JP2003274276A - Image pickup device, its control method and charging method, and camera and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a camera of high image quality to a consumer at a lower cost. <P>SOLUTION: This image pickup device can photograph a still picture and/or a dynamic picture with an image pickup element, and is provided with a function limiting means (STLF) for limiting at least a part of functions of the device and limitation releasing means (ULF0-ULF6) for releasing the limitation of the functions limited by the function limiting means. The limitation releasing means latches key data for releasing the limitation and is provided with a comparing means (210) for comparing data input from the outside with the key data. When the data input from the outside coincide with the key data, the limited functions are released. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a camera and its control method, and more particularly to a method of controlling the function of the camera.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Digital cameras are becoming popular because they are capable of erasing photographed images and reducing the cost of photographing by selecting and printing specific photographed images. A low-priced digital camera has a low price by not having a part of the function such as not equipped with a strobe or a removable recording medium, but provides sufficient shooting quality compared to a high-priced digital camera. Can not.

[0003]

In order to improve the quality of a captured image, it is necessary to equip an expensive lens and a high-speed image processing device inside, but it is necessary to manufacture a camera while maintaining the quality of the captured image. There were limits to reducing costs. In addition, since there are no consumable mechanical parts in a digital camera, it is difficult to make up for the camera manufacturing cost with profits from consumables.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a high quality camera at low cost to consumers.

[0005]

In order to achieve the above object, an image pickup device of the present invention capable of shooting a still image and / or a moving image by an image pickup device is a function limitation for limiting at least a part of the functions of the image pickup device. Means and a restriction releasing means for releasing the restriction of the function restricted by the function restricting means, and the restriction releasing means holds key data used for releasing the restriction and is inputted from the outside. And comparing the key data with the key data, and when the data input from the outside and the key data match, the restriction of the restricted function is released.

Further, in order to achieve the above object, another image pickup apparatus capable of taking a still image and / or a moving image by an image pickup device comprises a display means and an advertisement display control means for displaying an advertisement on the display means. Have.

Further, there is a step of releasing the restriction of the function in the image pickup apparatus described in any one of the above, and a step of charging for the cancellation of the restriction of the function.

Further, in the billing method of the present invention, the step of performing a predetermined service relating to the image pickup apparatus, the step of billing for the predetermined service, and the execution of the predetermined service release the restriction on the function. And the process.

Further, in any one of the above-mentioned image pickup apparatus control methods, the step of storing advertisement data in the advertisement storage means, and the limitation of the function of the image pickup apparatus in association with the storage of the advertisement data. And a step of releasing.

A method of controlling the image pickup apparatus described above, comprising:
The method includes a step of updating the advertisement data, and a step of releasing the restriction on the function of the image pickup apparatus along with the update of the advertisement data.

Further, in order to achieve the above object, a camera of the present invention having another structure is provided with a function limiting means for partially limiting the function of the camera and a predetermined data for releasing the limitation from the outside. Input means for inputting.

Furthermore, a camera of the present invention having another structure has a display means for displaying an advertisement and a function limiting means for limiting at least a part of the function of the camera, and the function limiting means operates as described above. Cooperate with the display of advertisements by the display means.

[0013]

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<First Embodiment> FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a camera of the embodiment of FIG.

In FIG. 1, 201 is an image pickup device such as a CCD, 202 is an image capture circuit, 214 is a microphone for inputting audio data, and 203 is a DRA for storing an image signal output by the image capture circuit 202.
A memory such as M, 204 is a memory card, and 209 is a memory card interface (MCI / F) for connecting to the memory card 204.

Further, 205 is a display device such as a color liquid crystal display device for displaying an image taken by the image pickup device 201, 215 is an audio reproducing device connected to the display device, 206 is an external connection terminal, and 213 is an external device. Equipment.

Reference numeral 208 is an operation unit, 210 is a control unit for controlling the entire camera, 211 is a timer, and 212 is a program ROM (PROM) for storing programs. Further, 207 is a data bus, and the control unit 210 and each other block of the camera are connected by a data bus 207 to exchange data and control signals.

Next, the operation of the first embodiment of the present invention of the camera having the above structure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S101, when a button provided on the operation unit 208 of the camera is pressed, the control unit 210 detects the pressing and the camera is activated. Or later,
The control unit 210 controls the operation of the camera according to a program recorded in the PROM 212 in advance. The program may be partially or wholly recorded in the memory card 204.

Next, in step S102, the control unit 2
10 communicates with the PROM 212 and the memory card 204, and retrieves the operation restriction code previously recorded in the PROM 212 or the memory card 204. This operation restriction code will be described later in detail with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. The operation restriction code may be recorded in either the PROM 212 or the memory card 204. Further, the operation restriction code may be encrypted by using a predetermined encryption means, and in that case, the control unit 210.
Restores the operation restriction code by using a predetermined decoding means in the PROM 212.

