JP2005348377A - Imaging apparatus, control method thereof, control program, and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a imaging apparatus which is simply composed and can specifically inform users of an access status to a plurality of recording media while reducing the cost and miniaturizing. <P>SOLUTION: The imaging apparatus has; a first and second memory card slots 109, 111 which are equipped with detachable memory cards 110, 112; single access lamp 30 which is arranged near the first and second memory card slots 109, 111 and indicates the access status to the memory cards 110, 112; and CPU113 which controls indication mode of access lamp 30 in accordance with the access status of the memory cards 110, 112. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera provided with a plurality of recording medium loading units for detachably loading a recording medium, a control method for the imaging apparatus, a control program, and a storage medium.

  In general, a digital camera is configured so that a memory card (recording medium) can be detachably loaded in order to record and store captured images. In recent years, in order to increase the number of recorded captured images, two images are recorded. Digital cameras equipped with two memory card slots (recording medium loading means) are also being commercialized so that various memory cards can be loaded.

  Then, when shooting the subject, the user selects whether to record the captured image on the memory card loaded in the first memory card slot or the memory card loaded in the second memory card slot. It is configured so that a captured image can be recorded on a memory card desired by the user by performing an operation designation and performing a captured image recording process on the designated memory card.

There is also known a digital camera configured to record a captured image as an access target with priority given to a memory card previously loaded in a memory card slot, and to display the priority memory card slot. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).
JP 2001-169224 A

  However, in the conventional digital camera having the two memory card slots as described above, the display relating to the selected memory card slot to be accessed is displayed on the display means provided on the upper surface of the camera body. Therefore, because the display related to the memory card slot is mixed with various information displays on the camera body, adding display characters within the limited display area of the display means makes the entire display character smaller and selected. Not only does the display visibility of the memory card slot deteriorate, but also the display of information necessary for shooting is reduced, which may lead to erroneous operation during camera operation.

  In addition, since the display means is composed of a liquid crystal display element, the visibility of display contents deteriorates when the shooting environment becomes dark. In addition, if an illuminating unit or the like is added in order to improve the visibility of the display content, the assembly workability and the cost increase due to the increase in the number of parts are caused.

  Further, since the display means is not arranged in the vicinity of the memory card slot into which the memory card is loaded, the visibility of whether or not the memory card is being accessed is poor when the memory card is attached to or detached from the memory card slot. There is a risk that the memory card may be removed from the memory card slot due to an erroneous operation during access. In this case, the image data being recorded may be damaged, or all data recorded on the memory card may be damaged. There was a risk of it.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to clarify the state of access to a plurality of recording media with a simple configuration while reducing cost and size. An imaging device capable of informing the user, a control method for the imaging device, a control program, and a storage medium are provided.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image pickup apparatus of the present invention displays a plurality of recording medium loading means for detachably loading a recording medium, an access state to the recording medium, which is disposed in the vicinity of the recording medium loading means. It is characterized by comprising a single display means and a display control means for controlling the display form of the display means according to the access state to the recording medium.

  In order to achieve the above object, a method for controlling an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention comprises a plurality of recording medium loading means for detachably loading a recording medium, and a recording medium loading means disposed in the vicinity of the recording medium loading means. A control method for controlling an imaging apparatus having a single display means for displaying an access state, comprising a display control step for controlling a display form of the display means in accordance with an access state to the recording medium. Features.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to clearly notify a user of an access state to a plurality of recording media while reducing costs and downsizing with a simple configuration.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a top view showing a configuration of a single-lens reflex digital camera that is an imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a rear view showing the configuration of the digital camera.

  1 and 2, 1 is a digital camera, 2 is an eyepiece window for finder observation, 3 is an AE (automatic exposure) lock button, and 4 is an AF (autofocus) distance measuring point selection button.

  In FIG. 2, 5 is an AE (automatic exposure) lock button for vertical position, which is used when the digital camera 1 is held in the vertical position, and has the same function as the AE lock button 3. A distance measuring point selection button 6 for the vertical position is used when the digital camera 1 is held in the vertical position, and has the same function as the distance measuring point selection button 4.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 7 denotes a release button for performing a photographing operation. The first release switch is turned on (ON) in the first stroke, and the second release switch is turned on (ON) in the second stroke. It has become. Reference numeral 8 denotes a main electronic dial. For example, by sending a 2-bit signal with a 90 ° phase shift to a microcomputer (not shown), the rotation direction and the number of clicks are detected. By detecting the rotation direction of the main electronic dial 8 and the number of rotation clicks, a numerical value is input to the digital camera 1 or the photographing mode of the digital camera 1 is switched in combination with other operation buttons. Information setting is possible.

