JP2003319334A - Image print system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image print system having excellent and easy operability and an excellent sense of use. <P>SOLUTION: The image print system comprises an electronic camera 10 provided with: a first connection means 34 for connecting an image printer 50 to the electronic camera; a recording medium 33 for recording image data; a development means 16 for developing recorded data on the recording medium into print data; data transfer means 33, 55 for transferring the output of the deploy means to the printer; and a secondary battery 37 for supplying power, and the printer provided with: a second connection means 54 for connection to the first connection means; a print engine for printing print data; a power supply means 70 for supplying power to the electronic camera and charging the secondary battery; and a print start switch 67b for generating a start instruction signal for the print operation, and the image print system controls each component section above so that the print data are transferred to the printer when the print start switch is closed depending on the connection state of the first and second connection means, the print engine starts the print operation accordingly, and the charging of the secondary battery is started after the end of the print operation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image printing system, and more particularly, to an electronic camera configured to acquire and record electronic image data, and an electronic camera based on the image data acquired by the electronic camera. The present invention relates to an image print system including an image printer that prints out an image.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an electronic camera which can record electronic image data obtained by photoelectrically converting an optical image as digital data on a predetermined recording medium, and an image data obtained by the electronic camera An image print system (also referred to as an image print system) including an image printer or the like that can print out a corresponding image on a print sheet or the like has been generally put into practical use.

In such a conventional image printing system, a general procedure for printing out an image corresponding to image data acquired by an electronic camera by an image printer is as follows.

First, the user of the electronic camera uses the electronic camera to perform a photographing operation for a desired subject or the like. Predetermined image data representing a desired subject is obtained by this photographing operation, and this image data is recorded in a recording medium such as a memory card detachably provided in the electronic camera.

Next, the user transfers the image data corresponding to the image desired to be printed out from the image data recorded on the recording medium to an external device such as an image processing apparatus including a small computer. As the data transfer means in this case, for example, a recording medium on which image data has been recorded is taken out from the electronic camera, and mounted on a site or device equipped with a predetermined recording medium interface,
There are means for transferring data to the image processing apparatus via the part or device, or means for transferring data by electrically connecting the electronic camera and the image processing apparatus with a predetermined connection cable.

Therefore, conventionally, both the electronic camera and the image processing apparatus are provided with a portion to which the same recording medium can be attached / detached, and a function of writing / reading to / from the attached recording medium is provided or recording is performed on the recording medium. It is necessary to prepare a dedicated independent external device having a read image data reading function, a predetermined image data writing function to a recording medium, and the like.

Alternatively, both the electronic camera and the image processing apparatus are provided with a predetermined connection terminal for connecting a predetermined connection cable, and data communication is realized between the electronic camera and the image processing apparatus. The predetermined communication means is provided.

Using such data transfer means, predetermined image data is transferred from the electronic camera side to the image processing apparatus side.

In response to this, the image processing apparatus performs predetermined signal processing, etc., on the received image data, for example, processing for generating the optimum image data for printing, and then executes the processing. Print out using an image printer connected to the image processing apparatus.

In such a conventional image printing system, since it is premised on the use of an external device such as an image processing device, various operations and works required for outputting an image become complicated. . Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult for a general user who is not familiar with the operation of the image processing apparatus or the like to use it easily.

Therefore, conventionally, a system having a configuration in which the image processing device and the like in the above-mentioned image print system are omitted, that is, both the electronic camera and the image printer are electrically connected by a connection cable, and the electronic camera or the image printer is connected. A system has been proposed in which a print output of an image can be obtained by performing a simple operation, and is generally put into practical use.

However, in the image printing system of such a form, when an image is printed out, a work such as connecting an electronic camera and an image printer with a connecting cable is involved, which is complicated. You may feel it.

On the other hand, conventionally, as a means for obtaining a print output of a corresponding image based on image data acquired by an electronic camera, there has been proposed a form in which a small printer is incorporated in the electronic camera itself, and generally, It has been put to practical use. However, if the electronic camera and the image printer are integrally configured in this way, the camera itself inevitably becomes large in size, and it is inevitable that the manufacturing cost will increase. there were.

From the viewpoints described above, in an image printing system including an electronic camera and an image printer, which are separately provided, the electronic camera and the image can be displayed without using an external device such as a small computer or a connecting cable. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a proposal has been made for an image printing system configured to secure an electrical connection with a printer and print an image based on image data acquired by an electronic camera.

For example, Japanese Patent No. 2606340, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-008792, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-15
In the image print system disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 5120, etc., an electronic camera and an image printer are directly connected to each other without a connection cable to perform data transfer and print output, and further to the electronic camera side. The charging operation for the rechargeable battery provided is also possible.

The applicant of the present invention has previously filed Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-3.
No. 88015 proposes an image print system having a similar configuration.

[0017]

However, the above-mentioned Japanese Patent No. 2606340 and Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-00879.
The disclosures of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2 / JP-A-11-155120 and the like and the proposal of Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-388015 by the present applicant are all aimed at simplifying the system configuration. There is no disclosure or suggestion of details of the printing operation and the charging operation performed when the camera and the image printer are in the connected state, particularly the timing details (timing details) of executing the charging operation.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned points, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image printing system for performing a printing operation, a charging operation, etc. with an electronic camera and an image printer connected to each other. An object of the present invention is to provide an image printing system having excellent operability and usability.

[0019]

In order to achieve the above object, the image printing system according to the first aspect of the present invention includes first connecting means detachably connectable to an image printer without using a connecting cable, and a captured image. A recording medium for recording data, a developing means for developing image data for printing in a form suitable for printing the image data recorded on the recording medium via the first connecting means, and an output of the developing means. A digital transfer device for transferring data to the image printer, and a secondary battery for supplying power, and the first camera.
Second connecting means detachably connectable to the connecting means, a print engine for outputting an image print based on the image data for printing, a power supply for supplying power to the electronic camera and charging the secondary battery. An image printer having a supply means and a print start switch for generating an instruction signal for instructing the start of a printing operation, and in the state where the first connecting means and the second connecting means are connected to each other, the print When the operation of turning on the start switch is performed, the image data for printing is transferred to the image printer, and in response to the transfer operation, the print engine executes an image print operation for printing out an image and prints. When there is no image data to be output, the charging operation of the secondary battery is started.

