JP2007219148A - Optical equipment equipped with stroboscope - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To avoid trouble (impossibleness of charging and insufficient capacity) caused by mounting failure assumed by a detection circuit for detecting the charging of a stroboscope and multiple connection of main capacitors, which cannot be detected in the past. <P>SOLUTION: In optical equipment, charging time: T until attaining predetermined voltage: V1 during charging operation is decided by a means for detecting charging voltage of the stroboscope. When T is shorter than the predetermined time: Tx, control different from ordinary one, for example, warning, inhibition or the change of a control table is performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical apparatus such as a silver salt camera or a digital camera provided with a strobe.

  In recent years, it has become common for a silver salt camera (film camera) and a digital camera to have a built-in strobe device used for shooting in a dark place.

  In the strobe device, a xenon tube (hereinafter referred to as Xe) serving as a light emitter and a main capacitor (hereinafter referred to as MC) for storing light emission energy are connected in parallel, and light emission control is performed during a photographing operation (exposure operation). By performing (triggering), energy is released from the MC to Xe, and Xe emits light.

  Since the required capacity and voltage of the MC are large, there is a problem that the shape becomes large. However, with recent miniaturization of optical equipment, a plurality of MCs with smaller capacity and shape should be used and connected in parallel. In many cases, the required capacity is secured and the degree of freedom of arrangement within the structural constraints is increased.

  Naturally, the strobe device has a charging means for accumulating charges in the MC, and the necessary charge (voltage) to the MC after discharge of the light by strobe light emission or when the subject brightness just before photographing is low. ) Charge operation.

  In general, a charging voltage detecting means for detecting a charging voltage is provided. The detecting means detects that a predetermined charging voltage has been reached during MC charging, and mainly stops the charging means. Although the purpose is that the detection means is a trouble avoidance function, if it is determined that the charging voltage of the MC has not been charged to the predetermined voltage within a predetermined time, the charging function is abnormal and processing such as warning or photographing prohibition is performed. It has become common to do.

  Regarding the trouble avoidance function, Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 4-59622 calculates the estimated charging time from the second predetermined time to the third predetermined time by measuring the charging time between the first predetermined voltage and the second predetermined voltage. In such a case, a warning is given when the estimated charging time is longer than a predetermined time. Japanese Patent No. 2683800 proposes that “charge detection is performed every time the release button is operated and exposure is not possible when the completion of charging cannot be detected within a predetermined time”, and JP-A-11-237668 discloses “predetermined intervals”. In other words, a proposal has been made, such as “detecting the voltage in the first step, and prohibiting the charging operation (when the reference value is not satisfied) based on the comparison result between the detected voltage and the reference value”.

That is, any of these is a trouble avoidance measure when it is determined that charging takes too much time (charging with a predetermined voltage cannot be performed within a predetermined time).
Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 4-59622 Japanese Patent Registration No. 2683800 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-237668

  However, there are various configurations of the charging voltage detection means, and depending on the trouble situation, there is a case where the charging is not completed due to the disconnection in the circuit, but it is already determined that the charging is completed.

  For example, consider a case where the charging voltage detection circuit has a circuit configuration as shown in FIG.

  The charging voltage detection circuit applies a voltage of a power source (for example, a 3V battery) to a known booster circuit (for example, a battery voltage on the primary side of a step-up transformer, and generates a voltage corresponding to the winding ratio on the secondary side. The output of the charging means using a flyback method, a forward method, etc., which are well-known and will not be described in detail here, is known via backflow prevention diodes D1 and D2. Luminescent energy storage capacitor: MC (in this figure, two luminescent energy storage capacitors connected in parallel with MC1 and MC2 are collectively referred to as MC): HV is a low voltage circuit (for example, 3V system) In order to detect by a circuit), detection resistors (HV voltage dividing resistors): R1 and R2 and a smoothing capacitor: C1 are arranged between D1 and D2.

  That is, in the charge voltage detection, the MC charge voltage: HV is detected by the voltage: HV 'divided by the resistors: R1 and R2.

HV′≈HV × R2 / (R1 + R2). If HV = 320V, R1 = 4 MΩ, and R2 = 20 kΩ, HV′≈320 × (20 × 10 ³ ) / {(4 × 10 ⁶ ) + (20 × 10 ³ )} ≈1.592V, and can be detected.

  The HV 'is detected by a control circuit including an A / D converter, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined value is charged based on the detection result, and the control state is changed.

  For example, the charging operation is stopped when the charging voltage is equivalent to the completion of charging (for example, HV ′ = 1.592 V when HV = 320 V charging completion is set), or until the predetermined voltage is reached within a predetermined time after the charging operation is started. If charging is not possible (for example, if HV does not reach 150V within 3 seconds after the start of charging), it is determined that there is a problem with the charging circuit or charging voltage detection means, and charging is stopped and warning / shooting operation is prohibited. Or do.

However, in the above charging voltage detecting means, when the connection between R1 and R2 is disconnected due to some requirement and HV ′ is applied directly from R1 to the control circuit, the voltage is not divided, so HV≈HV ′. Is directly input to the control circuit (A / D converter), so even a slight charge voltage immediately after starting charging makes a judgment corresponding to the completion of charging, and stops the charging operation as normal operation without any problem. End up.
With respect to the problem, the problem cannot be avoided with the content of the above proposal.

  In addition, when using a plurality of MCs with smaller capacities and shapes and connecting them in parallel, if some of the capacitors cause poor connection, and if the normally connected capacitors (for example, MC1) are normal, then MC1 In this situation, the charging voltage is detected normally, but the capacity of the capacitor (for example, MC2) that causes the connection failure is insufficient, and the strobe emits light in this situation. If this is done, the desired amount of light cannot be obtained, and the photographed scene becomes an underexposed photograph.

  To give a concrete example, for example, when MC1 = MC2 and 320 V / 100 μF capacitors are used in parallel, it corresponds to using a capacity equivalent to 320 V / 200 μF, but only MC1 is used due to abnormal wiring. In such a case, it becomes 320 V / 100 μF.

