JP2000308162A - Remote control system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the reliability of a remote operation by making a remote control signal transmitter generate two kinds of remote control signals and allowing a remote control signal receiver to perform the same operation control even through either of the two kinds of remote control signal is received in a state where it can receive either of the two kinds of remote control signals. SOLUTION: When the remote control switch 23 of a remote control signal transmitter is turned on, an underwater deciding part 30 sends decision information whether it is in underwater or air to a remote control circuit 24. In the case of its being in underwater, decision is made to perform transmission by ultrasonic waves which are difficult to be attenuated by water and whose range is large, and a generator drive circuit 27 is instructed to transmit an ultrasonic remote control signal from an ultrasonic generator 26. In the case of air, an infrared remote control signal which has less attenuation is transmitted from an infrared generator 25. A camera being a remote control signal receiver sends a reception confirmation signal to a sender with a sound wave or light regardless of whether the type of a received remote control signal is an ultrasonic wave or infrared light.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a remote control system for operating a camera or the like.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an ordinary remote control system uses a generator for generating a certain kind of light (infrared ray, laser light, etc.), sound wave (audible sound, ultrasonic wave, etc.) or radio wave. there were. In addition, as a reception confirmation means for notifying the reception to the operator, a device provided with a device for generating one of light and sound waves, that is, a light emitting element or the like, or a sounding body or the like. It was equipped with any one of the above.

On the other hand, a remote control system using a plurality of generators of different types such as light and sound waves (hereinafter referred to as a “hybrid remote control”) is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-87597. Regardless of where the listener with the remote control transmitter listens to the device, video equipment, etc. at any of the front, rear, left and right positions, a device that detects the position of the remote control transmitter is required to ensure that the optimum stereo effect is always obtained. is there.

[0004] In this method, an infrared pulse is projected from a remote control transmitter at the same time as an ultrasonic wave is oscillated to a device. Calculate the difference between the reception time of the ultrasonic waves of the left and right channels measured by the measuring means, find the distance between the position of the remote control transmitter and the speakers of the left and right channels, use it as the listening position information, and adjust the gain of the left and right channel audio signals The delay time of the left and right channel audio signals is controlled by a delay circuit.

In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 9-214861, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-214861 discloses a method of detecting the distance between an infrared receiver such as a television receiver and an object (viewer) so that the viewer does not approach the television receiver too much. A device for automatically controlling an infrared receiver is presented.

An ultrasonic sensor is installed near an infrared receiver that is controlled by receiving an infrared operation signal at a light receiving section, and detects a distance from an object substantially in front of the infrared receiver by an ultrasonic element. Means, a control processing means for outputting a processing signal based on an output from the ultrasonic sensing means, and a transmitting section for outputting the processing signal from the control processing means to the light receiving section of the infrared receiver as an infrared operation signal. When an object exists within a predetermined distance, the power of the infrared receiver is turned on.

[0007] Also, JP-A-10-117390 discloses that
Since the infrared signal transmitted from the transmitter can only propagate information linearly within a predetermined range, it is impossible to solve the problem that the control becomes impossible when there is an obstacle between the transmitter and the receiver of the infrared remote control signal. For this reason, there has been proposed a remote control signal relaying device that performs transmission using ultrasonic waves.

This is a remote control signal relay device used between a transmitter and a receiver in a wireless remote control system for transmitting and receiving data between a transmitter and a receiver by an infrared remote control signal. A first repeater that receives a signal, converts infrared signal information into ultrasonic signal information and transmits it as an ultrasonic remote control signal, and receives an ultrasonic remote control signal from the first repeater and converts the ultrasonic signal information to infrared light. And a second repeater that converts the information into signal information and transmits the signal information to the receiver as an infrared remote control signal.

On the other hand, although it is not a hybrid remote control,
As disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-79066, it is possible to solve the problem that accurate remote operation cannot be performed due to interference or interference when multiple people control different equipments at the same place at the same time with multiple transmitters. The transmitter has a plurality of identification data and has an identification data selection switch for selecting any one of the identification data, and the data section and the transmission time of the data section or more. A plurality of combinations of a unit data section including a space section having a time length and a weight section having a time length equal to or longer than the time length of the unit data section are held, and the combination is determined by the selected identification data. , The receiver is configured to transmit the data based on the determined combination, the receiver holds a plurality of identification data, and a reception selection switch for selecting any one of the identification data. And is configured to be controlled when the identification data selected by the reception selection switch matches the received identification data.

Although this is not a hybrid remote control,
As shown in the registration gazette of Patent No. 2787232, when a camera having a front receiving unit and a rear receiving unit as a remote control receiving unit, when sunlight is applied to the rear receiving unit of the camera during normal light shooting In some cases, the gain of the rear receiving unit is set lower than the gain of the front receiving unit in order to prevent malfunction of the receiver.

[0011]

However, in the conventional remote control system of the prior art, for example, an infrared remote control signal is used. Under extremely high light conditions or underwater light (especially infrared light)
Is difficult to propagate, for example, using an ultrasonic remote control signal, such as conditions where the surrounding ultrasonic noise is large,
There is a disadvantage that the remote control does not work or malfunctions depending on the use environment conditions.

Also, under normal conditions where the brightness is not high in the air, when transmitting a remote control signal having the same reachable distance capability, ultrasonic waves require more energy than infrared rays. However, there is a problem that ultrasonic waves are disadvantageous in this respect. This is also the advantage of infrared in terms of range when given the same energy. On the other hand, if there is an obstacle between the remote control transmitting means and the receiving means, the remote control often works by wrapping around in the case of sound waves, but there is a problem that the remote control does not work in the case of light because of the straightness. Was.

Further, in the conventional hybrid remote controller, the same control is performed for the device body on the receiving side.
Since there is no apparatus that transmits and receives a plurality of types of remote control signals using a plurality of different types of generators, there are the same inconveniences and problems as in the above-described ordinary remote control system.

For example, in the technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 7-87597, the ultrasonic wave is a signal for detecting the position of the listener based on the difference in arrival time at the receiving apparatus main body.
Infrared light is a signal used as a reference when ultrasonic waves are emitted, and is used to perform different functions (control), so that infrared rays and ultrasonic waves complement each other in terms of signal reachability. I didn't.

Further, for example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-214861, the automatic control device of the infrared receiver is different from a general remote control transmitter and is hybrid in that it uses ultrasonic waves and infrared rays. However, the ultrasonic wave is not used as a remote control signal to the device itself, but rather as an object (viewer).
Infrared and ultrasonic waves do not complement each other in terms of signal reachability.

[0016] For example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 10-117390, a remote control signal relay device that performs transmission by ultrasonic waves is proposed for relaying infrared remote control signals. It was hybrid in terms of use, and infrared and ultrasonic waves complemented each other in terms of signal reachability.However, since the remote control signal is connected in series with infrared → ultrasonic → infrared, the remote control also depends on the usage environment conditions There has been a problem that it does not work or malfunctions.

In the device disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. Hei 6-79066, malfunctions such as interference and interference under normal use environment conditions can be prevented, but a remote control signal is generated from a plurality of types of generators. However, there is a disadvantage that the remote control does not work or malfunctions depending on the use environment conditions.

In the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 2787232, the remote control signal is only emitted from one type of generator such as infrared rays, and is effective only in general normal light shooting. The remote controller does not work depending on whether the device body to be operated receives direct sunlight on its front remote control receiving means, the surroundings have extremely high brightness, or underwater light (especially infrared) is difficult to propagate, or Had the disadvantage of malfunctioning.

Further, as the reception confirmation means, which is notified by light with a light-emitting element, is used under the condition that the surrounding luminance is extremely high, under the condition that light such as underwater is hardly propagated, or as the reception confirmation means, by sound generator. However, there is also a disadvantage that it is difficult for the operator to confirm that the remote control is effective under conditions where the surrounding sound is loud.

(Object of the Invention) It is an object of the first invention according to the present application to provide a remote control system for improving the reliability of remote control.

An object of a second invention according to the present application is to provide a remote control system which improves reliability of remote control so as to be suitable for a use environment.

It is an object of a third invention according to the present application to provide a remote control system for improving reliability of remote control so as to be suitable for a power supply state.

[0023]

In order to achieve the first object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 1 of the present application, includes a remote control signal transmitting device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. A remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal, the remote control signal transmitting device having remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals. The remote control signal receiving device includes: a remote control signal receiving unit capable of receiving the plurality of types of remote control signals; and a remote control signal receiving unit configured to transmit at least a first remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals, Setting means for setting both of the signals to be receivable; and the first and second remote control signals set by the setting means. In the state where both of the signals can be received, the predetermined operation control is performed when the first remote control signal is received, and the predetermined operation control is performed also when the second remote control signal is received. This is a remote control system having control means.

With the above configuration, a remote control system can be used in which the different types of signals can be used as remote control signals for instructing similar operations. A plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, and the remote control does not work. In other words, the inconvenience of malfunction or malfunction is prevented, and the reliability of remote operation is improved.

In order to achieve the second object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 15 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device and the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. And a remote control signal receiving device that performs predetermined operation control according to the
In the remote control system, the remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving device includes the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. Remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving a signal, an environment detecting means for detecting a use environment state, and a signal of any one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the environment detecting means. And a receiving remote control signal selecting means for selecting whether or not to receive the signal.

With the above configuration, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

In order to achieve the third object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 24 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
In the remote control system, the remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving device includes the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. Remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving a remote control signal, a power state detecting means for detecting a power state of the remote control signal receiving apparatus, and a type of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the power state detecting means. A remote control system having a remote control signal selecting means for selecting whether the signal is to be received by the remote control signal receiving means.

With the above-described configuration, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

In order to achieve the second object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 30 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device and the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
A remote control system, wherein the remote control signal transmitting device generates a remote control signal of a different type, an environment detecting unit for detecting a use environment state, and the plurality of remote control signals according to a detection result of the environment detecting unit. Transmission remote control signal selection means for selecting which type of signal among the types of remote control signals is to be transmitted to the remote control signal transmission means, and the remote control signal reception device is transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. The remote control system includes a remote control signal receiving unit capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals.

With the above configuration, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing the inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

To achieve the third object, a remote control system according to a thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention includes a remote control signal transmitting device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
A remote control system, wherein the remote control signal transmission device generates a remote control signal of a different type, a power status detection device for detecting a power status of the remote control signal transmission device, and a detection of the power status detection device. Transmitting remote control signal selecting means for selecting which type of signal among the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be generated by the remote control signal generating means in accordance with a result, wherein the remote control signal receiving device comprises: A remote control system having remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the signal transmission device.

With the above structure, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

In order to achieve the first object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 43 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
A remote control system, wherein the remote control signal transmission device includes a predetermined operation unit and remote control signal generation means for generating the different types of remote control signals substantially simultaneously in response to an operation of the predetermined operation unit; The receiving device performs a predetermined operation control when receiving a first remote control signal of one of the different types of remote control signals, and a remote control signal receiving unit capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals. A remote control system having an operation control means for performing the predetermined operation control even when a second remote control signal of one of the types of remote control signals is received.

With the above-described configuration, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

In order to achieve the first object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 55 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
A remote control system, wherein the remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating at least two of light, sound waves, and radio waves as the different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving device has the at least two remote control signals. Remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving two types of remote control signals, and performing predetermined operation control when receiving a first remote control signal of one of the at least two types; And a remote control system having operation control means for performing the predetermined operation control even when one of the second remote control signals is received.