A second invention is the image printing system according to the first invention, wherein the electronic camera is
The image printing operation and the charging operation further include a power operating member for switching the open / closed state of the power.
It is characterized in that it is controlled to start without depending on the switching state of the power supply operating member.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image printing system according to the first aspect, the image printer further comprises timer means for measuring a predetermined time,
When the first connecting means and the second connecting means are connected to each other, the timer means starts the time counting operation, and the predetermined setting is made by the timer means while the instruction signal from the print start switch is not generated. When the time elapses, the charging operation is controlled to start.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image print system according to the first aspect, the electronic camera further has a display means, and the display means is outputting at that time during execution of the print operation. Is displayed and is controlled such that the display operation is stopped during the charging operation.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is the image printing system according to the first aspect, wherein the image printer, when the image printing operation and charging operation of the image are completed,
It is characterized in that the power supply is controlled to be cut off.

[0024]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments. FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing an outline of an image printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2
FIG. 3 is a block configuration diagram showing an outline of an electronic camera which constitutes a part of the image print system. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of an image printer which constitutes a part of the image printing system.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image printing system of this embodiment is an electronic device configured to acquire a desired subject image as an electrical image signal and record it as image data of a predetermined form. The camera 10 and an image printer 50 configured to print out an image based on the image data acquired and recorded by the electronic camera 10 are configured by two devices.

On the upper surface side of the image printer 50, a mounting portion 50d for mounting the electronic camera 10 is formed. A printer-side connector 54 for detachably connecting the image printer 50 to the electronic camera 10 is mounted on the mounting portion 50d.
(Not shown in FIG. 1; see FIG. 3; second connecting means). Corresponding to this, on the side of the electronic camera 10, the electronic camera 10 is attached to the bottom of the image printer 5.
There is provided a camera side connector 34 (not shown in FIG. 1, see FIG. 2) which is a first connecting means for detachably connecting to 0.

The camera side connector 34 (first connecting means) and the printer side connector 54 (second connecting means)
Configures a part of the data transfer means for enabling both devices to perform data communication with each other, and enables power supply from the image printer 50 side to the electronic camera 10 side. It serves as a power supply means for doing so.

Therefore, the mounting portion 5 of the image printer 50 is
Only by mounting the electronic camera 10 on 0d, both devices are electrically connected and the image print system of this embodiment is configured. And in this state,
Both devices are controlled by a control means provided therein, that is, a camera controller 17 and a printer controller 51 (details will be described later; see FIGS. 2 and 3), and data transfer between both devices is appropriately performed. The operation, the print output operation by the image printer 50, the charging operation for the electronic camera 10 and the like are performed.

First, the main constituent members of the electronic camera 10 will be described below with reference to FIGS. In the exterior portion of the electronic camera 10 that forms a part of the image printing system of the present embodiment, the user of the electronic camera 10 performs desired operations mainly at predetermined positions on the upper surface and the rear surface thereof. A plurality of operation members 25 that are operated when executing are provided (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The operation member 25 is for generating an instruction signal or the like for instructing various settings and operations in the electronic camera 10, and as shown in FIG. A release button 25A, a mode dial 25B for selecting and switching the operation mode of the electronic camera 10 and a zoom lever 25 for varying the magnification of the photographing optical system.
C, a camera power source operating member 25D which is an operating member for switching the open / close (ON / OFF) state of the power source, and the like are included.
When the operating member 25 is operated, a predetermined instruction signal is generated from the switch portions 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d (see FIG. 2, not shown in FIG. 1) interlocking with the operating member 25,
This instruction signal is transmitted to the camera controller 17 via the switch controller (SW) 24. In response to this, the camera controller 17 executes a predetermined control.

Further, on the rear surface of the electronic camera 10, a display device 30 as display means is arranged at a predetermined position with the display surface of the display portion facing the outer surface. This display device 3
Reference numeral 0 denotes a display unit that displays an image corresponding to the image signal acquired by the electronic camera 10, and is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display device (LCD; Liquid Crystal Display).

In the vicinity of the display device 30, a finder section 40 for observing an object or the like desired to be photographed and assisting in setting the composition or the like to be photographed is provided. The finder unit 40 is a general finder that includes, for example, a plurality of optical lenses.

An information display section 41 is provided on the upper surface of the exterior of the electronic camera 10 to display the setting items and the like of the electronic camera 10 in a visually recognizable form. The information display section 41 is composed of, for example, a small LCD.

