JP2000307979A - Image printer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image printer capable of being utilized as an electronic camera and immediately preparing the printed matter of an image based on an image expressing an acquired image signal on that site when desired photographing operation is performed while utilizing a camera function concerning the miniaturized and light portable image printer. SOLUTION: This device is provided with a first card slot part 15a capable of inserting/ejecting an image pickup device or card-shaped recording medium, which has a card-shaped connecting part 2a, provided with a photographing lens system for forming a subject and an image pickup means 11 for converting the subject formed by the photographing lens system into an electric image signal, a signal processing means for receiving an output signal from the image pickup device or recording medium loaded in the first card slot part 15a and performing prescribed signal processing and a printing means for printing out the image based on the image signal generated by this processing means on a medium for printing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an image printing apparatus,
Specifically, by mounting an imaging device having a card-shaped connection portion, the device has a function as an electronic camera, and a desired image is formed based on an output signal from an imaging device mounted on the device main body or a predetermined recording medium. The present invention relates to an image printing apparatus for printing on a print medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, an electrical image signal is obtained by photoelectrically converting an optical object image formed by a photographing lens system using an image pickup device such as a CCD, and the image signal is converted into a predetermined form. Digital image data can be generated by performing predetermined signal processing so that the image data can be recorded on a recording medium, and an image based on the digital image data obtained as a result of this shooting operation can be obtained. In general, digital cameras, electronic still cameras, and the like (hereinafter simply referred to as electronic cameras) configured to be able to display using a display means such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) have been put to practical use.

The image data obtained by such a conventional electronic camera can be reproduced and displayed using the display means as described above, and the image data can be transferred to various external information devices. Can be utilized in various modes. For example, by transferring image data obtained by an electronic camera to an image printing apparatus, which is an external information device, a hard copy of an image represented by the image data, that is, a printout of the image can be created.

On the other hand, a general electronic camera or the like is often taken out of a user outdoors and used in a desired environment. Therefore, even when desired photographing is performed using an electronic camera outdoors or the like, there is a demand that a printout (hard copy) of an image based on an image signal acquired by the photographing operation be immediately created on the spot. There is.

[0005] In order to meet such a demand, for example, a portable small-sized image printing apparatus has been put into practical use. In such a conventional small image printing apparatus, desired image data is transferred from an electronic camera holding captured image data using a predetermined transfer unit, and an image based on the transferred image data is transferred. Make hard copies as needed. As means for data transfer in this case, cable connection, replacement of a recording medium, transmission / reception means using infrared rays or the like are used.

In recent years, imaging means for generating an electric image signal from an optical subject image, and an image printing apparatus for producing a hard copy of a corresponding image based on the image signal obtained by the imaging means. Various proposals have been made for an electronic camera integrally configured with.

On the other hand, as a conventional technical means for easily making a hard copy of an image immediately after shooting, for example, a so-called instant camera using a silver halide film technology and a system using a film dedicated to the instant camera are generally used. Has been practically used.

[0008]

However, in the case where a hard copy of an image is created using a conventional portable small image printing apparatus, a hard copy must be created from image data obtained by an electronic camera. It is necessary to transfer desired image data to the image printing device. Therefore, in order to create a hard copy of a desired image, various complicated operations are required, and it cannot be said that this is a means for making a hard copy easily and easily.

Further, in a conventional electronic camera in which the image pickup means and the image printing device are integrally formed, the size of the device itself tends to be increased. Therefore, even when a hard copy of an image is not required at the time of photographing, the part constituting the image printing apparatus is always carried, which is not efficient and is difficult to use.

Therefore, conventionally, it may be necessary to purchase a plurality of electronic cameras in order to properly use an ordinary electronic camera and an electronic camera equipped with an image printing device according to the application. Such a problem is a problem that an economic burden is increased for the user.

On the other hand, in the instant camera using the conventional silver halide film technology, only one hard copy of an image can be created on the spot. It is necessary to make a request to
Therefore, there is a problem that it takes time and labor to create a plurality of hard copies, and the efficiency is low.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and has as its object to provide a small and lightweight portable image printing apparatus having a part of the function as an electronic camera. In addition, the electronic camera can be easily used as an electronic camera, and even when a desired image is taken in an environment such as outdoors using the electronic camera function, the image hardware based on the taken image signal can be used. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image printing apparatus which can make a copy immediately on the spot.

[0013]

In order to achieve the above object, an image printing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention provides a photographing lens system for forming a subject image and an object image formed by the photographing lens system. An image pickup device or a card slot portion capable of inserting and removing a card-shaped recording medium, the image pickup device including a card-shaped connecting portion including an image pickup means for converting the image signal into an image signal;
Signal processing means for receiving output signals from the image pickup device or the recording medium mounted on the card slot portion and performing predetermined signal processing; and a printing medium for outputting an image based on the image signal generated by the signal processing means. And a printing means for printing out.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image printing apparatus according to the first aspect, the printing means exposes the printing medium based on image information including an image signal acquired by using the imaging means. And a moving means for transporting the printing medium.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image printing apparatus according to the first aspect, the power required by the image pickup device or the recording medium mounted on the card slot portion is provided on the device main body side. The power supply unit is configured to supply power to the imaging device or the recording medium via the card slot unit.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image printing apparatus according to the first or third aspect, an image signal acquired by using the imaging device mounted on the card slot is recorded as image data in a predetermined form. And a second card slot portion into which a second recording medium to be inserted can be inserted / removed.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the first, third, or fourth aspect of the invention is provided.
The image printing apparatus according to the invention is characterized in that the image printing apparatus further comprises an imaging device control means for controlling the imaging device mounted on the card slot.