  In FIG. 1, 9 is a shooting mode selection button, 10 is an AF (automatic exposure) mode selection button, 11 is a photometry mode selection button, and also functions as a light control button. For example, when the main electronic dial 8 is rotated in one direction while pressing the shooting mode selection button 9, the mode is changed as follows: TV priority → AV priority → manual → program → TV priority → AV priority → manual → program. It is possible to set the mode intended by the photographer. Further, when the main electronic dial 8 is rotated in the opposite direction to the above while pressing the shooting mode selection button 9, the mode is changed in the order of program → manual → AV priority → TV priority → program →. When the TV priority mode is set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the TV value desired by the photographer is set by rotating the main electronic dial 8 in a predetermined direction. Can do. If the AV priority mode is set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the AV value desired by the photographer is set by rotating the main electronic dial 8 in a predetermined direction. Can do.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 12 denotes a first display unit for displaying photographing conditions and the like, which includes a liquid crystal display. The details of the display content displayed on the first display unit 12 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  A display panel illumination button 13 is a button for turning on / off a backlight (not shown) installed on the back surface of the first display unit 12. Reference numeral 14 denotes an exposure correction button for correcting the exposure. When the manual mode is set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the aperture value is set by rotating the main electronic dial 8 in a predetermined direction after pressing the exposure compensation button 14. It is. When the program mode (P), shutter priority mode (Tv), and aperture priority mode (Av) are set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the main electronic dial is pressed after the exposure correction button 14 is pressed. By rotating the dial 8 in a predetermined direction, the exposure correction amount input setting for changing the control exposure amount of the digital camera 1 with respect to the appropriate exposure measured is performed.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 15 denotes an eyepiece shutter lever, which is a lever for driving an eyepiece shutter (not shown). By rotating the eyepiece shutter lever 15 clockwise in FIG. 2, an eyepiece shutter (not shown) covers the eyepiece window 2 and light can be prevented from entering from the eyepiece window 2. Reference numeral 16 denotes a diopter correction dial for correcting diopter. By rotating the diopter correction dial 16, a diopter correction lens (not shown) is driven, and the diopter can be corrected.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 17 denotes a sub electronic dial, which has the same function as the main electronic dial 8. When the manual mode is set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the sub electronic dial 17 is used to set the aperture value. When the program mode (P), the shutter priority mode (Tv), and the aperture priority mode (Av) are set by the shooting mode selection button 9 and the main electronic dial 8, the sub electronic dial 17 performs metering appropriateness. The exposure correction amount input setting for changing the control exposure amount of the digital camera 1 with respect to the exposure is performed. Reference numeral 18 denotes a dial lock switch, which is a switch for locking the input function of the sub electronic dial 17. A main switch lever 19 is a lever for turning on / off a main switch for prohibiting all operations of the digital camera 1. A second display unit 20 includes a liquid crystal display and the like, and displays a photographed image, information indicating a setting state of the digital camera 1, and the like.

  Note that since the second display unit 20 in the present embodiment is a transmissive type, a captured image cannot be viewed only by driving the second display unit 20, and a backlight (not shown) is provided on the back surface thereof. is required.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 21 denotes a memory card slot selection button, which selects first and second memory card slots 31 and 32 (to be described later) into which a memory card as a recording medium for recording an image is detachably loaded. It is a button to do. After the memory card slot selection button 21 is pressed, the sub electronic dial 17 is rotated to select the first and second memory card slots 31 and 32 described later. A menu button 22 is a button for selecting various modes when initial setting of the digital camera 1 is performed. When selecting various modes, the sub electronic dial 17 is rotated while pressing the menu button 22 to select a desired mode. When the desired mode is selected, when the user releases the menu button 22, the selection of the desired mode is completed.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 23 denotes a selection button for selecting ON / OFF of the function of the selected mode. is there. After the selection of the desired mode is completed, the sub electronic dial 17 is rotated while selecting the desired button 23 to select either on / off, and then the selected button 23 is released to release the function of the selected mode. On / off is completed. A display button 24 is a button for causing the second display unit 20 to display an image file recorded in the memory card. By rotating the sub electronic dial 17 while pressing the display button 24, the image files are sequentially displayed on the second display unit 20. After selecting the desired image file, the user releases the finger from the display button 24 to select the desired image file. The selection of the image file is completed, and the image file is displayed on the second display unit 20.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 25 denotes an erase button, which is a button for erasing the image file recorded on the memory card. By pressing the delete button 25 after selecting an image with the display button 23 and the sub electronic dial 17, it is possible to delete the image recorded on the memory card. A recording image quality selection button 26 is a button for selecting a compression rate, an image size, and the like of the captured image file. After selecting the image quality change mode with the menu button 22 and the sub electronic dial 17, the desired compression rate and image size are selected with the recording image quality selection button 26 and the sub electronic dial 17, and then the recording image quality selection button 26 is released. This completes the selection of the compression ratio, image size, etc. of the captured image file.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 27 denotes a white balance selection button, which is a button for selecting a white balance adjustment value stored in advance in the digital camera 1. After the white balance change mode is selected using the menu button 22 and the sub electronic dial 17, a desired white balance adjustment value is selected using the white balance selection button 27 and the sub electronic dial 17, and then the white balance selection button 27 is used to By releasing, selection of the white balance adjustment value is completed. 28 is a memory card slot cover opening / closing knob, and 29 is a memory card slot cover, which opens and closes first and second memory card slots 31, 32 which will be described later. When the memory card slot cover opening / closing knob 28 is turned counterclockwise in FIG. 2, the memory card slot cover 29 is opened, and the memory card is loaded into the first and second memory card slots 31, 32 described later. Or can be removed.

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 30 denotes an access lamp, which is used for writing a photographed image file to a memory card loaded in first and second memory card slots 31 and 32, which will be described later, or an image written on a memory card. When the memory card is being accessed, such as when reading a file, it is lit / flashed.

  The access lamp 30 of the present embodiment is a two-color light emission type access lamp in which two LED chips emitting red light and LED chips emitting green light are sealed in one package. The access lamp 30 emits red light and green light, and simultaneously turns on an LED chip that emits red light and an LED chip that emits green light, thereby mixing red and green to emit orange light. It is possible to create a color.

  In the digital camera 1 according to the present embodiment, as will be described later, different types of memory cards as recording media are detachably loaded into first memory card slot 31 and second memory card slot 32 described later, respectively. It is configured to be possible. The access lamp 30 is configured to display an access status to a memory card loaded in a first memory card slot 31 to be described later by lighting / flashing red light emitted from the red light emitting LED chip. In addition, an access status display for a memory card loaded in a second memory card slot 32, which will be described later, is performed by turning on / flashing green light emitted from the green light emitting LED chip. Also, the access status display of both the memory card loaded in the first memory card slot 31 described later and the memory card loaded in the second memory card slot 32 described later is displayed on the red light emitting LED chip. By turning on / flashing the green light emitting LED chip at the same time, it is configured to perform lighting / flashing of orange light emission.

