JP2007028595A - Electronic camera system, electronic camera, cradle, image accumulation device and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic camera system capable of preventing the flow-out of image data contrary to the intention of a user, when an electronic camera and a cradle are connected. <P>SOLUTION: An electronic camera system has an electronic camera and a cradle. The electronic camera has a first recording section and a first connection terminal. The first recording section records image data, and the first connection terminal is used to transmit data and receive data to and from the outside of the camera. The cradle has a second connection terminal and a second recording section. The second connection terminal is configured to be engaged with the first connection section, and data are transmitted and received to and from the electronic camera via the second connection terminal. Image data transferred from the electronic camera are recordable in the second recording section. At least either the electronic camera or the cradle further has a transfer determination section for determining, based on predetermined authentication information, whether the transfer of the image data is permitted. When permitted by the transfer determination section, the electronic camera transfers the image data from the first recording section to the cradle. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic camera system having an electronic camera and a cradle.

In recent years, electronic cameras that electronically record subject images are rapidly spreading. Some electronic cameras include a stand-type expansion device (cradle) as an accessory in order to facilitate viewing of a reproduced image on a monitor and charging of the camera (see Patent Document 1). In general, the cradle is designed to be used as a pair with a specific electronic camera, and there are cradles that have the function of automatically transferring and storing image data to the cradle when connected to the electronic camera. is doing.
JP 2003-169243 A

However, with a conventional cradle, for example, when an electronic camera is connected to another person's cradle when viewing or charging a playback image, private image data is inadvertently transferred to the other person's cradle and leaked. Improvements were desired in what could happen.
The present invention is to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic camera system that can prevent outflow of image data contrary to the user's intention when the electronic camera is connected to the cradle. is there.

  The electronic camera system of the first invention has an electronic camera and a cradle. The electronic camera includes an imaging unit, a first recording unit, a first connection terminal, and a camera control unit. The imaging unit photoelectrically converts a subject image obtained by the photographing optical system to generate image data. The first recording unit records image data. The first connection terminal is used for data transmission / reception with the outside of the camera. The camera control unit transfers the image data to the outside of the camera via the first connection terminal. The cradle includes a second connection terminal, a cradle control unit, and a second recording unit. The second connection terminal is configured to be engageable with the first connection terminal. The cradle control unit performs data transmission / reception with the electronic camera via the second connection terminal. The second recording unit can record the image data transferred from the electronic camera. In addition, at least one of the electronic camera and the cradle further includes a transfer determination unit that determines whether image data can be transferred based on predetermined authentication information. Then, the camera control unit transfers the image data from the first recording unit to the cradle when the transfer determination unit has permission.

  In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the transfer determination means further comprises a memory. The memory records the necessity of erasing image data of the first recording unit and the correspondence between the necessity of image data recording of the second recording unit and the authentication information. And a camera control part and a cradle control part change the recording state of the image data in a 1st recording part and a 2nd recording part according to authentication information.

  In a third aspect based on the first aspect, the electronic camera further includes a first authentication information holding unit. The first authentication information holding unit holds camera side authentication information. The cradle further includes a second authentication information holding unit. The second authentication information holding unit holds cradle side authentication information associated with specific camera side authentication information. Then, at least one of the camera control unit and the cradle control unit collates the camera side authentication information and the cradle side authentication information to determine whether image data can be transferred.

According to a fourth invention, in the first or second invention, the transfer determination means includes an input means for acquiring a user's authentication input, and an authentication means for permitting transfer when the authentication input is valid.
According to a fifth invention, in any one of the first to fourth inventions, at least one of the electronic camera and the cradle further includes a connection detection unit that detects connection with the electronic camera. Then, the transfer determination means automatically executes a transfer permission determination operation when the electronic camera and the cradle are connected.

In a sixth aspect based on any one of the first to fifth aspects, the electronic camera further includes a rechargeable battery. The cradle further includes a charging device for charging the rechargeable battery.
The electronic camera of the seventh invention is connected to a cradle and constitutes an electronic camera system. The electronic camera includes an imaging unit, a recording unit, a connection terminal, a transfer determination unit, and a camera control unit. The imaging unit photoelectrically converts a subject image obtained by the photographing optical system to generate image data. The recording unit records image data. The connection terminal is used for data transmission / reception with the cradle. The transfer determination unit determines whether image data can be transferred based on predetermined authentication information. The camera control unit transfers the image data to the cradle through the connection terminal when the transfer determination unit has permission.

  The cradle of the eighth invention is connected to an electronic camera to constitute an electronic camera system. The cradle includes a connection terminal, a transfer determination unit, a cradle control unit, and a second recording unit. The connection terminal is used for data transmission / reception with the electronic camera. The transfer determination unit determines whether image data from the electronic camera can be transferred based on predetermined authentication information. The cradle control unit receives image data from the electronic camera via the connection terminal when the transfer determination unit has permission. Image data can be recorded in the second recording unit.

  An electronic camera system according to a ninth aspect includes an electronic camera and an image storage device. The electronic camera includes an imaging unit and a first communication unit. The imaging unit photoelectrically converts a subject image obtained by the photographing optical system to generate image data. The first communication unit executes data transmission / reception with the outside and outputs image data to the outside of the camera. The image storage device includes a second communication unit, a first recording unit, and a display output unit. The second communication unit performs data transmission / reception with the first communication unit. The first recording unit can record image data. The display output unit outputs a display image based on the image data to the image display device. One of the devices selected from the electronic camera and the image storage device further includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information. The other device selected from the electronic camera and the image storage device further includes a control unit and a mode selection unit. The control unit selectively executes one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode when connected to one device. The mode selection unit selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from one device. Then, the control unit in the first operation mode permits the recording of the image data to the first recording unit and the output of the display image by the display output unit. The control unit in the second operation mode permits output of the display image by the display output unit, but prohibits recording of the image data in the first recording unit.

In a tenth aspect based on the ninth aspect, the other apparatus further includes a first history recording unit that records a connection history with the one apparatus together with the first authentication information of the connection destination. The mode selection unit selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the data of the first history recording unit.
In an eleventh aspect based on the tenth aspect, the other apparatus further includes a second authentication recording unit that records the second authentication information. In addition, one device further includes a second history recording unit that records a connection history with the other device together with second authentication information of a connection destination. The mode selection unit selects the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the data of the first history recording unit and the second history recording unit.

In a twelfth aspect based on the eleventh aspect, the mode selection unit selects the first operation mode when one device and the other device coincide with the connection destination at the time of the initial connection.
In a thirteenth aspect based on the eleventh aspect, the mode selection unit selects the second operation mode when at least one of the one device and the other device does not match the connection destination at the time of the initial connection.

  In a fourteenth aspect based on the eleventh aspect, at least one of the one device and the other device further includes a first operation unit that receives a change input of the first operation mode and the second operation mode from a user. In addition, at least one of the first history recording unit and the second history recording unit further records operation mode data indicating the operation mode selected by the change input in association with the connection history. The mode selection unit selects the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the operation mode data.

