JP2006115209A - Image input method, image input system, and operation program thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To convert a film image to a digital image signal, while taking user's intention of drawing into consideration. <P>SOLUTION: A film image developed on a film F is pre-scanned by a film scanner 100 by an operation signal from a prescan control part 210 of a host PC 200 before actual scan. The prescan control part 210 generates a plurality of images resulting from differing exposure states, on the basis of an image obtained by pre-scan and displays them on a monitor 202 as options. The user selects one's favorite image from the plurality of displayed images, and an exposure parameter is obtained on the basis of the selected image. An actual scan control part 231 sets the exposure parameter to an exposure control part and makes the actual scan of the film image executed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image input method, an image input system, and an operation program for electronically capturing a film image developed on a film, converting it into a digital image signal, and recording it.

  Conventionally, as a peripheral device of a computer, a frame image (film image) such as a 35 mm negative film is picked up by a line sensor composed of, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), and the picked-up image signal is converted into digital data and a signal. A film scanner system (image input system) for processing and transferring to a computer is known. Also known are laboratory machines that have similar functions and convert film images into electronic images. In this type of film scanner system, laboratory machine, etc., a pre-scan is executed before a main scan is performed to capture a film image and actually record the image, and based on image data obtained by the pre-scan. Generally, conditions such as exposure time are calculated, and a main scan is performed under the calculated conditions.

  In performing such image input, it is desirable to make it possible to convert a film image into a digital image signal with maximum drawing of the user's drawing intention. That is, instead of simply determining the exposure conditions automatically from the image obtained by the pre-scan and performing the main scan, the film image is arranged in the exposure conditions so that an image in a state that the user likes can be obtained. It is desirable to be able to perform a scan.

Conventionally, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for realizing favorite color conversion by a user selecting a favorite conversion condition from a color conversion table as a technique corresponding to the above request. Specifically, a sample image is displayed adjacent to the image to be color-converted on the display unit, and colors such as hue, gradation, saturation, and brightness are set so that the user can obtain a desired color while referring to the sample image. The value of the processed data is adjusted (that is, the user searches for a color processed data value that matches the favorite color).
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-77659

  However, the technique of Patent Document 1 generally requires skill to determine what image is actually obtained when the color processing data value acquired based on the sample image is applied to the image to be color-converted. Cost. That is, there is an inconvenience that it is not easy to determine whether an image in accordance with the drawing intention originally desired by the user can be really obtained by the color processing data value.

  Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an image input method, an image input system, and an operation program thereof that can convert a film image into a digital image signal while drawing the user's drawing intention to the maximum.

  An image input method of the present invention pre-scans a film image developed on a film, generates a plurality of image images having different exposure states based on the image obtained by the pre-scan, and generates a predetermined display device. As a choice, accepting a user's selection operation for the displayed plurality of images, obtaining an exposure parameter based on the selected image, and performing a main scan of the film image based on the exposure parameter (Claim 1).

  According to this method, a plurality of images with different exposure states are generated based on images obtained by pre-scanning and displayed as options on a predetermined display device. It is possible to select a favorite image after actually viewing the image. If a favorite image is selected, an exposure parameter is obtained based on the selected image, and a main scan of the film image is executed based on the exposure parameter. Images can be acquired (read) at

  An image input system according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that electronically captures a film image developed on a film, an exposure amount control unit that controls an exposure amount at the time of capturing the image, and an image captured by the imaging unit. In an image input system including a display unit that displays an image, a storage unit that records a captured image signal, and a control unit that controls an imaging operation, the control unit causes the imaging unit to capture a film image. A main scan control section for executing a main scan for actually recording an image; a pre-scan control section for causing the imaging means to perform a pre-scan for capturing the film image and executing a predetermined process before the main scan; The pre-scan control unit causes the imaging unit to perform the pre-scan imaging operation, and the pre-scan imaging control unit. An image image generation unit that generates a plurality of image images with different exposure states based on images obtained by scanning and displays them as options on the display means, and calculates exposure parameters based on the selected image images An exposure parameter calculation unit, wherein the main scan control unit sets the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit as an exposure parameter in the main scan and performs the main scan Control is performed (claim 2).

  According to this configuration, the image generation unit of the pre-scan control unit generates a plurality of image images with different exposure states based on the image obtained by the pre-scan, and the image images are displayed on a predetermined display device. Since it is displayed as an option, the user can select his / her favorite image after actually viewing a plurality of images with different exposure states. If a favorite image is selected, the exposure parameter calculation unit obtains an exposure parameter based on the selected image. Since the main scan of the film image is executed by the main scan control unit based on the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit, an image in the exposure state preferred by the user can be acquired.

  In the above-described configuration, the image image generation unit can generate a plurality of image images according to the film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance (Claim 3). According to this configuration, since a plurality of image images are generated based on the film characteristics for each film brand, it is possible to confirm an image image corresponding to the film characteristics of the film on which the film image is developed. The user can select this according to his / her preference. Furthermore, since an image based on the film characteristics relating to other brands is also displayed, if there is another image that matches the drawing intention, it can be selected.

  In the above configuration, the image generation unit may generate a plurality of image images having different densities (claim 4). According to this configuration, for example, the selection of R, G, B, C, M, Y color selection, color selection based on the photographic light source, or color selection based on the color temperature / CC index, etc. makes the density different. A plurality of image images are displayed, and the user can select a desired image image after actually viewing these image images.

  In the configuration according to claim 4, the prescan control unit includes a photometry priority position selection unit that enables selection of a photometry priority position for acquiring histogram information from the image obtained by the prescan. It is desirable to have a configuration (claim 5). According to this configuration, an exposure evaluation value that matches a specific image portion of the film image can be acquired. Therefore, when a pre-scanned image is displayed as a default, it can be displayed in an exposure state closer to the user's preference. It becomes possible.

  In the configuration according to claim 4 or 5, it is desirable that the pre-scan control unit includes an exposure reference selection unit that enables specification of an exposure reference serving as a reference for generating a plurality of images. (Claim 6). According to this configuration, the user's preference is roughly divided into, for example, a shadow standard that targets a dark part of a film image, an average value standard that targets an average part, or a highlight standard that targets a bright part. Exposure standard options can be set.

  In the configuration according to any one of claims 2 to 6, the film is preferably a color negative film (claim 7). Unlike the positive film, the color negative film has a wide latitude (effective exposure area) of about 9 EV. This leads to obtaining an effective image under various exposure conditions from one film image. That is, there is a possibility that an image with a completely different impression can be acquired from one film image. Therefore, if a film image developed on a color negative film is picked up in this image input system, a wide variety of image images can be generated, and the user's options can be expanded.

  In the configuration according to claim 2, the main scan control unit can execute a main scan for each of a plurality of colors, and the exposure amount control unit can set an exposure parameter for each of the plurality of colors. (Claim 8). According to this configuration, for example, it is possible to set a preferable exposure time for each RGB color and perform image scanning by performing a main scan for each color, so that not only density adjustment but also white balance control can be performed. It is possible to form a delicate image that cannot be sufficiently reproduced only by gain adjustment.