When retrieving the operation restriction code, the control unit 2
10 communicates with the memory card 204 through the MCI / F209, and the memory card 204 is the MCI / F209.
Since it is more removable, the MCI / F 209 notifies the control unit 210 that the memory card 204 does not exist when the memory card 204 is removed.

In step S103, step S102
If the operation restriction code can be acquired by the control unit 210, the control unit 210 decodes the operation restriction code, and if there is no operation restriction, that is, if the operation restriction code itself cannot be acquired and the operation restriction code is a code indicating the operation restriction. If there is not, the process proceeds to step S104, and if there is an operation restriction, the process proceeds to step S105.

In step S104, the user operates the operation member 208 so that there is no operation restriction and shooting is performed.
Playback and communication operations can be performed. The shooting operation and the reproducing operation can be simultaneously executed, or the other operation can be prohibited while the shooting or reproducing operation is being performed. The operations of shooting, reproduction and communication will be described below.

<Photographing Operation> When the user selects the photographing operation, the control unit 210 controls the image capturing circuit 202 to display the image photographed by the image pickup element 201 as a moving image on the display device 205. This allows the user to use the display device 205 as a shooting finder. The image capture circuit 202 may have an optical lens driving unit, a focus control unit, and an aperture driving unit as necessary, and the control unit 210 controls these units as necessary to perform control to capture an image.

In this state, when the user gives a recording instruction of a still image or a moving image using the operation unit 208, the control unit 2
Reference numeral 10 writes the image signal output from the image capture circuit 202 in the DRAM 203. Image capture circuit 2
The resolution or the size of the image output from the control unit 02 depends on the setting specified in the PROM 212.
10 controls, and it compresses and writes in JPEG or MPEG format. When recording a moving image, the image capture circuit 202 receives audio data from the connected microphone 214 and adds it to the moving image data.

Further, the control unit 210 acquires the current time data from the timer 211, adds the time data to the compressed image data written in the DRAM 203, and adds the MCI / time as needed.
Through F209, for a still image, for example, horizontal 2048 pixels, vertical 1560 pixels, and for a moving image, for example horizontal 640 pixels.
Write to the memory card 204 with pixels and 480 pixels in vertical direction.

The controller 210 confirms the remaining capacity of the memory card 204 each time image data is written to the memory card 204, and confirms the image data capacity currently recorded in the memory card 204 and the recordable data capacity.

<Playback Operation> When the user selects a playback operation using the operation unit 208, the control unit 210 causes the MCI /
Image data is read from the memory card 204 through F209. Read image data is JPEG or MPEG
If the image data is compressed by a compression method such as, the image data is expanded and the read image data is displayed on the display device 205. If audio data is added to the read image data, the audio data is reproduced by the audio reproducing device 215 connected to the display device 205.

<Communication operation> The user operates the external connection terminal 20.
6 is connected to the external device 213, and an instruction is given through the operation unit 208, whereby the memory card 204 or the PROM
The image data written in 2 is the external connection terminal 206
Can be transmitted to the external device 213 connected to.

Returning to the control of FIG. If it is determined in step S103 that the operation is restricted, the process proceeds to step S105.

Here, the operation restriction code will be described.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the operation restriction code. The operation restriction code (key data) shown in FIG. 3 is 16-byte data,

-How to release the operation limitation code- (All functions) release code ULALL-Function limitation status STLF-Function limitation change codes ULF0 to ULF6. FIG. 4 shows an example of the types of the function restriction status STLF. Here, the functional restriction status STLF
Consists of 8 types of data (UL0-UL7), LCD viewfinder function enabled / disabled (UL0), movie recording enabled / disabled (UL1), image recording size (UL2), shooting time recording enabled / Impossible (UL3), Capable data amount (UL4),
It consists of a recordable time (UL5), enable / disable of playback operation (UL6), and enable / disable of communication operation (UL7).

In step S105, step S1
Of the operation restriction codes decoded in 03, the release code ULAL
It is determined whether or not L indicates the factory-shipped state. At the time of shipment from the factory, 0 is written in the release code ULALL, and all the functions (UL0 to UL7) that can be restricted are set by the function restriction status STLF. If it is in the factory-shipped state, that is,
When the release code ULALL = 0, the process proceeds to step S109, and when it is not the factory-shipped state, that is, ULALL ≠
When it is 0, the process proceeds to step S106.

At step S106, the control unit 210
A menu for updating the operation restriction code or releasing the restriction is displayed on the display device 205 in accordance with a program recorded in advance in the PROM 212, and the user operates according to the displayed procedure. Here, if the user selects not to update / cancel the operation restriction code, the process proceeds to step S107, and if updating / cancellation is performed,
It proceeds to step S108.

In step S107, restricted photographing, reproduction, and communication operations are performed according to the setting state of the operation restriction code. Here, each operation of shooting, reproduction, and communication when there is an operation restriction will be described below. Shooting, reproduction, and communication operations are performed according to the operation of the operation member 208 by the user. The shooting operation and the reproducing operation can be simultaneously executed, or the other operation can be prohibited while the shooting or reproducing operation is being performed.