In a fifteenth aspect based on the ninth aspect, the image storage device further includes a data output unit for transferring the image data to an external device different from the electronic camera. Then, the control unit in the first operation mode permits transfer of the image data to the external device. The control unit in the second operation mode prohibits transfer of image data to an external device.
In a sixteenth aspect based on the ninth aspect, the electronic camera further includes a second recording unit capable of recording image data. The control unit in the first operation mode permits transfer of image data from the first recording unit to the second recording unit. The control unit in the second operation mode prohibits transfer of image data from the first recording unit to the second recording unit.

In a seventeenth aspect based on the ninth aspect, the electronic camera further includes a second operation unit that receives an operation from the user. And the control part in the 1st operation mode permits operation to the data of the 1st recording part by the 2nd operation part. The control unit in the second operation mode prohibits the operation of the data in the first recording unit by the second operation unit.
In an eighteenth aspect based on the ninth aspect, the electronic camera further includes a second recording section capable of recording image data. The image storage device further includes a third operation unit that receives an operation from the user. And the control part in the 1st operation mode permits operation to the data of the 2nd recording part by the 3rd operation part. The control unit in the second operation mode prohibits an operation on the data in the second recording unit by the third operation unit.

  An electronic camera according to a nineteenth aspect of the invention is an electronic camera that constitutes an electronic camera system together with an image storage device. The image storage device includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information, a second communication unit that executes data transmission / reception with the outside, a first recording unit, and a display image based on image data. A display output unit for outputting to a display device. The electronic camera also includes an imaging unit, a first communication unit, a control unit, a first history recording unit, and a mode selection unit. The imaging unit photoelectrically converts a subject image obtained by the photographing optical system to generate image data. The first communication unit executes data transmission / reception with the second communication unit and outputs image data to the image storage device. The control unit selectively executes one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode when connected to the image storage device. The first history recording unit records the connection history with the image storage device together with the first authentication information of the connection destination. The mode selection unit selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from the image storage device and the data of the first history recording unit. Then, the control unit in the first operation mode permits the recording of the image data to the first recording unit and the output of the display image by the display output unit. The control unit in the second operation mode permits output of the display image by the display output unit, but prohibits recording of the image data in the first recording unit.

  An image storage apparatus according to a twentieth invention constitutes an electronic camera system together with an electronic camera. The electronic camera includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information, an imaging unit that generates image data, and a first communication unit that executes data transmission / reception with the outside. The image storage device includes a second communication unit, a first recording unit, a display output unit, a control unit, a first history recording unit, and a mode selection unit. The second communication unit performs data transmission / reception with the first communication unit. Image data can be recorded in the first recording unit. The display output unit outputs a display image based on the image data to the image display device. The control unit selectively executes one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode when connected to the electronic camera. The first history recording unit records the connection history with the electronic camera together with the first authentication information of the connection destination. The mode selection unit selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from the electronic camera and the data of the first history recording unit. Then, the control unit in the first operation mode permits the recording of the image data to the first recording unit and the output of the display image by the display output unit. The control unit in the second operation mode permits output of the display image by the display output unit, but prohibits recording of the image data in the first recording unit.

  Note that a representation of the configuration relating to the above-described image storage device converted into a program, an image processing method, a recording medium, and the like is also effective as a specific aspect of the present invention.

  In the present invention, the image data is transferred from the electronic camera to the cradle only when the transfer determination means based on the authentication information is permitted, and it is possible to prevent the image data from leaking against the user's intention when the electronic camera is connected to the cradle.

(Description of the first embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the electronic camera system of the first embodiment. The electronic camera system according to the first embodiment includes an electronic camera 10 and a cradle 30. A first connection terminal 20 is formed on the bottom surface of the electronic camera 10.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1A, a camera receiving portion 31 for mounting the electronic camera 10 is formed on the upper surface of the cradle 30. On the inner surface of the camera receiving portion 31, a second connection terminal 32 having a male-female relationship with the first connection terminal 20 and a micro switch 33 are arranged. As shown in FIG. 1B, when the electronic camera 10 is disposed in the camera receiving portion 31, the first connection terminal 20 and the second connection terminal 32 are engaged, and the electrical connection between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 is performed. Connection is established. The cradle 30 can detect the connection state with the electronic camera 10 based on whether or not the microswitch 33 is pressed.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic camera system of the first embodiment.
The electronic camera 10 includes a photographing lens 11, an image sensor 12, an A / D conversion unit 13, a buffer memory 14, an image processing unit 15, a hard disk 16, a card I / F 16a, a liquid crystal monitor 17, and an operation member. 18, a rechargeable battery 19 that supplies power to each part of the camera, a first connection terminal 20, a CPU 21, and a data bus 22. Note that the buffer memory 14, the image processing unit 15, the hard disk 16, the card I / F 16 a, the liquid crystal monitor 17, and the CPU 21 are connected via a data bus 22.

  The image sensor 12 photoelectrically converts the light beam that has passed through the photographing lens 11 to generate an analog image signal of the subject image. The A / D converter 13 converts the analog image signal of the image sensor 12 into a digital image signal. The buffer memory 14 temporarily stores image data in a pre-process or post-process of image processing in the image processing unit 15. The image processing unit 15 performs image processing (defective pixel correction, gamma correction, interpolation, color conversion, edge enhancement, etc.) on the digital image signal to generate image data (moving image data or still image data). The image processing unit 15 also executes image data compression / decompression processing.

  Image data generated by the image processing unit 15 is recorded on the hard disk 16. The hard disk 16 includes a disk-shaped magnetic disk whose surface is coated with a magnetic material, a magnetic head that reads and writes data without contact with the magnetic disk, a magnetic disk rotating mechanism such as a spindle motor, a magnetic head driving mechanism, a data head And a controller that controls reading and writing (illustration of the detailed structure of the hard disk is omitted).

The card I / F 16a is formed with a connector for connecting a recording medium 23 as auxiliary recording means. The recording medium 23 is composed of a known semiconductor memory or the like. The card I / F 16a controls writing / reading of image data with respect to the recording medium 23.
The liquid crystal monitor 17 displays a reproduction display of image data recorded on the hard disk 16 or the recording medium 23, a setting screen for changing various camera settings, and the like. The operation member 18 includes a setting switch used for various settings of the electronic camera, a release button (18a), and the like. The first connection terminal 20 is connected to a signal input / output line from the CPU 21 and a power supply line to the rechargeable battery 19.