The sixth invention is directed to the first, third, or fourth aspect.
Alternatively, in the image printing apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the image printing apparatus further includes a photographing instruction operation means for generating a command relating to the photographing operation when performing the photographing operation using the imaging device mounted on the card slot portion. It is characterized by comprising.

[0019]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. 1, 2, and 3 are views showing the arrangement of internal components in an image printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a view from the front side, and FIG. FIG. 3 shows the case when viewed from the right side.

In FIGS. 1 and 2, the first card slot 15a provided in the image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is shown.
The figure shows a state in which the imaging device (camera unit 2) is mounted on the second card slot 45a and the second recording medium (removable memory 16) is mounted on the second card slot unit 45a (details will be described later).
In FIG. 3, a part of the image printing apparatus is cut away, and a state where the cartridge holder 41 is in the open position is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

The image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment has a camera lens 2 (see FIG. 5), an image pickup means, etc., and a camera section 2 which is an image pickup apparatus having a card-shaped connection section 2a. By doing so, it can be used as a general electronic camera. Further, a printout (hard copy) of a desired image can be created by printing out an image based on an image signal obtained by using the camera unit 2. The detailed configuration is as follows.

The detailed configuration of the image pickup apparatus (camera unit 2) to be mounted on the image printing apparatus 1 is shown in FIG.
-It will be described later with reference to FIG.

The main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the exterior is formed of a substantially flat casing member. At a substantially central portion on the front side of the main body 1a, a cartridge holder 41 is provided with a support shaft C shown in FIG.
Is arranged so as to be openable and closable in the direction of arrow X1 shown in FIG.

Inside the cartridge holder 41,
Print cartridge 3 containing printing medium 38a
8 can be inserted and removed. When the cartridge holder 41 is closed in a state where the print cartridge 38 is mounted inside (a state shown by a solid line in FIG. 3), the print cartridge 38 is moved to a predetermined position inside the image printing apparatus 1. The position is determined, and the position is maintained. The space in which the cartridge holder 41 is housed inside the main body 1a is particularly referred to as a cartridge housing chamber 41a.

In the vicinity of the cartridge accommodating chamber 41a disposed inside the main body 1a, various electric circuits and the like constituting the image printing apparatus 1 so that the main plane is substantially parallel to the main body 1a. Main board 43 on which components and the like are mounted
Is arranged.

On the main substrate 43, for example, an image pickup device (camera unit 2) having a card-shaped connecting portion 2a, and a first recording medium 51 (FIG. 6), a second card slot portion 15a into which various card-type devices can be inserted and removed, and a small nonvolatile memory having a card shape, which is different from the first recording medium 51 described above. Card slot portion 45 into which the recording medium (removable memory 16) of the second type can be inserted and removed.
a, a display device 21 which is a display means including a liquid crystal display (LCD) capable of visually displaying the state of the image printing apparatus 1 and the like in addition to an image based on the image signal and various information accompanying the image signal; An external input / output terminal 27 to which a cable (not shown) for electrically connecting the image printing apparatus 1 to an external information device or the like (not shown) is detachably provided; An external power supply input terminal 28, etc., in which a cable (not shown) or the like for electrically connecting the power supply and an external power supply device (not shown) can be detachably provided, and an electric circuit and the like related to these. Various electric circuits and the like including a system controller 25 and the like serving as control means for controlling the entire image printing apparatus 1 are mounted.

The first card slot 15a and the second card slot 45a, the external input / output terminal 27 and the external power input terminal 28 are located on the right side when viewed from the front side (subject side) of the image printing apparatus 1. They are respectively arranged at predetermined positions on the surface. That is, the first card slot 15a
Is provided at a predetermined position near the upper end, and the second card slot portion 45a is disposed at a predetermined position near the lower end on the opposite side of the display device 21. Then, at a predetermined position below the second card slot portion 45a,
An external input / output terminal 27 and an external power supply input terminal 28 are arranged side by side.

The first and second card slot sections 15
In the openings a and 45a, for example, a simple door member is provided (not shown) in order to prevent foreign matter or the like from entering the inside of the image printing apparatus 1 (not shown).

On the other hand, moving means (36a and 36b) for transporting the printing medium 38a contained in the print cartridge 38 are provided in the internal space on the upper side of the image printing apparatus 1.
36c and 36d) and the first card slot 15a
Exposure means (optical head) for exposing the printing medium 38a with a signal processed based on image information and the like including an image signal from the camera unit 2 and the first recording medium 51 (see FIG. 6) attached to the The various members constituting the printing means, such as the unit 35, etc., are arranged at predetermined positions. The details of the printing means will be described later. On the upper surface side of the image printing apparatus 1, a printing medium 38a is attached.
Is provided with a discharge opening 1d for discharging to the outside.

On a front side of the main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1, at a predetermined position near the upper end, there is provided a flash light emitting means for irradiating auxiliary illumination light to a desired subject. A strobe device 23 is provided.

At a predetermined position on the front side of the cartridge holder 41, for example, the first card slot portion 15a
When the image printing apparatus 1 is used as an electronic camera by attaching the camera unit 2 to the camera unit, a switch (not shown) for generating a command signal for starting operations related to photographing such as a photographing preparation operation and an exposure operation A release button 24b, which is a photographing instruction operation means linked to the.

On the other hand, a power supply battery 26 serving as a main power supply of the image printing apparatus 1 is provided in the internal space on the bottom side of the image printing apparatus 1.
The battery chamber 1b in which a plurality of batteries a are loaded is formed.

Next, details of the electrical configuration inside the image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment and the internal configuration of the imaging device (camera unit 2) mounted on the image printing apparatus 1 will be described below. .

FIG. 4 is a main block diagram showing the internal configuration of the image printing apparatus of the present embodiment and the image pickup apparatus (camera section) mounted in the first card slot of the image printing apparatus. FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the imaging device mounted on the first card slot of the image printing apparatus.
Note that a front view of the imaging apparatus is illustrated in FIG.