With the above configuration, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability, thereby preventing inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions.
It is intended to improve the reliability of remote operation.

In order to achieve the first object, a remote control system according to the present invention, as set forth in claim 74 of the present application, receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device and a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. And a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation according to the
A remote control system, wherein the remote control signal receiving device receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device, and the remote control signal receiving device receives a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. And a gain adjusting means for adjusting the reception gain of the remote controller.

By adjusting the reception gain of the remote control receiving means with the above configuration, the inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunctions is prevented, and the reliability of the remote operation is improved. is there.

[0039]

(First Embodiment) FIGS. 1 to 5
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a remote control system described as a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall structure of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a waterproof remote control transmitter which can be used underwater. 3 is a block diagram showing a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiving device.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus 21 in the remote control system shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 shows the operation of the apparatus body (camera) including the receiving apparatus in the remote control system in the remote control mode. It is a flowchart shown.

In these figures, 1 is a camera body, 2
Is a shooting lens, 3 is a mode dial having a main switch and a shooting mode selection function, 4 is an input dial for determining a detailed value in the selected shooting mode, 5 is a liquid crystal display panel for displaying shooting information, 6 is the release button, 7
Denotes a strobe, and 8 denotes a light (infrared) receiving unit, which receives light (infrared) emitted from the remote control transmission circuit 21 by a light receiving element.

Reference numeral 9 denotes a light reception confirming light-emitting unit, which notifies the sender that light (infrared light) emitted from the remote control transmission circuit 21 has been received by visible light from a light-emitting element such as an LED. Reference numeral 10 denotes a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) receiving unit which converts a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) emitted from the remote control transmission circuit 21 into a sound wave (ultrasonic wave).
Receive by the receiving element. Reference numeral 11 denotes a sound generation unit for confirming sound wave reception
The fact that the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) emitted from the remote control transmitting device 21 has been received is notified to the sender by an audible sound from the sounding body.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a camera control circuit which is constituted by a microcomputer or the like and controls the operation of the camera. Reference numeral 13 denotes an amplifying circuit, which has circuits corresponding to a plurality of types of remote control signals, and includes a light (infrared) receiving unit 8 and a sound wave (ultrasonic wave)
The remote control signal received by the receiver 10 is amplified and output to the remote control signal detection circuit 14.

The remote control signal detection circuit 14 outputs a remote control signal to the camera control circuit 12, and has a circuit corresponding to each of a plurality of types of remote control signals, and responds to detection of reception of any one of the remote control signals. And outputs a signal to the camera control circuit 12. As a result, the photographing operation of the camera is started regardless of the operation of the release button 6 of the camera.

Further, the remote control signal detecting circuit 14 outputs to the camera control circuit 12 information corresponding to which of the plurality of types of the remote control signal the received remote control signal is. This information is used in step 13 of a flowchart showing the operation of the camera control circuit 12 described later).

Reference numeral 15 denotes a reception display circuit having circuits corresponding to a plurality of types of reception confirmation display sections, respectively, and receives a command from the camera control circuit 12 to perform reception display according to a received remote control signal. The light emitting section 9 for confirming light reception and the sound generating section 11 for confirming sound wave reception are driven.

Reference numeral 17 denotes a photometric circuit which sends subject (external world) luminance information from the output of the photometric element 18 to the camera control circuit 12.

Reference numeral 21 denotes a remote control transmitting device 21 and reference numeral 22 denotes a remote control button.
Turns on and turns off when released. The remote control switch 23 is also a power switch that supplies power to the remote control transmission device 21 when turned on. Reference numeral 24 denotes a remote control circuit, which is configured by a microcomputer or the like and controls the operation of the remote control transmission device 21.

Reference numeral 25 denotes a light (infrared) generating unit which generates a light (infrared) remote control signal by the light emitting element. Reference numeral 26 denotes a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator, which generates sound waves (ultrasonic waves) by a sounding body.
Is generated. Reference numeral 27 denotes a generator driving circuit, which has circuits respectively corresponding to the plurality of types of remote control signal generators so as to be driven.
, The light (infrared) generator 25 and the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 26 are driven. Reference numeral 28 denotes a power supply state detection unit including a battery check circuit.
9. Measure the voltage of No. 9 and check the power supply status.

Reference numeral 30 denotes an underwater judging unit for detecting whether the camera is in the air or underwater.
It comprises a light receiving element and a determination circuit for performing a determination operation according to information on light incident on the light receiving element.
The details are the same as those described in detail in Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-287286.

It utilizes the difference in the refractive index at the boundary surface of the medium. One side of the triangular prism is exposed to the exterior of the camera, and a light projecting element and a light receiving element are arranged on the other two sides, respectively. If the camera is in the air, the light emitted from the light projecting element is totally reflected by the one side surface, and almost all enters the light receiving element. If the camera is underwater, the light emitted from the light projecting element passes through the water without being totally reflected by the one side surface, and hardly enters the light receiving element. Therefore, it can be determined from the output of the light receiving element whether it is in the air or underwater.

The underwater judging section 30 includes a remote control circuit 24
The light emitting element is caused to emit light in response to the command of (1), and information for determining whether the object is in the air or underwater is sent to the remote control circuit 24 from the output of the light receiving element.

Reference numeral 31 denotes a photometric circuit, which is a hemispherical cover member 3.
The external luminance information is sent to the remote control circuit 24 from the output of the photometric element 33 arranged in the remote controller 2. Reference numeral 34 denotes a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) detection unit which converts an external sound wave (ultrasonic wave) into a sound wave (ultrasonic wave).
Detect with sensor. A sound wave detection circuit 35 detects an external sound wave (ultrasonic wave) detected by the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) detection unit 34 and outputs the detected sound to the remote control circuit 24.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4 (operation of the remote control transmitting device 21) and FIG. 5 (operation of the camera including the receiving device in the remote control mode). At the start, the mode dial 3 of the camera
Is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

(Step 1) The remote control button 22 is pressed, the remote control switch 23 is turned on, the power of the remote control transmission device 21 is turned on, and the process proceeds to step 2. OFF
If so, proceed to step 9.

(Step 2) Looking at the state of the power supply state detector 28, if the voltage of the remote control power supply 29 is larger than a predetermined value V (V), a sound wave (power) requiring more power than light (infrared ray) for transmission. It is determined that the power supply has room for using the ultrasonic wave, and the process proceeds to step 3. Otherwise, go to step 6.

(Step 3) The state of the underwater determination section 30 is checked, and if it is underwater, it is determined that transmission is performed using sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that are less likely to be attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and have a long reach. Then, proceed to Step 4. Otherwise, it is determined that the object is in the air, and the process proceeds to step S5.

(Step 4) In the generator driving circuit 27,
The sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 26 is driven to generate a sound wave (ultrasonic wave).
Transmits a remote control signal. Then, the process returns to step 1.

(Step 5) The state of the photometric circuit 31 is checked, and if the brightness is not higher than a predetermined value, it is determined that the remote control signal by light (infrared rays) is valid, and the process proceeds to Step 6. If the luminance is high, the remote controller malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), and the process proceeds to step 7.

(Step 6) In the generator driving circuit 27,
The light (infrared) generator 25 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by light (infrared). Then, the process returns to step 1.

(Step 7) The state of the sound wave detection circuit 35 is checked, and if the sound wave (ultrasonic) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions or becomes ineffective even with the sound wave (ultrasonic). Proceed to. Otherwise, go to step 4.

(Step 8) In the generator driving circuit 27,
Sound (ultrasonic) generator 26 and light (infrared) generator 2
5 is transmitted, and a remote control signal is transmitted by both sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays) (refer to FIG. 24 for a transmission waveform in a fifth embodiment described later). Then, the process returns to step 1.

(Step 9) The power of the remote control transmission device 21 is turned off, and the flow of the remote control transmission device 21 ends.

(Step 11) Since the camera is in the remote control mode, the remote control signal detection circuit 14 and the amplification circuit 13 are made to function, and the camera stands by for receiving the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission device 21.

(Step 12) Remote control signal detection circuit 1
4 (that is, at least one of a sound wave remote control signal and an optical remote control signal has been received), and if a remote control signal has been received, step 1
Go to step 3, otherwise go to step 22.

(Step 13) Remote control signal detection circuit 1
It is determined what the received remote control signal is from the contents of the output from step 4. If both a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a light (infrared ray) remote control signal are received, the process proceeds to step 14; Then, go to step 19.

(Step 14) The sound display section 11 for sound wave reception confirmation and the light emitting section 9 for light reception confirmation by the reception display circuit 15 so as to display a reception confirmation in response to the received remote control signal.
To notify the sender of the reception by both sound waves (audible sound) and light (visible light).

(Step 15) Photometry, subject (outside world)
Obtain luminance information.

(Step 16) The distance of the object is measured by a distance measuring circuit (not shown) (not shown).

(Step 17) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 18) A film feeding mechanism (not shown) (not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 19) Remote control signal detection circuit 1
It is determined from the contents of the output from 4 what the received remote control signal is. If a light (infrared) remote control signal is received, the process proceeds to step 20; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 21.

(Step 20) The reception display circuit 15 drives the light reception confirming light emitting section 9 so as to display a reception confirmation according to the received remote control signal, and notifies the sender of the reception by light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 15.

(Step 21) The sound display section 11 is driven by the reception display circuit 15 so as to perform reception confirmation display according to the received remote control signal, and the sound wave (audible sound) is generated.
To inform the sender of the receipt. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 15.

(Step 22) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to Step 23; otherwise, the process returns to Step 11.

(Step 23) The remote control reception standby is terminated.

(Step 24) Remote control signal detection circuit 1
4 and the function of the amplifier circuit 13 are stopped.

As described above, according to the first embodiment,
The remote control transmission device is equipped with an environment detection unit that detects the usage environment condition. The remote control transmission device selects and transmits a remote control signal suitable for the environment, and the device itself (camera) uses different types of remote control signals. Can be received, so that a remote control operation suitable for the environment can be performed.

(Second Embodiment) FIGS. 6 to 8 are views showing a remote control system described as a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the entire structure of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an apparatus main body (camera) having a remote control receiver. The same components as those in the remote control system according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description is omitted. Further, the remote control transmission device is the same as the remote control transmission device according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the operation of the main body (camera) including the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 7 in the remote control mode. The operation of the remote control transmission device is the same as the operation of the remote control transmission device according to the first embodiment shown in FIG.

The difference between the present embodiment and the first embodiment is that the apparatus main body (camera) including the receiving apparatus shown in FIG. 7 has an underwater determining section as an environment detecting section for detecting a use environment state. 16 is mounted, and a different reception confirmation display is performed according to the determination.

The underwater judging section 16 has the same configuration as the underwater judging section 30 provided in the remote control transmitter of the first embodiment shown in FIG.
The light emitting element is caused to emit light by the command of 2, and the determination information of whether it is in the air or underwater is sent to the camera control circuit 12 from the output of the light receiving element.

The operation of the above configuration will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 8 (when the camera is in the remote control mode). At the start, the mode dial 3 of the camera is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

(Step 211) Since the camera is in the remote control mode, the remote control signal detection circuit 14 and the amplification circuit 13 are made to function, and the camera stands by for receiving the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission device 21.

(Step 212) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 14 and a remote control signal has been received, the process proceeds to step 213; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 224.
Proceed to.

(Step 213) The state of the underwater determination section 16 is checked, and if the camera is underwater, sound waves (audible sounds) that are less likely to be attenuated by water than light (visible light) and that have a long reach are provided.
It is determined that the reception confirmation display is to be performed, and the process proceeds to step 214. Otherwise, it is determined that the object is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 219.