  In this case, since the capacity is small, the charging time is shortened, and the charging voltage itself can be charged up to 320 V. Therefore, the conventional charging detection means cannot detect abnormality.

However, when considering the specific light quantity with Qa as the light quantity corresponding to 200 μF and Qb as the light quantity at 100 μF,
Qb / Qa = (0.5 · Cb · Vb ² ) / (0.5 · Ca · Va ² )
= (0.5 × 100 × 10 ⁻⁶ × 320 ² ) /
(0.5 × 200 × 10 ⁻⁶ × 320 ² )
= (5.12 / 10.24)
= 0.5
It becomes.

  Of course, if the flash is taken in this state, the amount of light will be insufficient.

  Even for this problem, since a predetermined voltage can be detected within a predetermined time (it is determined that charging is possible), the problem cannot be avoided with the contents of the above proposal.

(Object of invention)
The object of the present invention is to detect troubles that cannot be detected by conventional methods in optical devices equipped with strobes, and to take preventive measures such as warnings and prohibitions, or by taking a photographing method according to the trouble situation. It is to eliminate the user's unexpected failure.

In view of the above problems, the present invention provides an optical apparatus having a strobe device, a main capacitor for storing light emission energy disposed in parallel with a strobe light emitter, and a charging means for charging the main capacitor with charges. A charging voltage detecting means for detecting a voltage charged by the charging means; and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the exposure control of the optical device. Is started, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time up to a predetermined voltage, and when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than the predetermined time, performing a control different from normal,
Alternatively, in an optical device having a strobe device, at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel with a strobe light emitter are provided in parallel, and charging means for charging the main capacitor with charges, A charging voltage detecting means for observing the voltage charged by the charging means; and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the exposure control of the optical device. Is started, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time up to a predetermined voltage, and when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than the predetermined time, performing a control different from normal,
Furthermore, the above-mentioned control different from normal is warning control or prohibiting the exposure operation, so that troubles in flash photography can be warned and avoided in advance.

In addition, the charging voltage detection means changes whether or not the charging time determination up to a predetermined voltage is determined according to the charging status,
Specifically, the charging voltage detection means determines whether the charging time up to a predetermined voltage is performed in a charging operation immediately after strobe light emission, or whether the charging voltage is detected based on a charging voltage detection result before the start of strobe charging.
Further, the accuracy of trouble detection can be increased by changing the predetermined time serving as a reference for determining the charging time according to the power supply voltage and the environmental temperature.

Further, in an optical apparatus having a strobe device, at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel to the strobe light emitter are provided in parallel, and charging means for charging the main capacitor with charges, A charging voltage detecting means for observing a voltage charged by the charging means; and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the exposure control of the optical device. Is started, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time to a predetermined voltage, estimates the connection state of the main capacitor from the charging time of the determination result, and performs strobe shooting control according to the connection state,
Specifically, by correcting the exposure time and strobe lighting timing according to the estimated connection status of the main capacitor, the shooting prohibition status at the time of trouble is minimized and the influence on the user is reduced. Is.

  As described above, the present invention provides an optical device having a strobe device, a main capacitor for storing light emission energy disposed in parallel with a strobe light emitter, charging means for charging the main capacitor with electric charge, A charging voltage detecting means for detecting a voltage charged by the charging means; and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the exposure control of the optical device. After being started, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time up to a predetermined voltage, and when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than the predetermined time, it performs an unusual control or an optical apparatus having a strobe device In which at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel to the strobe light emitter are provided in parallel. Charging means for charging the capacitor with charge, charging voltage detecting means for observing the voltage charged by the charging means, operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means, exposure control of the optical device, etc. A control means for performing, after the charging operation is started by the control means, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time to a predetermined voltage, and when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than the predetermined time, it is different from normal It is possible to warn and avoid troubles in flash photography in advance by performing control, and by controlling the above-mentioned unusual control to be warning control or prohibiting the exposure operation. .

  In addition, the charging voltage detection means changes whether or not the determination of the charging time up to a predetermined voltage depends on the charging status. Specifically, the charging voltage detection means determines whether or not the charging time up to the predetermined voltage is a strobe. Perform charging operation immediately after light emission, determine whether to perform charging based on the result of charging voltage detection before the start of strobe charging, and the predetermined time used as the criterion for charging time depends on the power supply voltage and environmental temperature. By changing it, it became possible to improve the accuracy of trouble detection.

  Further, in an optical apparatus having a strobe device, at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel to the strobe light emitter are provided in parallel, and charging means for charging the main capacitor with charges, A charging voltage detecting means for observing a voltage charged by the charging means; and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the exposure control of the optical device. After the start of the charging, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time up to a predetermined voltage, estimates the connection status of the main capacitor from the charging time of the determination result, and performs strobe shooting control according to the connection status, Specifically, the exposure time and strobe flash timing are corrected according to the estimated connection status of the main capacitor. Minimizing the shooting prohibited status of the bull during the occurrence, it was less the impact on the user.

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

  FIG. 1 is a circuit block diagram of the main part of the camera in the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, 1 is a power supply battery for a camera, 2 is a control circuit such as a microcomputer for controlling various operations of the camera, and a strobe light emission energy storage capacitor (main capacitor): MC1 to MC2 charging voltages are stored therein. An A / D converter (which is a part of the charging voltage detecting means) for detecting, timer means for measuring the strobe charging time, etc., and a memory for storing various data are provided. In the present embodiment, the control unit 2 also controls a strobe charging unit and a charging voltage detection unit which will be described later.

  Reference numeral 3 denotes a release switch for starting a photographing operation. When the release switch 3 is turned on, the control unit 2 controls the photographing sequence, the charging sequence, and the like.