The internal structure of the electronic camera 10 is as shown in FIG. That is, the electronic camera 10
CPU (Central Proc) formed by, for example, a system LSI (Large Scale Integration)
A camera controller 17 composed of an essing unit (central processing circuit) and a photographing optical system 1 composed of a plurality of optical elements and the like, which collects a light flux from a subject to form an optical subject image.
1, a lens driving unit 18 that mechanically drives the photographing optical system 11 under the control of the camera controller 17, and a light receiving surface of an image sensor 13 described below, which is provided on the optical axis of the light flux that has passed through the photographing optical system 11. From the shutter aperture unit 12 that adjusts the amount of light to be emitted, the shutter aperture drive unit 19 that mechanically drives the shutter aperture unit 12 under the control of the camera controller 17, and the photoelectric conversion element such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) sensor. Image pickup element 13, an image pickup element drive unit 20 that drives the image pickup element 13, and a timing controller 21 that sends a synchronization signal or the like to the image pickup element drive unit 20 to control the drive timing of the image pickup element 13.
And a pre-process circuit 14 that receives an electric signal corresponding to a subject image acquired by the image sensor 13 and performs predetermined signal processing, and an AD that receives an output (analog signal) of the pre-process circuit 14 and converts it into a digital signal. Conversion circuit 1
5, a digital processing circuit 16 that receives the output (digital signal) of the AD conversion circuit 15 and performs predetermined digital signal processing, and a memory controller 22 that is a temporary recording unit that temporarily stores image data, various data, and the like. A frame memory 23 for temporarily recording image data for printing (image data for printing) generated under the control of the camera controller 17, and the electronic camera 10
Various signal processing relating to display, such as processing for generating an image signal for display in a form optimal for displaying an image on the display means based on image data acquired by the image data or image data recorded on a recording medium 33 (described later). Between a display control circuit 29 for performing the following, a display device 30 which is a display unit having a display unit for displaying the image signal output from the display control circuit 29 as an image, the camera controller 17 and a recording medium 33 described later. Recording medium interface (Interface) 3 which is involved in the transfer of image data for recording.
1 and a recording medium 3 including a semiconductor memory medium or a magnetic or optical recording medium for recording image data for recording which is acquired by the electronic camera 10 and is generated through a predetermined signal processing.
3, the recording medium 33 and the recording medium interface 3
1, a recording medium mounting portion 32 that electrically connects the two to each other, firmware 28 that is a memory in which operation programs and the like of the electronic camera 10 are recorded in advance, and basic operations relating to the operation of the electronic camera 10. ROM (ROM; Read Only Memor) in which various initial setting values are recorded in advance
y) 26 and RAM (ram; Random Access Memory)
27, a camera-side connector 34 that detachably connects the electronic camera 10 to the image printer 50, and a circuit that constitutes a part of the data transfer means and is between the camera-side connector 34 and the camera controller 17. The connection interface 35, which is a data transfer unit that controls the transfer operation of image data and various instruction signals, and the electronic camera 1
Rechargeable battery 37, which is a main power source of 0 and is a secondary battery,
From the DC power supply control unit 70 (described later) of the image printer 50 to be connected to the electronic camera 10 to the connection connector 34
The charging control unit 36 that receives a part of the electric power (DC2) supplied via 54 to charge the rechargeable battery 37, and the DC power supply control unit 70 of the image printer 50 via the connectors 34 and 54. A camera-side power supply circuit 38 that controls a part of the supplied power (DC1) and supplies necessary power to each electric circuit of the electronic camera 10, a flash light emitting device 40 that serves as an auxiliary light source during shooting, and the like. It is composed by. Each circuit inside the electronic camera 10 is connected to the camera controller 17 via the bus line 3
It is electrically connected by 9. As a result, image data and the like can be exchanged between the camera controller 17 and each component.

The camera controller 17 is a control means for controlling the electronic camera 10 as described above, and in the state where the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are connected to each other, the image printing system concerned. You can control the whole system. In this case, the camera controller 17 uses the image printer 5
The printer controller 51 (which will be described later) that controls the overall control of 0 transmits various instruction signals and predetermined image data.

In the electronic camera 10, the camera controller 17 controls the image pickup device 13 to obtain an image signal representing a subject image, and the image signal is processed by the preprocessing circuit 14, the AD conversion circuit 15, and the digital processing. Circuit 16
By performing various kinds of image signal processing and the like by controlling the above, etc., control for generating image data of a predetermined form is performed.

The digital processing circuit 16 performs various signal processing on the image signal obtained by the image pickup device 13 and subjected to predetermined signal processing by the preprocessing circuit 14 and then converted into a digital signal by the AD conversion circuit 15. For example, it generates predetermined image data for recording (for example, image data in a compression format) suitable for recording, or expands and expands image data for recording (compressed data) read from a recording medium 33 described later to obtain a predetermined image data. Various signal processings such as conversion into electric signals of the form That is, the digital processing circuit 16 serves as a compression unit and an expansion unit for the image signal.

The image data of various forms generated in this manner is displayed on the display device 30, the memory controller 22,
The data is appropriately output to the image printer 50 side via the recording medium 33, the connection interface 35, the camera side connection connector 34, and the like.

As described above, in the image print system of this embodiment, the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are connected to each other through the predetermined connecting means, that is, the camera side connector 34 and the printer side connector 54. It is composed.

In this case, in a state where the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are directly connected, in addition to various information, instruction signals, control signals, and the like, image data processed in a predetermined form between the two devices. Is transmitted and received, and also electric power is supplied from the image printer 50 side to the electronic camera 10 side.

When the electronic camera 10 operates independently, the charging control section 36 receives electric power from the rechargeable battery 37 to control the power supply system of the electronic camera 10 to control each circuit unit of the electronic camera 10 ( The necessary electric power is supplied to (not shown) (reference numeral D in FIGS. 2 and 3).
2).

The electronic camera 10 and the image printer 5 are also provided.
When 0 and 0 are connected by both connectors 34 and 54, the DC power supply control unit 70 on the image printer 50 side.
However, the electronic camera 1 is connected via both connectors 34 and 54.
0 is electrically connected to the camera side power supply circuit 38 and the charging control unit 36.

In this state, the DC power source control unit 70 of the image printer 50 functions as a power source for supplying power to the entire image printing system including both the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50. Has become.

That is, the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 5
When the present image printing system operates in a state in which 0 and 0 are connected, the electric power supplied from the DC power supply control unit 70 on the image printer 50 side is supplied to both connectors 54.
The power is supplied to the camera side power supply circuit 38 via 34. Therefore, this allows the image printing system to operate. In other words,
The DC power supply control unit 70 of the image printer 50 serves as a main power supply in the image print system of this embodiment.

At the same time, when the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are connected, the rechargeable battery 37 is
The electric power from the DC power supply control unit 70 on the image printer 50 side supplied via the charging control unit 36 can be received. That is, the DC power supply control unit 70 of the image printer 50 can also function to charge the rechargeable battery 37 of the electronic camera 10.

In addition, the basic configuration of the electronic camera 10 is configured by using a technique substantially similar to that of a conventional general electronic camera.

Next, the main constituent members constituting the inside of the image printer 50 will be described below with reference to FIGS.

As the image printer 50 which constitutes a part of the printing system of the present embodiment, a printer adopting a general printing system such as a sublimation type thermal transfer system or an inkjet system is applied. In the present embodiment, an example is described in which a sublimation type thermal transfer system including a thermal print head and an ink ribbon is adopted.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image printer 50 is configured such that a paper cassette 50d for accommodating a plurality of predetermined print papers 100 to be supplied at the time of performing a printing operation can be detachably attached to the main body portion 50a. Be prepared for.

Further, the image printer 50 has an ink ribbon cassette (not shown) in which an ink ribbon coated with a dye or the like for printing a desired image on the print paper 100 is wound and stored. Is arranged so as to be attachable to and detachable from a predetermined position inside the main body 50a.