  With this configuration, the light emission color of the access lamp 30 can be changed depending on the memory card being accessed, so the photographer can easily check which memory card is being accessed. .

  In FIG. 2, reference numeral 31 denotes a first memory card slot, which is disposed in the grip portion 36 of the digital camera 1. Reference numeral 32 denotes a second memory card slot, which is disposed in a grip portion 36 (to be described later) of the digital camera 1. Reference numeral 33 denotes a first memory card removal button, which is a button for removing the memory card loaded in the first memory card slot 31 from the first memory card slot 31. Reference numeral 34 denotes a second memory card removal button, which is a button for removing a memory card loaded in the second memory card slot 32. Reference numeral 35 denotes a power supply battery for driving the digital camera 1. Reference numeral 36 denotes a grip portion.

  Note that the photographing lens of the digital camera 1 is attached to the main body of the digital camera 1 in a replaceable manner via a main body mount (not shown).

  Next, display contents displayed on the first display unit 12 in the digital camera 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a display example of the first display unit 12 in the digital camera 1 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, 12a is an area for displaying the state of the shooting mode. “M” indicating that the manual mode is selected is displayed. Reference numeral 12b denotes an area for displaying the aperture value in 7 segments. In the figure, the aperture value "5.6" is displayed. Reference numeral 12c denotes an area for displaying the shutter speed in 7 segments. In the figure, the shutter speed "1000" is displayed. Reference numeral 12d denotes an area for displaying the number of shootable images. In the figure, the number of shootable images “167” is displayed. 12e is an area for displaying the state of the AF mode. In the figure, "ONESHOT" is displayed. Reference numeral 12f denotes an area for displaying the state of the drive mode. In the figure, “□” is displayed. Reference numeral 12g denotes an area for displaying the exposure correction amount in dots. In the figure, 1g represents one third of a dot. Reference numeral 12h denotes an area for displaying a memory card on which writing is currently performed. In the figure, "CF" and "SD" are displayed.

  In the digital camera 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to mount two types of memory cards, a compact flash (registered trademark) (hereinafter also referred to as CF) and an SD card (hereinafter also referred to as SD). It is configured to be. A “multiple recording mode” in which similar image files are simultaneously recorded on both memory cards, and a “normal recording mode” in which image files are recorded only on one of the memory cards are provided.

  When “multiple recording mode” is selected, both “CF” and “SD” are displayed in the display area 12h, and the number of shootable images of the memory card with the smaller recording capacity is displayed in 12d. . When “normal recording mode” is selected, a memory card to be written is displayed in the display area 12h (either “CF” or “SD” is displayed). At that time, the display area 12d displays the number of shootable images of the selected memory card.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 12i denotes an area for displaying an indication of the remaining capacity of the power source battery 35 (see FIG. 2). In FIG. 3, it indicates that the remaining battery capacity is sufficient. An area 12j displays the state of the photometry mode.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the digital camera 1 which is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  In FIG. 4, 100 is a solid-state imaging device, 101 is an analog signal processing unit, 102 is an A / D converter, 103 is a main signal processing unit, 104 is a memory, 105 is a D / A converter, 107 is a video output device, 108 is a compression / decompression unit, 109 is a first memory card slot, 110 is a first memory card, 111 is a second memory card slot, 112 is a second memory card, and 113 is a CPU (central processing unit). , 114 is a buzzer, 115 is a temperature sensor, 116 is an imaging control unit, 117 is a mechanical shutter unit, 118 is a lens driving unit, 119 is an aperture driving unit, 120 is a photometry unit, 121 is a focus detection unit, and 122 is a first detection unit. Release switch 123 is a second release switch 124 is a main electronic dial switch 125 is a sub electronic dial switch 126 is a switch Switch, 127 is a menu switch, 128 is a selection switch, 129 is a display switch, 130 is an erase switch, 131 is a slot cover detection switch, 132 is a first memory card detection switch, and 133 is a second memory card detection. Switch, 134 exposure compensation switch, 135 display panel illumination switch, 136 FE lock switch, 137 aperture switch, 138 dial lock switch, 139 main switch, 140 AF (autofocus) mode selection switch, 141 An imaging mode selection switch, 142 is a photometry mode selection switch, 143 is an AE (automatic exposure) lock switch, 144 is an AF (autofocus) frame selection switch, 146 is an imaging lens, and 147 is an aperture blade group. Reference numeral 148a denotes a red light emitting LED chip (LED1) in the access lamp 30, and reference numeral 148b denotes a green light emitting LED chip (LED2) in the access lamp 30.

  The image sensor 100 captures a subject image formed by the photographing lens 146 and converts it into an electrical signal. A known two-dimensional image pickup device is used as the image pickup element 100. There are various types of imaging devices such as a CCD type, a MOS type, and a CID type, and any type of imaging device may be adopted. In this embodiment, a photoelectric conversion element (photosensor) is used. Are two-dimensionally arranged, and an image sensor of an interline CCD (charge coupled device) is employed in which signal charges accumulated in each photosensor are output via a vertical transfer path and a horizontal transfer path. The image sensor 100 also has a so-called electronic shutter function (electronic shutter means) that controls the accumulation time (in shutter seconds) of charges accumulated in each photosensor. The amount of light of the subject luminous flux that has passed through the photographing lens 146 is regulated by the diaphragm blade group 147 and the mechanical shutter unit 117 driven by the diaphragm drive unit 119, and is projected and imaged on the image sensor 100. At this time, in the image sensor 100, the charge accumulation time is controlled via the imaging control unit 116. The subject image formed on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 100 is converted into a signal charge of an amount corresponding to the amount of incident light by each photosensor and sequentially read out as an imaging output signal, and then the analog signal processing unit 101. To be supplied.