  Reference numeral 4 denotes a strobe device. The strobe device 4 includes a charging unit 4-1 including a well-known boosting circuit, and main capacitors MC 1 and MC 2 (the main capacitors for storing the voltage boosted by the charging unit 4-1 as light emission energy. In the embodiment, MC1 and MC2 connected in parallel are collectively referred to as MC), a charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 for detecting the voltage accumulated in the main capacitor MC, and the main capacitor A xenon tube Xe, which is a light emitter that emits light by stored energy, and a light emission control means 4-3 for emitting light by releasing the stored energy of the main capacitor to the xenon tube Xe.

  A detailed configuration of the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 is shown in FIG.

(Since this FIG. 2 has already been explained, explanation here is omitted.)
In the present embodiment, a system including the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the control means 2 (built-in A / D converter and charge control) is referred to as “charging voltage detection means”.

  5 is a known photometric means for measuring the brightness of the subject (hereinafter referred to as AE means), 6 is a known distance measuring means for measuring the distance to the subject (hereinafter referred to as AF means), and 7 is not shown. A known shutter means (hereinafter referred to as SH means) for controlling exposure of the film, and 8 is a known film feeding means for moving the film to a predetermined position.

  Reference numeral 9 denotes a well-known display means such as an LCD / LED used for a camera mode state, the number of shootable images, a trouble status warning, and the like.

  FIGS. 3 to 5 are sequence flowcharts of the camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on.

  In S101, it is determined whether or not the “NG flag” indicating the occurrence of malfunction is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2, and if it is set (if “1”), the sequence is executed. If not set (if not "1"), the process proceeds to S102.

  That is, when the “NG flag” is set, the exposure is not performed (exposure is prohibited) and the process shifts to a standby state.

  When a malfunction occurs, when the “NG flag” is set, the display means 9 displays a warning to that effect. Therefore, when the “NG flag” is confirmed, the user displays It is assumed that the warning by means has been confirmed.

  In S102, the AE means 5 measures the brightness: AE of the subject by a known photometric method.

  In S103, the reference brightness set in advance: B is compared with the brightness of the subject measured in S102: AE. If AE <B, the process proceeds to S104, and if AE <B, the process proceeds to S107.

  In S104, the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 are used to measure the voltage HV charged in the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2).

  As described above, the charging voltage detection does not directly measure the HV, but measures the voltage HV ′ via the dividing resistor and obtains the HV from the voltage: HV ′.

  In S105, the HV obtained in S104 is compared with the charging completion determination voltage: Vfull. If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S107, and if not HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S106.

  S106 enters the sequence of the strobe charging operation 1. Although the details will be described later with reference to FIG. 4, the charging operation in step S106 is a conventional charging operation because the remaining voltage varies depending on the situation, and the NG check operation has a time until the completion of charging is less than the reference value: Tfull. This is only a confirmation.

  In S107, the distance of the subject is measured by the AF means 6 by a known distance measuring method.

  In S108, calculation is performed to obtain exposure conditions such as an appropriate focus, shutter speed, strobe light emission, and strobe control timing based on the photometry result measured in S102 and the distance measurement result measured in S107.

  In S108, when it is necessary to emit strobe light to obtain proper exposure, a strobe light emission flag for strobe light emission instruction is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2.

  In S109, a well-known exposure operation for controlling the SH means 7 is performed based on the exposure condition obtained in S108.

  In S109, when the strobe emission flag is set in S108, an exposure operation by strobe emission is performed.

  In S110, the feeding unit 8 performs a feeding operation of moving a film (not shown) (setting the next exposure frame to an aperture position (not shown)).

  In S111, in order to check the flash emission history, the status of the flash emission flag in the memory in the control circuit 2 is checked, and when the flash emission flag is set to flash emission (when the flash is emitted in S109). If the strobe emission flag is not set to strobe emission, the process proceeds to a standby state. When ending S111, the flash emission flag data is reset after the determination operation.

  S112 enters the sequence of the strobe charging operation 2 which is the charging operation immediately after the strobe light emission. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 5, the charging operation in step S112 is after light emission and the remaining voltage is almost the same. Therefore, the NG check operation determines whether the time until the completion of charging is less than the reference value: Tfull. Confirmation and confirmation of whether or not the charging time to the predetermined voltage: V1 is equal to or longer than the reference time: Tx.

  When S112 ends, the control circuit 2 enters an operation standby state.

  The above is the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on.

  FIG. 4 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 1 in S106 in FIG.

  In step S201, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  S202 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 as in S104 of FIG. 3 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S203, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In step S204, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating that the flash is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S205, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is started.

  S206 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S202, and the voltage for charging the light emitting energy storage capacitor: MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S207 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S206 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, the charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S212. Proceeds to S208.

  S208 is a timer that starts counting in S205: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0V to the charging time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S209, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S206.

  In S209, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S210, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull has elapsed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S211, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H” (Help mark 1) blinks) and enters the next operation standby state.

  In S212, similarly to S209, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S213, the display unit 9 displays a display indicating that the flash unit has been charged (for example, lighting of a progress mark), and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence of the charging operation 1 in S106 in FIG.

  FIG. 5 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 2 in S112 in FIG.

  In step S301, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  Similar to S104 of FIG. 3, S302 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors: MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S303, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In S304, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating that the strobe is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S305, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  S306 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S302, and the voltage charged to the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S307 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S306 with the comparison voltage: V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [eg, 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process goes to S312 and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S308.

  S308 is a timer that starts counting in S305: T is a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S309, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S306.

  In step S309, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S310, since the charging cannot be completed even after the predetermined time: Tfull has elapsed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and the “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S311, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S312 is a timer that starts counting in S305: T is a predetermined time: Tx (in this embodiment, approximately 1.2 times 1/2 of the time until the main capacitor MC in a normal state can be 0V to Vx [for example, 2sec]), if T <Tx, the process proceeds to S313, and if T <Tx, the process proceeds to S316.

  In step S313, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  S314 determines that there is some abnormality because the charging time is earlier than the normal time when charging to the predetermined voltage: Vx is made before the predetermined time: Tx elapses, and the memory in the control circuit 2 The “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in the predetermined area is set.