The CPU 21 controls the operation of each part of the electronic camera according to a sequence program stored in a ROM (not shown). For example, the CPU 21 executes transmission / reception of various data (image data and the like) to a cradle control unit 41 described later when connected to the cradle 30. Further, the CPU 21 performs a charging operation of the rechargeable battery when connected to the cradle 30.
Further, the CPU 21 holds camera side authentication information (for example, information such as a password and a serial number) for making it possible to identify each electronic camera. This camera-side authentication information is transmitted to the cradle 30 side, and is used by the cradle control unit 41 to determine whether image data can be transferred.

  On the other hand, the cradle 30 includes a second connection terminal 32, a micro switch 33, a display I / F 34 and a communication I / F 35, a charging device 36, a recording unit 37, a management memory 38, an operation unit 39, and a display unit. 40 and a cradle control unit 41. The second connection terminal 32 is connected to a signal input / output line from the cradle control unit 41 and a power supply line of the charging device 36.

The display I / F 34 is an interface for outputting a reproduction display output of image data to a television or the like (not shown). The display I / F 34 has a known video output terminal (for example, a composite video terminal, a separate video terminal, etc.).
The communication I / F 35 controls data transmission / reception with an external device (such as a personal computer) connected to the cradle 30 in accordance with a serial communication standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) or IEEE1394. The charging device 36 receives power from an external power source (not shown) and charges the rechargeable battery 19 of the electronic camera 10 via the first connection terminal 20 and the second connection terminal 32.

The recording unit 37 is composed of, for example, a hard disk or a semiconductor memory. The recording capacity of the recording unit 37 is set larger than the recording capacity of the hard disk 16 of the electronic camera 10. Therefore, it is also possible to sequentially transfer and save image data captured by the electronic camera 10 to the recording unit 37.
In the management memory 38, the correspondence between the cradle side authentication information and the processing rank information is recorded. Here, the cradle side authentication information is associated with specific camera side authentication information. This cradle side authentication information is used to identify the electronic camera 10 that is allowed to transfer image data on the cradle 30 side. It should be noted that a plurality of cradle side authentication information can be registered in the management memory 38, and one cradle 30 can be shared by a plurality of electronic cameras 10.

Further, the processing rank information indicates the contents of various processing (image data erasure necessity on the electronic camera 10 side and image data recording necessity on the recording unit 37) at the time of image data transfer of the electronic camera system from rank A to rank D. It is divided into four stages.
Specifically, (1) In rank A, the electronic camera 10 transfers image data to the cradle 30, the image data is recorded in the recording unit 37, and the image data on the electronic camera 10 side serving as the transfer source is erased. Is done. (2) In rank B, the electronic camera 10 transfers the image data to the cradle 30, and the image data is recorded in the recording unit 37 while leaving the image data on the electronic camera 10 side as the transfer source. (3) In the C rank, the electronic camera 10 transfers image data to the cradle 30, but recording of the image data to the recording unit 37 and erasing of the image data on the electronic camera 10 side are not performed. (4) In D rank, transfer of image data from the electronic camera 10 to the cradle 30 is prohibited. In the first embodiment, when an electronic camera whose camera-side authentication information does not correspond to the cradle-side authentication information is connected, the same processing as the above-described D rank is performed.

The operation unit 39 is used to instruct the cradle control unit 41 to read out image data from the electronic camera 10. The operation unit 39 is used for setting registration of the camera side authentication information and cradle authentication information (registration of the electronic camera 10) and setting of processing rank information.
Information such as the operating state of the cradle 30 and the free capacity of the recording unit 37 is displayed on the display unit 40.

  The cradle control unit 41 controls each part of the cradle 30. For example, the cradle control unit 41 stores the image data transferred from the electronic camera 10 side in the recording unit 37, outputs the reproduction image of the image data to the outside from the display I / F 34, and communicates the image data. An operation of transferring from the I / F 35 to an external device is executed. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 of the first embodiment performs collation between the camera side authentication information and the cradle side authentication information, and executes a process defined in the process rank information together with the CPU 21.

Next, a series of operations of the electronic camera system of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
Step S101: The cradle control unit 41 detects the connection between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 by the input of the micro switch 33. Next, the cradle control unit 41 communicates with the CPU 21 and acquires camera side authentication information from the CPU 21. Then, the cradle control unit 41 drives the charging device 36 to start the charging operation of the rechargeable battery 19.

  Step S102: The cradle control unit 41 collates the camera side authentication information with the cradle side authentication information, and determines whether there is corresponding cradle side authentication information. If there is corresponding cradle side authentication information (YES side), the process proceeds to S103. On the other hand, when there is no corresponding cradle side authentication information (NO side), the cradle control unit 41 continues the above charging operation without reading out image data from the electronic camera 10. Therefore, in this case, no image data leaks from the electronic camera 10 to the cradle 30 against the user's intention.

  Step S103: The cradle control unit 41 reads the processing rank information corresponding to the cradle side authentication information in S102, and determines whether the processing rank is A rank or D rank. If it is A rank, it will transfer to S104. If it is B rank, it will transfer to S105. If it is C rank, it will transfer to S106. And if it is D rank, the cradle control part 41 will continue only said charging operation, without reading image data from the electronic camera 10. FIG. In this case, no image data leaks from the electronic camera 10 to the cradle 30 against the user's intention.

  Step S104: The cradle control unit 41 requests the CPU 21 to transfer image data. The CPU 21 transfers the image data from the hard disk 16 or the recording medium 23 to the cradle 30 and deletes the transfer source image data. Then, the cradle control unit 41 records the transferred image data in the recording unit 37. That is, in the case of S104, the image data is accumulated in the cradle 30, and the transferred image data is automatically deleted from the electronic camera 10, and the number of shootable frames increases accordingly.

  On the other hand, the user can view the image data recorded in the recording unit 37 of the cradle 30 on a television or the like, or transfer the image data from the cradle 30 to an external device. In S104, when the recording unit 37 runs out of free space, the CPU 21 stops transferring and deleting image data, and the cradle control unit 41 determines that “defragmentation is executed due to insufficient free space in the recording unit 37. “Not possible” is displayed as a warning on the display unit 40 using characters or icons.

  Step S105: The cradle control unit 41 requests the CPU 21 to transfer image data. The CPU 21 transfers image data from the hard disk 16 or the recording medium 23 to the cradle 30. Then, the cradle control unit 41 records the transferred image data in the recording unit 37. That is, in the case of S105, the image data is stored in the cradle 30, while the transfer source image data is left as it is in the electronic camera 10. The processing in S105 is suitable for storing favorite image data on the electronic camera 10 side and carrying it, or for backing up image data to a plurality of cradle 30.

  Step S106: The cradle control unit 41 requests the CPU 21 to transfer image data. The CPU 21 transfers image data from the hard disk 16 or the recording medium 23 to the cradle 30. Then, the cradle control unit 41 outputs a reproduction image based on the transferred image data from the display I / F 34 to a television or the like. At this time, the cradle control unit 41 does not record the image data to the recording unit 37 or transfer the image data to the external device. The process in S106 is suitable for, for example, the case where the electronic camera 10 is connected to another person's cradle 30 and a captured image is reproduced. This is the end of the description of the operation of the first embodiment.