In each operation, the control unit 210 reads the function restriction status STLF of the second byte from the operation restriction code of FIG. 3 recorded in the memory card 204 or the PROM 212, and always refers to the function restriction status STLF. Take action. As described above, the function restriction status STLF records the setting status of operations that can be restricted by the camera as shown in FIG.

<Restricted Shooting Operation> When the user selects the shooting operation, the control unit 210 obtains the shooting operation start time TCAPSTA from the timer 211. Further, the control unit 210 controls the image capture circuit 202 to display the image captured by the image sensor 201 as a moving image on the display device 205. This allows the user to use the display device 205 as a shooting finder. However,
L set to Byte 0 of function restriction status STLF shown in
CD viewfinder function If UL0 = 1, the viewfinder is not displayed. The image capture circuit 2
Reference numeral 02 may have an optical lens drive means, a focus control means, and an aperture drive means, if necessary. Control unit 21
0 controls these means as needed and controls to capture an image.

During the photographing operation, the control unit 210 periodically acquires the current time TNOW from the timer 211. At the same time, FIG.
Read the recordable time UL5 set in Byte5 of the function restriction status STLF shown in. When TEN indicating the possible shooting time is set, the possible shooting time TEN is compared with the shooting operation start time TCAPSTA and the current time TNOW. TNOW> TCAPSTA +
When the TEN condition is met, the control unit 210 causes the display device 20 to
In step 5, the user is notified that the restricted use time has elapsed, and the operation is terminated. When the image capturing time TEN = 0, the use time is not limited.

In the first embodiment, the limit is set only for the elapsed time after the camera is activated.
It is also possible in the present invention to limit the total use time of the camera by recording the shooting operation start time TCAPSTA only when the camera is first activated. Further, the same restriction can be applied to the reproducing operation.

In this state, the user gives an instruction to record a still image or a moving image using the operation unit 208. When the instruction to record the moving image is given, the control unit 210 confirms the moving image recording UL1 of the function restriction status STLF. If 1 (impossible),
For example, the display device 205 is used to inform the user that moving image recording is prohibited.

Recording instruction of still image or movie recording UL1 = 0
If a video recording instruction is issued in the (possible) state,
The control unit 210 writes the image signal output from the image capture circuit 202 in the DRAM 203. The resolution or the size of the image output from the image capture circuit 202 is controlled by the control unit 210 according to the setting specified in the PROM 212, and is compressed and written in the JPEG or MPEG format. When recording a moving image, the image capture circuit 202 receives audio data from the connected microphone 214 and adds it to the moving image data.

Here, Byte 3 of the function restriction status STLF
Record the shooting time shown in 3. Check the status of UL3, 0
If (possible), the control unit 210 acquires the current time data from the timer 211, adds the time data to the compressed image data written in the DRAM 203, and adds the MCI at any time.
Write to the memory card 204 through / F209.

On the other hand, when the photographing time recording UL3 = 1 (impossible), the time data is not added to the image data written in the memory card 204.

The image recording size UL2 indicated by Byte 2 of the function restriction status STLF is checked, and if it is 0, the control unit 210 writes a still image in the memory card 204 with 2048 horizontal pixels and 1560 vertical pixels. Also, the moving image is 640 pixels wide,
Write to the memory card 204 with vertical 480 pixels.

On the other hand, when the image recording size UL2 = 1, the control unit 210 records the image with the limited recording size.
For example, a still image is 640 pixels in width and 480 pixels in height, and a moving image is always 160 pixels in width and 120 pixels in height.
Write to

The controller 210 confirms the remaining capacity of the memory card 204 each time the image data is written in the memory card 204, and confirms the image data capacity CDQ currently recorded in the memory card 204 and the recordable data capacity CDEQ. To do.

Here, when the recordable data amount UL4 indicated by Byte 4 of the function restriction status STLF is not 0 but DENQ, the control unit 210 compares DENQ with the above CDQ and DENQ <C
Shooting stops when DQ is reached.

<Reproduction operation with restriction> The user operates the operation unit 2
When the reproduction operation is selected by 08, the control unit 210
Image data is read from the memory card 204 through the MCI / F 209.

However, the control unit 210 uses the function restriction status.
When the playback operation UL6 indicated by Byte 6 of STLF is 1 (not possible), the playback operation is not performed.

The read image data is JPEG or MP
When compressed by a compression method such as EG, the control unit 210 expands this and displays the read image data on the display device 205. When audio data is added to the read image data, the control unit 210 reproduces the audio data from the audio reproducing device 215 connected to the display device 205.

<Restricted Communication Operation> The user connects the external device to the external connection terminal 206 and gives an instruction from the operation unit 208 to instruct the memory card 204 or the PROM 2
The image data written in 12 is connected to the external connection terminal 20.
It is possible to communicate with an external device connected to 6. However, the control unit 210 does not perform the communication operation when the communication operation UL7 indicated by Byte 7 of the function restriction status STLF is 1 (impossible).