(Step 214) A reception confirmation display is displayed according to the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit 16) of the camera.
The reception display circuit 15 drives the sound reception unit 11 for confirming reception of sound waves, and notifies the sender of the reception by sound waves (audible sounds).

(Step 215) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (outside world) luminance information.

(Step 216) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring means (not shown, so that description is omitted).

(Step 217) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 218) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 219) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (outside world) luminance information.

(Step 220) If the brightness of the light metering circuit 17 is not higher than a predetermined value, the light (visible light)
It is determined that the reception confirmation display by the user is valid, and step 2
Proceed to 21. If the brightness is high, the reception confirmation display is difficult for the sender to see with light (visible light) or the light is not recognized, so the process proceeds to step 222.

(Step 221) The light-receiving confirmation light emitting unit 9 is driven by the reception display circuit 15 so that the reception confirmation display is displayed in accordance with the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 16, the photometric means 17 and 18) of the camera. Inform the sender of the reception using light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 216.

(Step 222) The state of the remote control signal detection circuit 14 (which also functions as a sound wave detection circuit) is checked.
If the sound wave (audible sound) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the reception confirmation display is hard to hear or cannot be heard by the sound wave (audible sound). Otherwise, go to step 214.

(Step 223) A reception confirmation display is displayed according to the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 16, the photometry units 17, 18, and the sound wave reception units 10, 13, 14) of the camera.
The reception display circuit 15 drives the sound reception unit 11 for sound reception confirmation and the light emitting unit 9 for light reception confirmation, and notifies the sender of the reception using both sound waves (audible sound) and light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 216.

(Step 224) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 225; otherwise, the process returns to step 211.

(Step 225) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 226) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 14 and the amplification circuit 13 are stopped.

As described above, according to the second embodiment,
Since both the remote control transmitting device and the device main body (camera) are provided with the environment detecting unit for detecting the use environment state, for example, it is possible to cope with the case where the device main body (camera) is in the air and the remote control transmitting means is in the water. .

(Third Embodiment) FIGS. 9 to 12 show a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the entire configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using a remote control system. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of a waterproof remote control transmission device that can be used underwater, and FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of a device main body (camera) having a remote control reception device.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus shown in FIG. 10, and FIG.
14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera) in the remote control mode, and FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a strobe light transmission waveform from the device body (camera) to the remote control transmitting means.

The present embodiment is different from the above-described second embodiment in that the remote control transmitting means does not have an environment detecting section (underwater determining section, photometric means, sound wave receiving means).
The point is that the selection of the remote control signal based on the detection result of the environment detection unit (underwater determination unit, photometry unit, sound wave reception unit) on the camera side is transmitted to the remote control transmission unit using the strobe light.

In these figures, reference numeral 319 denotes a strobe circuit which causes the strobe light emitting section 320 to emit light in accordance with a command from the camera control circuit 312. 336 is a strobe light receiving unit,
The communication receiving circuit 337 includes a communication receiving circuit 337 and a light receiving element 338. The communication receiving circuit 337 transmits to the remote control control circuit 324 an instruction to select a remote control signal transmitted from the camera from the output of the light receiving element 338 corresponding to the pulsed flash light. .

The strobe light transmission utilizes the multi-flash function of the strobe (a function capable of continuously emitting light a plurality of times without full light emission), and a waveform a in FIG. I do. Waveform b instructs remote control transmission by light (infrared rays) with two continuous light emission. The waveform c instructs remote control transmission using both sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays) in three consecutive light emissions. In addition, the first of implementation
The same parts as those in the second embodiment are indicated by numerals with 300 added thereto, and description thereof is omitted.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIG. 12 (operation of the remote control transmitting device) and FIG. 13 (operation of the camera having the receiving device in the remote control mode). At the start, the camera's mode dial 30
3 is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered. Steps 301 to 31
6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitting unit 321, and steps 321 to 345 are flowcharts showing the operation of the camera.

(Step 301) Remote control button 322
Is pressed, the remote control switch 323 is turned from OFF to ON, the power of the remote control transmission device 321 is turned on, and the process proceeds to step 302. If it is OFF, the process proceeds to step 316.

(Step 302) Communication receiving circuit 337
And the light receiving element 338 function, and stands by for receiving strobe light communication from the camera.

(Step 303) Communication receiving circuit 337
Go to step 304 to see the contents of the output from the camera, and if the strobe light communication from the camera is received, proceed to step 304; otherwise, return to step 302.

(Step 304) If the waveform a of one light emission is received and remote control transmission by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is instructed, the process proceeds to step 305; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 308.

(Step 305) Remote control button 322
Is turned off once and turned off, then it is pushed again to see if it is turned on.
Proceed to 6. Otherwise, go to step 314.

(Step 306) Power supply state detector 328
If the voltage of the remote control power supply 329 is higher than the predetermined value V (V), it is determined that the power supply has room to use sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that require more power than light (infrared rays) for transmission. Then, the process proceeds to step 307. Otherwise, go to step 310.

(Step 307) Generator driving circuit 32
At 7, the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 326 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 301.

(Step 308) If the waveform b of the double emission is received and remote control transmission by light (infrared ray) is instructed, the flow proceeds to Step 309; otherwise, the flow proceeds to Step 311.

(Step 309) Remote control button 322
Is turned off once and turned off, then it is pushed again to see if it is turned on.
Go to 0. Otherwise, go to step 314.

(Step 310) Generator driving circuit 32
At 7, the light (infrared) generator 325 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by light (infrared). Then step 3
Return to 01.

(Step 311) Remote control button 322
Is turned off once and turned off, then it is pushed again to see if it is turned on.
Proceed to 2. Otherwise, go to step 314.

(Step 312) Power supply state detector 328
If the voltage of the remote control power supply 329 is higher than the predetermined value V (V), it is determined that the power supply has room to use sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that require more power than light (infrared rays) for transmission. Then, the process proceeds to step 313. Otherwise, go to step 310.

(Step 313) Generator driving circuit 32
7, the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 326 and the light (infrared ray) generator 325 are driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by both the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared ray). 5 and FIG. 24). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 301.

(Step 314) Check the status of the strobe optical communication reception standby timer. If the timer is up, proceed to step 315; otherwise, go to step 302.
Return to

(Step 315) The flash optical communication reception standby ends. Thereafter, the flow returns to step 301.

(Step 316) Remote control transmitting means 32
When the power supply 1 is turned off, the function is stopped.

Next, the operation of the camera will be described.

(Step 321) The state of the underwater determination section 316 is checked, and if it is underwater, it is determined that transmission is performed using sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that are less likely to be attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and have a long reach. Then, the process proceeds to step 322. Otherwise, it is determined that the object is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 330.

(Step 322) The strobe 307 is caused to emit light, and a pulse-like waveform a is transmitted to the remote control transmission means 321 to instruct remote control transmission by sound waves (ultrasonic waves).

(Step 323) Only the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and the amplifier circuit 313 is operated, and energy saving is achieved as compared with the case where both circuits including the light (infrared) side are operated. , Remote control transmission means 3
It waits to receive a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted from 21.

(Step 324) When there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is received, the process proceeds to Step 325, and otherwise, the process proceeds to Step 341.

(Step 325) The reception display circuit 315 drives the sound reception confirmation sound generator 311 so as to perform reception confirmation display in accordance with the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit 316) of the camera, and generates sound waves (audible sound). To inform the sender of the receipt.

(Step 326) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (outside world) luminance information.

(Step 327) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring means (not shown, and therefore not described).

(Step 328) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 329) A film feed mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 330) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (outside world) luminance information.

(Step 331) The state of the photometry circuit 317 is checked, and if the luminance is not higher than a predetermined value, light (infrared rays)
Is determined to be valid, and the process proceeds to step 332. If the brightness is high, the remote controller malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), and the process proceeds to step 336.

(Step 332) The flash 307 is caused to emit light, and a pulse-like waveform b is transmitted to the remote control transmitting means 321 to instruct remote control transmission by light (infrared rays).

(Step 333) Energy saving is achieved as compared with the case where only the light (infrared) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and the amplifier circuit 313 are operated, and both circuits including the sound wave (ultrasonic) side are operated. , Remote control transmitter 3
It waits for reception of a remote control signal by light (infrared) transmitted from 21.

(Step 334) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and a remote control signal by light (infrared rays) has been received, the flow proceeds to step 335; otherwise, the flow proceeds to step 342.

(Step 335) The reception display circuit 315 drives the light reception confirmation light emitting unit 309 so as to display a reception confirmation according to the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 316 and the photometry means 317 and 318) of the camera. , Light (visible light)
To inform the sender of the receipt. Thereafter, the flow advances to step 327.

(Step 336) The state of the remote control signal detection circuit 314 (which also functions as a sound wave detection circuit) is checked. If the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions even with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). The process proceeds to step 337 because the data does not work. Otherwise, go to step 322.

(Step 337) The strobe 307 is caused to emit light, and the pulse-like waveform c is transmitted to the remote control transmitting means 321 to instruct remote control transmission using both sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays).

(Step 338) The remote control signal detection circuit 314 and the amplification circuit 313 function to wait for reception of a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission means 321 by both sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays).

(Step 339) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and a remote control signal of at least one of a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and light (infrared ray) is received, the flow proceeds to Step 340; Proceed to 343.

(Step 340) The reception display circuit 315 causes the reception display circuit 315 to perform reception confirmation display according to the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 316, the photometry units 317, 318, and the sound wave reception units 310, 313, 314) of the camera. The sound generator 311 for confirmation of reception and the light emitting unit 309 for confirmation of light reception are driven to notify the sender of the reception by both sound waves (audible sounds) and light (visible light). Thereafter, the flow advances to step 327.

(Step 341) Go to the state of the remote control reception standby timer. If the timer is up, proceed to step 344; otherwise, return to step 323.

(Step 342) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 344; otherwise, the process returns to step 333.

(Step 343) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 344; otherwise, the flow returns to step 338.

(Step 344) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 345) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 314 and the amplification circuit 313 are stopped.

As described above, the remote control transmitting apparatus according to the third embodiment additionally includes a strobe optical communication receiving unit.
Considering that the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit, the photometry unit, and the sound wave reception unit) is eliminated, the structure is simplified, and the cost is reduced as compared with the first and second embodiments described above.

(Fourth Embodiment) FIGS. 15 to 19 show a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 shows a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater, and FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a device body (camera) having the remote controller receiver. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitting device,
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera) in the remote control mode.

As in the third embodiment described above, the remote control transmitter does not have an environment detector (underwater determiner, photometer, sound wave receiver), and the camera has an environment detector (underwater determiner, The selection of the remote control signal based on the detection result of the photometric unit and the sound wave receiving unit is transmitted to the remote control transmitting unit using the strobe light.

On the other hand, the difference from the third embodiment is that the remote control transmitting apparatus has a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) detecting section,
The point that the positional relationship between the camera and the remote control transmission device can be determined from the detection status of the strobe light and sound waves (ultrasonic waves) transmitted from the camera, and the positional relationship information and the subject ranging information of the camera can be selected from a plurality of types of remote control signals. The point is to use it.

In these figures, reference numeral 434 denotes a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) receiving unit, which is a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) emitted from the camera side.
Is detected by the sensor. A sound wave detection circuit 435 detects a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) from the camera which has received the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) by the receiving unit 434 and outputs the sound wave to the remote control control circuit 424. Reference numeral 439 denotes a distance calculation circuit which performs a subject distance calculation by so-called passive AF of a known phase difference detection method from the object image information captured by the distance measurement sensor 440, and outputs the calculation result to the camera control circuit 412.