Hereinafter, effects of the electronic camera system of the first embodiment will be described.
(1) In the first embodiment, image data is transferred from the electronic camera 10 to the cradle 30 only when the camera side authentication information and the cradle side authentication information have a correspondence relationship (S102 to S106). That is, the image data is transferred to the cradle 30 only when the user permits the transfer of the image data in advance by the registration setting of the authentication information, so that the outflow of the image data contrary to the user's intention can be prevented. Further, the electronic camera 10 can be charged by connecting the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30.

  (2) In the first embodiment, since the image data transfer sequence is automatically executed with the input of the micro switch 33 as a trigger (S101), the complexity of the operation during the transfer of the image data is eliminated. Further, since the setting at the time of transferring the image data can be customized in detail by registering the processing rank information, an electronic camera system with high user convenience can be realized.

(Description of Second Embodiment)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic camera system of the second embodiment. In the following description of the embodiments, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment, and is configured in the same way as the first embodiment in that a management memory 24 that records the correspondence relationship between camera-side authentication information and processing rank information is provided on the electronic camera 10 side. Is different. Further, the CPU 21 of the second embodiment has a function of determining whether image data can be transferred and various processes at the time of transferring the image data. Only the cradle side authentication information is recorded in the management memory 38 on the cradle 30 side.

In the second embodiment, the cradle control unit 41 transmits cradle-side authentication information when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected, and the CPU 21 determines whether image data can be transferred and various processes during image data transfer. The configuration of the second embodiment can obtain substantially the same effect as that of the first embodiment.
(Description of the third embodiment)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a series of operations of the electronic camera system of the third embodiment. Here, S205 to S207 of the third embodiment correspond to S104 to S106 of the first embodiment, respectively, and thus redundant description is omitted. The block diagram of the electronic camera system according to the third embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, and is not shown.

  In the third embodiment, authentication information (password) set by the user is stored as cradle side authentication information in the management memory 38, and the cradle control unit 41 determines whether image data can be transferred based on the authentication information input by the user. judge. In the third embodiment, the user inputs a processing rank corresponding to the processing rank information (A rank to C rank) of the first embodiment.

  Step S201: The cradle control unit 41 detects the connection between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 by the input of the micro switch 33. Next, the cradle control unit 41 causes the display unit 40 to display a display prompting input of authentication information and a processing rank (selection from rank A to rank C of the rank processing information in the first embodiment). Then, the cradle control unit 41 drives the charging device 36 to start the charging operation of the rechargeable battery 19.

  Step S202: The cradle control unit 41 determines whether authentication information and a processing rank are input by the user from the operation unit of the electronic camera 10 or the operation unit of the cradle 30. If there is an input (YES side), the process proceeds to S203. When there is no input (NO side), the cradle control unit 41 waits for a user input. When there is no input for a predetermined time, the cradle control unit 41 ends the process as it is and continues only the above-described charging operation.

Step S203: The cradle control unit 41 collates the input authentication information with the authentication information in the management memory 38, and determines whether or not the input authentication information is valid. If the authentication information is valid (YES side), the process proceeds to S204. On the other hand, if the authentication information is not valid (NO side), the process returns to S202.
Step S204: The cradle control unit 41 determines whether the processing rank input together with the authentication information is from rank A to rank C. If it is A rank, it will transfer to S205. If it is B rank, it will transfer to S206. If it is C rank, it will transfer to S207.

Also in the third embodiment, the image data is transferred to the cradle 30 only when the user permits the transfer of the image data according to the registration setting of the authentication information, so that the outflow of the image data against the user's intention can be prevented.
(Explanation of Fourth Embodiment)
Next, an electronic camera system according to a fourth embodiment will be described. The basic configuration of the electronic camera system of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 shown in FIG. Therefore, in the description of the fourth embodiment, illustration of a block diagram is omitted, and the same reference numerals are given to the components corresponding to those of the above-described embodiment, and redundant description is omitted.

  In the fourth embodiment, camera-side authentication information and camera-side connection history data are recorded in the management memory 24 of the electronic camera 10. The camera side authentication information is composed of different data for each electronic camera 10, and is used by the connection destination cradle 30 to identify each electronic camera 10. As an example, the serial number or the manufacturing code of the electronic camera 10 can be used for the camera side authentication information. Of course, any symbol string assigned to each electronic camera 10 may be used as the camera-side authentication information in addition to the serial number.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram schematically showing camera side connection history data. In the camera side connection history data, the connection history is recorded in time series by the CPU 21 every time the electronic camera 10 is connected to the cradle 30. The camera side connection history data is recorded as a connection history in a state in which the connection date and time, the cradle side authentication information indicating the connection destination cradle 30 and the operation mode at the time of connection are associated with each other. Here, the operation mode defines operations that can be performed by the user in a state where the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected. The cradle side authentication information will be described later. In the example of FIG. 6A, data for one line corresponds to a connection history for one time, and the connection history becomes newer as the lower line is reached.

  The CPU 21 of the electronic camera 10 controls transmission / reception of data to / from the connection destination cradle 30 and manages camera side connection history data. In particular, the CPU 21 transmits camera-side authentication information to the cradle 30 when connected to the cradle 30. Further, the CPU 21 searches for camera-side connection history data based on cradle-side authentication information described later received from the cradle 30 and returns a search result to the cradle 30 when connected to the cradle 30.

  In the management memory 38 of the cradle 30, cradle side authentication information and cradle side connection history data are recorded. The cradle side authentication information is composed of different data for each cradle 30 and is used by the connected electronic camera 10 to identify each cradle 30. As an example, the serial number or manufacturing code of the cradle 30 can be used for the cradle side authentication information. Of course, as the cradle side authentication information, an arbitrary symbol string assigned to each cradle 30 may be used separately from the serial number and the like.

  FIG. 6B is a diagram schematically showing cradle side connection history data. In the cradle side connection history data, every time the cradle 30 is connected to the electronic camera 10, the connection history is recorded in time series by the cradle control unit 41. The cradle side connection history data is recorded as a connection history for one time in a state in which the connection date and time, the camera side authentication information indicating the connection destination electronic camera 10 and the operation mode at the time of connection are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 6B, the data for one line corresponds to the connection history for one time, and the connection history becomes newer as the lower line.

  The cradle control unit 41 of the cradle 30 controls transmission / reception of data to / from the connection destination cradle 30 and manages cradle side connection history data. In particular, the cradle control unit 41 transmits cradle side authentication information to the electronic camera 10 when connected to the electronic camera 10. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 searches the cradle side connection history data based on the camera side authentication information received from the electronic camera 10 when connected to the electronic camera 10.