On the other hand, in step S108 of FIG. 2, the operation restriction code is updated / released. There are two methods to update / cancel the operation restriction code, and which method is used is recorded in the operation restriction code recorded in the PROM 212 or the memory card 204 in advance.

As shown in FIG. 3, Byte of operation restriction code
0 indicates how to release the operation restriction code. When Byte 0 = 0, the control unit 210 requests the user to input a cancellation code through the display device 205. The user operates the operation unit 20.
8 to enter the release code, and the control unit 210 sends a PR
It is compared with the release code ULALL shown in Byte 1 of the operation restriction code recorded in OM212, and if they match, the operation restriction code is deleted.

If they do not correspond, the entered code and By
Compare with function restriction change codes ULF0 to ULF6 starting from te 10. If there is a matching code, the operation restriction code By
Update the function restriction status STLF recorded in te 2. As described above, which function of the camera is restricted is recorded in the function restriction status STLF.
For example, if it matches ULF0, remove the limitation of STLF Byte 0.

When Byte 0 = 1 of the operation restriction code,
The control unit 210 requests the user to connect to the external device 213 through the display device 205. Control unit 210
Detects that the external device 213 is connected to the external connection terminal 206, and communicates with the external device 213. Through this communication, the cancellation code equivalent to the code entered by the user or the function restriction cancellation code when Byte 0 = 0 is received from the external device 213. With this reception code, the control unit 2
10 performs the same function release as when Byte 0 = 0.

If it is determined in step S105 that the factory-shipped state is set, the operation restriction code is registered in step S109.

As described above, when 0 is written in the release code ULALL of the operation restriction code in FIG. 3,
Indicates that the camera is in the factory-shipped state.

At this time, the camera displays the input request of the release code and the function restriction code on the display device 205 according to the program previously written in the PROM 212.

At this time, the user of the camera is, for example, a camera seller. The input request is made only when ULALL is 0.

The camera seller considers which function of the camera is restricted and uses the operation unit 208 to release the release code UL.
Write ALL and necessary function restriction change codes ULF0 to ULF6. It is not necessary to enter the corresponding function restriction change code for functions that do not have function restrictions.

The control unit 210 rewrites the function restriction status STLF in order to restrict the function corresponding to the input function restriction change code.

In step S110, the control unit 210
When the operation unit 208 gives an instruction to end the operation,
Stop the camera operation. If the shooting or reproducing operation is to be continued, the process returns to step S102.

Alternatively, the control unit 210 may use the PROM in advance.
When the number of recording sheets designated by 212 has passed and the storable data capacity falls below the threshold value recorded in the PROM 212 in advance, the photographing operation is stopped.

When a sensor attached to the control unit 210 detects a decrease in driving power or a temperature decrease,
It is also possible to display that fact on the display device 205 and control the photographing operation to be stopped at any time.

The above-mentioned camera can be charged by the method shown in FIG.

First, the camera manufacturer delivers the price A to the camera seller.

The camera seller sets the function restriction for the factory-shipped camera as described in step S109. The user purchases the camera at the price B from the camera seller. If A> B, the camera seller pays the price of AB at this point. At this point, the functionality of the camera is limited.

The user can obtain the code for canceling the operation restriction by purchasing another article at the price C from the camera seller or obtaining the printing service at the price D.

For example, the release code may be obtained by connecting the print service device placed at the store of the camera seller to the camera of the first embodiment. When the user places an order for printing via the Internet, the user may obtain the code on the Internet and input the code using the operation member of the camera.

The camera seller can pass on the cost burden and cancel it by obtaining a profit equal to or higher than the cost burden A-B by selling other goods or selling a specific service.

As a result of the above, the camera seller can reduce the camera selling price, and the camera user pays the price of purchasing another product / service,
You can purchase a high-performance camera. The present invention is particularly effective when the service provided by the camera seller is image printing.

In the above first embodiment, the operation of the camera is restricted by the operation restriction code. However, the operation restriction code is read as an operation permission code, and the operation is permitted when the operation permission code exists. Is also possible.

<Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the camera in the second embodiment is the same as that described in the first embodiment with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the operation of the camera of the second embodiment of the present invention.

First, in step S201, when a button provided on the operation unit 208 of the camera is pressed, the control unit 210 detects the pressing and the camera is activated. Or later,
The control unit 210 controls the operation of the camera according to a program recorded in the PROM 212 in advance. The program may be partially or wholly recorded in the memory card 204.

Next, in step S202, the control unit 2
10 communicates with the PROM 212 and the memory card 204, and retrieves the operation restriction code and the advertisement status code recorded in advance in the PROM 212 or the memory card 204. The operation restriction code is as described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. Further, the advertisement status code includes a method of changing the advertisement data, a file name of the advertisement data, an authentication code of the advertisement data, and an expiration date of the advertisement data. The advertisement data is moving image data including still images or audio data. Details of the advertisement status code will be described later with reference to FIG. 7. The operation restriction code and advertisement status code are PROM212
It may be recorded in either the memory card 204 or the memory card 204. Further, the operation restriction code and the advertisement status code may be encrypted using a predetermined encryption means, and in that case, the control unit 210 operates using a predetermined decryption means in the PROM 212. Restore the restriction code.