  According to another image input system of the present invention, an imaging unit that electronically captures a film image developed on a film, an exposure amount control unit that controls an exposure amount at the time of capturing the image, and the imaging unit. In the image input system including a display unit that displays a captured image, a storage unit that records the captured image signal, and a control unit that controls an imaging operation, the control unit displays a film image on the imaging unit. A main scan control unit that executes a main scan for capturing an image and actually recording an image; and a pre-scan that performs a pre-scan that causes the imaging unit to capture the film image and performs a predetermined process before the main scan. A pre-scan imaging control unit that causes the imaging unit to perform the pre-scan imaging operation; A first image generating unit that generates a plurality of image images according to film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance and displays them as options on the display unit, and generates a plurality of image images with different densities Based on the selected image image, a second image generation unit to be displayed as an option on the display means, a mode selection unit that accepts a mode selection to use which of the first and second image image generation units An exposure parameter calculation unit that calculates an exposure parameter, and the main scan control unit sets the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit in the exposure amount control unit as an exposure parameter in the main scan. Control for executing the main scan is performed (claim 9).

  According to this configuration, in generating the image image, a first image image generation unit that generates a plurality of image images according to the film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance and displays them as options on the display unit; Since the second image image generation unit that generates a plurality of image images with different densities and displays them as options on the display unit is prepared as a broad option, and these can be selected by the mode selection unit, It becomes possible to expand the user's image options.

  An operation program for an image input system according to the present invention includes an imaging unit that electronically captures a film image developed on a film, an exposure amount control unit that controls an exposure amount at the time of capturing the image, and the imaging unit. An operation program for an image input system, comprising: a display unit that displays a captured image; a storage unit that records a captured image signal; and a control unit that controls an imaging operation. Before the main scan to actually capture and record the image, and to generate a plurality of images with different exposure states based on the image captured in the prescan A step of displaying as an option on the display means, a step of calculating exposure parameters of the image selected by the user, It is intended to execute the steps including a step of performing the scanning on the exposure parameter is set to the exposure amount control means as an exposure parameter in the main scanning (claim 10).

  According to the image input method of the first aspect, the user can select a favorite image image after actually viewing a plurality of image images having different exposure states, and therefore can easily identify an image that suits the preference. As a result, it is possible to reliably set the exposure conditions that match the purpose of the drawing, so that it is possible to acquire favorite digital image data from the film image without requiring any special skill.

  According to the image input system according to claim 2 and the operation program for the image input system according to claim 10, the user actually executes a plurality of image images with different exposure states generated by the image image generation unit of the pre-scan control unit. Since the user can select a favorite image after visually recognizing the image, it is possible to easily identify and select an image that suits the user's preference. Then, the exposure parameter calculation unit calculates an exposure parameter that matches the user's preference based on the selected image image, and the main scan control unit executes the main scan of the film image based on the exposure parameter. It becomes possible to acquire favorite digital image data from a film image without requiring special skill.

  According to the image input system of the third aspect, a plurality of image images are generated based on the film characteristics for each film brand, and these image images are displayed as options. Therefore, the user can easily select a desired image (exposure). (Condition) can be selected.

  According to the image input system of the fourth aspect, a plurality of image images with different densities are displayed, and the user can select a favorite image image after actually viewing these image images. Has an advantage that a favorite image (exposure condition) can be selected from various variations.

  According to the image input system of the fifth aspect, it is possible to acquire an exposure evaluation value that matches a specific image portion of the film image, such as person priority or background priority. Therefore, when a pre-scanned image is displayed as a default, it can be displayed in an exposure state closer to the user's preference, so that the user can improve the efficiency of selecting an image image.

  According to the image input system according to the sixth aspect, since it is possible to set an exposure standard option that roughly divides the user's preference, such as a shadow standard, an average value standard, or a highlight standard, the user can select an image image. Work efficiency can be improved.

  According to the image input system of the seventh aspect, it is possible to generate a wide variety of image images by utilizing the wide latitude of the color negative film, and it is possible to expand user options.

  According to the image input system of the eighth aspect, not only the density adjustment but also the white balance can be controlled, and a delicate image that cannot be sufficiently reproduced only by the gain adjustment can be formed. Therefore, a higher quality digital image can be formed based on the film image.

  According to the image input system according to the ninth aspect, the first and second image image generation units are prepared as broad choices, and these can be selected by the mode selection unit. There is an advantage that a favorite image can be selected from the images.

(Description of overall configuration)
An image input system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image input system (film image reading system) 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a film scanner 100. The image input system 1 includes a film scanner 100 and a host computer 200 (hereinafter referred to as a host PC 200).

  As shown in FIG. 2, the film scanner 100 (imaging means) is provided with a power switch 101 and a focus adjustment operation button 102 at the lower part of the front surface, and a film insertion port 103 is provided above the focus adjustment operation button 102. Is provided. The focus adjustment operation button 102 adjusts the focus of a lens system 105 (see FIG. 3) that forms an optical image of the developed film F on an imaging surface of a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 104 as an imaging device described later. Is. The film insertion slot 103 is used to set the film F so as to read an image (film image) taken on each frame of the film F, and a shutter 106 is provided to be openable and closable to prevent entry of dust and the like. ing.

  The film scanner 100 can read a film image of the film F, specifically, a slide (mounted positive film) F1 and a color negative film F2 mounted on a dedicated negative carrier, and the film insertion slot 103 has a slide F1. Alternatively, any color negative film F2 can be set. Further, it may be possible to cope with a film storage system such as a sleeve or a cartridge.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the host PC 200 includes a control main body 201, a monitor 202 (display means), and an input operation unit 203 including a keyboard. The film scanner 100 is connected to the control main body via a USB cable 215. An image reading operation is performed in accordance with a control command from the host PC 200.

  That is, when a film image is required, the host PC 200 sends a predetermined command to the film scanner 100 to perform a pre-scan and a main scan of the film image described later. The film scanner 100 initializes the apparatus in accordance with a command transmitted from the host PC 200, and then scans the CCD 104 relative to the film image of the film F to capture film image data (image data). After performing predetermined image processing on the data, the data is sequentially transferred to the host PC 200. The host PC 200 displays the transferred image data on the monitor 202 as an image image that accepts a user's selection operation (during pre-scanning), or displays it on the monitor 202 as an image immediately before recording, and will be described later in the control main body 201. Stored in the storage unit 232 (during the main scan).

  Then, film image capturing and image data transfer to the host PC 200 are repeated for each line, and when the transfer of the image data constituting all the film images is completed, the film scanner 100 ends the film image reading operation.

(Description of overall electrical configuration)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the image input system 1 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, the film scanner 100 is connected to the host PC 200 in accordance with, for example, the USB standard, and functions as a peripheral device of the host PC 200 that supports image processing software activated on the host PC 200. The standard for connecting the film scanner 100 to the host PC 200 is not limited to the USB standard and may be a SCSI standard.

  The film scanner 100 includes an optical system 107, a CCD 104, an amplifier unit 108, a clamp circuit unit 109, an analog multiplexer 110 (hereinafter referred to as MPX 110), a D / A converter 111, an A / D converter 112, a digital signal processing unit 113, and output data. It comprises a buffer 114, a DMA controller 115, a USB controller 116, a timing generator 117 and a controller 118.