Note that the same parts as those in the first to third embodiments are indicated by numerals with 400 added, and description thereof is omitted.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flow charts of FIG. 18 (remote control transmitting device) and FIG. 19 (in the remote control mode of the camera). At the start, the mode dial 403 of the camera is operated, and the power supply (not shown)
Is ON and the remote control mode has already been entered. Steps 401 to 412 correspond to the remote control transmitting means 4.
Flow chart showing the operation of Step 21, Steps 421 to 4
42 is a flowchart showing the operation of the camera.

(Step 401) Remote control button 422
Is pressed, the remote control switch 423 changes from OFF to ON, the power (not shown) of the remote control transmission unit 421 is turned on, and the process proceeds to step 402. If it is OFF, the process proceeds to step 412.

(Step 402) Communication receiving circuit 437
And the light receiving element 438 function, and stands by for receiving strobe light communication from the camera.

(Step 403) Communication receiving circuit 437
Go to step 404 if the strobe light communication from the camera is received, otherwise go to step 409.

(Step 404) If the waveform a (see FIG. 14) of one light emission is received and remote control transmission by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is instructed, the process proceeds to step 405; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 407. move on.

(Step 405) Remote control button 422
Is turned off once and turned off, then it is pushed again to see if it is turned on.
Proceed to 6. Otherwise, go to step 410.

(Step 406) Generator driving circuit 42
At 7, the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 426 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 401.

(Step 407) Remote control button 422
Is turned off once and turned off, then it is pushed again to see if it is turned on.
Proceed to 8. Otherwise, go to step 410.

(Step 408) Generator driving circuit 42
At 7, the light (infrared) generator 425 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by light (infrared). Then step 4
Return to 01.

(Step 409) The contents of the output from the communication sound wave detection circuit 435 are checked, and when a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted for communication from the camera is received, the remote control transmission means 421 outputs strobe light. If the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is not located in front of the camera capable of receiving but can also go around the shadow of the object, it is determined that the sound wave is at a receivable position (for example, behind or beside the camera), and the process proceeds to step 405. Otherwise, return to step 402.

(Step 410) The state of the strobe optical communication reception standby timer is checked. If the timer has counted up, the flow proceeds to step 411; otherwise, the flow returns to step 402.

(Step 411) The standby for receiving the strobe light communication and the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) communication is ended, and then the step 4 is started.
Return to 01.

(Step 412) Remote control transmitter 42
When the first power supply (not shown) is turned off, the function is stopped.

(Step 421) A subject is measured at predetermined time intervals by a known phase difference detection type distance measuring unit including a distance measuring operation circuit 439 and a distance measuring sensor 440.

(Step 422) Go to the contents of the output from the distance measurement calculation circuit 439, and assume that the subject is a remote control transmitter. ), The process proceeds to step 423, and if not, the process proceeds to step 432.

(Step 423) The strobe 407 is caused to emit light, and a pulse-like waveform a (see FIG. 12) is transmitted to the remote control transmitting means 421 to instruct remote control transmission by sound waves (ultrasonic waves).

(Step 424) Assuming that the subject is not the remote control transmitter and the remote control transmitting means 421 is not located in front of the camera capable of receiving the strobe light, the reception display circuit 415 displays a sound wave (ultrasonic wave). ) A transmission command is issued, and the sound generation unit 411 also serving as a sound wave reception confirmation is driven to generate a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) for communication with the remote control communication unit 421.
Emits.

(Step 425) Energy saving is achieved as compared with a case where only the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 414 and the amplifier circuit 413 is operated, and both circuits including the light (infrared) side are operated. , Remote control transmitting means 4
It waits to receive a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted from 21.

(Step 426) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 414 and a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is received, the process proceeds to step 427; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 439.

(Step 427) The reception display circuit 415 drives the sound wave reception confirmation sound generator 411 so that the reception confirmation circuit matches the type of the remote control signal selected according to the distance measurement result, and the sound wave (audible sound) is output. ) Informs the sender of the receipt.

(Step 428) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 429) The distance of the subject is measured by a well-known phase difference detection type distance measuring unit comprising a distance measuring operation circuit 439 and a distance measuring sensor 440.

(Step 430) An aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and the description is omitted) are operated to expose a film (not shown).

(Step 431) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 432) Going to the contents of the output from the distance measurement arithmetic circuit 439, and assuming that the object is a remote control sender, the distance measurement result of the object is 6 m or more and 10 m or more.
If it is less than the above, it is determined that it is better to use light (infrared ray) having a higher reachability than sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and step 433 is performed.
Proceed to. Otherwise, go to step 424.

(Step 433) The strobe 407 is caused to emit light, and the pulse-shaped waveform b is transmitted to the remote control transmitting means 421, thereby instructing remote control transmission by light (infrared rays).

(Step 434) Assuming that the subject is not a remote control transmitter and the remote control transmitting means 421 is not located in front of a camera capable of receiving strobe light, a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is displayed on the reception display circuit 415. ) A transmission command is issued, and the sound generation unit 411 also serving as a sound wave reception confirmation is driven to transmit a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) for communication with the remote control transmission device 421.
Emits.

(Step 435) Remote control transmitter 42
Assuming that the remote control 1 is not located in front of the camera, the remote control signal detection circuit 414 and the amplification circuit 413 are caused to function, and both the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared light) transmitted from the remote control transmission device 421 are used. Wait for a remote control signal.

(Step 436) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 414 and a remote control signal of either a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) or light (infrared ray) is received, the process proceeds to step 437; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 440. Proceed to.

(Step 437) If the output from the remote control signal detection circuit 414 has received a remote control signal by light (infrared rays), the process proceeds to step 438; otherwise, it is determined that a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) has been received. Then, the process proceeds to step 427.

(Step 438) The reception display circuit 415 drives the light reception confirmation light emitting section 409 so as to perform reception confirmation display corresponding to the type of the remote control signal selected in accordance with the result of the distance measurement, and outputs the light (visible light). ) Informs the sender of the receipt. Thereafter, the flow advances to step 428.

(Step 439) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 441; otherwise, the process returns to step 425.

(Step 440) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 441; otherwise, the process returns to step 435.

(Step 441) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 442) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 414 and the amplification circuit 413 are stopped.

In the fourth embodiment, the selection of the remote control signal reflecting the detection result of the environment detecting section for detecting the use environment state of the device main body (camera) is performed by the remote control transmission means by the strobe light communication or the sound wave communication. Therefore, for example, it is possible to cope with a case where the device body (camera) is underwater and the remote control transmitting means is in the air. As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the most suitable type of remote control signal can be selected according to more situations, and the reliability of remote control is further improved.

(Fifth Embodiment) FIGS. 20 to 24 show a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 shows a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means that can be used under water (power supply is not shown), FIG.
2 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiving unit.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device main body (camera) in the remote control mode, and FIG. 24 shows transmission waveforms of sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays) from the remote control transmitting device to the device main body (camera). FIG.

The difference from the above-described first to fourth embodiments is that the remote control transmitting device only transmits a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a light (infrared ray) remote control signal simultaneously, There is no detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometric unit, sound wave receiving unit), and the strobe light is used to select the remote control signal based on the detection result of the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometric unit, sound wave receiving unit) on the camera side. This is not intended to be transmitted to the remote control transmitting means. The camera adjusts the reception gain of the remote control receiving means for a plurality of types of remote control signals according to the detection result of its own environment detection unit.

A waveform S in FIG. 22 represents a remote control transmission signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave), and a waveform L represents a remote control transmission signal by light (infrared ray). When the remote control button 522 is pressed and the remote control switch 523 is turned on, the remote control transmitting means 521 causes the generator drive circuit 527 to generate a sound wave (ultrasonic) generator 526 and a light (infrared) generator 5.
25 is transmitted, and a set of remote control signal waveforms S by four pulses of sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and a set of remote control signal waveforms L by four pulses of light (infrared rays) are alternately transmitted in time series for a predetermined time.

Note that the same parts as those in the first to fourth embodiments are indicated by numerals with 500 added thereto, and description thereof is omitted. Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 23 (in the remote control mode of the camera). At the start, the mode dial 503 of the camera
Is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

(Step 501) The state of the underwater determination section 516 is checked, and if it is underwater, it is determined that reception is to be performed with sound waves (ultrasonic waves) which are less attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and have a long reach. Then, the process proceeds to step 502. Otherwise, it is determined that it is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 510.

(Step 502) The sound wave (ultrasonic wave) reception gain of the amplifier circuit 513 is increased to make it easier to receive a remote control signal by the sound wave (ultrasonic wave).

(Step 503) Energy saving is achieved as compared with a case where only the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 514 and the amplifier circuit 513 is operated, and both circuits including the light (infrared) side are operated. , Remote control transmitting means 5
A remote control signal based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted from 21 is waited for to be received with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) reception gain increased.

(Step 504) Remote control transmitting means 52
From 1, a remote control signal waveform S based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a remote control signal waveform L based on light (infrared light) are alternately transmitted in a time series for a predetermined time, and there is an output from a remote control signal detection circuit 514. If the remote control signal is received, the process proceeds to step 505; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 521.

(Step 505) The sound display unit 511 for sound wave reception confirmation is driven by the reception display circuit 515 so as to perform the reception confirmation display according to the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit 516) of the camera, and the sound wave (audible sound). To inform the sender of the receipt.

(Step 506) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 507) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring means (not shown and a description thereof will be omitted).

(Step 508) An aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and the description is omitted) are operated to expose a film (not shown).

(Step 509) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 510) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 511) The state of the photometric circuit 517 is checked, and if the luminance is not higher than a predetermined value, the light (infrared ray)
Is determined to be valid, and the process proceeds to step 512. If the brightness is high, the remote control malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), and the process proceeds to step 516.

(Step 512) Increase the light (infrared) reception gain of the amplifier circuit 513 to make it easier to receive a remote control signal by light (infrared).

(Step 513) Only the light (infrared ray) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 514 and the amplifier circuit 513 is made to function, and energy is saved as compared with the case where both circuits including the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) are made to function. , Remote control transmitting means 5
The remote control signal based on the light (infrared) transmitted from 21 is waited for to be received with the light (infrared) reception gain increased.

(Step 514) Remote control transmitting means 52
A remote control signal waveform S based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a remote control signal waveform L based on light (infrared light) are alternately transmitted in a time series for a predetermined time from 1, and there is an output from a remote control signal detection circuit 514. If a remote control signal has been received, the process proceeds to step 515; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 522.

(Step 515) The reception display circuit 515 drives the light reception confirming light emitting section 509 so as to display the reception confirmation according to the environment detecting section (the underwater determining section 516 and the photometric means 517 and 518) of the camera. , Light (visible light)
To inform the sender of the receipt. Thereafter, the flow advances to step 507.

(Step 516) The state of the remote control signal detection circuit 514 (which also functions as a sound wave detection circuit) is checked, and if the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions even with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). The process proceeds to step 517 because the data does not work. Otherwise, go to step 502.

(Step 517) The reception gain of the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared ray) of the amplifier circuit 513 is adjusted to the optimum level so that the remote controller does not malfunction or become ineffective.

(Step 518) The remote control signal detection circuit 514 and the amplification circuit 513 function, and the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission means 521 by both sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays) is converted into sound waves (ultrasonic waves). And the optical (infrared) reception gains are adjusted to the optimum levels, respectively, and reception is waited.