  The analog signal processing unit 101 includes a CDS clamp circuit, a gain adjustment circuit, and the like, and appropriately processes an imaging output signal (analog electrical signal) input from the imaging device 100 based on the control of the imaging control unit 116. The signal output from the analog signal processing unit 101 is converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 102 and then sent to the main signal processing unit 103. The A / D converter 102 converts an analog signal into a digital signal. The main signal processing unit 103 includes a gain adjustment unit 103a, an offset unit 103b, a digital signal processing unit 103c, a histogram generation unit 103d, and the like. The data output from the A / D converter 102 is sent to the digital signal processing unit 103c and the histogram generation unit 103d via the gain adjustment unit 103a and the offset unit 103b. The histogram generation unit 103 d creates a histogram indicating the distribution of the integrated value of the image sensor signal with respect to the signal level from the data for one screen sent from the A / D converter 102. A gain value and an offset value are determined based on this histogram calculation, and the gain and offset are controlled from the CPU 113 via the imaging control unit 116.

  In this way, the signal that has passed through the gain and offset control is sent to the digital signal processing unit 103c. The digital signal processing unit 103c includes a luminance (Y) signal generation circuit and a color difference (C) signal generation circuit, and performs Y / C signal processing on the signal input from the offset unit 103b. The image data that has been subjected to Y / C signal processing by the digital signal processing unit 103 c is temporarily stored in the memory 104.

  The memory 104 stores image data. The image data stored in the memory 104 is decoded, converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 105, and supplied to the second display unit 20. The Thus, the image captured by the image sensor 100 is displayed on the second display unit 20. The signal converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 105 can be taken out as a video output device 107 from a video output terminal or the like.

  Also, the imaged image data obtained by the digital camera 1 acquired in response to the input of the shooting start signal is guided from the memory 104 to the compression / decompression unit 108, where it is compressed according to a predetermined format (for example, JPEG). The data is recorded on the first memory card 110 or the second memory card 112 as a recording medium.

  The D / A converter 105 converts a digital signal into an analog signal. The second display unit 20 displays a still image shot based on a shooting start signal generated by the second release switch 123 that is turned on by operating the release button 7 shown in FIG. In addition to displaying images, the second display unit 20 displays menus, setting items, and selections corresponding to operations of the slot selection button 21, menu button 22, selection button 23, and display button 24 shown in FIG. Items are displayed. The video output device 107 outputs the signal converted into an analog signal by the D / A converter 105 via a video output terminal or the like.

  The compression / decompression unit 108 performs compression / decompression processing on the image data called through the CPU 113. The first memory card slot 109 is detachably loaded with the first memory card 110, and corresponds to the first memory card slot 31 of FIG. The second memory card slot 111 is detachably loaded with the second memory card 112, and corresponds to the second memory card slot 32 of FIG. The first and second memory cards 110 and 112 that are recording media can take various forms such as smart media and IC cards. The image data recorded on the first memory card 110 or the second memory card 112 can be called up via the CPU 113, and the called image data was decompressed and reproduced by the compression / decompression unit 108. Thereafter, the data is output to the second display unit 20 via the memory 104 and the D / A converter 105, or is supplied to a video signal output terminal (not shown) or the like, and can be output to another external device.

  The CPU 113 includes a photometry unit 120, a focus detection unit 121, an imaging control unit 116, a digital signal processing unit 103c, a histogram generation unit 103d, a memory 104, a first memory card 110, a second memory card 112, and switches 122 to 133. In accordance with a predetermined algorithm, various calculations such as an exposure value and a focus position of the photographing lens 146 are performed, and controls such as automatic exposure control, auto focus, auto strobe, and auto white balance are collectively managed. Further, the CPU 113 is input from operation units such as the release button 7, the main electronic dial 8, the sub electronic dial 17, the shooting mode selection button 9, the AF mode selection button 10, and the photometry mode selection button 11 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The corresponding part is controlled based on various signals.

  The buzzer 114 is sound generating means used mainly as warning means for warning at the time of shooting. The buzzer 114 warns the user by sounding when a memory card is removed from at least one of the first and second memory card slots 109 and 111 after the multiple recording mode is set. be able to. The temperature sensor 115 is a sensor that measures the temperature in the vicinity of the image sensor 100. The image pickup control unit 116 controls the drive circuit of the image pickup device 100 based on the exposure control value sent from the CPU 113. In the electronic shutter control mode, the charge accumulation time of the image pickup device 100, and in the mechanical shutter control mode, In addition to controlling the opening / closing timing of the mechanical shutter unit 117, the diaphragm driving unit 119 is controlled during exposure. The mechanical shutter unit 117 mechanically controls the incident time of the subject light beam on the imaging surface. The mechanical shutter unit 117 shields the subject luminous flux during finder observation and retracts from the optical path of the subject luminous flux in response to a release signal during photographing, and retracts from the optical path of the subject luminous flux during finder observation. In addition, it is a focal plane shutter having a rear blade group that shields the subject luminous flux at a predetermined timing after the start (driving) of the front blade group at the time of photographing.