First, components of an electric system constituting the inside of the image printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1 has the first
Card slot 15a and second card slot 4
5a is provided. This first card slot unit 1
Reference numeral 5a is formed so that the camera unit 2 or the like, which is an imaging device having the card-shaped connection unit 2a, can be inserted and removed. By attaching the camera unit 2 to the image printing apparatus 1, the image printing apparatus 1 can be used as an electronic camera.

The first card slot 15a has
The card interface (I / F) unit 15 is electrically connected. As the first card I / F unit 15, for example, a general PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory) is used.
Card International Association)
C card slot or Compact Flash (CompactFl
An interface corresponding to a compact flash card slot or the like conforming to a standard such as ash) is used. And the connection part 2a of the form based on these standards
The first card I / F unit 15 is electrically connected to the camera unit 2 having the above, or the first recording medium 51 such as a so-called compact flash memory card via the first card slot unit 15a. Thus, transmission and reception of signals (data transfer) between these devices and the image printing apparatus 1 are established.

FIG. 4 shows a case where the camera section 2 is mounted on the first card slot section 15a. In the following description, the first card slot section 15a mainly includes the camera section 2.
The description is made on the assumption that the camera unit 2 is mounted.

Here, the configuration of the camera section 2 which is an image pickup apparatus mounted in the first card slot section 15a will be described below. Camera unit 2 applicable to the image printing apparatus 1
Has a card-shaped connecting portion 2a as described above, and the connecting portion 2a has a predetermined shape so that it can be attached to the first card slot portion 15a of the main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1. It is formed with. Then, the camera unit 2 and the image printing apparatus 1 are electrically connected by attaching the connection unit 2a of the camera unit 2 to the first card slot unit 15a. It can be used as an electronic camera.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the camera unit 2 includes a photographing lens system 11 for forming a subject image, and an imaging system for converting the subject image formed by the photographing lens system 11 into an electric signal. An image sensor 13 for performing predetermined signal processing so that a signal acquired by the image sensor 12 becomes an image signal of a predetermined form;
A / that converts the image signal output from the
It is composed of a D conversion circuit 14, an optical finder unit 48 and the like constituted by a plurality of lenses so that a subject image can be optically observed.

As shown in FIG. 5, the photographing lens system 11 is composed of a plurality of lenses and the like. The photographing lens 11a for forming a subject image and a predetermined lens of the photographing lens 11a are moved in the optical axis direction. And a drive mechanism such as a drive motor for performing a predetermined operation, for example, a focusing operation or a zooming operation, and a lens drive unit 11b including an electric circuit for controlling the drive motor.

The image pickup device 12, the image pickup circuit 13, A /
The electric circuit forming the imaging means including the D conversion circuit 14 and the like, the electric circuit forming the lens driving unit 11b, and the like are shown in FIG.
Are mounted on the substrate 42 shown in FIG.

When the camera section 2 configured as described above is mounted on the first card slot section 15a of the image printing apparatus 1, the image printing apparatus 1 functions as an electronic camera. For this purpose, the main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1 receives a digital image signal or the like from the camera unit 2 and executes various types of arithmetic processing relating to an exposure operation and a focusing operation. A predetermined electric circuit and the like for performing signal processing and the like related to a photographing operation such as controlling the lens driving unit 11b of the camera unit 2 are provided.

That is, the main body 1a of the image printing apparatus 1
An image signal generated by the first card slot section 15a and the camera section 2 mounted on the first card slot section 15a is read out via the first card slot section 15a, and each of the main body section 1a side is read. A first card I / F section 15 for transmitting a predetermined control signal or the like from the circuit to the camera section 2 side, and a camera mounted on the first card slot section 15a via the first card I / F section 15 A built-in memory 17 which is a buffer memory such as a non-volatile memory for temporarily storing image signals and the like from the unit 2 (or the first recording medium 51), and a digital image signal stored in the built-in memory 17 A detachable memory 16 which is a recording medium for recording as an image data file and is a second recording medium composed of a nonvolatile memory or the like, and the detachable memory 16 is mounted on the image printing apparatus 1. Second card slot capable of 45
a and a second card interface (I / F) unit including an electric circuit such as a controller for securing an electrical connection between the two when the detachable memory 16 is mounted on the image printing apparatus 1 and performing data control and the like. 45, an LCD 21 such as a liquid crystal display which is a display device for displaying a display image signal (and various image information accompanying the display) generated by the image processing means 18 described later,
A display circuit 20 for driving and controlling the D21, an external input / output terminal 27, and an electric circuit for securing an electrical connection between the external input / output terminal 27 and the image printing apparatus 1; 1 outputs a predetermined signal to an external information device or the like connected to the external input / output terminal 27, or performs an external interface (I / I / O) for performing data control or the like so as to receive an input signal from the external information device or the like. F) part 22;
The digital image signal stored in the built-in memory 17 is converted into a signal in a form optimal for displaying as an image, and an image signal in a form optimal for reproducing and displaying image data read from the removable memory 16 is generated. Image processing means 18 for executing various image processing, and image data for recording in a form most suitable for performing compression processing on a digital image signal stored in the built-in memory 17 and recording the compressed digital image signal in the removable memory 16. A compression / decompression circuit 19 for generating a file or reading a recording image data file recorded in the removable memory 16 and performing signal processing such as generating a signal of a predetermined form by performing a decompression process on the file; An AE circuit 46 that detects an exposure state in a shooting screen based on an image signal from the camera unit 2 when performing a shooting operation using the camera unit 2.
A, which similarly measures the distance from the image printing apparatus 1 to a desired subject based on the image signal from the camera unit 2
F circuit 47, strobe device 23, and image printing apparatus 1
Is electrically connected via an external power input terminal 28, an operation unit 24 including a plurality of various switch groups for generating various command signals and the like to execute various operations in the external power input terminal 28. A necessary power is supplied from an external power supply device (not shown) or a power supply battery 26a to an internal electric circuit of the image printing apparatus 1 and various devices mounted in the first card slot 15a. The power supply unit 26 is a power supply unit for performing control for performing the control. These various electric circuits and components constituting the image printing apparatus 1 are controlled by the system controller 25 as described above.