  Although not described in detail, the optical system 107 includes an illumination system 119, a lens system 105, a light shielding plate 120, a drive system (not shown), and the like disposed on the optical axis L. The illumination system 119 includes a lamp composed of, for example, a fluorescent lamp, a xenon lamp, or a halogen lamp, and illuminates the film F. The light shielding plate 120 is interposed between the lens system 105 and the film F. A slit-shaped exposure window 120 a is formed at an appropriate position of the light shielding plate 120.

  The drive system relatively moves the film F set on the film scanner 100 and the exposure window 120a of the light shielding plate 120 in a predetermined direction. Thereby, the optical image of the film F illuminated by the illumination system 119 is divided into slit optical images by the exposure window 120a and guided to the CCD 104.

  The CCD 104 is composed of, for example, three line sensors in which a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements (pixels) such as photodiodes are linearly arranged in a line, and R (red) is provided on the light receiving surface of each line sensor. , G (green), and B (blue) color filters are provided, and the optical image of the film image formed on the light receiving surface is converted into an electrical signal, which is used as an image signal for each color of R, G, and B in line units. This is a color CCD for output.

  The amplifier unit 108 includes amplifiers 108G, 108R, and 108B arranged corresponding to the R, G, and B channels. The amplifiers 108R, 108G, and 108B adjust the gains of the image signals of the R, G, and B channels using the analog gain that is input from the control unit 118 via the D / A converter 111. This analog gain is calculated by the host PC 200.

  The clamp circuit unit 109 (clamp circuits 109G, 109R, 109B) converts the black level of the R, G, B color image signals of the CCD 104 according to the clamp level input from the control unit 118 via the D / A converter 111. It is adjusted to the clamp level output from the black reference output unit. The MPX 110 selectively outputs image signals of R, G, and B channels serially.

  The A / D converter 112 converts analog R, G, and B image signals into digital signals having a number of bits unique to the film scanner, for example, 16 bits or 12 bits.

  The digital signal processing unit 113 cancels shading caused by the black correction for canceling the input level offset to the A / D converter 112 and the optical system 107 and the CCD 104 in the digitized image signals of the R, G, and B channels. Processing such as shading correction, γ conversion of G, R, and B signals is performed. In the black correction, an image signal for one line of the CCD 104 is taken in a no-signal state in which the exposure window 120a is closed, and this image signal is transferred to the host PC 200. In the shading correction, the illumination light of the illumination system 119 is directly incident on the CCD 104, that is, the CCD 104 is illuminated in a transparent state without the film F, and an image signal is taken in. The image signal is transferred to the host PC 200. Hereinafter, the image signal subjected to the above-described processing by the digital signal processing unit 113 is referred to as image data.

  The output data buffer 114 is a memory that temporarily stores R, G, and B color image data. Each image data is output from the output data buffer 114 to the host PC 200 via the DMA controller 115 and the USB controller 116. It has come to be.

  The DMA controller 115 controls transfer of image data and the like between the digital signal processing unit 113, the output data buffer 114, and the USB controller 116 based on a control signal from the control unit 118. The USB controller 116 performs interface control in transmission / reception of various data including image data between the film scanner 100 and the host PC 200.

  The timing generation unit 117 outputs a timing signal for controlling the drive timing of each unit based on a control signal from the control unit 118. The CCD 104 receives a timing signal for controlling the charge accumulation time and the like. A clamp level adjustment timing signal is input to the clamp circuit unit 109. The MPX 110 and the A / D converter 112 are each input with a clock signal for synchronization.

  In this type of film scanner 100, changing the exposure time of each of the R, G, and B colors for each color according to the subject information reproduces a fine gradation and obtains a high-quality image. Desirable in terms. Therefore, an exposure parameter (exposure time) can be set for each of R, G, and B in an exposure amount control unit 209, which will be described later, and the timing generation unit 117 receives such a setting control signal and receives the R, G, and B of the CCD 104. It is desirable that the charge transfer timing of each B color pixel be a predetermined timing set for each color (that is, the main scan is performed for each of R, G, and B colors). As a result, not only the density adjustment but also the white balance can be controlled, and a delicate image that cannot be sufficiently reproduced only by the gain adjustment can be formed.

  The control unit 118 is composed of, for example, a microcomputer having a ROM 121 that stores a control program and a RAM 122 that temporarily stores data, and controls the operation of each unit of the film scanner 100. Control of the optical system 107 and the drive system, timing signal output control of the timing generator 117 based on exposure time data transmitted from the host PC 200 via the USB controller 116, and transmission from the host PC 200 via the USB controller 116. It has functions such as gain adjustment control of the amplifier unit 108 performed via the D / A converter 111 based on the analog gain.

  Further, the control unit 118 captures a film image and actually records an image based on a command signal from a control unit 205 (the main scan control unit 231 or the pre-scan control unit 210) of the host PC 200 described later. (This is referred to as “main scan” in this specification), and a film image is preliminarily imaged before the main scan in order to set a user's preferred exposure condition when capturing image data in the main scan. An imaging operation (this is referred to as “pre-scan” in this specification) is performed. The image data captured in the main scan and prescan is transferred from the output data buffer 114 to the host PC 200 via the DMA controller 115 and the USB controller 116.

  Further, the ROM 121 of the control unit 118 stores information on the type of film scanner (scanner information) including the bit number information of the output signal of the A / D converter 112 and the model name information of the film scanner 100. Information is transmitted to the host PC 200 when scanning is started. A plurality of types of film scanners 100 can be connected to the host PC 200. The host PC 200 has scanner information of each type of film scanner 100, and has a function of discriminating the model of the connected film scanner 100, for example, at startup.

  Next, the host PC 200 will be described. The host PC 200 includes a control main body 201 including a USB controller 204, a control unit 205, and a frame memory 206, a monitor 202 as a display unit, and an input operation unit 203 including a keyboard and a mouse.

  The USB controller 204 performs interface control in data transmission / reception between the film scanner 100 and the host PC 200.

  The control unit 205 functionally includes a connection determination unit 207, a data reception unit 208, an exposure amount control unit 209 (exposure amount control means), a pre-scan control unit 210, a main scan control unit 231, a storage unit 232, and a data transfer unit. 233.

  The connection determination unit 207 determines whether or not the film scanner 100 is connected to the host PC 200. The data receiving unit 208 receives image data and scanner information transmitted from the film scanner 100. The received image data and the like are recorded in the storage unit 232.

  The exposure amount control unit 209 sets exposure conditions such as exposure time during pre-scanning and main scanning. At the time of the pre-scanning, the exposure amount control unit 209 sets a predetermined standard exposure condition (exposure time), and executes an imaging operation via the control unit 118. During the main scan, an exposure condition (exposure time) is set based on an exposure parameter obtained by an exposure parameter calculation unit 224 in a prescan control unit 210 described later. For example, when the main scan is executed for each of R, G, and B colors, the exposure amount control unit 209 sets exposure parameters (exposure times) for each of R, G, and B colors. Further, as described in detail later, an operation for generating a plurality of image images with different exposure states based on images captured by pre-scanning and selecting exposure candidates (hereinafter referred to as “AE candidate selection”). ) Is not performed, an appropriate exposure time during the main scan is set by automatically calculating the film density based on the pre-scan image.

  The prescan control unit 210 controls the entire prescan operation. That is, an imaging operation for obtaining a pre-scanned image, an operation for generating various image images for selecting an AE candidate and displaying them on the monitor 202, and an operation for calculating an exposure parameter based on the image image selected by the user Control etc. The function of the pre-scan control unit 210 will be described in detail later.