  The lens driving unit 118 drives the photographing lens 146 in order to form a subject image on the imaging surface. The aperture driving unit 119 drives the aperture blade group 147. The photometry unit 120 measures the luminance of a subject image formed on a focusing screen (not shown) via an optical member (not shown), and controls exposure during exposure based on an output signal of the photometry unit 120. Is supposed to do. The output signal of the photometry unit 120 is sent to the CPU 113, and the CPU 113 calculates an exposure control value indicating the exposure time. The obtained exposure control value is sent from the CPU 113 to the imaging control unit 116, and control such as automatic exposure control, auto strobe, and auto white balance is performed via the imaging control unit 116. The focus detection unit 121 detects a focus, controls the lens driving unit 118 of the photographing lens 146 based on the output signal of the focus detection unit 121, and performs focus adjustment by the photographing lens 146. Yes.

  The first release switch 122 is a switch that is turned on by the first stroke of the release button 7 shown in FIG. The second release switch 123 is a switch that is turned on by the second stroke of the release button 7 shown in FIG. When the first release switch 122 is turned on, photometric control / focusing control is performed. Further, when the second release switch 123 is turned on, a release operation is started. The main electronic dial switch 124 is a switch that generates a signal in conjunction with the rotation of the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. With this rotation of the main electronic dial 8, for example, a 2-bit signal with a 90 ° phase shift is sent to the switch sense circuit, whereby the rotation direction and the number of clicks of the main electronic dial 8 are detected. By detecting the rotation direction of the main electronic dial 8 and the number of rotation clicks, it is possible to input a numerical value to the digital camera 1 or switch the photographing mode in combination with other operation buttons.

  The sub electronic dial switch 125 is a switch that generates a signal in conjunction with the rotation of the sub electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. By rotating the sub electronic dial 17, for example, a 2-bit signal with a phase difference of 90 ° is sent to the switch sense circuit, whereby the rotation direction and the number of clicks of the sub electronic dial 17 are detected. By detecting the rotation direction of the sub-electronic dial 17 and the number of rotation clicks, it is possible to input a numerical value to the digital camera 1 or switch the shooting mode in combination with other operation buttons.

  The memory card slot selection switch 126 is a switch that is turned on when the memory card slot selection button 21 shown in FIG. When the memory card slot selection button 21 is pushed in and the memory card slot selection switch 126 is turned on, the sub-electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. 2 is operated to store the image data storage destination / reproduction data acquisition destination / data management. Memory card slots 109 and 111 to be selected are selected. The menu switch 127 is a switch that is turned on when the menu button 22 shown in FIG. A setting item can be selected by pressing the menu button 22, turning on the menu switch 127, and operating the sub electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. The setting items are displayed on the second display unit 20 at this time.

  The selection switch 128 is a switch that is turned on when the selection button 23 shown in FIG. By pressing the selection button 23, turning on the selection switch 128, and operating the sub electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. 2, the setting value of the setting item can be changed by selecting with the menu button 22. The display of the setting value of the setting item at this time is performed on the second display unit 20.

  The display switch 129 is a switch that is turned on when the display button 24 shown in FIG. When the display button 24 is pressed and the display switch 129 is turned on, the images recorded on the first and second memory cards 110 and 112 can be displayed on the second display unit 20.

  The erase switch 130 is a switch that is turned on when the erase button 25 shown in FIG. 2 is pressed. When the erase button 25 is pressed and the erase switch 130 is turned on when an image is displayed on the second display unit 20, the image data displayed on the second display unit 20 is stored in the first and second memories. It can be deleted from the cards 110 and 112. Further, if the erase button 25 is pressed and held while the erase switch 130 is turned on, an inquiry is made as to whether or not the image data recorded on the first and second memory cards 110 and 112 are to be erased all at once. When the menu is displayed on the second display unit 20 and the sub-electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. 2 is operated to select batch erase, the push of the erase button 25 is released and the erase switch 130 is turned off, the first switch is turned off. In addition, the image data in the second memory cards 110 and 112 can be erased collectively.

  The slot cover detection switch 131 is a switch that is turned on / off in response to opening / closing of the memory card slot cover 29 shown in FIG. The first memory card detection switch 132 is a switch that is turned on when the first memory card 110 is loaded in the first memory card slot 109. The second memory card detection switch 133 is a switch that is turned on when the second memory card 112 is loaded in the second memory card slot 111. The exposure correction switch 134 is a switch that is turned on when the exposure correction button 14 shown in FIG. When the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. 2 is operated with the exposure correction switch 134 turned on, an exposure correction value can be set.

  The display panel illumination switch 135 is a switch that is turned on when the display panel illumination button 13 shown in FIG. When the display panel illumination switch 135 is turned on, the first display unit 12 is illuminated from the back surface, and the display contents are readable even in the dark. The FE lock switch 136 is a switch that is turned on when an unillustrated FE lock button is pressed. When an external strobe (not shown) is attached to the digital camera 1, when the FE lock switch 136 is turned on, pre-flash is emitted, and the strobe emission amount, Tv value and Av value at the time of strobe emission are determined, and these are set. It comes to memorize. The narrowing switch 137 is a switch that is turned on when a narrowing button (not shown) is pushed in. When the aperture switch 137 is turned on, the aperture blade group 147 is driven to the aperture value selected at that time so that the depth of field can be confirmed.

  The dial lock switch 138 is a switch that is turned on / off by the operation of the dial lock switch 18 shown in FIG. 2, and sets whether the input function by the sub electronic dial 17 shown in FIG. The main switch 139 is a switch that is turned on / off by the operation of the main switch lever 19 shown in FIG. 2, and sets operation / non-operation of all operations of the digital camera 1. The AF mode selection switch 140 is a switch that is turned on by pressing the AF mode selection button 10 shown in FIG. The shooting mode selection switch 141 is a switch that is turned on when the shooting mode selection button 9 shown in FIG. The photometry mode selection switch 142 is a switch that is turned on when the photometry mode selection button 11 shown in FIG. 2 is pushed in, and also serves as a dimming correction button / switch.