  In S315, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks) and enters the next operation standby state.

  S316 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S306, and the voltage for charging the light-emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S317 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S316 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S319, and if HV ≧ Vfull is not satisfied The process proceeds to S318.

  S318 is a timer that starts counting in S305: T is a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S309, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S316.

  In S319, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S320, the display unit 9 displays a display indicating the completion of charging of the strobe (for example, lighting of a progress mark), and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence of the charging operation 2 in S112 in FIG.

  That is, in the first embodiment of the present invention, when the charging time to the predetermined voltage: Vx is shorter than the predetermined time: Tx, the warning display and the photographing (exposure operation) prohibiting operation, which are different from the normal control, are performed. Will be done.

  Further, whether or not the charging time to the predetermined voltage: Vx is shorter than the predetermined time: Tx is determined when the strobe light is emitted during the exposure operation, that is, the charging that the main capacitor MC has almost no charging voltage due to the strobe light emission. In the case of the situation, the charging operation is performed immediately after the flash emission (charging operation 2).

  FIG. 14 shows a charging curve of the main capacitor MC in the charging voltage detecting means of the present invention.

  When the connection of the main capacitor MC (parallel connection of MC1 and MC2) is normal, the charging time to the predetermined voltage: V1 is longer than the predetermined time: Tx, and the charging time to the predetermined voltage: Vfull is shorter than the predetermined time: Tfull. It has become.

  However, when the connection of the main capacitor MC is abnormal (for example, when the connection lead wire of MC1 is disconnected), the charging time to the predetermined voltage: V1 is shorter than the predetermined time: Tx.

  This situation can be determined as abnormal in the charging operation 2 (FIG. 5) which is the charging sequence 2 of the present invention.

(Second embodiment)
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  The configuration of the camera is the same as that of the first embodiment of the present invention, and since it has already been described, description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 6 shows a sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on.

  In step S401, it is determined whether or not an “NG flag” indicating the occurrence of an operation failure is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2. If it is set (if “1”), the sequence is performed. If it is not set (“1”), the process proceeds to S402.

  That is, when the “NG flag” is set, the exposure is not performed (exposure is prohibited) and the process shifts to a standby state.

  When a malfunction occurs, when the “NG flag” is set, the display means 9 displays a warning to that effect. Therefore, when the “NG flag” is confirmed, the user displays It is assumed that the warning by means has been confirmed.

  In S402, the AE means 5 measures the brightness: AE of the subject by a known photometric method.

  In S403, the reference brightness set in advance: B is compared with the brightness of the subject measured in S402: AE. If AE <B, the process proceeds to S404, and if AE <B, the process proceeds to S406.

  In S404, the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 are used to measure the voltage HV charged in the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2).

  As described above, the charging voltage detection does not directly measure the HV, but measures the voltage HV ′ via the dividing resistor and obtains the HV from the voltage: HV ′.

  In S405, the HV obtained in S404 is compared with the charging completion determination voltage: Vfull. If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S406, and if HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S411.

  In S406, the AF unit 6 measures the distance of the subject by a known distance measuring method.

  In S407, a calculation for obtaining an exposure condition such as an appropriate focus / shutter speed is performed based on the photometry result measured in S402 and the distance measurement result measured in S107.

  In step S407, if it is necessary to emit strobe light to obtain proper exposure, a strobe light emission flag for strobe light emission instruction is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2.

  In S408, a well-known exposure operation for controlling the SH means 7 is performed based on the exposure condition obtained in S407.

  In S408, when the strobe emission flag is set in S407, an exposure operation by strobe emission is performed.

  In step S409, the feeding unit 8 performs a feeding operation of moving a film (not shown) (setting the next exposure frame to an aperture position (not shown)).

  In step S410, in order to check the flash emission history, the state of the flash emission flag in the memory in the control circuit 2 is checked, and when the flash emission flag is set to flash emission (when the flash emission is made in S408). If the strobe emission flag is not set to strobe emission, the process proceeds to S411. When ending S410, the data of the flash emission flag is reset after the determination operation.

  S411 enters the sequence of the strobe charging operation 3. Although the details will be described later with reference to FIG. 7, the charging operation in step S411 is after light emission and the remaining voltage is almost the same. Therefore, the NG check operation determines whether the time until completion of charging is less than the reference value: Tfull. Confirmation and confirmation of whether or not the charging time to the predetermined voltage: V1 is equal to or longer than the reference time: Tx.

  When S411 ends, the control circuit 2 enters an operation standby state.

  The above is the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 7 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 3 in S411 in FIG.

  In step S501, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  Similar to S104 of FIG. 3, S502 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors: MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S503, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In S504, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating that the strobe is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S505, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  In step S506, the charging voltage measured in S502 is compared with HV and the comparison voltage is V0 (in this embodiment, ½ of the charging completion voltage (eg, 210V)). If HV> V0, the process proceeds to S517. If it is not V0, the process proceeds to S507.

  S507 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S502, and the voltage charged to the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S508 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S507 and the comparison voltage: V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [eg, 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S513, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S509.

  S509 is a timer that started counting in S505: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S510, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S507.

  In S510, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S511, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull has elapsed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S512, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S513 is a timer that starts counting in S505: T is a predetermined time: Tx (in this embodiment, about 1.2 times 1/2 of the time until the main capacitor MC in a normal state can be 0 V to Vx [for example, 2sec]), the process proceeds to S514 if T <Tx, and to S517 if T <Tx.

  In S514, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  S515 determines that there is some abnormality because the charging time is earlier than the normal time, assuming that the charging to the predetermined voltage: Vx is performed before the predetermined time: Tx elapses, and the memory in the control circuit 2 The “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in the predetermined area is set.

  In S516, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S517 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S507, and the voltage stored in the luminescence energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2) is HV. Measure.

  S518 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S517 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S520, and if HV ≧ Vfull is not satisfied. The process proceeds to S519.

  S519 is a timer that starts counting in S505: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0 V to the charging time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S510, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S517.