(Step 519) Remote control transmitting means 52
From 1, a remote control signal waveform S based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a remote control signal waveform L based on light (infrared light) are alternately transmitted in a time series for a predetermined time, and there is an output from a remote control signal detection circuit 514. If the remote control signal has been received by at least one of light and infrared light, the process proceeds to step 520; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 523.

(Step 520) The reception display circuit 515 causes the reception display circuit 515 to perform reception confirmation display in accordance with the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 516, the photometry means 517, 518, and the sound reception units 510, 513, 514) of the camera. Driving the reception confirmation sound emitting unit 511 and the light reception confirmation light emitting unit 509,
The sender is notified of the reception by both sound waves (audible sound) and light (visible light). Thereafter, the flow advances to step 507.

(Step 521) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 524; otherwise, the flow returns to step 503.

(Step 522) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 524; otherwise, the process returns to step 513.

(Step 523) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 524; otherwise, the process returns to step 518.

(Step 524) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 525) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 514 and the amplification circuit 513 are suspended.

As described above, the fifth embodiment has the simplest configuration and improves the reliability of remote operation.

(Sixth Embodiment) FIGS. 25 to 27 are views showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 25 shows an entire waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 26 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means that can be used underwater (power supply is not shown). FIG.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiving unit. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera) in the remote control mode.

As in the third embodiment described above, the remote control transmitting device only transmits a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a light (infrared ray) remote control signal simultaneously (see FIG. 24). There is no environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometry unit, sound wave reception unit), and the strobe light is used to select the remote control signal based on the detection result of the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometry unit, sound wave reception unit) on the camera side. It is not used to transmit to the remote control transmission means. The difference from the third embodiment is that the camera uses its own subject ranging information (considering the positional relationship between the camera and the remote control transmitting device) to adjust the reception gain of the remote control receiving means for a plurality of types of remote control signals. is there.

Note that the same parts as those in the first to fifth embodiments are indicated by numerals with 600 added, and description thereof is omitted. Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 28 (in the remote control mode of the camera). At the start, the camera's mode dial 60
3 is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

(Step 601) A subject is measured at predetermined time intervals by a well-known phase difference detection type distance measuring unit comprising a distance measuring operation circuit 639 and a distance measuring sensor 640.

(Step 602) The contents of the output from the distance measurement arithmetic circuit 639 are checked, and if the distance measurement result of the object is less than 6 m, assuming that the object is a remote control transmitter, a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) ), The process proceeds to step 603, and if not, the process proceeds to step 611.

(Step 603) Assuming that the subject is not the remote control transmitter and the remote control transmitter 621 is not located in front of the camera, the sound wave (ultrasonic) reception gain of the amplifier circuit 613 is increased, and (Ultrasonic waves) to make it easier to receive remote control signals.

(Step 604) Energy saving is achieved as compared with the case where only the sound wave (ultrasonic) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 614 and the amplifier circuit 613 is operated, and both circuits including the light (infrared) side are operated. , Remote control transmitter 6
A remote control signal based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted from 21 is waited for to be received with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) reception gain increased.

(Step 605) Remote control transmitting means 62
From 1, a remote control signal waveform S based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a remote control signal waveform L based on light (infrared light) are alternately transmitted in a time series for a predetermined time, and there is an output from a remote control signal detection circuit 614. If the remote control signal is received, the process proceeds to step 606; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 617.

(Step 606) The reception display circuit 615 drives the sound wave reception confirmation sound generator 611 so as to perform reception confirmation display corresponding to the type of the remote control signal selected in accordance with the distance measurement result, and outputs the sound wave (audible sound). ) Informs the sender of the receipt.

(Step 607) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 608) The distance of the object is measured by a well-known phase difference detection type distance measuring means comprising a distance measuring operation circuit 639 and a distance measuring sensor 640.

(Step 609) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 610) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, and therefore, description thereof is omitted) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 611) The contents of the output from the distance measurement calculation circuit 639 are checked, and the distance measurement result of the object is not less than 6 m and not more than 10 m, assuming that the object is a remote control transmitter.
If it is less than the threshold value, it is determined that it is better to use light (infrared ray) having a higher reachability than sound wave (ultrasonic wave), and step 612 is performed.
Proceed to. Otherwise, go to step 603.

(Step 612) The light (infrared) reception gain of the amplifier circuit 613 is increased to make it easier to receive a remote control signal by light (infrared).

(Step 613) Remote control transmitter 62
Assuming that 1 is not located in front of the camera, the remote control signal detecting circuit 614 and the amplifying circuit 613 are operated, and both the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared light) transmitted from the remote control transmitting device 621 are used. Wait for a remote control signal.

(Step 614) Remote control transmitter 62
From 1, a remote control signal waveform S based on a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a remote control signal waveform L based on light (infrared light) are alternately transmitted in a time series for a predetermined time, and there is an output from a remote control signal detection circuit 614. Step 615 when the remote control signal is received by any one of
Otherwise, go to step 618.

(Step 615) If the output from the remote control signal detection circuit 614 has received a remote control signal by light (infrared light), proceed to step 616; otherwise, determine that a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) has been received. Then, the process proceeds to step 606.

(Step 616) The reception display circuit 615 drives the light reception confirming light-emitting section 609 so as to perform reception confirmation display corresponding to the type of the remote control signal selected in accordance with the result of the distance measurement, and outputs the light (visible light). ) Informs the sender of the receipt. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 607.

(Step 617) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 619; otherwise, the process returns to step 603.

(Step 618) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 619; otherwise, the flow returns to step 613.

(Step 619) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 620) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 614 and the amplification circuit 613 are suspended.

As described above, the sixth embodiment has a simple structure and can adjust the gain of the optimum type of remote control signal according to more situations, thereby improving the reliability of remote control.

(Seventh Embodiment) FIGS. 29 to 32 show a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 29 shows a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 30 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means that can be used underwater (power supply is not shown). FIG.
1 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiving device. FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera) in the remote control mode.

The difference from the first embodiment is that the remote control transmitting means has an environment detecting unit (underwater determining unit,
There is no photometry unit and sound wave receiving unit), and the sender manually selects the remote control signal and the remote control signal selection based on the detection result of the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometry unit, sound wave reception unit) on the camera side. The point is that it is displayed to inform the sender.

In these figures, reference numeral 741 denotes a remote control signal selection switch, which allows the sender to manually switch between a position S for transmitting a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a position L for transmitting a remote control signal by light (infrared light). .

Incidentally, the same parts as those in the first to sixth embodiments are indicated by numerals with 700 added thereto, and the explanation is omitted. Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 32 (in the remote control mode of the camera). At the start, the mode dial 703 of the camera
Is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

(Step 701) The state of the underwater determination section 716 is checked to determine whether or not to transmit with a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) that is less likely to be attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and has a long reach if it is underwater. Then, the process proceeds to step 702. Otherwise, it is determined that it is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 710.

(Step 702) The reception display circuit 715 drives the sound wave reception confirmation sound emitting section 711, and instructs the sender to transmit a remote control using sound waves (ultrasonic waves) to the sender using sound waves (audible sounds).

(Step 703) Energy saving is achieved as compared with a case where only the sound wave (ultrasonic) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 714 and the amplifier circuit 713 is operated, and both circuits including the light (infrared) side are operated. , Remote control transmission means 7
It waits to receive a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) transmitted from 21.

(Step 704) The sender switches the remote control signal selection switch 741 to the position S as instructed by the camera, transmits a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave), and there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 714.
If a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) has been received, the process proceeds to step 705; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 721.

(Step 705) The reception display circuit 715 drives the sound wave reception confirmation sound generator 711 so as to perform reception confirmation display according to the environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit 716) of the camera, and generates sound waves (audible sound). To inform the sender of the receipt.

(Step 706) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 707) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring means (not shown and is not described because it is publicly known).

(Step 708) A film (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture and a shutter (not shown, both of which are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 709) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 710) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 711) The state of the photometry circuit 717 is checked, and if the luminance is not higher than a predetermined value, the light (infrared ray)
Is determined to be valid, and the process proceeds to step 712. If the brightness is high, the remote control malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), so the process proceeds to step 716.

(Step 712) The light reception confirming light emitting section 709 is driven by the reception display circuit 715, and the remote control transmission by light (infrared light) is instructed to the sender by light (visible light).

(Step 713) Energy saving is achieved as compared with a case where only the light (infrared) side of the remote control signal detection circuit 714 and the amplifier circuit 713 is operated, and both circuits including the sound wave (ultrasonic) side are operated. , Remote control transmission means 7
It waits for reception of a remote control signal by light (infrared) transmitted from 21.

(Step 714) The sender switches the remote control signal selection switch 741 to the position L as instructed by the camera, transmits a remote control signal using light (infrared light), and there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 714. If a (infrared) remote control signal has been received, the process proceeds to step 715; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 722.

(Step 715) The reception display circuit 715 performs reception confirmation display according to the environment detection unit (the underwater judgment unit 716 and the photometry units 717 and 718) of the camera.
The light receiving confirmation light emitting unit 709 is driven to notify the sender of the reception by light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 707.

(Step 716) The state of the remote control signal detection circuit 714 (which also functions as a sound wave detection circuit) is checked, and if the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions even with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). The process proceeds to step 717 because the data does not work. Otherwise, go to step 702.

(Step 717) The sound display section 711 and the light emitting section 709 for confirming light reception are driven by the reception display circuit 715, and the sound wave (audible sound) and light (visible light) are generated.
Inform the sender that remote control reception is a severe condition.

(Step 718) The remote control signal detection circuit 714 and the amplification circuit 713 function to wait for reception of a remote control signal transmitted by both the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared ray) transmitted from the remote control transmission device 721.

(Step 719) In consideration of the display on the camera, the sender switches the remote control signal selection switch 741 to the position S or L, and transmits a remote control signal using sound waves (ultrasonic waves) or light (infrared rays). Signal detection circuit 7
There are outputs from 14, sound (ultrasonic) and light (infrared)
Proceeds to step 720 if a remote control signal is received by at least one of
Proceed to 23.

(Step 720) The reception display circuit 715 causes the reception display circuit 715 to perform reception confirmation display according to the environment detection unit (the underwater determination unit 716, the photometry units 717 and 718, and the sound wave reception units 710, 713 and 714) of the camera. The sound generator 711 for reception confirmation and the light emitting unit 709 for light reception confirmation are driven, and the reception is notified to the sender by both a sound wave (audible sound) and light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 707.

(Step 721) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 724; otherwise, the flow returns to step 703.

(Step 722) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 724; otherwise, the flow returns to step 713.

(Step 723) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the flow proceeds to step 724; otherwise, the flow returns to step 718.

(Step 724) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 725) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 714 and the amplification circuit 713 are stopped.

As described above, the seventh embodiment has a simple configuration and can reflect the will of the sender in the selection of the remote control signal.

(Eighth Embodiment) FIGS. 33 to 39 show an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 33 shows an entire waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a device main body (camera) having an optical (infrared) remote control receiver, and FIG. 2B is a device main body (camera) having a sound wave (ultrasonic) remote control receiver. . FIG. 34 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater, and FIG. 35 is a block diagram of a device body (camera A) having an optical (infrared) remote controller receiver.

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera B) having a sound wave (ultrasonic) remote control receiver, FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitter, and FIG.
Is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera A) in the remote control mode, and FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera B) in the remote control mode.