The cradle control unit 41 determines the above operation mode when connected to the electronic camera 10 and performs overall control of the entire system in a state where the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected. Here, the cradle control unit 41 can select an operation mode from either the first operation mode or the second operation mode in determining the operation mode.
In the first operation mode, when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected, the user can perform various operations almost without restriction. In the first operation mode, for example, when the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 match, the user permits the data transfer between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30. Selected in the situation.

  On the other hand, in the second operation mode, operations that can be performed by the user are limited as compared to the first operation mode. This second operation mode is selected in a situation where, for example, the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are different, and the user wants to prevent data leakage. The specific contents of the operations in the first operation mode and the second operation mode will be described later.

Hereinafter, the operation of the CPU 21 and the cradle control unit 41 in the selection of the operation mode in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
Step 301: When the cradle control unit 41 of the cradle 30 detects the connection between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 by the input of the micro switch 33, the cradle control unit 41 transmits the cradle side authentication information to the electronic camera 10.

Step 302: Upon receiving the cradle side authentication information (S301), the CPU 21 of the electronic camera 10 transmits the camera side authentication information to the cradle 30.
Step 303: The CPU 21 of the electronic camera 10 searches the camera side connection history data based on the cradle side authentication information (S301), and sequentially executes the following processes (a1) to (a3).

  (A1) First, the CPU 21 determines whether there is a previous connection history (that is, whether the electronic camera 10 has never been connected to the cradle 30). If there is a previous connection history, the CPU 21 performs the following process (a2). On the other hand, if there is no previous connection history, the CPU 21 notifies the cradle 30 that the current connection is the first connection. In this case, the CPU 21 does not need to perform the processing after (a2) in S303.

  (A2) Second, the CPU 21 determines whether the cradle side authentication information corresponding to the oldest connection history matches the current cradle side authentication information (S301) (that is, the electronic camera 10 is connected to the plurality of cradles 30). Whether or not) is determined. When the two match, the CPU 21 notifies the cradle 30 that it is determined that the cradle 30 matches the connection destination of the first connection. In this case, the CPU 21 does not need to perform the processing after (a3) in S303. On the other hand, if the two do not match, the CPU 21 performs the next process (a3).

  (A3) Thirdly, the CPU 21 extracts a connection history corresponding to the current cradle side authentication information (S301). Then, the CPU 21 notifies the cradle 30 of the operation mode recorded in the latest connection history among the extracted connection histories. If the electronic camera 10 does not have a connection history corresponding to the current cradle side authentication information (S301), the CPU 21 instructs the cradle 30 to select the second operation mode.

Step 304: On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 of the cradle 30 searches the cradle side connection history data based on the camera side authentication information (S302), and sequentially executes the following processes (b1) to (b3). Note that the cradle control unit 41 can execute the operation of S304 almost in parallel with the operation of S303 on the electronic camera 10 side.
(B1) First, the cradle control unit 41 determines whether there is a previous connection history (that is, whether the cradle 30 has never been connected to the electronic camera 10). If there is a previous connection history, the cradle control unit 41 performs the following process (b2). On the other hand, if there is no previous connection history, the cradle control unit 41 determines that the current connection is the first connection. In this case, the cradle control unit 41 does not need to perform the processing after (b2) in S304.

  (B2) Secondly, the cradle control unit 41 determines whether the camera side authentication information corresponding to the oldest connection history matches the current camera side authentication information (S302) (that is, the cradle 30 includes a plurality of electronic cameras 10). Or not) is determined. If the two match, the cradle control unit 41 determines that the electronic camera 10 matches the connection destination of the first connection. In this case, the cradle control unit 41 does not need to perform the processing after (b3) in S304. On the other hand, if the two do not match, the cradle control unit 41 performs the next process (b3).

  (B3) Third, the cradle control unit 41 extracts a connection history corresponding to the current camera side authentication information (S302). Then, the cradle control unit 41 acquires the operation mode data recorded in the latest connection history among the extracted connection histories. If the connection history corresponding to the current camera-side authentication information (S302) is not in the cradle 30, the cradle control unit 41 selects the second operation mode.

Step 305: The cradle control unit 41 determines whether or not the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected to each other for the first time based on the processing results of S303 and S304.
In the case of mutual connection for the first time (YES side), for example, the case where the owner connects the new electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 first corresponds, and the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are different. The possibility is considered low. Therefore, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S310.

On the other hand, when at least one of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 is not connected for the first time (NO side), there is a high possibility that the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are different. Therefore, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S306 and further performs the following determination.
Step 306: Based on the processing results of S303 and S304, the cradle control unit 41 determines whether or not the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 match the connection destination of the initial connection.

When the connection destinations of the first connection are the same (YES side), it is considered that the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are unlikely to be different. Therefore, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S310.
On the other hand, when at least one of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 is not the connection destination of the initial connection (NO side), there is a high possibility that the owners of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are different. Therefore, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S307 and further performs the following determination.

  Step 307: The cradle control unit 41 determines whether the operation mode of the latest connection history is the first operation mode based on the processing results of S303 and S304. When the above requirement is satisfied (YES side), it is considered that the user allows the operation in the first operation mode in the combination of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30. Therefore, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S310. On the other hand, if the above requirement is not satisfied (NO side), the process proceeds to S308.

  Step 308: The cradle control unit 41 displays an operation mode confirmation screen on the display unit 40 or the like. On this confirmation screen, a message for confirming whether or not the function is restricted at the time of connection to the user (connection in the second operation mode) and selection items (Yes / No etc.) that can be input in the GUI format Item). The cradle control unit 41 receives a designation input related to the selection item from the user via the operation unit 39. The confirmation screen is not shown.

Step 309: The cradle control unit 41 determines whether or not there is a designation input for maintaining the operation mode in the second operation mode in S308. In the case of designation input (YES side) of an item for maintaining the operation mode (Yes item on the confirmation screen), the process proceeds to S311. On the other hand, in the case of the designation input of the item for changing the operation mode (No item on the confirmation screen), the process proceeds to S310.
Step 310: In this case, the cradle control unit 41 selects the first operation mode. Thereafter, the cradle control unit 41 proceeds to S312.

Step 311: In this case, the cradle control unit 41 selects the second operation mode.
Step 312: The cradle control unit 41 adds the current connection history data to the cradle side connection history data in the management memory 38. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 transmits the current connection history data to the electronic camera 10.
Step 313: The CPU 21 of the electronic camera 10 adds the current connection history data to the camera side connection history data in the management memory 24 based on the data transmitted in S312. Above, description of the flowchart of FIG. 7 is complete | finished.

Next, the difference in control of the cradle control unit 41 between the first operation mode and the second operation mode will be specifically described.
(A) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can read and reproduce the image data in the electronic camera 10. In other words, the cradle control unit 41 temporarily reads image data from the electronic camera 10 into a buffer memory (not shown) of the cradle 30 and outputs a reproduced image to the display unit 40 or the display I / F 34. it can. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can also perform playback display for image data for which protection is specified to prohibit playback or erasure on other devices.