  In S520, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S521, the display unit 9 displays a display indicating the completion of charging of the strobe (for example, lighting of a progress mark) and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence of the charging operation 2 in S411 in FIG.

  In the second embodiment of the present invention, it is determined whether the charging time to the predetermined voltage: Vx is shorter than the predetermined time: Tx depending on whether the charging state of the charging voltage: HV is higher than the comparison voltage V0. It is determined whether or not to perform.

  In the second embodiment of the present invention, the binary switching is performed in which it is determined whether or not the predetermined time is shorter than Tx with reference to the comparison voltage V0. For example, from the measurement result of the voltage: HV of the main capacitor MC, by setting the predetermined time: Tx and the predetermined voltage: V1 variably, it is possible to detect more detailed connection troubles.

  Specifically, when HV is 50V, V1: 256V, Tx: 1.2 sec, but when HV is 100V, V1: 280V, Tx: 1.8 sec, and when HV is 200V, V1: 300V, Tx: It is not contrary to the gist of the present invention to change 2.5 sec etc. by calculating from the efficiency of the charging circuit and the capacitor characteristics, or changing it based on the data table.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  The configuration of the camera is the same as that of the first embodiment of the present invention, and since it has already been described, description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, since the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on is the same as that of FIG. 6 of the second embodiment of the present invention, description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 8 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 3 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In S601, temperature: Temp is measured by a temperature sensor (not shown).

  In S602, the temperature measured in S601: Temp and the comparison data: Y are compared. If Temp <Y, the process proceeds to S603, and if Temp <Y, the process proceeds to S604.

  In S603, assuming that the temperature is higher than the predetermined temperature: Y, the predetermined time: Tx, which is a charging time measurement standard, is set to Tx1.

  In S604, assuming that the temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature: Y, the predetermined time: Tx which is a charging time measurement standard is set to Tx2.

  That is, the predetermined time: Tx is changed according to the environmental temperature through S602 to S604.

  In step S605, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  In S606, similarly to S104 of FIG. 3, the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 are used to charge the luminescence energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In S607, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In step S608, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating that the strobe is being charged (for example, blinking of a progress mark).

  In step S609, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  S610 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S606 with the comparison voltage: V0 (in this embodiment, 1/2 of the charging completion voltage [eg, 210V]). If HV> V0, go to S621, HV> If it is not V0, the process proceeds to S611.

  S611 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S606, and the voltage charged to the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S612 is compared with the charging voltage HV measured in S611 and the comparison voltage V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [for example, 256V]). When HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S617, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S613.

  In step S613, the timer: T started counting in step S609 is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], The process proceeds to S614 if T ≧ Tfull, and to S611 if T ≧ Tfull.

  In S614, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S615, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull has passed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S616, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  In step S617, the timer T that has started counting in step S609 is compared with the predetermined time Tx set in steps S603 to S604. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S618. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S621.

  In S618, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  S619 determines that there is some abnormality because the charging time is earlier than the normal time, assuming that the charging to the predetermined voltage: Vx is performed before the predetermined time: Tx elapses, and the memory in the control circuit 2 The “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in the predetermined area is set.

  In S620, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S621 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S611, and the voltage stored in the luminescence energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2) is HV. Measure.

  S622 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S621 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S624, and if HV ≧ Vfull is not satisfied. The process proceeds to S623.

  S623 is a timer that starts counting in S609: T is a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0V to [for example, 8.4 sec.] ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S614, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S621.

  In S624, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S625, the display unit 9 displays a display indicating that the strobe is fully charged (for example, lighting of a progress mark) and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence (FIG. 8) of the charging operation 2 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the change of the predetermined time Tx related to the temperature has been described with the switching point as only one point of the predetermined temperature Y, but the present invention is not limited to this, for example, at a plurality of points. It is not contrary to the gist of the present invention to change the Tx with respect to the temperature by switching or a coefficient by calculation.

(Fourth embodiment)
A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  The configuration of the camera is the same as that of the first embodiment of the present invention, and since it has already been described, description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, since the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on is the same as that of FIG. 6 of the second embodiment of the present invention, description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 9 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 3 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In step S <b> 701, the voltage: VBAT of the power supply battery 1 is measured by the A / D converter in the control circuit 2.

  At the time of the VBAT measurement, in consideration of the influence of the internal resistance of the power supply battery 1, the VBAT is measured in a state where the load such as the SH means is energized (closed direction energization).

  In S702, the power supply voltage: VBAT measured in S701 is compared with the comparison data: Z. If VBAT <Z, the process proceeds to S703, and if VBAT <Z, the process proceeds to S704.

  In step S703, assuming that the power supply voltage: VBAT is higher than the predetermined voltage: Z, the predetermined time: Tx which is a charging time measurement standard is set to Tx1.

  In S704, assuming that the power supply voltage: VBAT is lower than the predetermined voltage: Z, the predetermined time: Tx which is a charging time measurement reference is set to Tx2.

  That is, by S702 to S704, the predetermined time: Tx is changed according to the environmental temperature.

  In step S705, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  In S706, similarly to S104 of FIG. 3, the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 are used to charge the luminescence energy storage capacitors: MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S707, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In S708, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating that the strobe is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S709, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  S710 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S706 with a comparison voltage: V0 (in this embodiment, 1/2 of the charging completion voltage [eg, 210V]). If HV> V0, go to S621, HV> If it is not V0, the process proceeds to S611.

  S711 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S706, and the voltage stored in the light-emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2) is HV. Measure.

  S712 is compared with the charging voltage HV measured in S711 and the comparison voltage V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [e.g., 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S717, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S713.

  In step S713, the timer T started counting in step S709 is set to a predetermined time Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S714, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S711.

  In S714, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S715, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull has elapsed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S716, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  In step S717, the timer T that has started counting in step S709 is compared with the predetermined time Tx set in steps S703 to S704. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S718. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S721.