The remote control transmission device is exactly the same as that of the first embodiment, and has an environment detection unit (underwater judgment unit, photometry unit, sound wave reception unit), and selects a remote control signal according to the detection result of the environment detection unit. I do. The difference from the first embodiment is that the remote control receiving means on the camera side can receive only one type of remote control signal, and that the camera does not have an environment detecting unit used for selecting the remote control signal. Note that the same parts as those in the above-described first to seventh embodiments are denoted by numerals with 800 (camera A side) and 800 '(camera B side) appended, and description thereof is omitted.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 36 (remote control transmitting device) and FIGS. 38 and 39 (in the remote control mode of the camera).
At the start, the mode dials 803 and 80 of the camera
3 'is operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered.

Steps 801 to 809 are flow charts showing the operation of the remote control transmitting means 821, steps 811 to 820 are flow charts showing the operation of camera A, and steps 811 'to 820' are flow charts showing the operation of camera B. It is.

(Step 801) Remote control button 822
Is pressed, the remote control switch 823 is turned ON, the power of the remote control transmission unit 821 is turned on, and the step 802 is executed.
Proceed to. If it is OFF, the process proceeds to step 809.

(Step 802) Power supply state detector 828
If the voltage of the remote control power supply 829 is larger than the predetermined value V (V), it is determined that the power supply has room to use sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that require more power than light (infrared rays) for transmission. Then, the process proceeds to step 803. Otherwise, go to step 806.

(Step 803) The state of the underwater determination section 830 is checked, and if it is underwater, it is determined that transmission is performed with sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that are less attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and have a long reach. Then, the process proceeds to step 804. Otherwise, it is determined that the object is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 805.

(Step 804) Generator driving circuit 82
At 7, the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 826 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 801.

(Step 805) The state of the photometric circuit 831 is checked, and if the brightness is not higher than a predetermined value, the light (infrared ray)
It is determined that the remote control signal by
Proceed to 06. If the brightness is high, the remote controller malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), and the process proceeds to step 807.

(Step 806) Generator driving circuit 82
At 7, the light (infrared) generator 825 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by light (infrared). Then step 8
Return to 01.

(Step 807) The state of the sound wave detection circuit 835 is checked, and if the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions or becomes ineffective even with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Proceed to. Otherwise, go to step 804.

(Step 808) Generator driving circuit 82
7, a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 826 and a light (infrared ray) generator 825 are driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by both the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and the light (infrared ray) (the transmission waveform will be described later). 5 and FIG. 24). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 801.

(Step 809) Remote control transmitting means 82
1 is turned off, and the flow of the remote control transmitting unit 821 ends.

The operation of the camera A will be described below.

(Step 811) Since the camera A is in the remote control mode state, the remote control signal detection circuit 814 and the amplifier circuit 813 are made to function, and the camera A waits for a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission device 821.

(Step 812) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 814 and a remote control signal by light (infrared rays) is received, the flow proceeds to step 813; otherwise, the flow proceeds to step 818.

(Step 813) The reception display circuit 815 drives the light reception confirmation light emitting unit 809 so as to display the reception confirmation of the remote control signal, and notifies the sender of the reception by light (visible light).

(Step 814) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 815) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring unit (not shown, so that its description is omitted).

(Step 816) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 817) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, so that its description is omitted because it is publicly known) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 818) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 819; otherwise, the process returns to step 811.

(Step 819) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 820) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 814 and the amplification circuit 813 are stopped.

The operation of the camera B will be described below.

(Step 811 ') Since the camera B is in the remote control mode, the remote control signal detection circuit 814'
And the amplifying circuit 813 ′ to function,
It waits for reception of the remote control signal transmitted from 1.

(Step 812 ′) When there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 814 ′ and a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is received, the process proceeds to Step 813 ′,
Otherwise, go to step 818 '.

(Step 813 ') The reception display circuit 815' drives the sound wave reception confirmation sound generator 811 'so as to display the reception confirmation of the remote control signal, and the sound wave (audible sound) is displayed.
To inform the sender of the receipt.

(Step 814 ′) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 815 ′) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring unit (not shown, so that the description is omitted).

(Step 816 ') A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating a diaphragm and a shutter (not shown, both of which are publicly known, and thus will not be described).

(Step 817 ′) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown because it is publicly known) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 818 ′) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to step 819 ′, and if not, the process returns to step 811 ′.

(Step 819 ′) The remote control reception standby is terminated.

(Step 820 ′) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 814 ′ and the amplifier circuit 813 ′ are suspended.

(Ninth Embodiment) FIGS. 41 to 45 show a ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 38 shows a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. (C) is a device body (camera) having a light (infrared) remote control receiving means, and (D) is a device body (camera) having a sound wave (ultrasonic) remote control receiving means. Is shown.

FIG. 41 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means usable underwater, FIG. 42 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera C) having an optical (infrared) remote control receiving means,
FIG. 41 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera D) having a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) remote control receiving unit.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera C) in the remote control mode, and FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the operation of the device body (camera D) in the remote control mode.

The remote control transmitting apparatus is exactly the same as that of the fifth embodiment, and only transmits a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) and a light (infrared ray) remote control signal at the same time. Section, photometric means, sound wave receiving means)
There is no.

As in the eighth embodiment, the remote control receiving device on the camera side can receive only one type of remote control signal, and the camera does not have an environment detecting unit used for selecting the remote control signal.

The same parts as those in the first to eighth embodiments are indicated by numerals 900 (camera C side) and 900 '(camera D side), and their explanation is omitted.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.
The operation will be described with reference to a flowchart showing the operation (when the camera is in the remote control mode).

At the start, the mode dials 903 and 903 'of the camera are operated, the power supply (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered. Steps 911 to 920 are flowcharts illustrating the operation of the camera C, and steps 911 ′ to 920 ′ are flowcharts illustrating the operation of the camera D.

Hereinafter, the operation of the camera C will be described.

(Step 911) Since the camera C is in the remote control mode state, the remote control signal detection circuit 914 and the amplification circuit 913 are operated, and the camera C stands by for receiving the remote control signal transmitted from the remote control transmission device 921.

(Step 912) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 914 and a light (infrared) remote control signal has been received, the flow proceeds to step 913; otherwise, the flow proceeds to step 918.

(Step 913) The reception display circuit 915 drives the light reception confirming light emitting section 909 so as to display the reception confirmation of the remote control signal, and notifies the sender of the reception by light (visible light).

(Step 914) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 915) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring unit (not shown and is not described because it is publicly known).

(Step 916) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 917) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 918) The state of the remote control reception standby timer is checked. If the timer is up, the process proceeds to Step 919; otherwise, the process returns to Step 911.

(Step 919) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 920) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 914 and the amplification circuit 913 are suspended.

The operation of the camera D will be described below.

(Step 911 ′) Since the camera D is in the remote control mode, the remote control signal detection circuit 914 ′
And the amplifier circuit 913 ′ function,
It waits for reception of the remote control signal transmitted from 1.

(Step 912 ′) When there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 914 ′ and a remote control signal by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) is received, the process proceeds to Step 913 ′,
Otherwise, go to step 918 '.

(Step 913 ′) The sound display section 911 ′ is driven by the reception display circuit 915 ′ so as to display the reception confirmation of the remote control signal, and the sound wave (audible sound) is generated.
To inform the sender of the receipt.

(Step 914 ′) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 915 ′) The distance of the subject is measured by a distance measuring means (not shown, omitted from the description).

(Step 916 ′) A diaphragm (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and their description is omitted) are operated to expose a film (not shown).

(Step 917 ′) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 918 ′) Go to the state of the remote control reception standby timer. If the timer is up, proceed to Step 919 ′; otherwise, return to Step 911 ′.

(Step 919 ′) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 920 ′) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 914 ′ and the amplification circuit 913 ′ are stopped.

(Tenth Embodiment) FIGS. 46 to 50 show a tenth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 46 shows a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an overall configuration perspective view. FIG. 47 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater, and FIG. 48 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having the remote controller receiver.

FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus, and FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing the operation of the apparatus body (camera) in the remote control mode.

In these figures, reference numeral 1042 denotes a radio wave generator provided in the remote control transmitting means, and reference numeral 1043 denotes a radio wave receiver provided in the camera. The difference from the first embodiment is that a radio wave is added to the type of the remote control signal, and the other points are the same as in the first embodiment. Note that the same parts as those in the first to ninth embodiments are indicated by numbers with 1000 added, and description thereof is omitted.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 49 (remote control transmitting apparatus) and the operation of FIG. 50 (during the remote control mode of the camera). At the time of start, the mode dial 1003 of the camera is operated, the power (not shown) is turned on, and the remote control mode has already been entered. Steps 1001 to 1009 are flowcharts showing the operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus 1021, and steps 1011 to 1024 are flowcharts showing the operation of the camera.

(Step 1001) Remote control button 10
22 is pressed, the remote control switch 1023 is turned on, the power of the remote control transmission unit 1021 is turned on, and the process proceeds to step 1002. If it is OFF, step 1009
Proceed to.

(Step 1002) Power supply state detector 10
28, if the voltage of the remote control power supply 1029 is larger than the predetermined value V (V), the power supply has room to use sound waves (ultrasonic waves) or radio waves that require more power than light (infrared rays) for transmission. It is determined that there is, and the process proceeds to step 1003. Otherwise, go to step 1006.

(Step 1003) Underwater judging section 1030
In the case of underwater, it is determined that transmission is performed with sound waves (ultrasonic waves) that are less likely to be attenuated by water than light (infrared rays) and have a long reach, and proceed to step 1004. Otherwise, it is determined that the object is in the air, and the process proceeds to step 1005.

(Step 1004) Generator driving circuit 1
At 027, the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 1026 is driven,
A remote control signal is transmitted by a sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 1001.

(Step 1005) The state of the photometric circuit 1031 is checked, and if the luminance is not higher than a predetermined value, it is determined that the remote control signal by light (infrared ray) is valid, and the flow proceeds to Step 1006. If the brightness is high, the remote controller malfunctions or becomes ineffective with light (infrared light), and the process proceeds to step 1007.

(Step 1006) Generator driving circuit 1
At 027, the light (infrared) generator 1025 is driven, and a remote control signal is transmitted by light (infrared). Thereafter, the flow returns to step 1001.

(Step 1007) Sound wave detection circuit 103
Going to the state of No. 5, if the sound wave (ultrasonic wave) noise is larger than a predetermined value, the remote control malfunctions or becomes ineffective even with the sound wave (ultrasonic wave). Otherwise, go to step 1004.

(Step 1008) Generator driving circuit 1
At 027, the radio wave generator 1042 is driven to transmit a remote control signal by radio waves. Thereafter, the flow returns to step 1001.

(Step 1009) Remote control transmitting means 1
021 is turned off, and the flow of the remote control transmitting means 1021 is ended.

(Step 1011) Since the camera is in the remote control mode, the remote control signal detection circuit 1014 and the amplification circuit 1013 function and the remote control transmission device 102
It waits for reception of the remote control signal transmitted from 1.

(Step 1012) If there is an output from the remote control signal detection circuit 1014 and a remote control signal has been received, the flow advances to step 1013; otherwise, the flow advances to step 1022.

(Step 1013) Go to the contents of the output from the remote control signal detection circuit 1014, and if a remote control signal by radio wave is received, proceed to Step 1014, otherwise proceed to Step 1019.