Therefore, at a predetermined position of the main body 50a of the image printer 50, the cassette opening 50b corresponding to the paper cassette 50d and the printed print sheet 1 on which a desired image is printed by the printing operation are printed.
A discharge opening 50c for discharging 00 (see FIG. 1) is formed. In addition to this, an opening of a storage chamber (not shown) for storing the ink ribbon cassette inside the main body 50b is also provided at a predetermined position of the main body 50a.

Then, the main body 50 of the image printer 50
The main power supply is opened and closed (on
Off) A plurality of operation members 67 such as a printer power supply operation member 67A which is an operation member for performing an operation and a print start operation member 67B which is an operation member for starting a printing operation (not specifically shown except those specified). ) Is provided. The plurality of operation members are operated by the user when the image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10 are connected to each other.

Further, the main body portion 50 of the main image printer 50
The image printer 50 is placed at a predetermined position on the exterior surface of a.
The status display means 68 including a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is provided to display the status and the like. The status display unit 68 displays the operating status of the image printer 50 by performing control such as blinking or changing the color at the time of light emission.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG.
A printer controller 51, which is connected to the camera controller 17 of the electronic camera 10 and integrally controls the image printer 50, and a main image by being connected to the camera side connector 34 of the electronic camera 10. A part of data transfer means that contributes to data communication between the printer 50 and the electronic camera 10, and a power supply means for supplying electric power from the image printer 50 side to the electronic camera 10 side. The printer-side connection connector 54, which also serves as the second connection means, and a circuit that forms part of the data transfer means, are interposed between the printer-side connection connector 54 and the printer controller 51, and are provided with image data and various instructions. The connection interface 55 that controls the transfer operation of signals and the like, and the basic initial setting values related to the operation of the image printer 50 (for example, A ROM (Read Only Memory) 52 in which a printer ID and the like are recorded in advance, and an internal memory that temporarily records image data for each line transferred from the electronic camera 10 side, such as a semiconductor A print engine that includes a line buffer 53 configured by elements and the like, and a mechanism that receives image data and transfers a dye of an ink ribbon (not shown) onto a predetermined print paper 100 to print a corresponding image Head portion 6 which is a thermal print head forming a part of
3 and the image data temporarily recorded in the line buffer 53 are read line by line and output to the head unit 63, and the head unit 63 is drive-controlled to form a part of the print engine. And the head part 6
3, a thermistor 64 which is a measuring means for detecting the temperature of 3 or the vicinity thereof, an interface 65 for converting a resistance value of the thermistor 64 into an electric signal of a predetermined form and transmitting the electric signal to the printer controller 51, and a printer controller. A ribbon drive unit 56 that controls the feeding of the ink ribbon based on an instruction signal from the printer 51, and an ink that appropriately feeds the ink ribbon housed in an ink ribbon cassette (not shown) by the control of the ribbon drive unit 56. The ribbon motor 57, the ribbon sensor 58 for monitoring the states of the ink ribbon and the ink ribbon cassette arranged inside the image printer 50, and the print paper 1 based on the instruction signal from the printer controller 51.
Paper drive unit 59 for controlling paper feed of 00, a paper feed motor 60 for appropriately feeding the print paper 100 by a predetermined amount at a predetermined speed under the control of the paper drive unit 59, and the image printer 50. A paper feed sensor 61 that monitors the state of the print paper 100 and the like inside the printer, a timer 66 that is a timing unit (timer unit) that counts a predetermined time, a printer power supply operation member 67A, a print start operation member 67B, and the like (see FIG. 1), a power switch 67a, a print start switch 67b, etc. which are switch members for generating a predetermined instruction signal in cooperation with the operation member 67 and which are mounted on a circuit unit (not shown) of the image printer 50. Each of the circuit units (not shown) of the image printer 50 receives the power supplied from the switch group and the external power source (AC). When the main image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10 are in a connected state, the main image printing system includes both the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 when the main image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10 are connected to each other. Various constituent members such as a DC power supply control unit 70 which plays a role of a power source for supplying electric power to the whole and a status display unit 68 including a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) for displaying the status of the image printer 50 are provided. It is arranged.

As described above, the image printer 50 is an optimum form for printing various constituent blocks that should be normally provided in the conventional image printer, for example, image data (RGB data) acquired by the electronic camera 10. Data conversion block for converting the image data for printing (CMY data), and an expansion block for expanding and expanding the image data in the compression format recorded on the recording medium 33. One or more printing image data An image memory block for temporarily recording the image, a display unit for displaying an image corresponding to image data to be printed, an image display block including a display control circuit for controlling the display unit, and the like are omitted.

When a printing operation of a desired image is executed using the image printer 50, the image printer 5 concerned
0 and the electronic camera 10 are directly connected to each other, that is, by directly connecting the main image printer 50 to the electronic camera 1.
It is placed under the control of the camera controller 17 of 0. As a result, the printer controller 51 of the image printer 50 becomes the camera controller 1 of the electronic camera 10.
The control operation is performed by the command of 7.
The functions to be executed by the omitted constituent blocks are executed by corresponding predetermined constituent blocks on the electronic camera 10 side.

The print image data (CMY data) generated on the electronic camera 10 side is transferred to the image printer 50 side for each line or every several lines. In response to this, the printer controller 51 performs predetermined control to execute the image printing operation.

Therefore, the image printer 50 applied to the printing system of the present embodiment cannot execute the printing operation by itself, and is designed to operate only in the form directly connected to the electronic camera 10 described above. ing.

The printer controller 51 sends an instruction signal, image data, etc. sent from the electronic camera 10 side to the connection interface 35 and the connection connector 3 on the camera side.
4 and the connection connector 54 and the connection interface 55 on the printer side, and based on this, it serves as a control means for controlling the printing operation of the main image printer 50.

Further, the printer controller 51 includes an operation member 67 provided on the main body 50a of the image printer 50.
Various instruction signals and the like corresponding to the switch members corresponding to are monitored and the drive circuit and the like corresponding to the operation of the operation member 67 by the user are controlled.

For example, when the user operates the printer power supply operating member 67A, which is one of the operating members 67 provided in the image printer 50, the power switch 67a operates in conjunction with this. Then, an instruction signal for instructing to close or open (on or off) the power source of the image printer 50 is generated, and the instruction signal is transmitted to the printer controller 51. And
In response to this, the printer controller 51 is adapted to perform predetermined drive control.