  The main scan control unit 231 controls the overall operation of the main scan. That is, the imaging operation of the film F is executed under the predetermined exposure conditions set by the exposure amount control unit 209. When the AE candidate selection is executed, the imaging operation is executed using the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit 224 as the exposure parameter in the main scan. If exposure parameters are set for each of R, G, and B colors as described above, the main scan imaging operation is executed for each of R, G, and B colors.

  The storage unit 232 temporarily stores the image data received by the data receiving unit 209 as described above. Further, when the pre-scan is executed a plurality of times for different films, the image data is temporarily stored in association with the film identification code or the like. Further, when the user selects a plurality of image images in the AE candidate selection, the exposure parameter for each image image obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit 224 is stored in association with each image image.

  The data transfer unit 233 converts various data including data related to the exposure conditions set by the exposure amount control unit 209 into a transfer data format. The converted transfer data is transferred to the film scanner via the USB controller 204. It is transferred to each part of 100.

  A frame memory 206 (storage means) stores image data for one frame obtained by performing a main scan under set exposure conditions. This image data is displayed as an image on the monitor 202 by a user operation, recorded on a memory unit included in the host PC 200 or various recording media attached to the host PC 200, or printed on a paper by a printer device such as an inkjet printer. Or output.

  The monitor 202 (display device) includes an LCD, a CRT, or the like, and displays a film image stored in the frame memory 206. Further, when an AE candidate is selected, a plurality of image image candidates are displayed and function as a selection reception screen for accepting a user's image image selection operation on the image.

  The input operation unit 203 performs various operations such as an instruction operation for instructing the start of scanning of the film F by the film scanner 100, and also from among a plurality of image image candidates displayed on the monitor 202 when an AE candidate is selected. The user selects a desired image and the like.

(Detailed description of the pre-scan control unit 210)
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram for explaining the function of the pre-scan control unit 210. The prescan control unit 210 includes a prescan imaging control unit 211, a mode selection unit 212, a first image image generation unit 213, a second image image generation unit 216, a display control unit 223, and an exposure parameter calculation unit 224. . The first image image generation unit 213 executes a mode for generating a plurality of image images according to the film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance (hereinafter, this mode is referred to as “film brand selection mode”). The second image generation unit 216 executes a mode for generating a plurality of image images with different densities (hereinafter, this mode is referred to as “color selection mode”). is there.

  The pre-scan imaging control unit 211 causes the CCD 104 to perform a pre-scan imaging operation for obtaining a pre-scan image. In performing the pre-scan, the pre-scan imaging control unit 211 reads a predetermined standard exposure parameter from the ROM 121 and sets it in the exposure amount control unit 209, and images the film F under standard exposure conditions. An imaging operation is performed.

  The mode selection unit 212 receives a user's selection operation as to whether or not to execute the above-described AE candidate selection and whether to execute the film brand selection mode or the color selection mode.

  As described above, the first image generation unit 213 executes the film brand selection mode, and includes the film brand selection unit 214 and the film characteristic storage unit 215.

  The film brand selection unit 214 generates an image according to the unique film characteristics (for example, color tone and gradation reproducibility) of each film brand sold by each film manufacturer. The film characteristic storage unit 215 includes a ROM, a RAM, and the like, and is marketed by a film manufacturer to provide image generation data when the film brand selection unit 214 generates an image image for each film brand. The film characteristics of the film brand are stored in association with the film brand.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a film brand selection screen 40 showing an example of a display state on the monitor 202 of a plurality of image images generated by the film brand selection unit 214. The film brand selection screen 40 includes a default image display unit 41, a film manufacturer name display unit 42, and an image image display unit 43 for each film brand as a sample image.

  The default image display unit 41 displays a photographed image of the film F under standard exposure conditions imaged under the control of the pre-scan imaging control unit 211. In the film manufacturer name display section 42, manufacturer display fields 421, 422, and 423 are set in the vertical direction of the screen for each film manufacturer, and the name of the film manufacturer is specifically displayed. The image image display unit 43 displays an image image for each film brand marketed by the film manufacturer.

  Specifically, the image image display unit 43 is provided with image image display fields 431, 432, and 433 that are set in correspondence with the manufacturer display fields 421, 422, and 423 and extend in the horizontal direction of the screen. In the image image display fields 431, 432, and 433, image images for each film brand are displayed for each film manufacturer. For example, the image image display field 431 shows a state in which an image image 431a corresponding to the brand KM1, an image image 431b corresponding to the brand KM2, and an image image 431c corresponding to the brand KM3 are individually displayed. Reference numerals 441 and 442 denote screen slide bars, which are used when scrolling the screen.

  In general, a color negative film has a slightly different color expression depending on the brand. That is, the film characteristics such as color tone and gradation reproducibility are different as the characteristics of each film brand. For example, in the film for general users, the color balance is adjusted to the daylight light source, the color balance is adjusted to the daylight light source for professional person / landscape photography, and the tungsten light source is used for professional product photography. The color balance is adjusted. The image image display unit 43 displays an image image when exposure conditions are set based on film characteristics such as color tone and tone reproducibility for each film brand. That is, the film characteristic storage unit 215 stores the film characteristics for each film brand in a table, and the film brand selection unit 214 adds the film characteristics to the default image displayed on the default image display unit 41. Based on the film characteristics read from the storage unit 215, an image is added that takes into account the characteristics of each brand.

  The user can select a favorite image from the image displayed on the film brand selection screen 40 (AE candidate selection). For example, when the brand of the film F set in the film scanner 100 is known, if an image corresponding to the brand is selected, standard exposure conditions (exposure parameters) for the film brand are calculated as exposure parameters described later. It will be required in the department. Of course, if there is a favorite image in another film brand, it is also possible to select it. For example, the brand KM1 is set in the film scanner 100, but if you prefer the image of the brand KM3, select an image based on the brand KM3 and execute the main scan under the exposure conditions. It can also be made. This is the same between the same film makers and different film makers.

  The second image generation unit 216 is for executing the “color selection mode” as described above. FIG. 6 is a graph showing a characteristic curve of a color negative film. As shown in the drawing, the color negative film has a wide latitude (effective exposure area) of about 9 EV (9 stops), unlike the positive film. This leads to obtaining an effective image under various exposure conditions from one film image.

  In other words, if the latitude is about 3 EV, it is possible to express a color with a corresponding gradation, but since the color negative film has a latitude of 9 EV, an image with a completely different impression can be obtained from one film image. . That is, as shown in FIG. 6, even if the latitude lower region to the higher region are divided into about three regions and the exposure conditions AE1 to AE3 are set for each of the targets, images that are effective under the respective exposure conditions AE1 to AE3 are obtained. Can be formed. Accordingly, the second image image generation unit 216 pays attention to the latitude of the color negative film, and generates a wide variety of image images to expand the user's options.

  Such a second image generation unit 216 includes a photometric priority position selection unit 217, a histogram distribution determination unit 218, an exposure reference selection unit 219, an RGBCMY selection unit 220, an imaging condition selection unit 221, and a color temperature / CC index selection unit 222. It has.