The control unit 210 communicates with the memory card 204 through the MCI / F 209 when searching for the operation restriction code and the advertisement status code. However, since the memory card 204 is removable from the MCI / F 209, the memory card 204 Is removed,
The MCI / F 209 notifies the control unit 210 that the memory card 204 does not exist.

When advertisement data exists (step S2)
(YES in 03), the control unit 210 displays the advertisement data on the display device 205 in step S204. As a result, the user recognizes that the advertisement data is displayed when the camera is activated. If there is no advertisement data, the process proceeds to step S205.

Next, in step S205, step S
When the operation restriction code can be acquired in 202, the control unit 2
10 decodes the operation restriction code, and if there is no operation restriction,
That is, if the motion restriction code itself cannot be acquired or if the motion restriction code does not include a code indicating the motion restriction, the process proceeds to step S206, and if there is the motion restriction, the process proceeds to step S208. However, even if there is no operation restriction,
If the advertisement status code cannot be detected, the process proceeds to step S208.

Here, the control unit 210 reads the authentication code of the advertisement data included in the advertisement status code and compares it with the advertisement data. The authentication code of the advertisement data corresponds to the advertisement data and is, for example, a prime number that can divide the first several tens of bytes of the advertisement data.
If an error occurs in this comparison work, it is determined that the advertisement data has been tampered with, and the process proceeds to step S208. The same applies when there is no file corresponding to the advertisement data file name included in the advertisement status code.
At this time, the control unit 210 updates the operation restriction code so that all restrictions of the operation restriction code are valid.

Next, the control unit 210 controls the expiration date of the advertisement data included in the advertisement status code, and the timer 2.
The current time of 11 is compared. When the current time exceeds the expiration date, the control unit 210 updates the operation restriction code so that all restrictions of the operation restriction code are valid,
The operation of step S208 is performed.

In step S206, the user operates the operation member 208 to capture / display the advertisement.
Playback / communication operations can be performed. All of these operations can be performed at the same time, or the rest of the operations can be prohibited while performing an operation.
Hereinafter, each operation of shooting, reproduction, and communication accompanied by the advertisement display performed in step S206 will be described.

<Shooting Operation with Advertisement Display> When the user selects the shooting operation, the control unit 210 controls the image capture circuit 202 to display the image shot by the image pickup element 201 as a moving image on the display device 205. This allows the user to use the display device 205 as a shooting finder. The image capture circuit 202 may have an optical lens drive unit, a focus control unit, and an aperture drive unit as necessary, and the control unit 210 controls these units as necessary to perform control to capture an image.

The user can specify whether or not to use the display device 205 as a photographing finder through the operation unit 208. Here, when the user instructs to activate the shooting finder, the control unit 210 displays the advertisement data when starting the finder display.

Also, when the user instructs the end of the finder display, the control section 210 displays the advertisement data.

Not only when the finder is turned on / off, the control unit 210 may be programmed in advance so that the time during which the imaging operation is not performed is measured by the timer 211 and the advertisement data is periodically displayed. In that case, when the imaging recording operation is performed during the display of the advertisement data, the recording operation is prioritized over the display of the advertisement data.

In this state, when the user gives a recording instruction of a still image or a moving image using the operation unit 208, the control unit 2
Reference numeral 10 writes the image signal output from the image capture circuit 202 in the DRAM 203. Image capture circuit 2
The resolution or the size of the image output from the control unit 02 depends on the setting specified in the PROM 212.
10 controls, and it compresses and writes in JPEG or MPEG format. When recording a moving image, the image capture circuit 202 receives audio data from the connected microphone 214 and adds it to the moving image data.

Further, the control unit 210 acquires the current time data from the timer 211, adds the time data to the compressed image data written in the DRAM 203, and the MCI /
Through F209, for a still image, for example, horizontal 2048 pixels, vertical 1560 pixels, and for a moving image, for example horizontal 640 pixels.
Write to the memory card 204 with pixels and 480 pixels in vertical direction. The image data may be written in the PROM 212 by a predetermined program.

The controller 210 confirms the remaining capacity of the memory card 204 each time image data is written in the memory card 204, and confirms the image data capacity currently recorded in the memory card 204 and the recordable data capacity.

When the writing speed of the memory card 204 is slow, it takes several seconds to several tens of seconds to write an image. The control unit 210 predicts the writing time, and displays the advertising data during writing when the writing time becomes equal to or longer than a predetermined fixed time.

In general, the camera has a state in which the photographing operation cannot be performed even when the user instructs the photographing operation. For example, it is a case where a warning is displayed while the writing time to the memory card, the flash charging time, the self-timer are being executed as described above. Advertising data may be displayed at such times.