The power supply section 26 and the first card I / F
A power supply line 26b is arranged between the power supply unit 15 and the unit 15, and electrically connects the two. As a result, the electric power from the power supply unit 26 is supplied to the camera unit 2 mounted on the camera unit 2 via the first card I / F unit 15 and the first card slot unit 15a.
And the first recording medium 51 and the like.

On the other hand, the image printing apparatus 1 receives an image signal acquired by the camera unit 2 or stores image data or the like recorded in a detachable memory 16 as a second recording medium. The printer unit 3 is a printing means for receiving the image represented by the image and printing the image on a predetermined print medium 38a, for example, a film for an instant camera. Various electric circuits and components constituting the printer section 3 are as follows.

That is, the printer section 3 is provided with a compression / decompression circuit 19 among image signals temporarily recorded in the built-in memory 17 or image data files recorded in the detachable memory 16.
A print image generating circuit 31 which is a signal processing means for receiving a desired image signal subjected to the decompression process through the interface and generating print image data in a form most suitable for printing; An optical head unit 35 serving as an exposure unit that receives the generated print image data and performs a predetermined exposure operation on a print medium 38 a (not shown in FIG. 4) to print an image; A head drive circuit 32 that drives and controls the optical head unit 35 in response to a command signal from the optical head 25, a head position sensor 34 that detects the position of the optical head unit 35, and a plurality of printing media 38a such as instant camera films. And a cartridge holder 41 for holding the printed print cartridge 38 at a predetermined position inside the image printing apparatus 1. Cartridge detection sensor 37 print cartridge 38 is detected that it is being loaded
A drive unit 36 (to be described in detail later) including a drive member and a mechanism member for transporting the printing medium 38 a in the print cartridge 38 loaded in the cartridge holder 41 inside the image printing apparatus 1; The driving control circuit 33 is configured to receive a command signal from the system controller 25 and control the driving of the driving unit 36.
Various electric circuits and components constituting the printer unit 3 are also controlled by the system controller 25.

Here, the configuration of the printer unit 3 in the image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described in more detail. This printer unit 3 is basically a conventional so-called L
It has the same configuration as an ED printer or the like.

That is, the optical head section 35 is formed in a form in which light-emitting members such as a plurality of light-emitting diodes are arranged in a line. An RGB filter or the like is provided on the light-emitting surface side of the light-emitting member, so that light of each color element is emitted. On the light emitting surface side of each light emitting member, there is provided a micro lens or the like for condensing irradiation light emitted from each light emitting member and forming an image at a predetermined position on the exposure surface of the printing medium 38a. .

The optical head 35 is controlled in a predetermined manner by a head drive circuit 32 controlled by a command from the system controller 25. At this time, the head drive circuit 32 controls the light emission of the optical head unit 35 based on the image data generated by the print image generation circuit 31. And this optical head part 3
By the light emitting operation of No. 5, predetermined exposure is performed on the exposure surface of the printing medium 38a.

The printing medium 38a is transported in a predetermined direction by a drive unit via a drive control circuit 33 controlled by a command from the system controller 25. The transport speed of the printing medium 38 a is synchronized with the exposure operation by the light emission of the optical head unit 35.

That is, as shown in FIG. 3, the drive section 36 is composed of various components constituting the moving means for transporting the printing medium 38a, that is, a drive step motor (not shown), and is interlocked therewith. The first capstan shaft 36a, the second capstan shaft 36c, and the first capstan shaft 36a are provided at positions opposed to the first capstan shaft 36a via the printing medium 38a.
A pressure roller 36b pressed against the capstan shaft 36a,
The rotational driving force of the transport roller 36d and the driving step motor that is provided at a position facing the second capstan shaft 36c and is pressed against the second capstan shaft 36c via the printing medium 38a is applied to the first capstan shaft 36a. The driving force transmission mechanism (not shown) that transmits the driving force to the second capstan shaft 36c is configured.

In this case, the driving section 36 conveys the printing medium 38a at a predetermined speed by the following operation. First, the system controller 25 controls the drive of a drive step motor that constitutes a part of the drive unit 36 via the drive control circuit 33 to execute a predetermined rotation operation. The rotational driving force of the driving step motor is transmitted to the first capstan shaft 36a via a driving force transmission mechanism constituted by gears and the like.

A pressure roller 36b is pressed against the first capstan shaft 36a with a predetermined pressure via a printing medium 38a. Therefore, when the first capstan shaft 36a rotates in a predetermined direction and at a predetermined speed, the pressure roller 36b follows the rotation. As a result, the printing medium 38a is transported in a predetermined direction and speed. This mechanism is similar to, for example, a means for transporting a tape medium in a general cassette tape recorder or the like.

As described above, the conventional instant camera film is used as the printing medium 38a used in the printer unit 3 of the image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment.