Further, for example, the user may use the main image printer 5
When the print start operation member 67B, which is one of the operation members 67 provided in 0, is operated, the print start switch 67b and the like operate in conjunction with this. As a result, a predetermined instruction signal to start the printing operation is generated, and the instruction signal is transmitted to the printer controller 51.

That is, when the user operates one of the predetermined operation members 67 of the image printer 50,
A predetermined instruction signal is generated from the corresponding switch member. In response to this, the printer controller 51 performs the corresponding control. Thus, the printing operation of the image desired by the user can be executed.

In addition, the basic configuration of the image printer 50 is substantially the same as that of the conventional general sublimation type thermal transfer type image printer.

The operation of the print system of the present embodiment having the above-described structure will be described below. Figure 4
5 and 6 are flowcharts showing the operation of the electronic camera in the image print system of this embodiment. Among these, FIG. 4 is a flow chart schematically showing the flow of main operations of the present electronic camera. Further, FIG. 5 is a flow chart schematically showing the flow of operations relating to print processing among the operations of the present electronic camera. And in FIG.
It is a flow chart which shows roughly the flow of the operation concerning the charging processing among the operations of this electronic camera.

FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 are flow charts showing the operation of the image printer in the image print system of this embodiment. Of these, FIG. 7 is a flow chart schematically showing the flow of the main operation of the image printer. FIG. 8 is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of operations related to print processing among the operations of the image printer. Then, FIG. 9 is a flow chart schematically showing the flow of the operation relating to the charging process in the operation of the image printer.

First, the flow of the main operation of the electronic camera 10 in the image printing system will be described with reference to FIG. The user operates the camera power supply operating member 25D of the electronic camera 10 to switch the power supply state of the electronic camera 10 to the closed (ON) state. Then, the instruction signal is transmitted to the camera controller 17. In response to this, as shown in FIG. 4, the camera controller 17 executes a predetermined initialization process in the electronic camera 10 in step S1. When the initialization process is completed, the process proceeds to the next step S2.

In step S2, the camera controller 17 confirms whether or not the electronic camera 10 is connected to the image printer 50. This confirmation is made, for example, by connecting the camera-side connector 34 and the printer-side connector 54 so that the controllers 17 and 51 of the two devices 10 and 50 are connected to the connection interfaces 3 respectively.
This is a process of confirming whether communication is possible via 4.55. Here, the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 5
If it is confirmed that 0 and 0 are connected, the process proceeds to the next step S3. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the electronic camera 10 is not connected to the image printer 50 and is in a state of being activated independently, the process proceeds to step S7, and in step S7, the electronic camera 10 is
Shifts to a normal camera mode process (process of step S7) in which a shooting operation can be performed.

Then, during execution of the normal camera mode processing in step S7, the electronic camera 10
For example, the output signal from the connection interface 35 is monitored every predetermined time, and the confirmation of whether or not the image printer 50 is connected is repeated. In this case, if it is confirmed that the image printer 50 is connected, the process immediately proceeds to the next step S3.

In step S3, the camera controller 17 executes a predetermined print process (details follow the flowchart of FIG. 5) on the camera side. Details of this camera side print processing will be described later. Then, the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the camera controller 17 confirms whether or not the predetermined print processing is completed. Here, when it is confirmed that the print processing is completed, the process proceeds to the next step S5. If it is confirmed that the printing process is not completed, the process returns to the above step S3 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

In step S5, the camera controller 17 executes a predetermined charging process on the camera side (details are processes according to the flowchart of FIG. 6). Details of this camera side charging process will be described later. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S6.

In step S6, the camera controller 17 monitors the charging control unit 36 and recharges the battery 37.
Check whether or not is in a predetermined charging completed state. Here, when it is confirmed that the rechargeable battery 37 is in the charging completed state, a series of processing is ended after transmitting an instruction signal indicating that charging is completed to the printer controller 51 of the image printer 50. . If it is confirmed that the charging is not completed yet, the process returns to step S5 described above, and the subsequent processes are continued until the charging complete state of the rechargeable battery 37 is reached.

Next, the details of the camera side print processing (processing of step S3 in FIG. 4) in the electronic camera 10 will be described below with reference to FIG.

As described above, when it is confirmed in step S2 of FIG. 4 that the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are connected, the electronic camera 1
The camera controller 17 of 0 executes the camera side print processing (the processing of step S3 of FIG. 4, the sequence of FIG. 5).

When shifting to the camera side print processing, the camera controller 17 first transmits the printer ID to the printer controller 51 via the both connection interfaces 35 and 55 and the both connectors 34 and 54 in step S11 of FIG. To request. In response to this, the printer controller 51 reads a predetermined printer ID from the initial setting values recorded in the ROM 52 in advance and transmits it to the camera controller 17 (see the processing of step S61 in FIG. 8). Then, the process proceeds to the next step S12.

Here, the printer ID is peculiar information determined so as to specify the model etc. of the image printer 50. For example, the print resolution (dot / line) and the total image data that can be processed. It is various information such as the number of lines, color correction data, gamma correction data, and the like.

That is, in the image printing system of this embodiment, it is possible to selectively connect a plurality of types of image printers 50 to a specific electronic camera 10 and execute an image printing operation. ing. Therefore, when executing the printing operation, the electronic camera 10 needs to specify the model of the image printer connected to the electronic camera 10 and generate the printing image data according to the specifications of the image printer.

Therefore, the electronic camera 10 confirms the connection with the image printer, and when executing the image print operation, acquires the printer ID from the image printer 50 connected at the first stage of the print processing. I am trying to do it.

By including such processing, even if the combination of the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 is changed, the image print system can be constructed without any problem, and a good print result can always be obtained. I am able to do it.

Next, in step S 12, the camera controller 17 causes the recording medium 33 mounted in the recording medium mounting section 32 via the recording medium interface 31.
The plurality of image data already recorded in is searched, and information such as the total number of image data is acquired. Then, the process proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, the camera controller 17 sets the counter of the image to be printed, that is, the frame counter, etc., based on the information acquired in step S12. Then, the process proceeds to step S14.