  In acquiring an exposure evaluation value (histogram information) in the image obtained by the pre-scan, the photometric priority position selection unit 217 performs exposure evaluation by mainly measuring a portion of the subject in the image. This is to make it possible to obtain a value. That is, the photometric focus position selection unit 217 generates a plurality of image images in which candidates for photometry focus positions are determined for the pre-scan image, displays the list as options on the monitor 202, and accepts the user's selection. For example, in the case where a person and background are captured in a film image, when there is an intention to create a clear image of a person, the film image is pre-scanned to obtain an exposure evaluation value from the entire image. If an image image is generated, it is assumed that an image image (AE candidate) is generated centering on the density of the background instead of a person. In this case, there may be a case where it takes time to search for an image image that matches the user's drawing intention. Therefore, the user can specify the photometry priority position by the photometry priority position selection unit 217. is there.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a photometric focus position selection screen 50 which is an example of a display state on the monitor 202 of a plurality of images generated by the photometric focus position selection unit 217. The photometry priority position selection screen 50 includes a default photometry position display unit 51 and an image image display unit 52 that displays image images on which various photometry position displays are made.

  The default photometry position display unit 51 displays the default photometry position, and normally the entire press scan image is designated as the photometry area. Note that the photometry priority position selected in the previous selection operation may be stored as the default photometry position and displayed on the default photometry position display unit 51.

  In the image image display unit 52, image images accompanied by area display in which the photometry priority positions are varied in various modes are arranged in a matrix. For example, the image image 521 is an image image in which the upper half image 521a is distinguished from the upper half image 521a and the lower half image 521b, and the upper half image 521a is the photometric priority area 521L. Further, the image image 522 is an image image in which a left half image 522a and a right half image 522b of the press scan image are distinguished from each other, and the left half image 522a is a photometric priority area 522L. Further, the image image 523 is an image image in which a central image 523a and a peripheral image 523b of the press scan image are distinguished from each other, and the central image 523a is used as a photometric priority area 523L. Similarly, in the image image 524, only the background is set as the photometry priority area, and in the image image 525, the image image in which only the periphery of the person is set as the photometry priority area is displayed.

  The user can select which area he / she wants to focus metering on (see which subject is the target and which he / she wants to display an AE candidate image image) by looking at such a photometry priority position selection screen 50. Note that one image may be displayed on the image image display unit 52 so that the user can freely set the position and size of the photometric priority area by operating the mouse. In addition, when the photometry priority area is not selected from the image image display unit 52, the area (the entire image in the case of FIG. 7) displayed on the default photometry position display unit 51 is set as the photometry priority area.

  The histogram distribution determination unit 218 generates a histogram of the photometry priority area based on the photometry result of the partial image corresponding to the photometry priority area of the image image selected on the photometry priority position selection screen 50 for the pre-scan image. Further, the histogram distribution determination unit 218 sets a predetermined exposure reference category based on the histogram (for example, by automatically determining a density peak). For example, the exposure reference category can be set such that the reference value for determining the exposure reference density for each of the shadow portion, the average value portion, and the highlight portion is determined from the histogram.

  The exposure reference selection unit 219 generates a plurality of image images for each exposure reference category set by the histogram distribution determination unit 218, displays them as a list on the monitor 202, and accepts a user's selection. In this case, it is desirable to generate and display a plurality of images whose exposure reference density is slightly changed for each exposure reference category.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an exposure reference density selection screen 60 that is an example of a display state of the plurality of images generated by the exposure reference selection unit 219 on the monitor 202. The exposure reference density selection screen 60 includes a histogram display unit 61 that displays a histogram created by the histogram distribution determination unit 218, an average value reference image display unit 62 that is an image image display unit for each exposure reference category, and a shadow. A reference image display unit 63 and a highlight reference image display unit 64 are provided.

  The histogram display unit 61 displays a histogram created by the histogram distribution determination unit 218 based on the luminance value acquired by photometry in the priority photometry area. In this histogram, three reference lines 620 to 640 determined by the histogram distribution determination unit 218 based on the luminance distribution are displayed. This is a line indicating each reference value in the above-described exposure reference category, and in this embodiment, the case where three sections of an average value reference line 620, a shadow reference line 630, and a highlight reference line 640 are set. Show.

  A value applied to these three reference lines 620 to 640 is used as an exposure reference density, and an average value reference image display unit 62, a shadow reference image display unit 63, and a highlight reference image display unit 64 each have a plurality of image images (AE candidates). Is displayed. For example, in the average value reference image display unit 62, an image image group in which the exposure reference density is set to the average value portion is displayed, and the image image 621 under the exposure condition according to the average value reference line 620 (this image) is displayed. The image 621 becomes a default image on the exposure reference density selection screen 60), and a plurality of image images 622 to 625 in which the exposure reference density is gradually changed are displayed.

  That is, the image images 622 and 623 in which the density is sequentially shifted to the minus side (shadow side) of the exposure reference density of the image image 621 are on the upper side of the screen, and the plus side (highlight side) of the exposure reference density of the image image 621. The image images 624 and 625 are sequentially displayed at the lower side of the screen. Similarly, in the shadow reference image display unit 63, an image image group in which the exposure reference density is set in the shadow part is displayed, and the image is exposed little by little with the image image 631 under the exposure condition according to the shadow reference line 630 as the center. A plurality of images with varying reference densities are displayed. In the highlight reference image display unit 64, an image image group in which the exposure reference density is set in the highlight portion is displayed. Little by little, with the image image 641 under the exposure condition according to the highlight reference line 640 as a center. A plurality of images with different exposure reference densities are displayed.

  From such an exposure reference density selection screen 60, the user selects where to set the exposure reference density according to his / her preference. At this time, the user displays a shadow reference image that targets the dark part of the film image. First, a group roughly divided is selected from the unit 63, the average value reference image display unit 62 targeting the average value part, and the highlight reference image display unit 64 targeting the bright part, and then each group is selected. Since the user can select a favorite image, the user can quickly search for a favorite image.

  On the exposure reference density selection screen 60, the exposure reference category may be subdivided into about five levels. In addition, it is desirable that the user can freely set the degree of variation in the exposure reference density in the image group of each category.

  The RGBCMY selection unit 220 has a plurality of color correction images based on (emphasized) each of R (red), G (green), B (blue), C (cyan), M (magenta), and Y (yellow). An image is generated, displayed as a list on the monitor 202 as an option, and a user's selection is accepted. In this case, for each color, it is desirable to generate and display a plurality of images with the color correction degree slightly changed.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an RGBCMY selection screen 70 which is an example of a display state on the monitor 202 of a plurality of image images generated by the RGBCMY selection unit 220. The RGBCMY selection screen 70 includes a default image display unit 71, an R emphasized image image display unit 72, a G emphasized image image display unit 73, and a B emphasized image image display unit arranged radially around the default image display unit 71. 74, a C emphasized image image display unit 75, an M emphasized image image display unit 76, a Y emphasized image image display unit 77, and a change amount display unit 78 of RGBCMY values.

  The default image display unit 71 displays an image of the exposure reference density selected on the previous exposure reference density selection screen 60. When the exposure reference density selection is not performed, the image image 621 that is the default image on the exposure reference density selection screen 60 is displayed on the default image display unit 71 as it is.