The printing action of the instant camera film as the printing medium 38a and the developing action of the exposed printing medium 38a are performed as follows.
First, the printing medium 38a that has been exposed to a predetermined area as described above is transported at a predetermined speed while being sandwiched between the first capstan shaft 36a and the pressure roller 36b. At this time, a packet portion (not shown) filled at the leading end of the printing medium 38a and filled with a developing chemical is ruptured by the pressing force between the first capstan shaft 36a and the pressing roller 36b. It is supposed to. At the same time, the first capstan shaft 36a and the pressure roller 36b act to squeeze the same chemical from the inside of the packet portion to the outside. Then, the chemicals squeezed out of the packet portion are combined with the first capstan shaft 36a and the pressure roller 36b as the printing medium 38a is transported.
Thus, the printing medium 38a is applied substantially uniformly on the exposed surface of the printing medium 38a.

As described above, the printing medium 38 a is conveyed at a predetermined speed while the chemicals for developing the application are applied to the exposed portion of the optical head 35, and the leading end of the printing medium 38 a is the discharge opening 44. It reaches a position sandwiched between the second capstan shaft 36c and the transport roller 36d provided in the vicinity. Then, the system controller 25 drives and controls the driving step motor via a predetermined driving force transmission mechanism (not shown) to transmit the rotational driving force to the second capstan shaft 36c. As a result, the printing medium 38a is sent out of the image printing apparatus 1 while being held between the second capstan shaft 36c and the transport roller 36d.

At a predetermined position on the rear end side of the printing medium 38a, a second packet portion (not shown) is provided, and the second packet portion receives excess chemicals. It is supposed to.

In the above-described configuration of the printing medium 38a, the configuration of each unit such as the packet unit containing the chemicals and the second packet unit for receiving the excess chemicals is the same as the conventional instant media. This is common in camera films. Therefore, the detailed illustration of the configuration of the printing medium 38a is omitted.

Since the second capstan shaft 36c assists the conveyance of the printing medium 38a, the pressing force of the conveying roller 36d pressed against the printing medium 38a is reduced by the pressing roller 36b against the first capstan shaft 36a. Is set to be lighter than the crimping force.

Further, the conveying speed of the printing medium 38a is
The rotation speed is determined by the rotation speed of the first capstan shaft 36a and the pressure roller 36b pressed against the rotation speed. Therefore, the transport speed of the printing medium 38a is set so as to synchronize with the exposure action by the light emission of the optical head unit 35 as described above.

FIG. 6 is an external perspective view showing the outline of the external appearance of the image printing apparatus 1 when viewed from the back side, and shows the first recording medium with respect to the first card slot 15a. 5 shows a state in which the second recording medium (removable memory 16) is mounted on the second card slot portion 45a when the first recording medium 51 is mounted.

As shown in FIG. 6, near the LCD 21 provided on the back side of the image printing apparatus 1, an operation mode selection member 24a and an image selection button 24 are provided.
An operation member such as d is provided to perform a predetermined operation when executing a printout operation or an image reproduction operation, for example, to select an image, or to select or change a setting of a reproduction mode or a display mode. It is an operating member for tightening. When the camera unit 2 is mounted on the first card slot 15a and used as an electronic camera, these operation members perform various settings and changes of the camera according to the operation mode of the photographing operation and the photographing conditions. It is an operation member.

The operation of the thus configured image printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment will be described below. When an image printout is created by the image printing apparatus 1, various forms as described below are conceivable. For example, 1) the first card slot unit 15a of the image printing apparatus 1
When the image printing apparatus 1 is operated as an electronic camera by attaching the camera unit 2 to the camera unit, the image based on the image signal obtained by the camera unit 2 is used immediately after the photographing operation. When performing a print output operation (hereinafter, referred to as a photographing record print mode), 2) the first card slot unit 15a of the image printing apparatus 1
The camera unit 2 is attached to the image printing apparatus 1 and the image printing apparatus 1 is operated as an electronic camera to perform an image capturing operation. After recording in the memory 16, a desired image data is selected from the image data recorded in the detachable memory 16, and a printout operation of an image based on the selected image data is performed (hereinafter referred to as “first printing”). 3) The first recording medium 51, which is obtained by another electronic camera or the like and in which a plurality of image data is recorded in a predetermined form, is mounted on the first card slot 15a of the image printing apparatus 1. Then, desired image data is selected from a plurality of image data recorded on the first recording medium 51, and an image printout operation based on the selected image data is executed. (Hereinafter, referred to as a second print mode).

The operation in each of these print modes will be described below. First, the operation in the shooting record print mode is as follows.

By operating a predetermined operation member of the image printing apparatus 1 to turn on a main power switch (not shown, included in the operation section 24), an operation mode selection member 24 is provided.
a (see FIG. 6) and the like are set to the shooting record print mode.

Before the photographing operation is performed, a predetermined print cartridge 38 is loaded in the cartridge holder 41 in advance. In this case, the procedure for loading the print cartridge 38 into the cartridge holder 41 is as follows.

That is, first, the cartridge holder 41 is opened. To open the holder 41, for example, means for manually rotating the cartridge holder 41 in the opening direction by a user is used.

The cartridge holder 41 may be configured to be opened by operating a predetermined operation member. Such a configuration is realized by, for example, providing the following mechanism. That is, a biasing member for constantly biasing the cartridge holder 41 in the opening direction, a locking means for holding the closed state when the holder 41 is closed, and a simple locking action by the locking means. What is necessary is just to comprise so that the operation member etc. which can be released by operation may be provided. Such a mechanism is a general one conventionally used.

In this manner, the cartridge holder 41
Is opened, the print cartridge 38 is loaded into the holder 41, and is closed. As a result, the cartridge holder 41 and the print cartridge 38 are arranged at predetermined positions in the cartridge storage chamber 41a.

When the cartridge holder 41 is closed, the cartridge detection sensor 37 disposed at a predetermined position in the cartridge storage chamber 41a causes the print cartridge 38 to be loaded at a predetermined position in the cartridge storage chamber 41a. Is detected, and information to that effect is transmitted to the system controller 25.