In step S14, the camera controller 17 controls the display device 30 via the display control circuit 29 to display a predetermined print menu using the display section of the display device 30. This print menu is performed based on predetermined display information recorded in advance in the ROM 26 or the RAM 27, for example. After that, step S
Proceed to the process of 15.

In step S15, the camera controller 17 sends a predetermined instruction signal from the print start switch 67b or the like interlocked with the operation of the print start operation member 67B of the image printer 50, that is, an instruction signal for instructing the print start (hereinafter referred to as "instruction signal"). , A print start instruction signal). Here, the camera controller 17 waits until the print start instruction signal is confirmed, and when the instruction signal is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S16.

In step S16, the camera controller 17 reads out one frame of image data from the recording medium 33 mounted in the recording medium mounting section 32 via the recording medium interface 31. The image data read here is temporarily recorded in the memory controller 22. Then, the process proceeds to step S17.

In step S17, the camera controller 17 controls the display control circuit 29 to perform predetermined signal processing on the image data read in the processing in step S16, that is, the image data using the display device 30. The conversion processing is performed so as to obtain image data (display image data) in an optimum form for displaying the image corresponding to. Then, based on the generated image signal, the display device 3
The image corresponding to the display unit of 0 is displayed. Then, the process proceeds to step S18.

At step S18, the camera controller 17 reads out by the processing at step S16 described above,
Predetermined signal processing is executed based on the image data temporarily recorded in the memory controller 22 to generate print image data, which is temporarily recorded in the frame memory 23. The signal processing executed here is, for example, general signal processing such as data expansion processing, color conversion processing, gamma setting, line length conversion processing, etc. performed when printing an image based on image data. . Then, the process proceeds to step S19.

In step S19, the camera controller 17 executes a process of initializing the set value of the line counter (not shown) provided inside itself. The line counter functions as a counter used when transferring the image data to be printed line by line to the image printer 50 side. Then, the printer controller 51 waits for a command for requesting transmission of print image data (see the processing of step S62 in FIG. 8 described later). When receiving the command for the print image data transmission request, the process proceeds to step S20.

In step S20, the camera controller 17 reads out one line of the print image data temporarily recorded in the frame memory 23, and outputs this (one line of image data) to the connection interfaces 35 and 55. And to the printer controller 51 of the image printer 50 via the connection connectors 34 and 54. Here, the printer controller 51 receives the transferred data and temporarily records it in the line buffer 53 (details will be described later. Step S in FIG. 8).
63). Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

In step S21, the camera controller 17 refers to the count value of the line counter and confirms whether or not the value indicates the final line.
If it is confirmed that the image data transferred this time is the last line, the process proceeds to the next step S23.
If it is confirmed that this is not the case, step S2
In step S22, the process of subtracting the count value of the line counter is performed, and then the process returns to step S20. Then, the subsequent processing is repeated.

In step S23, the camera controller 17 executes the subtraction processing of the count value of the frame counter. That is, here, the information indicating that the print processing of the image corresponding to the image data of the first frame is completed is secured by subtracting (-1) the count value of the frame counter. Then, the process proceeds to step S24.

In step S24, the camera controller 17 confirms the count value of the frame counter to confirm whether or not the image subjected to the print processing this time is the final frame. Here, if it is confirmed that the frame is not the final frame, the process returns to the above-described step S16, and the subsequent processes are repeated until the print process for the final frame is completed. If it is confirmed that the frame is the last frame, the series of printing processes is ended and the sequence returns to the sequence of FIG. 4 (return).

Details of the camera side charging process (process of step S5 of FIG. 4) in the electronic camera 10 will be described below with reference to FIG.

As described above, when it is confirmed in step S4 in FIG. 4 that the predetermined print processing is completed, the camera controller 17 of the electronic camera 10 concerned.
Executes the camera-side charging process (the process of step S5 of FIG. 4, the sequence of FIG. 6).

When shifting to the camera side charging process, the camera controller 17 first controls the display device 30 via the display control circuit 29 in step S31 of FIG.
The display on the display unit is ended. Then, the process proceeds to step S32.

In step S32, the camera controller 17 performs control to activate the charging circuit of the charging control unit 36. Then, the process proceeds to step S33.

In step S33, the camera controller 17 monitors the charging control unit 36 and monitors the charging state of the rechargeable battery 37 by the charging circuit of the charging control unit 36. Then, this series of processing is ended, and the above-mentioned FIG.
The process proceeds to step S6 (return).

Then, as described above, in step S6 (FIG. 4), the camera controller 17 confirms whether or not the rechargeable battery 37 is in the charging completion state, and when confirming the charging completion state, the charging is completed. After transmitting the instruction signal to that effect to the printer controller 51 of the image printer 50, the series of processes is terminated.

As described above, in the image printing system, after the series of printing operations is completed, the charging process for the rechargeable battery 37 of the electronic camera 10 is automatically executed, and the charging process is completed. Is detected, the power state of the electronic camera 10 itself is switched to the off state.

On the other hand, the flow of main operations in the image printer 50 will be described with reference to FIG. When the user operates the printer power supply operating member 67A of the image printer 50, an instruction signal for switching the power supply state of the image printer 50 to the open (on) state is generated from the power switch 67a in conjunction with this operation. The instruction signal is transmitted to the printer controller 51. In response to this, the printer controller 51 executes a predetermined initialization process in the image printer 50 in step S41 shown in FIG. When this initialization process is completed, the process proceeds to the next step S42.

In step S42, the printer controller 51 determines that the image printer 50 is the electronic camera 10.
Check whether it is connected to. This confirmation is
Step S in the operation sequence of the electronic camera described above
2 (see FIG. 4), for example, by connecting the camera-side connection connector 34 and the printer-side connection connector 54, the controllers 17 and 51 of both devices 10 and 50 are connected to the connection interfaces 34. A process of confirming whether communication is possible via 55.
Here, this confirmation is repeated until it is confirmed that the image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10 are connected, and when the connection between both devices 10 and 50 is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S43. . At this time, the electronic camera 1
The power state on the 0 side does not matter. That is, without depending on the power state of the electronic camera 10, that is, the switching state of the camera power operating member 25D,
The image printer 50 is controlled so as to start the printing operation and the charging operation when the connection with the electronic camera 10 is confirmed.