  For example, when the main electronic dial 8 is rotated in one direction while pressing the shooting mode selection button 9 shown in FIG. 2, the mode changes as follows: TV priority → AV priority → manual → program → TV priority → AV priority → manual → program. And can be set to the mode intended by the photographer.

  Further, when the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. 1 is rotated in the opposite direction, the mode is changed from program → manual → AV priority → TV priority → program →. In addition, when the TV priority mode is set as a mode by the shooting mode selection button 9 shown in FIG. 2 and the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. 1, the main electronic dial 8 is rotated in a predetermined direction to take a picture. The TV value desired by the user can be set. When the AV priority is set as the mode by the shooting mode selection button 9 shown in FIG. 2 and the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. 1, the main electronic dial 8 is rotated to make the photographer's request. The AV value to be set can be set.

  Further, when the main electronic dial 8 shown in FIG. 1 is operated while the photometry mode button 11 and the AF mode button 10 shown in FIG. 1 are pressed at the same time, the imaging sensitivity at the time of imaging can be changed. Further, when the main electronic dial 8 is operated with the photometry mode button 11 and the shooting mode selection button 9 shown in FIG. 1 depressed at the same time, the drive mode can be selected from single shooting, continuous shooting, and self-timer. it can. Further, when the main electronic dial 8 is operated while the shooting mode button 9 and the AF mode button 10 shown in FIG. 1 are pressed at the same time, the number of bracket steps in the AEB shooting mode can be set.

  The AE lock switch 143 is a switch that is turned on when the AE lock button 3 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is pressed. The AE frame selection switch 144 is a switch that is turned on by pressing the distance measuring point selection button 4 shown in FIGS. The first display unit 12 has an external display function for displaying shooting conditions and the like, and the first display unit 12 corresponds to the first display unit 12 of FIG. The photographing lens 146 is a lens for forming a subject image on the imaging surface. Although this photographic lens 146 is simplified in FIG. 4, it is composed of one or a plurality of lenses. The photographing lens 146 may be a single focal length (fixed focal length) lens, or a variable focal length lens such as a zoom lens or a step zoom lens. The aperture blade group 147 performs exposure control.

  Next, the recording mode setting operation in the digital camera 1 that is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of the recording mode setting operation in the digital camera 1 which is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  In FIG. 5, first, in step S501, it is determined whether or not the card slot selection button 21 is pressed and the slot selection switch 126 is turned on (ON). If it is determined that the slot selection switch 126 has been turned on (ON), the process proceeds to the next step S502 to detect whether the memory card is loaded in a single state or in a plurality. The detection of the memory card loading state is performed by detecting the state of the first memory card detection switch 132 and the second memory card detection switch 133. That is, if the first memory card detection switch 132 is turned on (ON), the first memory card 110 is loaded in the first memory card slot 109. If the second memory card detection switch 133 is turned on (ON), the second memory card 112 is loaded in the second memory card slot 111. Furthermore, if both the memory card detection switches 132 and 133 are on (ON), the multiple recording mode setting is permitted.

  In step S502, it is determined that both the memory card detection switches 132 and 133 are turned on (the memory cards 110 and 112 are loaded in the first and second memory card slots 109 and 111, respectively). If so, the process proceeds to step S503.

  In step S503, the multiple recording mode or the normal recording mode is set according to the input status of the sub electronic dial switch 125, and in the next step S504, it is determined whether or not the slot selection switch 126 is turned off. If it is determined that the slot selection switch 126 is on, the process returns to step S503. If it is determined in step S504 that the slot selection switch 126 is off, the recording mode setting operation is terminated.

  On the other hand, in step S502, one of the memory card detection switches is turned on (a memory card is loaded only in one of the first and second memory card slots 109 and 111). If it is determined that, step S503 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S504.

  Next, a shooting operation in the digital camera 1 that is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of photographing operation in the digital camera 1 which is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  In FIG. 6, first, when the main switch 139 is turned on by the operation of the main switch lever 19 in step S600, the digital camera 1 enters a standby state for photographing. Next, in step S601, it is determined whether or not the first release switch 122 is turned on until it is turned on. When the first release switch 122 is turned on by pressing the release button 7 halfway, the photometry process is performed by the photometry unit 120 in the next step S602, and the focus is detected in step S603 simultaneously with the photometry process. Each of the distance measuring processes is performed by the unit 121. When the distance measuring process is completed, based on the result of the distance measuring process, the driving of the photographing lens 146 is started in step S604, and then the process proceeds to step S605. When the photometric process in step S602 is completed, an exposure parameter is determined in step S605 based on the photometric process result.

  Next, in step S606, it is determined whether or not the second release switch 123 is turned on. If it is determined that the second release switch 123 is not turned on, the process returns to step S601. If it is determined in step S606 that the second release switch 123 is turned on by the full depression of the release button 7, the photographing operation after step S607 is started.

  That is, based on the exposure control value sent from the CPU 113, the imaging control unit 116 activates the imaging device 100 in step S607 to start the charge accumulation operation, and in the next step S608, the leading blade travels to the mechanical shutter unit 117. After outputting a start signal to start driving the front blade group (opening the front curtain), the image sensor 100 is exposed in the next step S609.

  Based on the TV value determined based on the exposure control value sent from the CPU 113, the imaging control unit 116 outputs a rear blade travel start signal to the mechanical shutter unit 117 in step S610 to start driving the rear blade group. Thus, the exposure operation to the image sensor 100 by the front blade group and the rear blade group is finished (rear curtain shielding).