In response to this, the system controller 25
The operation for discharging the cover sheet that covers the exposure surface side of the printing medium 38a stored in the print cartridge 38 is executed. The cover sheet is provided to prevent unnecessary exposure of the exposed surface of the unexposed (unused) printing medium 38a stored in the print cartridge 38. In general, a film for an instant camera is provided.

The operation of discharging the cover sheet is executed as follows. That is, the system controller 25
Receives information from the cartridge detection sensor 37,
The drive control of the drive unit 36 via the drive control circuit 33 is started.

In this case, first, a driving step motor (not shown) constituting a part of the driving section 36 is driven. The rotational driving force of the driving step motor is transmitted to the first capstan shaft 36a and the second capstan shaft 36c via a driving force transmitting mechanism or the like (not shown) to rotate both. At this time, the first capstan shaft 3
A pressure roller 36b and a transport roller 36d are pressed against the 6a and the second capstan shaft 36c, respectively.
Therefore, the cover sheet is provided with the first capstan shaft 36.
a and the pressure roller 36b, the second capstan shaft 36c, and the transport roller 36d, the paper is transported while being nipped, and discharged to the outside of the image printing apparatus 1.

That is, the discharging action of the cover sheet is as follows.
The same procedure as the transport operation of the printing medium 38a during the printing operation on the printing medium 38a is performed. However, since the purpose is to discharge the cover sheet to the outside, the drive operation is performed. The step motor is rotated at a relatively high speed so that the cover sheet is quickly discharged. As a result, the printer unit 3 is ready to execute an image print output operation.

After the preparation for the photographing operation and the print output operation is completed in this way, the normal photographing and recording operation using the camera unit 2 mounted on the image printing apparatus 1 is executed. That is, first, when a predetermined operation of the release button 24b is performed (for example, a half-press operation or the like), a predetermined switch of the operation unit 24 operates to perform an exposure and focusing operation (A
A command signal for starting the E / AF operation is generated. In response to this command signal, the system controller 25
Is an AE circuit 46 based on an output signal from the image sensor 12
Based on the detection result by the AF circuit 47 and the like, a predetermined photometry / distance measurement calculation or the like is executed.

Further, when a predetermined operation of the release button 24b (for example, a full-press operation) is performed, the system controller 25 receives a command signal generated by the operation and controls the image pickup device 12 and the like of the camera unit 2 to obtain a desired operation. An exposure operation for acquiring an image signal including a subject image is performed. The image signal thus obtained is converted into a predetermined digital image signal by the imaging circuit 13 and the A / D conversion circuit 14, and is converted to a first card slot 15a and a first card I / O.
The data is sent to the built-in memory 17 via the F section 15 and temporarily stored therein. As described above, the system controller 25 functions as an imaging device control unit that controls the camera unit 2 mounted on the first card slot unit 15a.

The image signal is supplied to a compression / expansion circuit 19.
Thus, predetermined signal processing such as compression processing is performed to generate image data in a form optimal for recording. The image data includes an image signal representing an image and various types of image information accompanying the image signal. Then, the system controller 25 records the generated image data in a predetermined area of the detachable memory 16 mounted on the second card slot 45a via the second card I / F unit 45, and performs a series of shooting and recording. Complete the operation.

When a series of photographing / recording operations is completed in this manner, the system controller 25 then outputs the image signal acquired by the immediately preceding photographing operation and stored in the built-in memory 17 to the print image generating circuit 31 of the printer unit 3. To perform an image printout operation.

In this case, first, an image signal obtained by the immediately preceding photographing operation and temporarily stored in the internal memory 17 is transmitted to the print image generation circuit 31 of the printer unit 3 via the system controller 25. . In response to this, the print image generation circuit 31 generates an image signal for printing that is optimal for printing an image. This printing image signal is a set of image signals converted for each line, for example.

The image signal generated by the print image generation circuit 31 is transmitted to the optical head unit 35 via the head drive circuit 32 for each line of data. At this time, the head driving circuit 32
The optical head 35 is controlled by the command of No. 5. Thereby, the optical head unit 35 performs a predetermined light emitting operation,
The printing medium 38a is exposed.

At the same time, the system controller 25
Controls the drive unit 36 via the drive control circuit 33, and synchronizes with the light emission operation of the optical head unit 35 so that the printing medium 38a
Is carried out. In this way, the printing medium 3
In 8a, after an image based on the image signal obtained by the immediately preceding photographing operation is exposed, the image is conveyed at a predetermined speed, and is subjected to a predetermined printing process (developing process) by the printer unit 3 described above. Then, the image-printed printing medium 3
8 a is discharged to the outside of the image printing apparatus 1.
As a result, a printout of a desired image is created.
When a series of print output operations is completed in this way, the initialization of the internal memory 17 is executed, and then the image printing apparatus 1
Is ready for the next shooting operation.

When the LCD 21 is used as a liquid crystal viewfinder during the photographing operation, when the execution of the print output operation is started, the system controller 25 transmits the image by the LCD 21 via the display circuit 20. Control is performed to stop the display operation. Such control is performed because power consumption for driving the LCD 21 is suppressed, and the load on the system controller 25 is reduced to reduce the printing time and save power. is there.

Therefore, when power is supplied to the image printing apparatus 1 from, for example, an external power supply connected to the external power input terminal 28, it is not necessary to consider power saving. The LCD 21 may be continuously driven.

As described above, in the photographing recording and printing mode, after the photographing operation is performed, the recording operation of the image data acquired thereby is first performed. Thereafter, an image printout operation based on the image signal is continuously performed. In this case, the recording operation is performed with priority, because the execution time required for the recording operation is completed in a shorter time than the printing output operation. In addition, by ending the recording operation preferentially, it is possible to prevent an accident such that the image data acquired by the photographing operation is lost due to some trouble or the like.