In step S43, the printer controller 51 controls the timer 66 to start the time counting operation by the timer 66. After that, step S
Proceed to the processing of 44.

In step S44, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the print start operation member 67B has been pressed. The process executed here is performed by the printer controller 51 by the print start operation member 67B.
This is a process of monitoring the print start instruction signal from the print start switch 67b or the like which is interlocked with the operation of and confirming the instruction signal. Here, the printer controller 51
If the print start instruction signal cannot be confirmed, the process proceeds to step S51.

Subsequently, in step S51, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the time set by the timer 66 has elapsed (time-up). Here, if the time is not up, the above step S4
Returning to the processing of 4, the subsequent processing is repeated. If the time-up is confirmed, it is determined that the printing operation is not performed, and the process proceeds to step S48, that is, the charging process.

That is, in the present image printing system, when the image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10 are connected to each other (step S42), the timer 6
The time counting operation by 6 is started (step S43). At this time, if the predetermined time set by the timer 66 has elapsed (time-up) without the instruction signal from the print start switch 67b being generated. Are controlled to start the charging process (step S48).

On the other hand, in step S44, when the printer controller 51 confirms the predetermined print start instruction signal, the process proceeds to the next step S45.

In step S45, the printer controller 51 executes a predetermined print process on the printer side (details are processes according to the flowchart of FIG. 8). Details of the printer side print processing will be described later. Then, the process proceeds to step S46.

In step S46, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the predetermined print processing is completed. Here, when it is confirmed that the print processing is completed, the process proceeds to the next step S48. If it is confirmed that the print processing is not completed, the process proceeds to step S47, and in step S47,
The printer controller 51 executes the time measurement (restart) process of the timer 66, and then executes the above-described step S4.
The process returns to step 5 and the subsequent steps are repeated.

The timer setting time set again here is set to be slightly longer than the time required to print an image for one frame, for example.

In step S48, the printer controller 51 executes a predetermined charging process (details are processes according to the flowchart of FIG. 9) on the printer side. Details of this camera side charging process will be described later. Then, the process proceeds to the next step S49.

At step S49, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the instruction signal indicating that the charging is completed is transmitted from the camera controller 17,
Wait until you receive it. The rechargeable battery 37 of the electronic camera 10 is received by receiving the instruction signal.
When it is confirmed that the battery has been charged, the next step S5
The process proceeds to 0.

In step S50, the printer controller 51 controls the DC power source control unit 70 to execute a process of shutting off its own main power source (power-off process), and terminates a series of processes (return).

Details of the printer-side print processing (processing of step S45 in FIG. 7) in the image printer 50 will be described below with reference to FIG.

As described above, when the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 50 are connected to each other, in step S44 of FIG.
When it is confirmed that the printer has been operated, the printer controller 51 causes the printer side print processing (step S in FIG. 7).
Process 45. 8) is executed.

When shifting to the printer side print processing, the printer controller 51 firstly, the printer controller 51 performs step S61 of FIG.
In response to a printer ID transmission request from the camera controller 17 of the electronic camera 10 (see the processing of step S11 of FIG. 5), a predetermined printer I is read from the ROM 52.
D is read and transmitted to the camera controller 17.
Then, the process proceeds to the next step S62.

In step S62, the printer controller 51 transmits to the camera controller 17 a command requesting transmission of print image data of an image to be printed. In response to this, the camera controller 17
As described above, in step S20 of FIG. 5, one line of the print image data is transferred to the printer controller 51. Then, step S63
Go to processing.

In step S 63, the printer controller 51 receives the print image data for one line transferred from the electronic camera 10. Then, the process proceeds to step S64.

In step S64, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the print image data for one line received in the process of step S62 is image data in a normal form, that is, a received data check process. Run. Then, the process proceeds to step S65.

Subsequently, in step S65, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not there is an abnormality in the communication operation performed between the image printer 50 and the electronic camera 10, that is, executes a communication error check process. Here, no communication error is found, and the above step S6 is performed.
When the result of the data check in 4 is confirmed to be normal, the process proceeds to the next step S67.

On the other hand, if a communication error is found in step S65, or if the result of the data check in step S64 described above indicates that the received data is abnormal, the process in step S66 is executed. move on. Then, in step S66, the printer controller 51 sends a command for requesting another transmission of image data to the camera controller 17. afterwards,
The process returns to the above step S63 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

If there is no abnormality in the received data and no error is found in the communication operation and the process proceeds to step S67, then in step S67 the printer controller 51
Transfers the received print image data for one line to the line buffer 53. As a result, the received data is temporarily recorded here. After that, step S
Proceed to the process of 68.

In step S68, the printer controller 51 executes the process of setting the count value of the buffer counter (not shown) provided inside itself. The buffer counter serves to count the number of lines of the received print image data. Then, the process proceeds to step S69.

Next, in step S69, the printer controller 51 controls the head section 63 via the head drive section 62 to start energization of the head section 63 (head energization ON processing). Then, the process proceeds to step S70.

In step S70, the printer controller 51 confirms the energization time for the head portion 63, and when a predetermined time has elapsed, the printer controller 51 proceeds to the next step S71.
Go to processing.

In step S71, the printer controller 51 causes the head drive unit 62 to drive the head unit 63.
Is controlled to stop energization of the head portion 63 (head energization OFF processing). Then, the process proceeds to step S72.

In step S72, the printer controller 51 executes the subtraction process (-1) of the count value of the buffer counter. Then, the process proceeds to step S73.

In step S73, the printer controller 51 drives and controls the ink ribbon motor 57 via the ribbon drive unit 56 to drive the ink ribbon of a supply amount corresponding to the printing image data for one line.
Then, the process proceeds to step S74.

In step S74, the printer controller 51 refers to the count value of the buffer counter and confirms whether or not the count value indicates the final buffer. If it is confirmed that the image data subjected to the print processing this time is not the final buffer, the process proceeds to step S75 to prepare for the print processing of the image data for the next one line.

Subsequently, in step S75, the printer controller 51 drives and controls the paper feed motor 60 via the paper drive unit 59 to perform the paper feed processing for moving the print paper 100 by one line. After that, the process returns to the above-described step S62, and in this step S62, a command requesting the transfer of the next image data of one line is transmitted to the camera controller 17. And
The subsequent processing is repeated.