  On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode can read and reproduce the image data in the electronic camera 10 as in the first operation mode. However, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode always executes an operation of deleting the image data from the buffer memory of the cradle 30 after the reproduction is completed. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the image data remaining in the buffer memory of the cradle 30 from being reproduced and displayed without limitation by the cradle 30 alone.

  In addition, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits the reproduction and display of the image data for which the protection is specified. Therefore, in the second operation mode, protected image data is not reproduced against the user's intention. However, even in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 may individually reproduce and display the image data for which protection is designated based on a user operation from the operation unit 39. In the case where the image data designated as protected in the second operation mode is reproduced and displayed, it is preferable that the cradle control unit 41 asks the user for authentication such as password entry.

  (B) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can transfer the image data of the electronic camera 10 to the recording unit 37 for recording. Further, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can also instruct the CPU 21 to erase the transfer source image data on the electronic camera 10 side. Of course, the cradle control unit 41 can also copy the image data while leaving the transfer source image data in the electronic camera 10 as it is.

  Further, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can limit the image data to be transferred to the cradle 30 and recorded. For example, when pay image data that is sold by download is recorded in the electronic camera 10, the cradle control unit 41 refers to the information of the header of the pay image data and prohibits copying to the cradle 30. In this case, the cradle control unit 41 can transfer and record only the image data captured by the electronic camera 10 to the cradle 30. When a low-resolution sample image that can be distributed free of charge is added to the pay image data, the cradle control unit 41 may permit transfer and recording of the sample image.

  On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits the transfer and recording of the image data of the electronic camera 10 to the recording unit 37. Therefore, in the second operation mode, the image data recorded in the electronic camera 10 does not flow out to the cradle 30 against the user's intention. However, even in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 may transfer the image data individually designated by the user through the operation unit 39 or the like to the recording unit 37. As an example, when the user presses the release button 18 a of the electronic camera 10 during reproduction display of image data, the cradle control unit 41 transfers the image data being reproduced and displayed to the recording unit 37. When image data is transferred in the second operation mode, it is preferable that the cradle control unit 41 asks the user for authentication such as password entry.

  (C) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can transfer image data from the recording unit 37 of the cradle 30 to the electronic camera 10. The cradle control unit 41 can also erase the transfer source image data in the recording unit 37. Of course, the cradle control unit 41 can copy the image data while leaving the transfer source image data in the recording unit 37 as it is. Furthermore, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can also limit the image data transferred to the electronic camera 10 as in the case of (B) above.

  On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits transfer of image data from the recording unit 37 of the cradle 30 to the electronic camera 10. Therefore, in the second operation mode, the image data recorded on the cradle 30 does not flow out to the electronic camera 10 against the user's intention. However, even in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 may transfer image data individually designated by the user through an operation from the operation unit 39 or the like to the electronic camera 10. In addition, when transferring the image data to the electronic camera 10 in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 preferably requests authentication such as password input from the user.

  Here, when image data transferred from a plurality of electronic cameras 10 is recorded in the recording unit 37, the cradle control unit 41 prohibits retransfer of image data transferred from different electronic cameras 10. May be. That is, in this case, it is only allowed to return the image data previously transferred from the connected electronic camera 10. For example, the cradle control unit 41 determines that the transfer source electronic camera 10 and the transfer destination electronic camera 10 match based on the information (serial number) of the electronic camera 10 recorded in the header of each image data. The image data is transferred to the electronic camera 10. Thereby, it becomes easy to prevent the outflow of image data contrary to the user's intention.

  (D) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode can read the image data from the electronic camera 10 and output the image data to the external device via the communication I / F 35. Thus, for example, (1) saving image data in an external device, (2) printing an image by an external device having a printing function, (3) uploading image data to a homepage on the Internet, (4) image, etc. Users can perform data mail delivery, etc.

  On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits output of image data to an external apparatus via the communication I / F 35. Accordingly, in the second operation mode, the image data does not flow out to the external device against the user's intention. However, even in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 may output image data individually designated by the user through an operation from the operation unit 39 to the external device. When image data is output to an external device in the second operation mode, it is preferable that the cradle control unit 41 asks the user for authentication such as password input.

  (E) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode executes an editing operation of image data in the recording unit of the cradle 30 in accordance with a user input from the operation member 18 of the electronic camera 10. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode executes an editing operation on the image data recorded on the recording medium 23 of the electronic camera 10 in accordance with an input from the operation unit 39 of the cradle 30.

  Here, the image data editing operation includes (1) erasing image data, (2) changing the status of the image data (for example, executing / releasing protection designation), (3) image processing for the image data, (4) generation of print setting data compliant with DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard, and (5) generation of scenario data for reproduction. Note that the scenario data for reproduction records data indicating the display order, display timing, video effect, BGM being reproduced, sound effect, and the like when images of a plurality of image data are continuously reproduced.

  On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits editing operation of image data recorded on the cradle 30 from the operation member 18 of the electronic camera 10. Further, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits editing operation of image data recorded in the electronic camera 10 from the operation unit 39 of the cradle 30. As a result, when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected, it is possible to prevent data from being tampered with by the connected device.

(F) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode transfers the print setting data and the scenario data for reproduction between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 in the same manner as the image data.
On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode prohibits the transfer and copying of the print setting data and the scenario data for reproduction between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30. This is because the execution of these data may cause an image to be printed or reproduced against the user's intention. However, even in the second operation mode, the cradle control unit 41 may transfer and copy the print setting data and the scenario data for reproduction according to the operation from the operation unit 39. In this case, it is preferable that the cradle control unit 41 asks the user for authentication such as password entry.

(G) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode performs charging of the electronic camera 10 when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected. On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode can switch on / off the charging function of the electronic camera 10 in accordance with a user setting.
(H) The cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode executes defragmentation of the hard disk 16 of the electronic camera 10 as necessary when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected. In addition, the cradle control unit 41 in the first operation mode updates the firmware program of the electronic camera 10 as necessary when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are connected. On the other hand, the cradle control unit 41 in the second operation mode does not execute defragmentation of the hard disk 16 or update of the firmware program.

Hereinafter, effects of the fourth embodiment will be described.
In the electronic camera system of the fourth embodiment, the cradle control unit 41 selects an operation mode at the time of connection based on the authentication result between the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30. When the cradle control unit 41 operates in the first operation mode, the user can perform various operations almost without restriction. On the other hand, when the cradle control unit 41 operates in the second operation mode, the user is remarkably limited in image reproduction and image data transfer by the cradle 30. Therefore, in the electronic camera system of the fourth embodiment, it is possible to easily prevent the outflow of image data that is against the user's intention.