  The imaging device 100 continues the charge value accumulation operation after the trailing blade traveling of the mechanical shutter device 116 is completed, and performs imaging in step S611 in order to remove the influence of smear caused by the incidence of excessive light during exposure. Before the signal charge accumulated in the photoelectric conversion element of the element 100 is transferred to the vertical transfer CCD, the smear component leaked into the vertical transfer CCD is read out (vertical transfer), and after being swept away, the process proceeds to step S612.

  In step S612, the image sensor 100 ends the charge accumulation operation, transfers the signal charge accumulated in the photoelectric conversion element to the vertical transfer CCD, and performs normal readout which is a signal charge readout operation. Next, after performing image processing in step S613, after performing recording mode discrimination processing and image data recording processing to the selected memory card in next step S614, the photographing operation is terminated.

  Next, the recording mode determination / image data recording operation in step S614 of FIG. 6 in the digital camera 1 which is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a flow of a recording operation in the digital camera 1 which is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  In FIG. 7, first, in step S701, it is determined whether the recording mode set (manually set) by the user in the recording mode setting sequence described in FIG. 5 is the normal recording mode or the multiple recording mode. If it is determined that the normal recording mode is set, the process proceeds to step S702. If it is determined that the multiple recording mode is set, the process proceeds to step S705.

  In step S702, it is determined whether a CF card or an SD card is selected as the recording medium in the normal recording mode. If it is determined that the CF card is selected, the process proceeds to step S703 to start recording the captured image data on the CF card, and access is performed during recording access to the CF card. The lamp 30 is lit / flashed by red light emission. If it is determined in step S702 that an SD card has been selected, the process proceeds to step S704 to start recording the captured image data on the SD card and recording access to the SD card. In this case, the access lamp 30 is turned on / flashed by green light emission.

  Also, in step S705, it is confirmed whether or not a memory card is loaded in both the first memory card slot 109 and the second memory card slot 111 in order to perform a plurality of recordings in the plurality of recording modes. . The confirmation of the memory card loading state is performed by the CPU 113 checking the on / off state of the first memory card detection switch 132 and the second memory card detection switch 133. The purpose of checking the loading state of the memory card at this stage is that the memory card may be loaded / removed after the recording mode is manually set by the user.

  If a memory card is loaded in either the first memory card slot 109 or the second memory card slot 111, the process proceeds to step S707, and image data cannot be recorded in the multiple recording mode. In order to call attention to the photographer, a warning is given by warning means. Examples of the warning means include generating a warning sound by the buzzer 114 and displaying the display content of the display means by blinking or the like. In the present embodiment, the buzzer 114 gives a warning.

  On the other hand, if the memory card is loaded in both the first memory card slot 109 and the second memory card slot 111 in step S705, the process proceeds to step S706.

  In step S706, recording of the captured image data is started on both the CF card and the SD card, and the access lamp 30 emits red light and green light during recording access to the CF card and SD card in the multiple recording mode. In this way, lighting / flashing with orange light emission is performed.

  In the present embodiment, when the multiple recording mode is set, the light from the access lamp 30 emits orange light when both the first memory card 110 and the second memory card 112 are accessed simultaneously. Even if the access to one memory card is completed, the LED is lit / flashed by orange light emission unless the access to the other memory card is completed.

  Note that only when both the first memory card 110 and the second memory card 112 are simultaneously accessed, the access lamp 30 emits orange light, and the access to the other memory card is completed when access to the other is completed. The light emission color of the access lamp 30 may be turned off, and the display may be switched to a lighting / flashing display based only on the light emission color of the access lamp 30 of the access target memory card.

  After the processes of step S703, step S704, and step S706 are completed, all return.

  As described above, according to the digital camera 1 that is the image pickup apparatus according to the present embodiment, the access state to a plurality of recording media is clearly shown to the user with a simple configuration while reducing cost and size. It is possible to inform.

  In addition, since a plurality of recording modes can be set only when a memory card as a recording medium is loaded in the first and second memory card slots 109 and 111, the memory card can be set to the first and second memory cards. Even if only one of the slots 109 and 111 is loaded, it is possible to prevent the photographer from mistakenly setting the plural recording mode.

  Also, for example, when one of the memory cards 110 and 112 loaded in the first and second memory card slots 109 and 111 is removed from the memory card slot after the multiple recording mode is set. Since the warning is given by the buzzer 114, the user can be informed that the “multiple recording mode” that is set by the photographer cannot be executed.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  The basic configuration of the digital camera that is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that in FIGS. 1 to 4 of the first embodiment described above. To explain.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the flow of a recording operation in the digital camera 1 which is an imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Steps S801, S802, S805 and S807 in FIG. Since it is the same as step S701, step S702, step S705, and step S707 in FIG. 7 in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted, and only the processing steps unique to this embodiment will be described.

  Note that the sequence at the time of setting the recording mode and the sequence at the time of shooting are the same as those in the first embodiment described above with reference to FIGS.

  In FIG. 8, when it is determined in step S802 that the CF card is selected, the process proceeds to step S803, where an operation for recording the photographed image data on the CF card is started and recorded on the CF card. During access, the access lamp 30 is blinked 2 Hz by red light emission. If it is determined in step S802 that an SD card has been selected, the process proceeds to step S804 to start recording the captured image data on the SD card, and during recording access to the SD card. In this case, the access lamp 30 is blinked by 10 Hz by green light emission.