On the other hand, when it is confirmed in step S74 that the image data printed this time is the final buffer, it is determined that the printing process for one predetermined image has been completed by the printing process for one line this time. The determination is made, and the process proceeds to step S76.

Subsequently, in step S76, the printer controller 51 drives and controls the paper feed motor 60 via the paper drive unit 59 to perform a paper discharge process for discharging the print paper 100 to the outside of the main image printer 50. afterwards,
Then, the process proceeds to step S77.

Next, in step S77, the printer controller 51 confirms whether or not the image data for which the printing process has been executed this time is the image data of the last frame. If it is confirmed that the image data is not the image data of the last frame, the process returns to step S62 described above, and in step S62, the camera controller 1 issues a command requesting the transfer of the image data of the next frame to be printed.
7 is transmitted. Then, the subsequent processing is repeated.

If it is confirmed in step S77 that the image data for which the print processing has been executed this time is the image data of the final frame, a series of processing is terminated (return).

Details of the printer side charging process (process of step S48 in FIG. 7) in the image printer 50 will be described below with reference to FIG.

As described above, when it is confirmed in step S46 of FIG. 7 that the predetermined print processing is completed, the printer controller 51 of the image printer 50 concerned performs the printer side charging processing (step S48 of FIG. 7). Processing of FIG. 9) is executed.

When shifting to the printer side charging process, the printer controller 51 controls the DC power supply control unit 70 in step S81 of FIG. 9 to output one of two outputs of the DC power supply control unit 70. The charging system power source (DC2) is activated, and this charging process ends (return). Then, the process proceeds to step S49 shown in FIG.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, the electronic camera 1 can be used without using a connecting cable or the like.
0 and the image printer 50 can be directly connected,
When both (10 and 50) are in the connected state, only the print start operation member 67B of the image printer 50 is operated to start the print operation, and the recording medium 33 mounted on the electronic camera 10 has already recorded. The image data is automatically read, and a print of the image corresponding to the image data can be output.

After the printing operation by the image printer 50 is completed, the rechargeable battery 37 of the electronic camera 10
Since the charging operation for the (secondary battery) is performed, the rechargeable battery 37 that is the main power source of the electronic camera 10 is used.
Can always be charged. Therefore, when the electronic camera 10 is not used, if it is placed at a predetermined position of the image printer 50, that is, the placement portion 50d, the electronic camera 10 can be used at any time. You can

Then, the electronic camera 10 and the image printer 5
When 0 and 0 are connected, print start switch 6
When there is no command from 7b for a predetermined time, the charging operation is automatically controlled to start, and when the fully charged state is reached, the charging operation is stopped. The battery 37 can always be kept fully charged.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the print operation of the image corresponding to the image data acquired by the electronic camera 10 and the control considering the execution timing of the charging operation of the electronic camera 10 are performed. Thus, it is possible to provide an image printing system that ensures good operability and is excellent in usability.

[0140]

As described above, according to the present invention, in the image printing system for performing the printing operation, the charging operation and the like with the electronic camera and the image printer connected to each other,
It is possible to provide an image printing system that is excellent in operability and usability.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view showing an outline of an image printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing an electronic camera that constitutes a part of the image print system of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block configuration diagram showing an image printer forming a part of the image print system of FIG.

4 is a flowchart schematically showing a flow of main operations of the electronic camera in the image print system of FIG.

5 is a flowchart schematically showing a flow of operations related to print processing among the operations of the electronic camera of FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart schematically showing a flow of operations relating to a charging process among the operations of the electronic camera of FIG.

7 is a flowchart schematically showing the flow of main operations of the image printer in the image print system of FIG.

8 is a flowchart schematically showing a flow of operations related to print processing among the operations of the image printer of FIG.

9 is a flowchart schematically showing a flow of operations relating to a charging process among the operations of the image printer of FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 ... Electronic camera 13 ... Image sensor 17 ... Camera controller (control means) 16: Digital processing circuit (expansion means) 25D: Camera power supply operation member (operation member) 30 ... Display device (display means) 33 ... Recording medium 34 ... Camera side connector (first connecting means) 35 ... Connection interface (data transfer means) 37: Rechargeable battery (secondary battery) 50 ... Image printer 51 ... Printer controller (control means) 54: Printer-side connector (second connecting means) 55 ... Connection interface (data transfer means) 66 ... Timer (timer means) 67A ... Printer power supply operation member (operation member) 70 ... DC power supply control unit (power supply means)

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Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A first connecting means detachably connectable to an image printer without using a connecting cable, a recording medium for recording photographed image data, and a recording medium recorded on the recording medium via the first connecting means. The image data for printing, which is the most suitable for printing the image data, the data transfer means for transferring the output of the image data to the image printer, and the secondary battery for supplying power. An electronic camera, a second connecting means detachably connectable to the first connecting means, a print engine for outputting an image print based on the image data for printing, a power supply to the electronic camera and the secondary An image printer including a power supply unit for charging a battery and a print start switch for generating an instruction signal for instructing the start of a printing operation. When the operation to turn on the print start switch is performed while the first connecting means and the second connecting means are connected to each other, the print image data is transferred to the image printer, and the transfer operation is performed. In response to the above, the print engine executes an image printing operation for printing out an image, and when the image data to be printed out is exhausted, the charging operation for the secondary battery is started. system. 2. The electronic camera further comprises a power source operating member for switching the opening / closing state of a power source, and the image printing operation and the charging operation are started without depending on the switching state of the power source operating member. The image printing system according to claim 1, wherein the image printing system is controlled by the following. 3. The image printer further comprises timer means for measuring a predetermined time, and when the first connecting means and the second connecting means are connected to each other, the timer means starts the time measuring operation. The charging operation is controlled to start when a predetermined time set by the timer means has elapsed without the instruction signal from the print start switch being generated. The described image printing system. 4. The electronic camera further comprises display means, which displays the image being output at that time during execution of the printing operation and which is during execution of the charging operation. The image printing system according to claim 1, wherein the display operation is controlled so as to be in a stopped state. 5. The image printing system according to claim 1, wherein the image printer is controlled to cut off the power supply when the image printing operation and the charging operation of the image are completed.