(Step 1014) In response to receiving a remote control signal by radio wave, the reception display circuit 1015
Thereby, the sound wave reception confirmation sound emitting unit 1011 and the light reception confirmation light emitting unit 1009 are driven to notify the sender of the reception by both the sound wave (audible sound) and the light (visible light).

(Step 1015) Photometry is performed to obtain subject (external world) luminance information.

(Step 1016) The object is measured for distance by a distance measuring means (not shown and therefore will not be described).

(Step 1017) A diaphragm (not shown) is exposed by operating an aperture (not shown) and a shutter (both are publicly known and will not be described).

(Step 1018) A film feeding mechanism (not shown, not shown) is operated to wind up the film by one frame.

(Step 1019) The contents of the output from the remote control signal detection circuit 1014 are checked, and light (infrared)
If the remote control signal is received, the process proceeds to step 1020; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 1021.

(Step 1020) The reception display circuit 10 performs a reception confirmation display according to the received remote control signal.
15 drives the light reception confirming light emitting unit 1009 to notify the sender of the reception by light (visible light). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 1015.

(Step 1021) The reception display circuit 10 performs reception confirmation display according to the received remote control signal.
15 drives the sound reception unit 1011 for sound wave reception confirmation,
The sender is notified of the reception by sound waves (audible sound). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 1015.

(Step 1022) Check the status of the remote control reception standby timer. If the timer is up, go to step 1023; otherwise, go to step 1011.
Return to

(Step 1023) The remote control reception standby ends.

(Step 1024) The functions of the remote control signal detection circuit 1014 and the amplification circuit 1013 are stopped.

As described above, in the tenth embodiment, since the radio waves are added to the types of the remote control signals in addition to the sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and the light (infrared rays), the number of choices of the types of the remote control signals increases. The reliability of remote operation is further improved.

In the second and tenth embodiments, the environment detecting section (underwater determining section, photometric section, sound wave receiving section) is mounted on both the remote control transmitting means and the apparatus main body (camera). Therefore, if information is exchanged by adding a communication means such as a strobe light or a sound wave between the remote control transmitting means and the apparatus body (camera) as in the third and fourth embodiments, the remote control transmitting means becomes air. Inside, equipment body (camera)
It is possible to select the most suitable type of remote control signal in response to situations where the respective use environment conditions are different, such as when the camera is underwater. Thereby, the reliability of the remote operation is further improved.

In each of the embodiments described above, the ultrasonic wave has been described as the type of sound wave of the remote control signal. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and may be an audible sound or a long wavelength sound (low frequency sound). Although light is shown as infrared light, it is not limited to infrared light, and may be ultraviolet light, visible light, laser light, or the like. In addition, although the description has been made of the case where a camera is used as a device main body operated by a remote controller, the present invention can be applied to other electric devices such as home electric appliances, office equipment, and vehicles.

[0374]

As described above, according to the first, fifteenth, twenty-four, thirty, thirty-eight, thirty-third, and thirty-fifth aspects of the present invention, a plurality of types of remote control signals complement each other in terms of signal reachability. It is intended to prevent the inconvenience that the remote control does not work or malfunction, thereby improving the reliability of the remote operation.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 74 of the present application, by making the reception gain adjustable, it is possible to improve the signal reachability, and the remote control does not work or malfunctions. There is an effect that the inconvenience of the remote operation is eliminated and the reliability of the remote operation is improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using a remote control system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used under water according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera) having the remote control receiver according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control transmitting device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation in a remote control mode of the device main body (camera) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using a remote control system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a device main body (camera) in a remote control mode according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using a remote control system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used under water according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control transmitting device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a device main body (camera) in a remote control mode according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a strobe light transmission waveform from a device main body (camera) to a remote control transmission device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the entire configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using a remote control system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means that can be used under water according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control transmitting device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation of a device main body (camera) in a remote control mode according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an operation of a device main body (camera) in a remote control mode according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing transmission waveforms of sound waves (ultrasonic waves) and light (infrared rays) from a remote control transmission device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention to a device main body (camera).

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing an operation of the device main body (camera) in the remote control mode according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of performing underwater photography using the remote control system according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means that can be used under water according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an operation of the device main body (camera) in the remote control mode according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of underwater photography using the remote control system according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means usable under water according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera A) having an optical (infrared) remote control receiving unit according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera B) having an acoustic (ultrasonic) remote control receiver according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an operation in a remote control mode of the device main body (camera A) according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing an operation of the device main body (camera B) in the remote control mode according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the entire configuration of a waterproof camera capable of performing underwater photography using the remote control system according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitter that can be used underwater according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera C) having an optical (infrared) remote control receiver according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a block diagram of an apparatus main body (camera D) having a sound wave (ultrasonic wave) remote control receiving unit according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing an operation in a remote control mode of the device main body (camera C) according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing an operation of the device body (camera D) in the remote control mode according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the overall configuration of a waterproof camera capable of performing underwater photography using the remote control system according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a block diagram of a waterproof remote control transmitting means usable underwater according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a block diagram of a device main body (camera) having a remote control receiver according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing an operation of the remote control transmitting apparatus according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing an operation of the device main body (camera) in the remote control mode according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1,301,401,501,601,701,80
1,901,1001 Camera body 8,308,408,508,608,708,80
8,908,1008 Light (infrared) receiving unit 9,309,409,509,609,709,80
9,909,1009 Light reception confirming light emitting section 10,310,410,510,610,710,81
0 ', 910', 1010 Sound wave (ultrasonic wave) receiving section 11, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711, 81
1 ', 911', 1011 Sound generation section for sound wave reception confirmation 12, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 81
2,812 ', 912, 912', 1012 Camera control circuit 13,313,413,513,613,713,81
3,813 ', 913,913', 1013 amplifying circuit 14,314,414,514,614,714,81
4,814 ', 914,914', 1014 Remote control signal detection circuit 15,315,415,515,615,715,81
5,815 ′, 915, 915 ′, 1015 Reception display circuit 16, 30, 316, 416, 516, 616, 71
6,830,1016,1030 Underwater judgment unit 17,31,317,417,517,617,71
7,817,817 ', 831,917,917', 1
017, 1031 Photometry circuit 18, 33, 318, 418, 518, 618, 71
8,818,818 ', 833,918,918', 1
018, 1033 Photometric element 21, 321, 421, 521, 621, 721, 82
1,921,1021 remote control transmission device 23,323,423,523,623,723,82
3,923,1023 remote control switch 24,324,424,824,1024 remote control control circuit 25,325,425,525,625,725,82
5,925,1025 Light (infrared) generator 26,326,426,526,626,726,82
6,926,1026 Sound wave (ultrasonic wave) generator 27,327,427,527,627,727,727,82
7,927,1027 generator driving circuit 28,328,828,1028 power supply state detecting unit 34,834,1034 sound wave (ultrasonic wave) detecting unit 35,835,1035 sound wave detecting circuit 439,639 distance calculating circuit 440,640 Distance sensor 1042 Radio wave generator 1043 Radio receiver

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) G03B 17/38 G03B 17/38 B 2H102 G08C 17/00 H04N 5/232 B 5C022 23/04 G03B 17/18 Z 5K002 23/02 G08C 17/00 A 5K048 H04B 10/00 23/00 A H04N 5/232 C // G03B 17/18 H04B 9/00 PF term (reference) 2F073 AA16 AB02 AB03 BB01 BB11 BC02 BC04 BC05 CC03 DD01 GG01 GG08 2H002 AB01 BB05 BB06 BC07 FB01 FB21 FB32. FA03 GA04 5K048 AA06 BA10 CA11 DB01 DB04 DB06 DC01 EB02 EB03 FC01 HA05 HA07

Claims (81)