<Playback Operation with Advertisement Display> When the user selects the playback operation with the operation unit 208, the control unit 21
0 reads image data from the memory card 204 through the MCI / F 209. The read image data is JP
If it is compressed by a compression method such as EG or MPEG, it is expanded and the read image data is displayed on the display device 205. If audio data is added to the read image data, the audio data is reproduced by the audio reproducing device 215 connected to the display device 205.

The control unit 210 displays the advertisement data on the display device 205 at a timing designated in advance. As the display timing, for example, the advertisement data is displayed every time a predetermined number of recorded images are displayed, or every predetermined time during reproduction. When displaying an advertisement during video reproduction, the video is paused. At this time, in order to allow the user to easily distinguish the recorded image from the advertisement data, the control unit 210 displays a blank screen (a single color image such as white or black on one surface) for about 1 second before and after displaying the advertisement data. indicate.

If the advertisement data and the recorded image data can be displayed at the same time, they may be displayed on the same screen.

According to an instruction from the operation unit 208, the user can automatically reproduce the recorded images recorded in the camera at regular intervals sequentially or randomly. If the advertisement data is displayed during this automatic playback operation, the user may feel uncomfortable.Therefore, the advertisement data display during the automatic playback is prohibited by a predetermined program, and the advertisement is displayed at the start and end of the automatic playback. Can also be controlled to display.

<Communication Operation with Advertisement Display> The user connects the external device 213 to the external connection terminal 206 and operates the operation unit 2.
The image data written in the memory card 204 or the PROM 212 can be communicated to the external device 213 connected to the external connection terminal 206 by giving an instruction by 08.

During this communication, the control unit 210 displays the advertisement data on the display device 205 at the timing designated in advance. This timing is the same as the timing of advertisement display during reproduction.

In step S207, the control unit 210
When the operation unit 208 gives an instruction to end the operation,
Stop the camera operation. If the shooting / playback / communication operation is to be continued, the process returns to step S202.

Also, the control unit 210 may use the PR in advance.
When the number of recorded sheets specified in OM212 has passed,
When the storable data capacity falls below the threshold value recorded in the PROM 212 in advance, the photographing operation is stopped.

When a sensor attached to the control unit 210 detects a decrease in driving power or a temperature decrease,
It is also possible to display that fact on the display device 205 and control the photographing operation to be stopped at any time.

In step S208, it is confirmed whether or not the camera is in the factory-shipped state. The confirmation method is the same as the operation in step S105 in the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof is omitted here. If it is the state at the time of factory shipment, it proceeds to step S212, and if it is not the state at the time of factory shipment, it proceeds to step S209.

At step S209, the control unit 210
A menu for updating the operation restriction code or releasing the restriction is displayed on the display device 205 in accordance with a program recorded in advance in the PROM 212, and the user operates according to the displayed procedure. Here, if the user selects not to update / cancel the operation restriction code, the process proceeds to step S210, and if updating / cancellation is performed,
It proceeds to step S211.

In step S210, restricted shooting, reproduction and communication operations are performed according to the setting state of the operation restriction code. The restricted shooting, reproduction, and communication operations are the same as the operations described in step S107 of FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. At this time,
In the restricted shooting operation and restricted playback operation,
Unlike the operation in step S206, the advertisement is not displayed.

The photographing operation and the reproducing operation can be executed at the same time, or the other operation can be prohibited during the photographing or reproducing operation.

In step S211, unlike the first embodiment described above, the operation restriction can be released by updating the advertisement data. Further, by deleting the advertisement data, the display of the advertisement data can be stopped, and the operation restriction of the camera can be enabled for use.

There are two methods for updating the advertisement data. Which method is used is recorded in advance in the advertisement status code recorded in the PROM 212 or the memory card 204.

As shown in FIG. 7, the Byte of the operation restriction code
0 indicates the method of updating the advertisement data. When Byte 0 = 0, the control unit 210 requests the user to select advertisement data via the display device 205. The user uses the operation unit 208 to select an advertisement.

When Byte 0 = 1, the control unit 210
The display device 205 requests the user to connect to the external device 213. When the control unit 210 detects that the external device 213 is connected to the external connection terminal 206, the control unit 210 communicates with the external device 213. Through this communication, the control unit 210 receives new advertisement data and new advertisement status data from the external device 213 and writes them in the memory card 204 or the PROM 212.

Note that, instead of the external device 213, the user may write in the memory card 204 or the PROM 212 with some alternative device. Alternatively, the data may be directly written to the memory card 204 in the removed state without using the external connection terminal 206.

When it is determined in step S208 that the factory shipment state is set, the control unit 210 determines in step S2.
After registering the advertisement data in 12, the operation restriction code is registered in accordance with a predetermined program in step S213.

With respect to the above-mentioned camera, it is possible to make a charge by the method shown in FIG.