  In S718, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  S719 determines that there is some abnormality because the charging time is earlier than the normal time, assuming that charging to the predetermined voltage: Vx is performed before the predetermined time: Tx elapses, and the memory in the control circuit 2 The “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in the predetermined area is set.

  In S720, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks) and enters the next operation standby state.

  S721 uses the charge voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S711, and the voltage stored in the light-emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S722 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S721 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S724, and if HV ≧ Vfull is not satisfied. The process proceeds to S723.

  S723 is a timer that starts counting in S709: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0V to [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S714. If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S721.

  In S724, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S725, the display unit 9 displays a display indicating the completion of charging of the strobe (for example, lighting of a progress mark) and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence (FIG. 9) of the charging operation 2 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the change in the predetermined time: Tx related to the power supply voltage has been described with only one point of the predetermined voltage: Z as the switching point. However, the present invention is not limited to this, for example, at a plurality of points. It is not contrary to the gist of the present invention to change the Tx with respect to the power supply voltage by switching or by a coefficient by calculation.

(Fifth embodiment)
A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

  The configuration of the camera is the same as that of the first embodiment of the present invention, and since it has already been described, description thereof is omitted here.

  Further, since the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on is the same as that of FIG. 6 of the second embodiment of the present invention, description thereof is omitted here.

  FIG. 10 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 3 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In step S801, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  S802 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 as in S104 of FIG. 3 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S803, calculation for determining a predetermined time: Tx is performed based on the charging voltage detection result of the main capacitor measured in step S802, that is, the charging voltage detection result before the start of strobe charging.

  For example, a predetermined time when charging from 0 V to Vfull: Tx is used as a reference, the remaining charge is obtained from Vfull-HV, and a value obtained by multiplying a coefficient corresponding to the remaining charge by Tx is used as a determination reference: Tx.

  That is, the determination reference is changed to a determination reference time: Tx corresponding to the charge voltage detection result before the start of strobe charging.

  In step S804, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In step S805, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating that the flash is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S806, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  In step S807, the charging voltage: HV measured in step S802 is compared with the comparison voltage: V0 (in this embodiment, ½ of the charging completion voltage [eg, 210V]). If HV> V0, the process proceeds to step S818. If it is not V0, the process proceeds to S808.

  S808 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S802, and the voltage for charging the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S809 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S808 with the comparison voltage: V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [eg, 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S814, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S810.

  In step S810, the timer T started counting in step S806 is set to a predetermined time Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S811, and if T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S808.

  In step S811, driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and charging of the main capacitor MC is terminated.

  In S812, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In step S813, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters a next operation standby state.

  In step S814, the timer T started counting in step S806 is compared with the predetermined time Tx set in step S803. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S815. If T <Tx, the process proceeds to step S818.

  In S815, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S816, it is determined that there is some abnormality because the charging time is earlier than the normal time when charging to the predetermined voltage: Vx is performed before the predetermined time: Tx elapses, and the memory in the control circuit 2 The “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in the predetermined area is set.

  In S817, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S818 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S802, and the voltage charged to the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S819 is compared with the charging voltage: HV measured in S818 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, the charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S821, and if HV ≧ Vfull, The process proceeds to S820.

  In step S820, the timer: T started counting in step S806 is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], The process proceeds to S811 if T ≧ Tfull, and to S818 if T ≧ Tfull.

  In S821, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In step S822, the display unit 9 displays the strobe charging completion (for example, lighting of a progress mark), and enters the next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence (FIG. 10) of the charging operation 2 of S411 in FIG. 6 in the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In this embodiment, the factor for setting the determination reference time is described as only the charge voltage detection result. However, the gist of the present invention is as in the third to fourth embodiments of the present invention. In addition, adding factors such as environmental temperature and power supply battery voltage to the coefficient of determination criterion calculation does not contradict the gist of the present invention.

  Further, all the description so far has been used as a sequence inside the camera, but this sequence can also be applied to an adjustment tool used in a product manufacturing process such as a camera.

  Specifically, in the step of finely adjusting the detection accuracy of the charging completion voltage, if the charging completion time is early, it is possible to take a method such as re-checking that there is a manufacturing defect.

(Sixth embodiment)
A sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  Unlike the first to fifth embodiments, the sixth embodiment of the present invention estimates the connection state of the main capacitor MC according to the charging time, and determines that there is an abnormal state In addition, the flash photography control according to the situation is performed.

  11 to 13 are sequence flowcharts of the camera according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 shows a sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 is turned on.

  In step S901, it is determined whether or not an “NG flag” indicating occurrence of an operation failure is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2. If it is set (if “1”), the sequence is performed. If not set (if not "1"), the process proceeds to S902.

  That is, when the “NG flag” is set, the exposure is not performed (exposure is prohibited) and the process shifts to a standby state.

  When a malfunction occurs, when the “NG flag” is set, the display means 9 displays a warning to that effect. Therefore, when the “NG flag” is confirmed, the user displays It is assumed that the warning by means has been confirmed.

  In step S <b> 902, the AE unit 5 measures the brightness of the subject: AE by a known photometric method.

  In S903, the reference brightness set in advance: B is compared with the brightness of the subject measured in S902: AE. If AE <B, the process proceeds to S904, and if AE <B, the process proceeds to S907.

  In S904, the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 are used to measure the voltage HV charged in the light emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2).

  As described above, the charging voltage detection does not directly measure the HV, but measures the voltage HV ′ via the dividing resistor and obtains the HV from the voltage: HV ′.

  In S905, the HV obtained in S904 is compared with the charging completion determination voltage: Vfull. If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S907, and if HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S906.

  In step S906, the sequence of the strobe charging operation 1 is entered. Although the details will be described later with reference to FIG. 12, the charging operation in step S906 is performed in addition to a general charging operation, by measuring and determining a charging time: T up to a predetermined voltage: V1, to determine a predetermined value in a memory in the control circuit 2. The “MC flag” in the area is set.

  In step S907, the AF unit 6 measures the distance of the subject by a known distance measuring method.