In the electronic camera system of the fourth embodiment, the operation mode at the time of connection is selected based on the connection history based on the camera side connection history data and the cradle side connection history data. Therefore, since the cradle control unit 41 selects an appropriate operation mode according to the situation, there is no need for the user to perform complicated setting operations.
(Description of Fifth Embodiment)
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the electronic camera system of the fifth embodiment. The electronic camera system of the fifth embodiment is a modification of the fourth embodiment, and the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 can transmit and receive image data by wireless communication. Also in FIG. 8, the same reference numerals are given to the components corresponding to the above embodiment, and the duplicated explanation is omitted.

  Each of the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 according to the fifth embodiment further includes wireless communication modules 25 and 42. The wireless communication modules 25 and 42 control communication with other wireless communication modules in conformity with specifications defined in IEEE 802.11, which is a wireless LAN standard. For example, when transmitting image data to another device, the wireless communication modules 25 and 42 convert the image data into data that can be wirelessly communicated, and the converted data is transmitted to another device via an antenna (not shown). Send.

In the fifth embodiment, even when the electronic camera 10 and the cradle 30 are not connected by a connection terminal, it is possible to manage the transfer and reproduction of image data as in the fourth embodiment.
(Supplementary items of the embodiment)
(1) The cradle of the present invention is not limited to the case where it is configured by a single device as in the above embodiment. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which a cradle is connected to a personal computer, and the personal computer realizes functions such as the cradle control unit 41 and the recording unit of the above embodiment (not shown).

  (2) In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the transfer sequence of image data is started using the detection of the connection between the electronic camera and the cradle by the micro switch as a trigger has been described. However, in the present invention, the transfer sequence may be started by the user's transfer instruction operation (for example, pressing of the cradle transfer button) as a trigger. Further, a means for detecting the connection with the cradle (for example, a micro switch or a connection detection by energizing the first connection terminal) may be provided on the electronic camera side.

(3) In the above embodiment, an example in which the image data transfer and the charging operation are performed in parallel is shown. However, the present invention has a configuration in which the rechargeable battery is charged after the image data transfer process ends, and the image data after the charge ends. Any of the configurations that execute the transfer processing of the above is included.
(4) Also in the third embodiment, the authentication information and the processing rank information may be recorded in association with each other in the management memory, and the processing rank input by the user may be omitted.

(5) In the third embodiment, a known biometric authentication means (for example, a fingerprint authentication device, an iris authentication device, etc.) is provided in the electronic camera or cradle so that the user inputs authentication information with the biometric authentication means. (The illustration of the biometric authentication means is omitted).
(6) In the fourth embodiment, the example in which the cradle control unit 41 performs overall control of the electronic camera system has been described. However, in the present invention, the electronic camera performs overall control of the electronic camera system, and the CPU 21 executes selection of the first operation mode and the second operation mode and control in each operation mode. May be.

  (7) In the fourth embodiment, the configuration has been described in which the electronic camera and the cradle record the connection history data, and the connection history and the authentication information in both apparatuses are collated. However, the present invention may be configured such that only one of the electronic camera and the cradle records the connection history data and collates the connection history data with the authentication information of the other device. In the fourth embodiment, the correspondence relationship between the authentication information and the operation mode is recorded in the management memory of one device, and one device determines the operation mode based on the authentication information of the other device. May be. In this case, connection history data need not be recorded.

(8) When selecting the first operation mode on the confirmation screen (S308) in the selection of the operation mode in the fourth embodiment, the cradle control unit 41 may require authentication such as password input.
(9) In the fifth embodiment, the example in which the electronic camera system is configured by the electronic camera having the wireless communication function and the cradle has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the cradle, and an electronic camera system corresponding to the fifth embodiment can be configured by a combination of an electronic camera and an image storage device each having a wireless communication function.

(10) In the fifth embodiment, the example in which the data communication of the electronic camera is performed by the wireless LAN has been described. However, the wireless communication means between the electronic camera and the image storage device is not limited to the above. For example, IRDA, DLNA, Bluetooth (registered trademark), a telephone line, or satellite communication may be used as the wireless communication means.
(11) In the above embodiment, the example of data transmission / reception of image data has been mainly described. However, for example, audio data may be included in the data communication target.

Schematic diagram showing the electronic camera system of the first embodiment 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic camera system according to a first embodiment. A flowchart explaining a series of operations of the electronic camera system of the first embodiment. The block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic camera system of 2nd Embodiment. A flowchart explaining a series of operations of the electronic camera system of the third embodiment. (A) Schematic diagram showing camera side connection history data of the fourth embodiment, (b) Schematic diagram showing cradle side connection history data of the fourth embodiment. A flow chart explaining operation of CPU21 and cradle control part 41 by selection of an operation mode of a 4th embodiment. The block diagram which shows the structure of the electronic camera system of 5th Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electronic camera, 12 ... Imaging device, 15 ... Image processing part, 16 ... Hard disk, 16a ... Card I / F, 19 ... Rechargeable battery, 20 ... 1st connection terminal, 21 ... CPU, 30 ... Cradle, 32 ... 1st 2 connection terminals, 33 ... micro switch, 36 ... charging device, 37 ... recording unit, 38 ... management memory, 41 ... cradle control unit, 25, 42 ... wireless communication module

Claims (21)