  In each of the RGBCMY image image display units 72 to 77, an image image in which one of the RGBCMY gains is enhanced stepwise in accordance with the change amount set in the change amount display unit 78 is displayed as a default image. It is displayed radially with the part 71 as the center. For example, in the R-emphasized image image display unit 72, an image image 721 in which the R value is emphasized by 20% relative to the default image is displayed adjacent to the upper left of the default image display unit 71, and the image is displayed. Adjacent to the image 721, an image 722 with an R value additionally emphasized by 20% is displayed. The same applies to the image display sections 73 to 77 of other colors. Therefore, the image images of the respective colors arranged concentrically so as to surround the default image display unit 71 are 2 image images in which the color values of the first concentric circles are emphasized by 20% with respect to the default image. For the concentric circles at the stage, image images in which the respective color values are enhanced by 40% with respect to the default image are displayed.

  From such an RGBCMY selection screen 70, the user can select an image with a desired color correction. In the RGBCMY selection screen 70, an example in which the image images of the respective colors are arranged radially is shown, but these may be arranged in a matrix. In addition, it is desirable that the user can freely set the change amount of the change amount display section 78.

  The shooting condition selection unit 221 generates a plurality of images according to the state of the shooting light source, displays them as a list on the monitor 202 as options, and accepts a user's selection. That is, in general, when an object is imaged, if the properties of the light source are different, an image with a different impression is captured due to the difference in color temperature. However, the imaging condition selection unit 221 uses various types of typical light sources ( A plurality of image images are generated by giving a correction coefficient assuming a color temperature to a default image, and a choice of color reproduction is provided to the user. In this case, it is desirable to generate and display a plurality of image images in which the characteristic degree of each light source is slightly changed for each light source.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a shooting condition selection screen 80 which is an example of a display state of the plurality of images generated by the shooting condition selection unit 221 on the monitor 202. The photographing condition selection screen 80 displays a light source type display unit 81, a default image display unit 82 that displays an image image with a default value for each light source, and an image image in which the characteristics of each light source are weakened from the default value. And a second image display unit 84 for displaying an image image in which the characteristics of each light source are enhanced from the default values.

  The light source type display unit 81 lists various assumed light source types. In this embodiment, four types of daylight, shade, cloudy, and evening are set as examples of natural light sources, and examples of artificial light sources include tungsten light sources, flash light sources (xenon light sources), fluorescent daylight colors, white, An example in which five types of lunch white are set is shown.

  The default image display unit 82 displays an image generated based on the typical color temperature of each light source listed in the light source type display unit 81. For example, in the case of daylight, an image image 821 generated at a color temperature of 5500 K is displayed on the default image display unit 82. The first image display unit 83 displays an image 831 whose color temperature is weakened by a predetermined value. On the other hand, the second image display unit 84 conversely increases the color temperature by a predetermined value. 841 is displayed. The same applies to other light sources.

From such an image capturing condition selection screen 80, the user can select an image with a desired color reproduction according to a typical light source type. On the photographing condition selection screen 80, the user may be able to uniquely set the light source types listed in the light source type display unit 81. Further, a display unit for setting a change amount with respect to the default image of the image image displayed on the first image display unit 83 and the second image display unit 84, like the change amount display unit 78 of the RGBCMY selection screen 70 shown in FIG. It may be provided.

  The color temperature / CC index selection unit 222 does not select the color temperature as a standardized light source type as in the above-described shooting condition selection screen 80, but allows the color temperature to be selected numerically. A CC (Color Compensate) index can also be selected numerically for color tone correction. That is, the color temperature / CC index selection unit 222 generates a plurality of color correction image images in which the color temperature and the CC index are changed, displays these as a list on the monitor 202, and accepts the user's selection.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a color temperature / CC index selection screen 90 which is an example of a display state on the monitor 202 of a plurality of image images generated by the color temperature / CC index selection unit 222. The color temperature / CC index selection screen 90 is a screen that allows simple selection of the color temperature and the CC index, and includes a default image display unit 91, a color temperature value increase / decrease axis 92 (horizontal axis), and a CC index. And a plurality of images arranged in a matrix along the increase / decrease axis 93 (vertical axis).

  In the default image display unit 91, for example, an image image of the exposure reference density selected on the previous exposure reference density selection screen 60 is displayed. When the exposure reference density selection is not performed, the image image 621 that is the default image on the exposure reference density selection screen 60 is displayed on the default image display unit 71 as it is.

  Around the default image display unit 91, a plurality of image images in which the color temperature and / or the CC index are changed in stages are displayed. That is, on the value decreasing side (left side in the figure) along the color temperature value increasing / decreasing axis 92, the CC index is the default value, and the image image 921 in which the color temperature value is sequentially decreased by about 800K units, 922 and 923 are displayed, and on the value increasing side (right side in the figure), image images 924, 925, and 926 in which the color temperature value is sequentially increased by about 800K units are displayed. On the index increase side (upper side in the figure) along the CC index increase / decrease axis 93, image images 931 and 932 with the color temperature value being the default value and the CC index increased by 10 units are displayed. On the decreasing side (lower side in the figure), image images 933 and 934 in which the CC index is decreased by 10 units are displayed. The other image images are image images obtained by increasing or decreasing the color temperature and the CC index in a composite manner according to the respective increase / decrease axes 92 and 93.

  From such a color temperature / CC index selection screen 90, the user can perform a simple selection of an image with a desired color reproduction. In the color temperature / CC index selection screen 90, it is desirable that the user can freely set the change unit (display unit) of the color temperature and the CC index.

  As shown in the color temperature / CC index selection screen 90, the user finely adjusts the color temperature and CC index instead of a screen for selecting and displaying a plurality of images with the color temperature and CC index changed. It is also possible to use a detailed selection screen. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900 which is an example of a display state of such a detailed selection screen on the monitor 202. The detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900 includes a color temperature setting controller section 94, a CC index setting controller section 95, and a sample image (image image) display area 96.

  The color temperature setting controller unit 94 includes a control bar 941 for selecting a color temperature value and a display unit 942 for displaying a color temperature selection value by the control bar 941. The CC index setting controller unit 95 includes a control bar 951 for selecting a CC index and a display unit 952 for displaying a CC index selection value by the control bar 951. Further, the sample image display area 96 includes a color temperature and CC index selected by the color temperature setting controller section 94 and the CC index setting controller section 95 (color temperature and CC index displayed on the display sections 942 and 952). In response to this, the image is displayed.

  Based on the detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900, the color temperature setting controller unit 94 and the CC index setting controller unit 95 appropriately adjust the color temperature and the CC index, so that a plurality of images can be obtained. An image can be generated, and the user can select an image with a desired color reproduction. In the detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900, for example, it is desirable to divide the sample image display area 96 into two so that the image images before and after adjusting the color temperature and the CC index can be displayed.

  The display control unit 223 includes various image display programs and the like, and causes the monitor 202 to display the image images generated by the first image image generation unit 213 and the second image image generation unit 216 in a predetermined image format and layout. At the same time, an image is displayed so that the user's selection can be accepted on each AE candidate selection screen.