[Claims] 1. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmitting device; and a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. The remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, the remote control signal receiving device includes a remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving the plurality of types of remote control signals, and at least the remote control signal receiving means. A first remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals,
Setting means for setting both of the second remote control signals to a receivable state;
In a state where both of the second remote control signals are receivable, a predetermined operation control is performed when the first remote control signal is received, and the predetermined operation is performed when the second remote control signal is received. A remote control system comprising operation control means for performing control. 2. The remote control system according to claim 1, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 3. The camera according to claim 2, wherein the operation control means causes the camera to perform the same photographing operation both when the first remote control signal is received and when the second remote control signal is received. Item 7. The remote control system according to Item 2. 4. The remote control signal receiving means for receiving a first type of signal of the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device, the remote control signal receiving unit comprising: 4. The remote control system according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit that receives a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 5. The remote control according to claim 1, wherein the remote control signal transmitting device includes a remote control signal selecting unit that selects which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be generated. system. 6. The remote control system has environment detection means for detecting a use environment state, and the remote control signal selection means selects one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the environment detection means. 6. The remote control system according to claim 5, wherein whether to generate a kind of signal is selected. 7. The remote control system according to claim 6, wherein said environment detecting means is provided in said remote control signal transmission device. 8. The remote control signal receiving device is provided in the remote control signal receiving device, and the remote control signal receiving device includes a transmitting device for transmitting a detection information signal corresponding to a detection result of the environmental detecting device, The transmitting device has a receiving unit for receiving the detection information signal, and the remote control signal selecting unit, according to information corresponding to the detection information signal received by the receiving unit, among the plurality of types of remote control signals 7. The remote control system according to claim 6, wherein a type of signal to be generated is selected. 9. The remote control system according to claim 6, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 10. The remote control system according to claim 6, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 11. The remote control system according to claim 6, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 12. The remote control system has a power supply state detecting means for detecting a power supply state, and the remote control signal selecting means selects one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the power supply state detecting means. 6. The remote control system according to claim 5, wherein a type of signal to be generated is selected. 13. The remote control system according to claim 12, wherein said power state detection means is provided in said remote control signal transmission device, and detects a power state of said remote control signal transmission device. 14. The remote control signal transmission device has a predetermined operation unit, and the remote control signal generation means substantially transmits at least two of the different types of remote control signals in accordance with a predetermined operation of the operation unit. 23. The remote control system according to claim 14, wherein the remote control occurs simultaneously. 15. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmission device; and a remote control signal reception device that performs predetermined operation control in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. The remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving device is capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. And an environment detecting means for detecting a use environment state, and selecting which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be received by the remote control signal receiving means according to a detection result of the environment detecting means. A remote control system comprising: a reception remote control signal selection unit. 16. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said receiving remote control signal selecting means selects said first remote control signal among said plurality of types of remote control signals. Is received, the second remote control signal is received in a state where the reception of the second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals is selected by the reception remote control signal selecting means. The remote control system according to claim 15, wherein the same operation control is performed. 17. The remote control system according to claim 15, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 18. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first remote control signal is selected by said receiving remote control signal selecting means to receive a first remote control signal among said plurality of types of remote control signals. Is received, the second remote control signal is received in a state where the reception of the second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals is selected by the reception remote control signal selecting means. 18. The remote control system according to claim 17, wherein a similar photographing operation control of the camera is performed. 19. The remote control signal receiving section, comprising: a first remote control signal receiving unit that receives a first type of signal among the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device; 19. The remote control system according to claim 14, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit that receives a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 20. The remote control system according to claim 15, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 21. The remote control system according to claim 15, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 22. The remote control system according to claim 15, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 23. The remote control signal transmission device has a predetermined operation unit, and the remote control signal generation means substantially transmits at least two of the different types of remote control signals in accordance with a predetermined operation of the operation unit. 23. The remote control system according to claim 14, wherein the remote control occurs simultaneously. 24. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmitting device; and a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. The remote control signal transmitting device has remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving device is capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. Power supply state detection means for detecting a power supply state of the remote control signal receiving apparatus; and a signal of any one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the power supply state detection means. Remote control signal selecting means for selecting whether or not to receive the signal. Tem. 25. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the receiving remote control signal selecting unit selects the first remote control signal from among the plurality of types of remote control signals. Is received, the second remote control signal is received in a state where the reception of the second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals is selected by the reception remote control signal selecting means. The remote control system according to claim 24, wherein the same operation control is performed. 26. The remote control system according to claim 24, wherein the remote control system is applied to a camera. 27. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the receiving remote control signal selecting means selects the first remote control signal among the plurality of types of remote control signals. Is received, the second remote control signal is received in a state where the reception of the second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals is selected by the reception remote control signal selecting means. 27. The remote control system according to claim 26, wherein a similar photographing operation control of the camera is performed. 28. The remote control signal receiving unit, comprising: a first remote control signal receiving unit that receives a first type of signal among the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device; 28. The remote control system according to claim 24, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit for receiving a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 29. The remote control signal transmission device has a predetermined operation unit, and the remote control signal generation means substantially transmits at least two of the different types of remote control signals in accordance with a predetermined operation of the operation unit. 29. The remote control system according to claim 24, wherein the remote control system occurs simultaneously. 30. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmission device; and a remote control signal reception device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. The remote control signal transmitting device generates a remote control signal of a different type, a remote control signal generating unit that detects a use environment state, and an environment detection unit that detects a use environment state. Transmission remote control signal selecting means for selecting which type of signal is to be transmitted to the remote control signal transmitting means, wherein the remote control signal receiving device transmits the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. A remote control system comprising a remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving. 31. The remote control signal receiving device, when receiving a first remote control signal among the plurality of types of remote control signals, and when receiving a second remote control signal among the plurality of types of remote control signals. 31. The remote control system according to claim 30, wherein the same operation control is performed on the remote controller. 32. The remote control system according to claim 30, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 33. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the remote control signal receiving apparatus receives a first remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals, and also receives a second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals. 33. The remote control system according to claim 32, wherein a similar photographing operation control is performed for the camera. 34. The remote control signal receiving section, comprising: a first remote control signal receiving section that receives a first type of signal among the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device; 34. The remote control system according to claim 30, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit that receives a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 35. The remote control system according to claim 30, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 36. The remote control system according to claim 30, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 37. The remote control system according to claim 30, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 38. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmitting device; and a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. The remote control signal transmitting device includes remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, power state detecting means for detecting a power state of the remote control signal transmitting apparatus, and Transmission remote control signal selecting means for selecting which type of the remote control signal is to be generated by the remote control signal generating means, and the remote control signal receiving device is transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. A remote control system comprising remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving the different types of remote control signals. Tem. 39. The remote control signal receiving device receives a first remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals, and also receives a second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals. 39. The remote control system according to claim 38, wherein the same operation control is performed for the remote controller. 40. The remote control system according to claim 38, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 41. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the remote control signal receiving device receives a first remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals, and also receives a second remote control signal of the plurality of types of remote control signals. 41. The remote control system according to claim 40, wherein a similar photographing operation control of the camera is performed. 42. A remote control signal receiving unit that receives a first type of signal among the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device, 42. The remote control system according to claim 38, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit for receiving a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 43. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmitting device; and a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. The remote control signal transmitting device has a predetermined operation unit and remote control signal generating means for generating the different types of remote control signals substantially simultaneously in response to the operation of the predetermined operation unit, and the remote control signal receiving device has the different types of remote control signals. Remote control signal receiving means capable of receiving a remote control signal, and performing predetermined operation control when receiving a first remote control signal of one of the different types of remote control signals, and An operation control means for performing the predetermined operation control even when one second remote control signal is received is provided. Remote control system. 44. The remote control signal receiving device sets the remote control signal receiving means to a state in which both the first remote control signal and the second remote control signal among the different types of remote control signals can be received. Setting means for
The operation control means sets the first and second remote control signals in a state in which the remote control signal receiving means is set by the setting means and can receive both the first remote control signal and the second remote control signal. 44. The remote control system according to claim 43, wherein the predetermined operation control is performed in response to receiving any one of the second remote control signals. 45. The remote control system according to claim 43, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 46. The system according to claim 46, wherein the operation control means causes the same camera photographing operation to be performed both when the first remote control signal is received and when the second remote control signal is received. Item 46. The remote control system according to Item 45. 47. A remote control signal receiving section for receiving a first type of signal among the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device, wherein the first remote control signal receiving section is different from the first remote control signal receiving section. 47. The remote control system according to claim 43, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit for receiving a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 48. The remote control signal receiving apparatus according to claim 48, further comprising remote control reception signal selecting means for selecting which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be received by said remote control signal receiving means. Item 48. The remote control system according to any one of Items 43 to 47. 49. The remote control signal receiving device has environment detecting means for detecting a use environment state, and the remote control received signal selecting means responds to a result of detection by the environment detecting means.
49. The remote control system according to claim 48, wherein the controller selects which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be received. 50. The remote control system according to claim 49, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 51. The remote control system according to claim 49, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 52. The remote control system according to claim 49, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 53. The remote control signal receiving apparatus has a power state detecting means for detecting a power state of the remote control signal receiving apparatus, and the remote control signal selecting means, according to a detection result of the power state detecting means, 49. The remote control system according to claim 48, wherein a type of the plurality of types of remote control signals to be received is selected. 54. The remote control signal generating means generates at least two of light, sound waves, and radio waves as the different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving means is generated from the remote control signal generating means. 54. The remote control system according to claim 1, wherein at least two signals of the light, the sound wave, and the radio wave are received. 55. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmitting device; and a remote control signal receiving device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. The remote control signal transmission device as the different types of remote control signals,
Remote control signal generating means for generating at least two of light, sound waves and radio waves, the remote control signal receiving device is capable of receiving the at least two types of remote control signals, and the at least two types of remote control signal receiving means; When one of the first remote control signals is received, the predetermined operation control is performed. When the second remote control signal of one of the at least two types is received, the predetermined operation control is performed. A remote control system having operation control means for performing the operation. 56. The remote control signal receiving device sets the remote control signal receiving means in a state in which both the first remote control signal and the second remote control signal of the at least two types can be received. Setting means, and operation control means, wherein the remote control signal receiving means is set by the setting means;
Wherein the predetermined operation control is performed in response to receiving any of the first, second, and second remote control signals in a state where both of the remote control signals can be received. The remote control system according to claim 55. 57. The remote control system according to claim 55, wherein said remote control system is applied to a camera. 58. The camera according to claim 58, wherein the operation control means causes the same camera photographing operation to be performed both when the first remote control signal is received and when the second remote control signal is received. Item 57. The remote control system according to Item 57. 59. The remote control signal receiving means for receiving a first type of signal of the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device, the remote control signal receiving unit comprising: 60. The remote control system according to claim 55, further comprising a plurality of signal receiving units including a second remote control signal receiving unit that receives a second type of signal among the types of remote control signals. 60. A remote control according to claim 55, wherein said remote control signal transmitting apparatus has remote control signal selecting means for selecting which type of signal among said plurality of types of remote control signals is to be generated. system. 61. A remote control system having environment detection means for detecting a use environment state, wherein the remote control signal selection means selects one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the environment detection means. 61. The remote control system according to claim 60, wherein whether to generate a kind of signal is selected. 62. The remote control system according to claim 61, wherein said environment detecting means is provided in said remote control signal transmission device. 63. The environment detection means is provided in the remote control signal receiving device, and the remote control signal receiving device has a transmission means for transmitting a detection information signal corresponding to a detection result of the environment detection means, The transmitting device has a receiving unit for receiving the detection information signal, and the remote control signal selecting unit, according to information corresponding to the detection information signal received by the receiving unit, among the plurality of types of remote control signals 62. The remote control system according to claim 61, wherein a type of signal to be generated is selected. 64. The remote control signal receiving apparatus further comprises remote control reception signal selection means for selecting which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be received by the remote control signal reception means. 60. The remote control system according to any one of items 55 to 59. 65. The remote control signal receiving apparatus has environment detecting means for detecting a use environment state, and the remote control received signal selecting means responds to a result of detection by the environment detecting means.
65. The remote control system according to claim 64, wherein the remote control signal receiving means selects which type of the plurality of types of remote control signals is to be received. 66. The remote control system according to claim 61, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 67. The remote control system according to claim 61, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 68. The remote control system according to claim 61, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 69. A remote control system having a power supply state detecting means for detecting a power supply state, wherein the remote control signal selecting means selects one of the plurality of types of remote control signals according to a detection result of the power supply state detecting means. 65. The method according to claim 60, further comprising selecting which type of signal to generate.
Remote control system as described. 70. The remote control system according to claim 69, wherein said power supply state detecting means is provided in said remote control signal transmission device and detects a power supply state of said remote control signal transmission device. 71. The remote control system according to claim 69, wherein said power supply state detection means is provided in said remote control signal receiving device and detects a power supply state of said remote control signal receiving device. 72. The remote control signal transmitting device has a predetermined operation unit, and the remote control signal generating means substantially transmits at least two of the different types of remote control signals in accordance with a predetermined operation of the operation unit. 72. The remote control system according to claim 55, wherein the remote control occurs simultaneously. 73. A remote control signal receiving apparatus comprising: a selection unit that selects a receiving unit that receives a remote control signal by adjusting a reception gain of at least one of the plurality of receiving units for a remote control signal. The remote control system according to claim 4, 19, 28, 47, 59. 74. A remote control system, comprising: a remote control signal transmission device; and a remote control signal reception device for performing a predetermined operation in response to receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. Remote control signal receiving device, remote control signal receiving means for receiving a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device,
A remote control system comprising: a gain adjustment unit configured to adjust a reception gain of the remote control signal reception unit with respect to a remote control signal transmitted from the remote control signal transmission device. 75. The remote control signal transmitting device includes remote control signal generating means for generating different types of remote control signals, and the remote control signal receiving means includes the different types of remote control signals transmitted from the remote control signal transmitting device. A first remote control signal receiving unit that receives a first type of signal among the plurality of remote control signals; and a second remote control signal receiving unit that receives a second type of signal among the different types of remote control signals. A signal receiving unit, wherein the gain adjusting unit includes:
75. The remote control system according to claim 74, further comprising a selection unit that selects a receiving unit that receives a remote control signal by adjusting a reception gain of at least one of the plurality of receiving units for a remote control signal. 76. The remote control signal generation means generates at least two of light, sound waves, and radio waves as the different types of remote control signals, and each of the plurality of signal receiving units of the remote control signal receiving means has 76. The remote control system according to claim 75, wherein any one of at least two of the light, the sound wave, and the radio wave generated from the remote control signal generating means is received. 77. The remote control signal receiving apparatus has environment detecting means for detecting a use environment state, and the gain adjusting means adjusts the reception gain according to a detection result of the environment detecting means. The remote control system according to claim 74, wherein: 78. The remote control system according to claim 77, wherein said environment detecting means detects whether or not a use environment is underwater. 79. The remote control system according to claim 77, wherein said environment detecting means detects a positional relationship between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 80. The remote control system according to claim 77, wherein said environment detecting means detects a distance between said remote control signal transmission and said remote control signal receiving device. 81. The remote control signal receiving apparatus has a power state detecting means for detecting a power state of the remote control signal receiving apparatus, and the gain adjusting means has a gain in accordance with a detection result of the power state detecting means. 75. The remote control system according to claim 74, wherein the value is adjusted.