Next, the operation in the first print mode is as follows. First, a predetermined operation member of the image printing apparatus 1 is operated to turn on a main power switch (not shown; included in the operation unit 24). In a normal case, the image printing apparatus 1 is started in the first print mode. Further, the detachable memory 16 in which image data is recorded in advance is loaded in the second card slot section 45a.

In this state, when the image printing apparatus 1 is started in the first print mode, a predetermined image of the image data recorded in the detachable memory 16 is reproduced and displayed on the LCD 21. Here, the predetermined image data is the latest image data among a plurality of image data recorded in the removable memory 16.

That is, when the image printing apparatus 1 is started in the first print mode, predetermined image data is stored in the removable memory 16.
Of the second card I / F unit 4
5 to the compression / decompression circuit 19. In response, the compression / expansion circuit 19 subjects the image data to predetermined expansion processing and the like to convert the image data into an image signal of a predetermined form, and then temporarily stores the image signal in the built-in memory 17.

At the same time, the image signal is also transmitted to the image processing means 18, which generates an image signal for display in a form most suitable for reproduction and display. Then, the image signal for display is transmitted to the LCD 21 via the display circuit 20, and is reproduced and displayed as an image by the LCD 21.

In this state, desired image data is selected by operating a predetermined operation member, for example, the image selection button 24d (see FIG. 6), and the image is displayed on the LCD 2.
1 is displayed. In this way, the desired image is
If the user operates a print instruction operating means (not shown) for generating a command signal for starting the print output operation in the state displayed at 21, the print output operation can be executed.

Before executing the print output operation, the print cartridge 38 is loaded in the cartridge holder 41 in advance. The procedure for loading the print cartridge 38 into the cartridge holder 41 in this case is as described above.

When a predetermined command signal is generated to start the print output operation, the system controller 2 receives the command signal.
5 controls the image signal temporarily stored in the built-in memory 17 to be transmitted to the print image generation circuit 31. As a result, the image printout operation in the first print mode is started. Hereinafter, the flow of the print output operation is as follows.
As described above.

In the state immediately before the execution of the print output operation is started, the image is reproduced and displayed using the LCD 21, but when the execution of the print output operation is started, the system controller is started. 25 stops the driving of the LCD 21 and stops the image display operation of the LCD 21 as described above.

As described above, in the first print mode, desired image data is selected from the image data already recorded in the detachable memory 16, and a printout of an image based on the selected image data can be output at any time. Can be created.

On the other hand, in the present image printing apparatus 1, the first recording medium 51 generated in advance using an input device such as another electronic camera and recorded as image data of a predetermined form is stored in the first card. Even in the case of being mounted in the slot section 15a, desired image data can be arbitrarily selected from the image data recorded on the first recording medium 51 and reproduced and displayed. A printout operation of a desired image can be executed based on the data to create a printout of the image. In this case (second print mode), the operation is performed in the following procedure.

First, a predetermined operation member of the image printing apparatus 1 is operated to turn on a main power switch (not shown; included in the operation section 24). In addition, the first recording medium 51 (see FIG. 6) on which image data of a predetermined form is recorded is mounted on the first card slot 15a.

Next, the second print mode is set by operating the operation mode selection member 24a (see FIG. 6) of the image printing apparatus 1. Then, a predetermined image of the image data recorded on the first recording medium 51 is reproduced and displayed on the LCD 21. Here, the predetermined image data is, for example, the latest image data among a plurality of image data recorded on the first recording medium 51.

That is, when the image printing apparatus 1 shifts to the second print mode, predetermined image data is read from a predetermined area of the first recording medium 51, and the first card I / F is read.
The data is transmitted to the compression / expansion circuit 19 via the section 15. In response, the compression / expansion circuit 19 subjects the image data to predetermined expansion processing and the like to convert the image data into an image signal of a predetermined form, and then temporarily stores the image signal in the built-in memory 17.

At the same time, the same image signal is also transmitted to the image processing means 18, and the image processing means 18 performs the same operation as the reproduction and display operation of the image in the above-described first print mode, thereby displaying the image. After the image signal is generated, an image based on the image signal is reproduced and displayed by the LCD 21.

Then, desired image data is selected by operating a predetermined operation member, for example, the image selection button 24d (see FIG. 6), and the image is displayed on the LCD 21. When a predetermined print instruction operating means is operated while the desired image is displayed on the LCD 21 in this way, execution of the image print output operation is started. The flow of this print output operation is as described above.

Before executing the print output operation, the print cartridge 38 is loaded in the cartridge holder 41 in advance. The procedure for loading the print cartridge 38 into the cartridge holder 41 in this case is as described above.

When the execution of the print output operation in the second print mode is started, the system controller 25 operates the LCD controller in the same manner as in the first print mode.
The operation of the LCD 21 is stopped by stopping the driving of the LCD 21.

As described above, in the second print mode, desired image data is selected from image data recorded on the first recording medium 51 different from the second recording medium (the detachable memory 16). A printout of an image based on the selected image data can be arbitrarily created.

In addition to the printing modes described above, for example, after the photographing operation using the camera unit 2, the recording operation of the acquired image signal (image data) in the removable memory 16 is immediately executed without executing the operation. An operation mode in which only a hard copy of an image is created by causing the printer to execute a print output operation is conceivable.

In this case, by omitting the recording operation of the image data obtained by the camera unit 2 on the recording medium (the detachable memory 16), the time required for the recording operation is reduced. This has the effect that a hard copy of the image can be made earlier and the time until the preparation for the next shooting operation can be shortened.

This is effective when image data is unnecessary and only an image printout is required, for example, when confirming an exposure state or performing a trial shooting for confirming an illumination state and the like. Means.