First, the camera manufacturer supplies the camera seller with the price A. The camera seller, step S2
As described in step 12 and step S213, the advertisement data and the function restriction code are registered for the factory-shipped camera. The user purchases the camera at the price B from the camera seller. If A> B, the camera seller pays the price of AB at this point.

The camera seller receives the advertisement fee E from the advertiser of the advertisement data registered above and compensates for the price burden.

[0114] The camera seller can pass on the cost burden and cancel it by obtaining a profit over the cost burden AB over the advertisement income.

As a result, the camera seller can reduce the camera selling price, and the camera user can purchase a high-performance camera.

[0116]

Other Embodiments Even when the present invention is applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface, and a camera head), a device including one device (for example, a moving image or a still image). It is also possible to apply it to electronic cameras for taking pictures, cameras using silver salt film).

Further, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium (or recording medium) recording a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and to supply a computer of the system or apparatus ( Alternatively, by the CPU or MPU) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium,
It goes without saying that it will be achieved. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also based on the instruction of the program code,
An operating system (OS) running on the computer does some or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized. Here, as the storage medium for storing the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, a ROM,
RAM, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory card, CD-
ROM, CD-R, DVD, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, etc. are considered.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion card inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, , The CPU provided in the function expansion card or the function expansion unit performs some or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

When the present invention is applied to the above-mentioned storage medium, the flow chart shown in FIG. 2b and the data shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 or the flow chart shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. The program code corresponding to the data shown in FIGS. 4 and 7 is stored.

[0120]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a high-quality image pickup device to consumers at a lower cost. Also, when displaying an advertisement, the advertiser can perform an effective advertisement.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a camera according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an operation of the camera of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an operation restriction code according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a function restriction status code according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a method of using the camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation of the camera of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an advertisement status code according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of how to use a camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

201 image sensor 202 image capture circuit 203 DRAM 204 memory card 205 display device 206 External connection terminal 207 data bus 208 Operation part 209 memory card interface 210 control unit 211 timer 212 Program ROM 213 External device 214 microphone 215 Audio playback device

Front page continuation (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) G06F 17/60 332 G06F 17/60 332 G09F 19/00 G09F 19/00 Z H04N 5/225 H04N 5/225 F 5 / 907 5/907 BF terms (reference) 2H102 AA00 AB00 BA01 BA02 BA06 BA12 BA21 BA27 BB01 BB08 2H104 AA12 5C022 AC03 AC13 AC16 AC18 AC42 AC71 AC72 AC74 5C052 AA17 AB04 CC11 DD02 DD10 EE02 EE03 EE08 GA02 GB06 GB10 GB10 GB06 GB10 GB10