  The exposure parameter calculation unit 224 is an image displayed on the film brand selection screen 40, the RGBCMY selection screen 70, the shooting condition selection screen 80, the color temperature / CC index selection screen 90, or the detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900. In (AE candidate), an exposure parameter is calculated based on the image selected by the user. That is, when the user selects an appropriate image that matches his / her drawing intention, in order to obtain an image corresponding to the selected image by the main scan, the exposure time and color set in the selected image In accordance with the selection information or the like, predetermined main scanning exposure parameters are calculated. When the main scan is executed for each of R, G, and B colors, the exposure condition (exposure time) for each color is calculated.

(Description of the operation flow of the image input system)
Next, a film image reading process performed by the image input system 1 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an overall flow of film image reading processing by the image input system 1 according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing detailed processing in the color selection mode.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 13, the film F that the user wants to read is first set in the film scanner 100 (step S11). At this time, the host PC 200 determines whether or not the film scanner 100 is correctly connected by the connection determination unit 207.

  When the setting of the film F is completed, a pre-scan start instruction is given to the control unit 205 by the input operation unit 203, and in response to this, a predetermined operation signal is transmitted to the film scanner 100 by the pre-scan imaging control unit 211. A can imaging operation is executed (step S12). As a result, a pre-scan image captured under standard exposure conditions is acquired. The pre-scan image data is transmitted to the host PC 200 via the USB controller 116, temporarily stored in the storage unit 232, and displayed on the monitor 202 as a basic image (step S13). This image display allows the user to get a rough feel about the image quality of the film image. If the user wishes to read another film F, the same process is executed a plurality of times.

  Subsequently, it is confirmed whether or not to execute AE candidate selection (step S14). When executing AE candidate selection (YES in step S14), it is confirmed which of the film brand selection mode or the color selection mode is to be executed (step S15). These selections are executed by receiving a user's selection operation on an option display screen on the monitor 202 generated by the mode selection unit 212, for example.

  When the film brand selection mode is selected in step S15, a film brand selection screen 40 as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the monitor 202 (step S16). That is, based on the pre-scan image obtained in step S12, the image image corresponding to the film characteristic for each film brand stored in the film characteristic storage unit 215 of the first image image generation unit 213 is converted into a film brand selection unit. 214. These image images for each film brand are displayed on the image image display unit 43 of the film brand selection screen 40. In this case, the default image display unit 41 displays the basic image of step S13.

  From the plurality of image images displayed on such a film brand selection screen 40, the user selects a favorite image image (step S17). Various data relating to the selected image is stored in the storage unit 232. Subsequently, it is confirmed whether or not another image is selected (step S18). For example, if you want to select multiple image images for one film image, or if you want to select an image image for the next film image when multiple pre-scans have been performed, then execute the color selection mode. If a new image is selected (NO in step S18), the process returns to step S14 and the process is repeated.

  On the other hand, when a new image is not selected (YES in step S18), the exposure parameter calculation unit 224 calculates an exposure parameter based on the selected image (step S19). The calculated exposure parameters are sent to the exposure amount control unit 209, and are used for setting exposure conditions (exposure time, etc.) as exposure parameters in the main scan (step S20).

  When the color selection mode is selected in step S15, the second image generation unit 216 functions exclusively to execute the color selection mode in step S30. The color selection mode will be described in detail based on the flowchart shown in FIG. When the color selection mode is entered, it is first confirmed whether or not photometry priority position selection is to be executed (step S31). When the photometric priority position selection is executed (YES in step S31), the photometric priority position selection unit 217 generates a photometric priority position selection screen 70 as shown in FIG. 7, for example (step S32). The user refers to the photometry priority position selection screen 70 and selects an image image having an appropriate photometry priority area in consideration of which subject is to be displayed as an AE candidate image. S33).

  Next, it is confirmed whether or not to perform exposure reference selection (step S34). In step S31, when the photometry priority position selection is not executed (NO in step S31), the process skips to step S34. When exposure reference selection is executed (YES in step S34), a histogram of the photometry priority area (entire image if photometry priority position selection is not executed) is created by the histogram distribution determination unit 218 (step S35). Based on this histogram, a predetermined exposure standard category such as highlight standard, shadow standard, or average value standard is set.

  After that, for each exposure reference category, for example, an exposure reference density selection screen 80 as shown in FIG. 8 is generated by the exposure reference selection unit 219 and displayed on the monitor 202 (step S371). On the exposure reference density selection screen 80, an image having an appropriate exposure reference density desired by the user is selected (step S38).

  On the other hand, when the exposure reference selection is not executed (NO in step S34), similarly, the histogram distribution determination unit 218 creates a histogram of the photometry priority area (or the entire image when the photometry priority position selection is not executed). After (step S36), without being classified into the exposure reference category, for example, a plurality of image images in which the exposure reference density is increased or decreased with the luminance average value as the default exposure reference density are simply displayed as selection candidates (step S372). . Then, the process proceeds to step S38 described above, and an image having an appropriate exposure reference density desired by the user is selected.

  After that, the process proceeds to RGBCMY selection processing, shooting condition selection processing, or color temperature / CC index selection processing, but these processings are not complementary and cannot be executed in parallel. Will be executed automatically.

  For example, first, it is confirmed whether the RGBCMY selection process is executed (step S39). If the process is not executed (NO in step S39), it is checked whether the shooting condition selection process is subsequently executed (step S39). S41) If the process is not further executed (NO in step S41), it is confirmed whether the color temperature / CC index selection process is subsequently executed (step S43). If neither process is executed (NO in step S43), the color selection mode is terminated as it is, and the image selected in step S38 is treated as a selected image.

  On the other hand, when the RGBCMY selection process is selected (YES in step S40), the RGBCMY selection unit 220 generates an RGBCMY selection screen 70 as shown in FIG. 9, for example, and displays it on the monitor 202 (step S40). Then, on the RGBCMY selection screen 70, the user selects an image with a desired color correction (step S47).

  If the shooting condition selection process is selected (YES in step S41), the shooting condition selection unit 221 generates a shooting condition selection screen 80 as shown in FIG. 10, for example, and displays it on the monitor 202 (step 202). S42). Then, on the photographing condition selection screen 80, an image image preferred by the user is selected from among image images that have been color-reproduced according to typical light source types (step S47).

  Further, when the color temperature / CC index selection process is selected (YES in step S43), the color temperature / CC index selection unit 222 functions to enable selection of the color temperature and the CC index. In this case, it is confirmed whether or not the color temperature and the CC index are to be selected in detail (step S44). When the selection in the simple mode is performed (NO in step S44), the color temperature / CC index selection unit 222 is selected. Thus, for example, a color temperature / CC index selection screen 90 as shown in FIG. 11 is generated and displayed on the monitor 202 (step S42). Then, on the color temperature / CC index selection screen 90, the user selects an image with the desired color reproduction (step S47).

  If the selection in the detailed mode is performed in step S44 (YES in step S44), the color temperature / CC index selection unit 222 displays a detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900 as shown in FIG. This is generated and displayed on the monitor 202 (step S46). Then, on the detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen 900, an image having a color reproduction that matches the user's drawing intention is generated by adjusting the color temperature setting controller unit 94 and the CC index setting controller unit 95. Then, such an image is selected by the user as a desired image (step S47).