  If it is determined in step S805 that the memory card is loaded in both the first memory card slot 109 and the second memory card slot 111, the captured image data is stored in the CF card in step S806. In addition, the operation of recording the image data to both the SD card and the SD card is started, and during the recording access to the CF card and the SD card in the plural recording mode, the access lamp 30 is made to emit red light and green light to thereby emit orange light. Turn on the light.

  In the present embodiment, when the multiple recording mode is set, the light of the access lamp 30 is lit in orange when both the memory cards 110 and 112 are accessed simultaneously, and one of the memories As long as access to the other memory card is not completed even when access to the card is completed, the lighting state is maintained by emitting orange light.

  Note that only when both memory cards are being accessed simultaneously, the access lamp 30 is lit in orange, and the access lamp 30 of the memory card that has been accessed is turned off when access to the other is completed. Alternatively, the access lamp 30 of the memory card to be accessed may be switched to blinking according to the emission color.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the flashing cycle of the access lamp 30 is changed in accordance with the captured image recording speed of the memory card itself, and the flashing and flashing of the CF card having a slow recording speed is performed at a low cycle ( 2 Hz), and the flashing and flashing of an SD card with a high recording speed is set to a high cycle (10 Hz).

  The flashing cycle of the access lamp 30 may be fixed for each memory card slot 109, 111. Further, the flashing cycle of the access lamp 30 itself may be configured to be changed by the user (photographer) for each of the memory card slots 109 and 111.

  In this embodiment, a two-color emission type access lamp is used as the access lamp 30 and the emission color is changed for each of the memory card slots 109 and 111. However, the flashing cycle of the access lamp 30 is changed to the memory card. Since the slots 109 and 111 are different from each other, the object of the present invention can be achieved even if a single color light emitting type LED element is used, and the cost of the LED element can be reduced, and the driving circuit of the LED element can be simplified and the cost can be reduced. it can.

  Note that the configuration, operation, and effect of the digital camera 1 that is the imaging apparatus according to the present embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

(Other embodiments)
The above is the description of the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the functions shown in the claims or the functions of the embodiments can be achieved. Any configuration is applicable.

  Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium and program storing the program code constitute the present invention.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like is used. it can.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. However, it is needless to say that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

It is a top view which shows the structure of the digital camera which is an imaging device which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a rear view which shows the structure of the digital camera which is an imaging device which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. LCD display content explanatory drawing in the digital camera which is the imaging device according to the first embodiment of the present invention It is a block diagram which shows the internal structure of the digital camera which is an imaging device which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of a recording mode setting operation in the digital camera that is the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the imaging | photography operation | movement in the digital camera which is an imaging device which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of a recording operation in the digital camera that is the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the recording operation in the digital camera which is an imaging device which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 Digital camera (imaging device)
7 Release button 8 Main electronic dial 12 First display device 17 Sub electronic dial 19 Main switch lever 21 Memory card slot selection button 28 Memory card slot cover opening / closing knob 29 Memory card slot cover 30 Access lamp (access status display means)
31 First memory card slot 32 Second memory card slot 33 First memory card removal button 34 Second memory card removal button 100 Image sensor 109 First memory card slot 110 First memory card 111 Second Memory card slot 112 Second memory card 113 CPU
114 Buzzer (Warning means)
115 Temperature Sensor 122 First Release Switch 123 Second Release Switch 124 Main Electronic Dial Switch 125 Sub Electronic Dial Switch 130 Slot Selection Switch 131 Slot Cover Detection Switch 132 First Memory Card Detection Switch 133 Second Memory Card Detection Switch 139 Main switch 146 Shooting lens 147 Aperture blade group

Claims (16)

A plurality of recording medium loading means for detachably loading the recording medium;
A single display unit disposed in the vicinity of the recording medium loading unit and displaying an access state to the recording medium;
An image pickup apparatus comprising: display control means for controlling a display form of the display means in accordance with an access state to the recording medium.   2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of recording medium loading units load different types of recording media for each of the recording medium loading units.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is a self-luminous type.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit performs control so as to change a display color of the display unit according to an access state to the recording medium.   The said display control means controls to change the display timing of the display / non-display of the said display means according to the access state to the said recording medium. Imaging device.   6. The imaging according to claim 1, further comprising: a plurality of recording mode setting means for setting a plurality of recording modes only when the recording medium is loaded in the plurality of recording medium loading means. apparatus.   7. The apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising warning means for warning when a recording medium is removed from at least one of the plurality of recording medium loading means after the plural recording mode setting means sets the plural recording mode. Imaging device. An image pickup apparatus having a plurality of recording medium loading means for detachably loading a recording medium and a single display means arranged in the vicinity of the recording medium loading means and displaying an access state to the recording medium is controlled. A control method,
A control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: a display control step of controlling a display form of the display unit according to an access state to the recording medium.   9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the plurality of recording medium loading units load different types of recording media for each of the recording medium loading units.   10. The method of controlling an imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the display means is a self-luminous type.   The method for controlling an imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the display control step performs control so as to change a display color of the display unit according to an access state to the recording medium. .   12. The display control step according to claim 8, wherein the display control step performs control so as to change a display timing of display / non-display of the display unit according to an access state to the recording medium. Control method of imaging apparatus.   The imaging according to any one of claims 8 to 12, further comprising a plurality of recording mode setting steps that enable a plurality of recording modes to be set only when the recording medium is loaded in the plurality of recording medium loading means. Device control method.   14. A warning step of warning when a recording medium is removed from at least one of the plurality of recording medium loading means after the plural recording mode is set by the plural recording mode setting step. Control method of imaging apparatus.   14. A control program comprising computer-readable program code for realizing the imaging apparatus control method according to claim 8.   14. A storage medium having computer-readable program code for realizing the control method for an imaging apparatus according to claim 8.

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