As described above, according to the above-described embodiment, in addition to the function as the original image printing apparatus, a function to control the camera unit 2 mounted on the first card slot unit 15a is provided. With this configuration, when the camera section 2 is attached to the first card slot section 15a, the camera section 2 can be used as a normal electronic camera, and in this case, based on the acquired image signal immediately after the shooting operation. A printout (hard copy) of an image can be created automatically and immediately.

The second recording medium (removable memory 16)
If the first recording medium 51 different from the image printing apparatus 1 is inserted into the first card slot section 15a instead of the camera section 2, an image based on image data created by another device different from the image printing apparatus 1 or the like can be obtained. Can easily be produced. Therefore, the use as an image printing apparatus is expanded and the apparatus becomes more convenient.

In the above embodiment, the camera unit 2
And a first card slot 15a for mounting the first recording medium 51 and the like, and a second recording medium (removable memory 1).
6), a second card slot 45a for mounting the card slot is arranged on the same side surface of the image printing apparatus 1 with the respective openings. They may be arranged at different positions.

For example, FIG. 7 shows the first and second card slot sections 15 for the image printing apparatus 1 according to the above-described embodiment.
It is a figure which shows the modification which arranged the opening part of a and 45a in a different side part, respectively, and has shown the state when it sees from the front side of an image printing apparatus.

That is, the image printing apparatus 1A of the present modification is different from the image printing apparatus 1 of the above-described embodiment in that the arrangement of each component is different.
The main body 1a is formed by a flat casing member having a long side in the horizontal direction. In other words, it is configured to have a shape common to the form of a general camera such as a so-called compact camera. In FIG. 7, an arrow X2 indicates a moving direction when the camera unit 2 is inserted into and removed from the first card slot unit 15a.

In the image printing apparatus 1A of the present modified example having the above-described configuration, the camera unit 2 having the card-shaped connecting portion 2a which has been conventionally put into practical use, and the detachable / attached large-capacity second recording medium. By using the memory 16 and the like to act as an electronic camera, a printed output of an image based on the acquired image signal can be easily created.

[0112]

As described above, according to the present invention, a small and lightweight portable image printing apparatus has a part of the function as an electronic camera and can be easily used as an electronic camera. In addition, even when a desired image is taken in an environment such as outdoors using the electronic camera function, a hard copy of an image based on the image signal that has been taken can be immediately created on the spot. It is possible to provide an image printing apparatus which can obtain a plurality of images immediately.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing an arrangement of internal components in an image printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view showing the arrangement of internal components in the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a right side view showing an arrangement of internal components in the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a main block diagram showing the internal configuration of the image printing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 and an image pickup apparatus (camera section) mounted in a first card slot of the image printing apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of an imaging device (camera unit) mounted in a first card slot of the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an external perspective view schematically showing the external appearance of the image printing apparatus of FIG. 1 when viewed from the rear side.

FIG. 7 is a front view showing a modification of the image printing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1.1A Image printing device 1a Main unit 2 Camera unit 2a Connection unit 3 Printer unit (printing unit) 11 Imaging lens system 12 Image sensor (imaging unit) 13 Imaging circuit (imaging means) 14 A / D conversion circuit (imaging means) 15 First card interface (I / F) section 15a First card slot section 16 Removable memory (second Recording medium 17 Internal memory (buffer memory) 21 Display device (LCD; display means) 24 Operation unit (various switch groups) 24a Operation mode selection member 24b Release button (photographing instruction operation means) 24d image selection button 25 system controller (control means) 26 power supply section (power supply means) 26a power supply battery 26b power supply line 31 print image generation circuit (signal processing) 34) Head position sensor 35 Optical head section (exposure section) 36 Drive section (moving section) 36a First capstan shaft (moving section; printing section) 36b Crimping roller (moving section) Means: printing means) 36c: second capstan shaft (moving means: printing means) 36d: transport rollers (moving means: printing means) 38a: printing medium 41: cartridge holder 45: second card Interface (I / F) unit 45a Second card slot unit 46 AE circuit (imaging device control unit) 47 AF circuit (imaging device control unit) 51 First recording medium

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP10 AS11 BB10 BB35 5C022 AA13 AB68 AC02 AC03 AC32 AC42 AC54 AC77 AC78 5C052 AA12 AA17 AB02 AB04 CC01 CC11 DD02 EE02 EE03 EE08 FA02 FA03 FB01 FC06 FE01 FE04 FE09

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup apparatus comprising: a photographing lens system for forming a subject image; and image pickup means for converting a subject image formed by the photographing lens system into an electric image signal, and having a card-shaped connecting portion. Or a card slot into which a card-shaped recording medium can be inserted and removed; signal processing means for receiving output signals from the imaging device or the recording medium mounted on the card slot and performing predetermined signal processing; An image printing apparatus, comprising: printing means for printing out an image based on an image signal generated by the processing means on a printing medium. 2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit includes an exposing unit that exposes the printing medium based on image information including an image signal acquired by using the imaging unit, and a moving unit that conveys the printing medium. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image printing apparatus is configured as follows. 3. The power required by the image pickup device or the recording medium mounted on the card slot portion is supplied from a power supply provided on the device main body side via the card slot portion to the image pickup device or the recording medium. The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image printing apparatus is configured to be supplied to the image printing apparatus. 4. A second card slot section which can insert and remove a second recording medium for recording an image signal obtained by using the image pickup device mounted on the card slot section as image data of a predetermined form, The image printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: 5. The image according to claim 1, further comprising an image pickup device control means for controlling the image pickup device mounted on the card slot portion. Printing device. 6. A photographing instruction operation means for generating a command relating to a photographing operation when performing a photographing operation using the image pickup device mounted on the card slot portion. The image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image printing apparatus is configured to execute the image printing.