  In step S47, if a favorite image is selected by any of the RGBCMY selection process, the shooting condition selection process, or the color temperature / CC index selection process, the process proceeds to step S18 (FIG. 13). It is confirmed whether or not to select an image. If a new image is selected (NO in step S18), the process returns to step S15 and the process is repeated. If no new image is selected (YES in step S18), the selected image is selected. Based on the image image, the exposure parameter calculation unit 224 calculates the exposure parameter (step S19). The exposure parameters are sent to the exposure amount control unit 209, and are used for setting exposure conditions (exposure time, etc.) as exposure parameters in the main scan (step S20).

  If the user does not want to execute the AE candidate selection (NO in step S14), the exposure parameter is set based on the pre-scan image acquired in step S12 as in the conventional general image input system. It is automatically calculated (step S21), and the exposure amount in the main scan is set based on the exposure parameter (step S20).

  Thereafter, in response to an operation from the input operation unit 203 by the user, the main scan of the film F is executed by the main scan control unit 231 (step S22). Subsequently, whether or not to execute the main scan is confirmed (step S23). If a plurality of image images are selected (NO in step S23), the process returns to step S20 to perform exposure based on another selected image image. The amount is set and the main scan is executed again.

  On the other hand, when all the main scans are completed (YES in step S23), the image data acquired by the main scan is stored. Specifically, the image data is stored in the frame memory 206 provided in the host PC 200 (step S24). Alternatively, a process of displaying the image data on the monitor 202 or forming an image on a sheet using a printer (not shown) is executed as necessary. Furthermore, it is possible to add image processing such as white balance adjustment to the image data using appropriate image processing software.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the film image reading process (image input method performed by the image input system 1) performed by the above-described image input system 1 can also be provided as a program. Such a program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, a ROM, a RAM, and a memory card attached to the computer and provided as a program product. Alternatively, the program can be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built in the computer. A program can also be provided by downloading via a network.

1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image input system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of a film scanner. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an image input system according to an embodiment. It is a functional block diagram for demonstrating the function of a prescan control part. It is a top view which shows an example of a film brand selection screen. It is a graph which shows the characteristic curve of a color negative film. It is a top view which shows an example of a photometry priority position selection screen. It is a top view which shows an example of an exposure reference | standard density | concentration selection screen. It is a top view which shows an example of a RGBCMY selection screen. It is a top view which shows an example of an imaging condition selection screen. It is a top view which shows an example of a color temperature / CC index selection screen. It is a top view which shows an example of a detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen. It is a flowchart which shows the whole flow of the film image reading process by the image input system concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the detailed process of a color selection mode.

Explanation of symbols

1 Image Input System 100 Film Scanner 104 CCD (Imaging Means)
200 host PC
202 Monitor (display means)
203 Input operation unit 205 Control unit 206 Frame memory (storage means)
209 Exposure amount control unit (Exposure amount control means)
210 Pre-scan control unit 211 Pre-scan imaging control unit 212 Mode selection unit 213 First image image generation unit (image image generation unit)
214 Film brand selection unit 215 Film characteristic storage unit 216 Second image image generation unit (image image generation unit)
217 Metering priority position selection unit 218 Histogram distribution determination unit 219 Exposure reference selection unit 220 RGBCMY selection unit 221 Imaging condition selection unit 222 Color temperature / CC index selection unit 223 Display control unit 224 Exposure parameter calculation unit 231 Main scan control unit 232 Storage unit 40 Film brand selection screen 50 Metering priority position selection screen 60 Exposure standard density selection screen 70 RGBCMY selection screen 80 Shooting condition selection screen 90 Color temperature / CC index selection screen 900 Detailed color temperature / CC index selection screen F Film

Claims (10)

Pre-scan the film image developed on the film,
A plurality of image images with different exposure states are generated based on the image obtained by the pre-scan and displayed as options on a predetermined display device,
Accept user's selection operation for multiple displayed images,
An image input method comprising: obtaining an exposure parameter based on a selected image, and executing a main scan of the film image based on the exposure parameter. Imaging means for electronically capturing a film image developed on the film, exposure amount control means for controlling an exposure amount at the time of imaging the image, and display means for displaying an image captured by the imaging means; In an image input system comprising a storage means for recording a captured image signal and a control unit for controlling an imaging operation.
The control unit causes the imaging unit to capture a film image and execute a main scan for actually recording the image, and a pre-scan to cause the imaging unit to capture the film image before the main scan. And a pre-scan control unit that executes a predetermined process.
The pre-scan control unit generates a plurality of image images having different exposure states based on a pre-scan imaging control unit that causes the imaging unit to perform the pre-scan imaging operation, and an image obtained by the pre-scan. Then, an image image generation unit to be displayed as an option on the display means, and an exposure parameter calculation unit that calculates an exposure parameter based on the selected image image,
The main scan control unit performs control to execute a main scan after setting the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit as an exposure parameter in the main scan in the exposure amount control unit. Image input system.   The image input system according to claim 2, wherein the image image generation unit generates a plurality of image images according to film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance.   The image input system according to claim 2, wherein the image image generation unit generates a plurality of image images with different densities.   5. The pre-scan control unit includes a photometry priority position selection unit that enables selection of a photometry priority position for preferentially acquiring histogram information from an image obtained by the pre-scan. The image input system described.   The image input system according to claim 4, wherein the pre-scan control unit includes an exposure reference selection unit that enables specification of an exposure reference that is a reference for generating a plurality of image images.   The image input system according to claim 2, wherein the film is a color negative film. The main scan control unit is capable of executing a main scan for each of a plurality of colors,
3. The image input system according to claim 2, wherein the exposure amount control means can set an exposure parameter for each of the plurality of colors. Imaging means for electronically capturing a film image developed on the film, exposure amount control means for controlling an exposure amount at the time of imaging the image, and display means for displaying an image captured by the imaging means; In an image input system comprising a storage means for recording a captured image signal and a control unit for controlling an imaging operation.
The control unit causes the imaging unit to capture a film image and execute a main scan for actually recording the image, and a pre-scan to cause the imaging unit to capture the film image before the main scan. And a pre-scan control unit that executes a predetermined process.
The pre-scan control unit generates a plurality of image images according to a pre-scan imaging control unit that causes the imaging unit to perform the pre-scan imaging operation, and film characteristics for each film brand stored in advance, and displays the display A first image generating unit to display as an option on the unit, a second image generating unit to generate a plurality of image images with different densities and display on the display unit as options, and the first and second images A mode selection unit that accepts a mode selection to use which of the image generation unit, and an exposure parameter calculation unit that calculates an exposure parameter based on the selected image image,
The main scan control unit performs control to execute a main scan after setting the exposure parameter obtained by the exposure parameter calculation unit as an exposure parameter in the main scan in the exposure amount control unit. Image input system. An image pickup means for electronically picking up a film image developed on the film, an exposure amount control means for controlling an exposure amount at the time of image pickup, and a display means for displaying an image picked up by the image pickup means; An operation program of an image input system including a storage unit that records a captured image signal and a control unit that controls an imaging operation.
Causing the imaging means to perform a pre-scan before a main scan for capturing and actually recording a film image;
Generating a plurality of image images with different exposure states based on images captured in the pre-scan and displaying them as options on the display means;
Calculating exposure parameters of the image selected by the user;
An operation program for an image input system for executing a step including performing a main scan after setting the exposure parameter as an exposure parameter in the main scan in the exposure amount control means.

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