An imaging unit that photoelectrically converts a subject image by a photographing optical system to generate image data, a first recording unit that records the image data, a first connection terminal that is used for data transmission / reception with the outside of the camera, and the first An electronic camera comprising: a camera control unit that transfers the image data to the outside of the camera via a connection terminal;
A second connection terminal that can be engaged with the first connection terminal, a cradle control unit that transmits and receives data to and from the electronic camera via the second connection terminal, and records the image data transferred from the electronic camera. A cradle with a possible second recording part, and
At least one of the electronic camera and the cradle further includes a transfer determination unit that determines whether or not the image data can be transferred based on predetermined authentication information, and the camera control unit is configured to perform the transfer determination when the transfer determination unit has permission. An electronic camera system, wherein the image data is transferred from the first recording unit to the cradle. The transfer determination unit further includes a memory that records the correspondence between the necessity of erasing image data of the first recording unit and the necessity of erasing image data of the second recording unit and the authentication information,
2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the camera control unit and the cradle control unit change a recording state of the image data in the first recording unit and the second recording unit according to the authentication information. Camera system. The electronic camera further includes a first authentication information holding unit that holds camera-side authentication information,
The cradle further includes a second authentication information holding unit that holds cradle side authentication information associated with specific camera side authentication information,
The at least one of the camera control unit and the cradle control unit determines whether or not the image data can be transferred by collating the camera side authentication information and the cradle side authentication information. 2. The electronic camera system according to 2.   The transfer determination unit includes an input unit that acquires a user's authentication input, and an authentication unit that grants the transfer when the authentication input is valid. Electronic camera system. At least one of the electronic camera and the cradle further includes a connection detection unit that detects connection with the electronic camera,
5. The electronic camera system according to claim 1, wherein the transfer determination unit automatically performs a transfer permission determination operation when the electronic camera is connected to the cradle. 6. . The electronic camera further includes a rechargeable battery,
The electronic camera system according to claim 1, wherein the cradle further includes a charging device for charging the rechargeable battery. An electronic camera connected to a cradle to form an electronic camera system,
Based on predetermined authentication information based on predetermined authentication information, an imaging unit that photoelectrically converts a subject image by a photographing optical system to generate image data, a recording unit that records the image data, a connection terminal that is used for data transmission and reception with the cradle A transfer determination unit that determines whether or not image data can be transferred; and a camera control unit that transfers the image data to the cradle via the connection terminal when the transfer determination unit has permission. Electronic camera. A cradle connected to an electronic camera to form an electronic camera system,
A connection terminal used for data transmission / reception with the electronic camera, a transfer determination unit for determining whether image data can be transferred from the electronic camera based on predetermined authentication information, and the connection when the transfer determination unit has permission A cradle comprising: a cradle control unit that receives image data from the electronic camera via a terminal; and a second recording unit capable of recording the image data. An electronic camera comprising: an imaging unit that photoelectrically converts a subject image by a photographing optical system to generate image data; and a first communication unit that executes data transmission / reception with the outside and outputs the image data to the outside of the camera; ,
A second communication unit that transmits and receives data to and from the first communication unit; a first recording unit that can record the image data; and a display output unit that outputs a display image based on the image data to an image display device. An image storage device,
One device selected from the electronic camera and the image storage device further includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information,
The other device selected from the electronic camera and the image storage device includes a control unit that selectively executes one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode when connected to the one device, and the one device. A mode selection unit that selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from
The control unit in the first operation mode permits recording of the image data to the first recording unit and output of the display image by the display output unit,
The control unit in the second operation mode allows the display output unit to output the display image, while prohibiting the recording of the image data in the first recording unit. Camera system. The electronic camera system according to claim 9.
The other device further includes a first history recording unit that records a connection history with the one device together with the first authentication information of a connection destination,
The electronic camera system, wherein the mode selection unit selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on data of the first history recording unit. The electronic camera system according to claim 10.
The other apparatus further includes a second authentication recording unit that records second authentication information,
The one device further includes a second history recording unit that records a connection history with the other device together with the second authentication information of the connection destination,
The electronic camera system, wherein the mode selection unit selects the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on data of the first history recording unit and the second history recording unit. The electronic camera system according to claim 11.
The mode selection unit selects the first operation mode when the one device and the other device coincide with the connection destination at the time of the initial connection with each other. The electronic camera system according to claim 11.
The electronic camera system, wherein the mode selection unit selects the second operation mode when at least one of the one device and the other device does not match a connection destination at the time of initial connection. The electronic camera system according to claim 11.
At least one of the one device and the other device further includes a first operation unit that receives a change input of the first operation mode and the second operation mode from a user,
At least one of the first history recording unit and the second history recording unit further records operation mode data indicating an operation mode selected by the change input in association with the connection history,
The electronic camera system, wherein the mode selection unit selects the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the operation mode data. The electronic camera system according to claim 9.
The image storage device further includes a data output unit that transfers the image data to an external device different from the electronic camera,
The control unit in the first operation mode permits transfer of the image data to the external device;
The electronic camera system, wherein the control unit in the second operation mode prohibits transfer of the image data to the external device. The electronic camera system according to claim 9.
The electronic camera further includes a second recording unit capable of recording the image data,
The control unit in the first operation mode permits transfer of the image data from the first recording unit to the second recording unit;
The electronic camera system, wherein the control unit in the second operation mode prohibits transfer of the image data from the first recording unit to the second recording unit. The electronic camera system according to claim 9.
The electronic camera further includes a second operation unit that receives an operation from a user,
The control unit in the first operation mode permits the operation to the data of the first recording unit by the second operation unit,
The electronic camera system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit in the second operation mode prohibits an operation on data of the first recording unit by the second operation unit. The electronic camera system according to claim 9.
The electronic camera further includes a second recording unit capable of recording the image data,
The image storage device further includes a third operation unit that receives an operation from a user,
The control unit in the first operation mode permits the operation to the data of the second recording unit by the third operation unit,
The electronic camera system according to claim 2, wherein the control unit in the second operation mode prohibits an operation on data in the second recording unit by the third operation unit. A first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information, a second communication unit that executes data transmission / reception with the outside, a first recording unit, and a display that outputs a display image based on the image data to an image display device An electronic camera constituting an electronic camera system together with an image storage device comprising an output unit,
An imaging unit that photoelectrically converts a subject image by the imaging optical system to generate image data;
A first communication unit that performs data transmission / reception with the second communication unit and outputs the image data to the image storage device;
A controller that selectively executes one of a first operation mode and a second operation mode when connected to the image storage device;
A first history recording unit that records a connection history with the image storage device together with the first authentication information of a connection destination;
A mode selection unit that selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from the image storage device and the data of the first history recording unit;
The control unit in the first operation mode permits recording of the image data to the first recording unit and output of the display image by the display output unit,
The control unit in the second operation mode allows the display output unit to output the display image, while prohibiting the recording of the image data in the first recording unit. camera. Image storage that constitutes an electronic camera system together with an electronic camera that includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information, an imaging unit that generates image data, and a first communication unit that executes external data transmission and reception A device,
A second communication unit for transmitting and receiving data to and from the first communication unit;
A first recording unit capable of recording the image data;
A display output unit that outputs a display image based on the image data to an image display device; and a control unit that selectively executes one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode when connected to the electronic camera;
A first history recording unit for recording a connection history with the electronic camera together with the first authentication information of a connection destination;
A mode selection unit that selects one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from the electronic camera and the data of the first history recording unit;
The control unit in the first operation mode permits recording of the image data to the first recording unit and output of the display image by the display output unit,
In the second operation mode, the control unit permits the display output unit to output the display image, while prohibiting the recording of the image data in the first recording unit. Storage device. Image storage that constitutes an electronic camera system together with an electronic camera that includes a first authentication recording unit that records first authentication information, an imaging unit that generates image data, and a first communication unit that executes external data transmission and reception A device program comprising:
A display unit that outputs a display image based on the image data to a second communication unit that transmits and receives data to and from the first communication unit; a first recording unit that can record the image data; When including an output unit, a control unit, and a first history recording unit that records a connection history with the electronic camera together with the first authentication information of the connection destination,
Selecting one of the first operation mode and the second operation mode based on the first authentication information acquired from the electronic camera and the data of the first history recording unit;
Permitting recording of the image data to the first recording unit and output of the display image by the display output unit when the first operation mode is selected at the time of connection with the electronic camera;
When the second operation mode is selected at the time of connection with the electronic camera, the display output unit is allowed to output the display image, while the image data is not recorded to the first recording unit. And steps to
Is executed by the control unit.

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