  In S908, the “MC flag” set in the strobe charging operation 1 sequence in S906 is determined. If the MC flag = 0, the process proceeds to S909, and if the MC flag = 0, the process proceeds to S910.

  In step S909, “strobe control table 1”, which is a control table when the main capacitor MC is normally connected, is set as the strobe control table.

  In step S910, “strobe control table 2”, which is a control table when the connection of the main capacitor MC is abnormal, is set as the strobe control table.

  The strobe control table includes a strobe control table 1 based on the amount of light when the main capacitor: MC has a normal capacity (MC1 + MC2) and a main capacitor: MC having an abnormal capacity (MC1 or MC2). In this embodiment, the capacity of the main capacitor MC is halved during normal operation and abnormal operation, so that the light emission timing is corrected accordingly.

  In addition, in the case of a camera having a function for measuring the subject distance and giving a warning when the subject is out of the strobe reachable distance range, not only the control table but also the reachable distance correction is performed.

  In S911, based on the photometry result measured in S902 and the distance measurement result measured in S907, an operation for obtaining an exposure condition such as an appropriate focus, shutter speed, strobe light emission, strobe control timing, and the like is performed.

  In step S911, if it is necessary to emit strobe light to obtain proper exposure, a strobe light emission flag for strobe light emission is set in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2.

  Further, regarding the strobe light emission control, the control of the light emission timing and the like is determined using the strobe control table set in S909 or S910.

  In S912, a well-known exposure operation for controlling the SH means 7 is performed based on the exposure condition obtained in S911.

  In S912, when the strobe emission flag is set in S911, an exposure operation by strobe emission is performed.

  In step S913, the feeding unit 8 performs a feeding operation of moving a film (not shown) (setting the next exposure frame to an aperture position (not shown)).

  In step S914, in order to check the history of flash emission, the status of the flash emission flag in the memory in the control circuit 2 is checked. If the flash emission flag is set to flash emission (if the flash is emitted in S912), If the strobe emission flag is not set to strobe emission, the process shifts to S915. When ending S914, the flash emission flag data is reset after the determination operation.

  S915 enters the sequence of the flash charging operation 2 which is the charging operation immediately after the flash emission. Although the details will be described later with reference to FIG. 13, the charging operation in step S915 is after light emission and the remaining voltage is almost the same. Therefore, the NG check operation determines whether the time until the completion of charging is less than the reference value: Tfull. Confirmation and confirmation of whether or not the charging time to the predetermined voltage: V1 is equal to or longer than the reference time: Tx.

  When S915 ends, the control circuit 2 enters an operation standby state.

  The above is the sequence of the control circuit 2 when the release switch 3 of the sixth embodiment of the present invention is turned on.

  FIG. 12 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 1 in S906 in FIG.

  In step S1001, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  S1002 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 as in S904 of FIG. 11 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S1003, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In step S1004, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating that the flash is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S1005, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  Similarly to S1002, S1006 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2, and the voltage for charging the light emitting energy storage capacitors: MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S1007 is compared with the charging voltage HV measured in S1006 and the comparison voltage V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [eg, 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S1012, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S1008.

  In step S1008, the timer T started counting in step S1005: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1009. If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1006.

  In step S1009, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In S1010, since charging cannot be completed even after a predetermined time: Tfull has elapsed, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S1011, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters a next operation standby state.

  S1012 is a timer that starts counting in S1005: T is a predetermined time: Tx (in this embodiment, about 1.2 times 1/2 of the time until the main capacitor MC at normal time can be 0 V to Vx [for example, 2sec]), the process proceeds to S1013 if T <Tx, and to S1016 if T <Tx.

  In S1013, the “MC flag” in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set to “0”.

  In S1014, the “MC flag” in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set to “1”.

  S1015 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S1006, and the voltage for charging the light-emitting energy storage capacitors: MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S1016 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S1015 with a comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S1018. If HV ≧ Vfull is not satisfied, The process proceeds to S1017.

  S1017 is a timer that starts counting in S1005: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0 V to the charging time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1009. If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1015.

  In step S1018, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In step S1019, the display unit 9 displays a strobe charging completion (for example, lighting of a progress mark), and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence of the charging operation 1 in S906 in FIG.

  FIG. 13 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 2 in S915 in FIG.

  FIG. 12 shows a detailed sequence of the charging operation 1 in S906 in FIG.

  In step S1101, the timer T in the control circuit 2 is reset.

  S1102 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 as in S904 of FIG. 11 to charge the light emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2). Voltage: HV is measured.

  In step S1103, the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is driven to start charging the main capacitor MC.

  In step S1104, the display unit 9 displays a warning indicating that the flash is being charged (for example, flashing of a progress mark).

  In step S1105, the timer T in the control circuit 2 starts counting.

  Similarly to S1102, S1106 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 to charge the light-emitting energy storage capacitors MC (MC1 and MC2): HV Measure.

  S1107 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S1106 with the comparison voltage: V1 (in this embodiment, 80% of the charging completion voltage [eg, 256V]). If HV ≧ V1, the process proceeds to S1112, and HV ≧ V1. If not, the process proceeds to S1108.

  S1108 is a timer that starts counting in S1105: T is set to a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be fully charged from 0 V to the charging time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1109. If T ≧ Tfull, the process proceeds to S1106.

  In step S1109, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S1110, since charging cannot be completed even after the elapse of the predetermined time: Tfull, it is determined that there is some abnormality, and the “NG flag” (charging NG flag 1) in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set. To do.

  In S1111, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H1” (Help mark 1) blinks), and enters the next operation standby state.

  S1112 is a timer that starts counting in S1105: T is a predetermined time: Tx (in this embodiment, about 1.2 times 1/2 of the time until the main capacitor MC at normal time can be 0 V to Vx [for example, 2sec]), if T <Tx, the process proceeds to S1117, and if T <Tx, the process proceeds to S1113.

