integrally with the imaging device.
Communication devices are being considered.

[Procedure amendment 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0003

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0003]

However, if the imaging function and the communication function are integrally formed, a switch for using the imaging function and a switch for using the communication function must be operated. That is, when one of the functions is to be used, a power-on operation or the like corresponding to the function must be performed.

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0004

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0004] The present invention is conscious of an operation according to a function selection.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication device that can use an imaging function and a communication function without performing .

[Procedure amendment 5]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name]

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[0132]

As can be easily understood from the above description , according to the first aspect, the imaging means is moved beyond a predetermined range.
Automatically activates the imaging means.
If you try to use the imaging function without operating the switch
Imaging means can be made to function by
It is good. Further, according to the second invention, the folding type communication system is provided.
Move the power control of the communication device over the specified folding range.
So try to open and use the fold
The behavior can control the power of the communication device,
It is good. Especially when shooting and using a communication device as a phone
Usually, the user's posture is different when using Noh,
Considering that the operation location of the device is slightly different,
Moving movable parts such as folding to a state suitable for communication and photography
The power of the communication device is controlled according to the user operation.
Can be simplified and is easy to use.

Claims (2)

[Claims] An imaging unit that captures a subject to obtain a captured image; a communication unit that communicates with a destination to transmit a captured image obtained by the imaging function to the destination; A communication device, comprising: control means for automatically operating the image pickup means by moving as described above. 2. A foldable communication device having an imaging function and a communication function, comprising: a power supply; and control means for controlling the power supply by moving the fold over a predetermined range.