Claims (58)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup apparatus capable of picking up a still image and / or a moving image by an image pickup device, the function limiting section limiting at least a part of the functions of the image pickup apparatus, and the function limited by the function limiting section A restriction releasing means for releasing the restriction, the restriction releasing means holds key data used for releasing the restriction, and a comparing means for comparing the data inputted from the outside with the key data. An imaging apparatus, which has a restriction function and releases a restriction of a restricted function when the data input from the outside and the key data match. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit, wherein the function limiting unit prohibits display of an image on the display unit. 3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising a storage unit that stores an image captured by the image pickup device, wherein the function limiting unit limits the amount of image data that can be stored in the storage unit. The imaging device described. 4. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the storage unit is removable. 5. The reproducing apparatus further comprises reproducing means for reading an image from the storage means and reproducing the image on the display means, and the function limiting means prohibits reproduction by the reproducing means. The imaging device according to item 4. 6. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a clocking unit, wherein the function limiting unit prohibits recording of a shooting time. 7. The image pickup device according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit for communicating with an external device, wherein the function limiting unit prohibits communication by the communication unit. apparatus. 8. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the function limiting unit limits at least one of shooting time, image size, image resolution, and moving image shooting. . 9. The key data is for collective key data for releasing restrictions on all the functions restricted by the function restricting means, and for canceling restrictions on some functions restricted by the function restricting means. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: 10. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the key data can be updated. 11. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a setting unit for setting a restriction item of a function that can be restricted by the function restriction unit in an initial state. 12. An advertisement storage unit for storing advertisement data for displaying an advertisement, an advertisement display control unit for displaying the advertisement on the display unit, and an advertisement display canceling unit for canceling the display of the advertisement. The imaging device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that. 13. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising update means for updating advertisement data. 14. The advertisement display control means displays the advertisement at at least one of timing when the image pickup apparatus is powered on, when the power is turned off, when the function of the display means starts and ends, and when an image is reproduced. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the image pickup apparatus is controlled to 15. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the advertisement display control unit controls to display an advertisement during a waiting time until a predetermined function is executed. 16. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the advertisement display control unit controls to display the advertisement at a predetermined time interval. 17. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the advertisement display control means stops displaying an advertisement during recording of a captured image and / or execution of automatic reproduction. 18. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the advertisement display control means displays predetermined image data other than the advertisement for a predetermined time at the start and end of the advertisement display. 19. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the advertisement display canceling unit cancels the display of the advertisement after a predetermined time has elapsed. 20. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the advertisement display canceling unit cancels the display of the advertisement when the predetermined time has elapsed after the advertisement was stored in the advertisement storage unit. . 21. The advertisement display canceling means, when the advertisement display time on the display means exceeds the predetermined time,
20. The display of the advertisement is canceled.
The imaging device according to. 22. The restriction canceling unit cancels the restriction of the restricted function when the display of the advertisement is not canceled by the advertisement display canceling unit. Imaging device. 23. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the function limiting unit limits the function when the advertisement display is canceled by the advertisement display canceling unit. 24. The apparatus further comprises means for determining whether or not the advertisement data has been tampered with, and when tampering with the advertisement data is recognized, all the functions that can be restricted by the function restriction means are restricted. The image pickup apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 23, which is characterized in that. 25. An imaging device capable of shooting a still image and / or a moving image with an imaging device, comprising: a display means and an advertisement display control means for displaying an advertisement on the display means. . 26. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising an advertisement display canceling unit that cancels the display of the advertisement. 27. The apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising a function limiting unit that limits the function of at least a part of the imaging device when the display of the advertisement is canceled by the advertisement display canceling unit. The imaging device according to. 28. At least a part of the function restriction restricted by the function restriction means when the advertisement is displayed by the advertisement display control means, and a function restriction means for restricting at least a part of the functions of the imaging device. 28. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising a limit releasing unit that releases the restriction. 29. A program executable by a computer, wherein the computer executing the program realizes the means of the image pickup apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 28. 30. A storage medium storing the program according to claim 29. 31. A billing method comprising: a step of releasing the restriction of the function of the image pickup apparatus according to claim 1; and a step of billing when the restriction of the function is released. . 32. A step of performing a predetermined service related to the image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, a step of charging for the predetermined service, and a restriction of the function in association with execution of the predetermined service. And a step of canceling. 33. The charging method according to claim 32, wherein the predetermined service is printing of an image taken by the imaging device. 34. A step of selling a predetermined article, a step of charging the predetermined article, and a limitation of the function of the image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, along with the sale of the predetermined article. And a step of canceling. 35. A method of controlling an image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the step of storing advertisement data in the advertisement storage unit, and the image pickup apparatus in association with the storage of the advertisement data. And a step of removing the restriction of the function of. 36. The method for controlling an image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, comprising: a step of updating advertisement data; and a step of releasing the restriction on the function of the image pickup apparatus in association with the update of the advertisement data. A control method characterized by having. 37. A camera comprising: a function limiting means for partially limiting the function of the camera; and an input means for externally inputting predetermined data for releasing the limitation. 38. The function restricting means restricts a part of each of the plurality of functions of the camera, and selects one of the plurality of functions for which the restriction is released according to the data input by the input means. 38. A camera as claimed in claim 37, characterized in that 39. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits the display of the display unit. 40. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits display of an image on the display unit. 41. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits display of an image to be captured on the display unit. 42. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit prohibits display of an image on the display unit. 43. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits a storable capacity of an image captured by the camera. 44. The function limiting means limits reproduction of an image taken by the camera.
The camera according to 7. 45. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits recording of a shooting time. 46. The camera according to claim 37, further comprising a communication unit for communicating with an external device, wherein the function limiting unit limits the function of the communication unit. 47. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit limits at least one of a shooting time, an image size, an image resolution, and a moving image shooting. 48. The camera according to claim 37, further comprising display means for displaying an advertisement, wherein the display of the advertisement by the display means and the operation of the function limiting means cooperate with each other. 49. A display means for displaying an advertisement is further provided, and when the display of the advertisement by the display means is canceled, the function limiting means limits the function. The camera described in. 50. A display means for displaying an advertisement is further provided, and when the display of the advertisement by the display means is not canceled,
38. The camera according to claim 37, wherein the function limiting unit releases the limitation of the function. 51. A display means for displaying an advertisement, and a function limiting means for limiting at least a part of the function of the camera, wherein the operation of the function limiting means cooperates with the display of the advertisement by the display means. Characteristic camera. 52. The camera according to claim 51, wherein the function limiting unit limits the function when the display of the advertisement by the display unit is canceled. 53. A function of a camera is partially restricted, and
A method for controlling a camera, characterized in that the restriction is released by externally inputting predetermined data. 54. A method of controlling a camera capable of displaying an advertisement, wherein at least a part of the function of the camera is limited, and the function of the function limiting means cooperates with the display of the advertisement. How to control the camera. 55. While partially limiting the function of the camera,
A computer-controlled program for a camera, wherein the restriction is released by externally inputting predetermined data. 56. A medium storing the computer control program according to claim 55. 57. A computer control program for a camera capable of displaying an advertisement, wherein at least a part of the function of the camera is restricted, and the function of the function restriction means cooperates with the display of the advertisement. Computer control program for the camera. 58. A medium storing the computer control program according to claim 57.