  In step S1113, the timer T started counting in the step S1105 is compared with a predetermined time Tf (in this embodiment, 1/10 of the time until the main capacitor MC is normally set to 0V to Vx), and T <Tf is not satisfied. If YES, the process advances to step S1118. If T <Tx, the process advances to step S1114.

  In step S1114, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is finished.

  In S1115, a charge completion signal is generated in a very short time regardless of charging immediately after strobe light emission, assuming that charging to a predetermined voltage: Vx is performed before the predetermined time: Tf elapses. It is determined that the detection means 4-2 has some problem, and an “NG flag” (charging NG flag 2) in a predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set.

  In S1116, the display means 9 displays a warning indicating a charging problem (for example, “H2” (Help mark 2) blinks) and enters a next operation standby state.

  In step S <b> 1117, the “MC flag” in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set to “0”.

  In step S1118, the “MC flag” in the predetermined area of the memory in the control circuit 2 is set to “1”.

  S1119 uses the charging voltage detection circuit 4-2 and the A / D converter of the control means 2 in the same manner as S1106, and the light-emitting energy storage capacitor MC (MC1 and MC2) is charged: HV Measure.

  S1120 compares the charging voltage: HV measured in S1119 and the comparison voltage: Vfull (in this embodiment, charging completion voltage [eg, 320V]). If HV ≧ Vfull, the process proceeds to S1122. The process proceeds to S1121.

  S1121 is a timer that starts counting in S1105: T is a predetermined time: Tfull (in this embodiment, about 1.4 times as long as the normal main capacitor MC can be charged from 0V to the normal time [for example, 8.4 sec. ], The process proceeds to S1109 if T ≧ Tfull, and to S1119 if T ≧ Tfull.

  In step S1122, the driving of the charging unit 4-1 of the strobe device 4 is stopped, and the charging of the main capacitor MC is ended.

  In step S1123, the display unit 9 displays a strobe charging completion (for example, lighting of a progress mark), and enters a next operation standby state.

  The above is the detailed sequence of the charging operation 2 in S915 in FIG.

  In the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the table switching method has been described as means for switching the control of the strobe according to the charging time. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the normal time is set as normal. If the control is switched by a method such as calculation (for example, correction is performed by applying a coefficient to normal information) when an abnormality occurs, it does not violate the gist of the present invention.

  The first to sixth embodiments of the present invention described so far have been described using a camera using a silver salt film. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, an optical apparatus such as a digital camera. Make sure it is valid.

1 is a circuit block diagram of main parts of a camera according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram of a strobe charging voltage detection circuit in the first embodiment of the present invention. Control circuit 2 sequence when release switch is ON in the first embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 1 in the first embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 2 in the first embodiment of the present invention Control circuit 2 sequence when the release switch is ON in the second embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 3 in the second embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 3 in the third embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 3 in the fourth embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 3 in the fifth embodiment of the present invention Control circuit 2 sequence when release switch is ON in the sixth embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 1 in the sixth embodiment of the present invention Detailed sequence of charging operation 2 in the third embodiment of the present invention Charging curve of main capacitor MC in the charging voltage detecting means of the present invention

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Power supply battery 2 Control circuit 3 Release switch 4 Strobe device 4-1 Charging means 4-2 Charging voltage detection circuit 4-3 Light emission control means MC1 / MC2 Main capacitor Xe Xenon tube (light emitting body)
5 Photometric means 6 Distance measuring means 7 Shutter means 8 Film feeding means 9 Display means R1 / R2 Voltage dividing resistor D1 / D2 Backflow prevention diode C1 Smoothing capacitor

Claims (11)

  In an optical device having a strobe device, a main capacitor for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel with a strobe light emitter, a charging means for charging the main capacitor with a charge, and a voltage charged by the charging means A charging voltage detection means for detecting, and a control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detection means and the optical device. After the charging operation is started by the control means, the charging voltage detection means is predetermined An optical apparatus having a strobe device that determines a charging time to a voltage and performs control different from normal when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than a predetermined time.   In an optical apparatus having a strobe device, at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel with a strobe light emitter are arranged in parallel, charging means for charging the main capacitor with electric charge, and the charging Charging voltage detecting means for observing the voltage charged by the means, and control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the optical device, and the charging operation is started by the control means. Thereafter, the charging voltage detection means determines the charging time to a predetermined voltage, and when it is determined that the determination result is shorter than the predetermined time, the optical apparatus having the strobe device performs control different from normal.   3. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control different from normal is warning control.   4. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to claim 1, wherein the control different from normal includes prohibiting an exposure operation.   5. The electronic flash according to claim 1, wherein the determination of whether or not the charging voltage detecting means determines that the charging time to the predetermined voltage is shorter than the predetermined time is based on whether or not the determination is based on a charging state. Optical instrument having a device.   6. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to claim 5, wherein the charging voltage detecting means determines the charging time up to a predetermined voltage at least during a charging operation immediately after strobe light emission.   6. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to claim 5, wherein the charge voltage detecting means changes the determination according to the charge voltage detection result before the start of the strobe charging for the determination of the charging time up to a predetermined voltage.   8. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined time as a reference for determining the charging time is changed according to a power supply voltage.   8. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined time as a reference for determining the charging time is changed according to the environmental temperature.   In an optical apparatus having a strobe device, at least two main capacitors for storing light emission energy arranged in parallel with a strobe light emitter are arranged in parallel, and charging means for charging the main capacitor with electric charge, Charging voltage detecting means for observing the voltage charged by the means, and control means for controlling the operation of the charging means and the charging voltage detecting means and the optical device, and the charging operation is started by the control means. Thereafter, the charging voltage detecting means determines a charging time up to a predetermined voltage, estimates a connection state of the main capacitor from the charging time of the determination result, and performs strobe shooting control according to the connection state An optical instrument.   11. The optical apparatus having a strobe device according to claim 10, wherein the exposure time and the strobe light emission timing are corrected in accordance with the estimated connection state of the main capacitor.

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