JP2008009190A - Imaging device and parameter setting method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To facilitate an operation of selecting out of selectable items, to shorten a time required for the selecting operation, and also, to maintain the degree of freedom in selecting out of selectable items, regarding an imaging device for photographing by using a parameter capable of setting any of a plurality of selectable items. <P>SOLUTION: Regarding the imaging device for photographing by using the parameter capable of setting any of the plurality of selectable items, the device includes: selecting means (38, 39, 44, 46, 48 and 49) for selecting any of the plurality of selectable items; a system control circuit (50) for setting the item selected out of the selectable items as a parameter; and storage means (60 and 64) for storing the history of the set selectable item. The selecting means includes an optional selection mode and an automatic selection mode to select any of the plurality of selectable items, irrespective of the history, and a history selection mode to select any of the plurality of selectable items based on the history, and the storage means stores the history of the selectable item selected and set in the optional selection mode or the automatic selection mode. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus and a parameter setting method in the imaging apparatus, and more particularly to an imaging apparatus that performs imaging using a parameter that can set any of a plurality of options, and a parameter setting method in the imaging apparatus.

  In recent years, there are imaging devices that perform imaging using predetermined parameters that can take a plurality of options. Among them, there is one in which a plurality of focus detection areas are provided as a focus detection area in which a focus adjustment area is defined. Such an imaging apparatus having a plurality of focus detection areas usually has an arbitrary selection mode in which a photographer can arbitrarily select a focus detection area to be used, and an automatic selection in which the camera automatically selects the focus detection area to be used. Has a mode.

  Here, a conventional method for selecting a focus detection area will be described with reference to FIGS. 3, 14, and 15.

  FIGS. 3 and 14A to 14F and 15A to 15F are views showing displays in the finder of the focus detection area of a single-lens reflex camera as an example of an imaging apparatus. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing how the focus detection area is moved in the horizontal direction, and FIG. 15 is a diagram showing how the focus detection area is moved in the vertical direction. The camera shown here has 45 focus detection areas indicated by thin lines as shown in FIG. Normally, in the arbitrary selection mode, only one selected focus detection area is lit and visible, and the other focus detection areas are unlit and cannot be viewed. Here, for convenience of explanation, a focus detection area that is lit (selected) is indicated by a bold line, and a focus detection area that is not lit (not selected) is indicated by a thin line.

  An example of an operation for selecting a focus detection area in this case will be described with reference to FIG. Here, an operation member including a dial for moving the selected focus detection area in the horizontal direction and a dial for moving in the vertical direction is used, and the focus detection area is selected by rotating these dials to the left and right. Will be described. Hereinafter, the former is referred to as “left / right dial” and the latter is referred to as “up / down dial”.

  FIG. 14A shows a state where the central focus detection region 80 is selected, and only this is lit. Here, when the left / right dial is operated to rotate right in the focus detection area arbitrary selection mode, the selected focus detection area moves to 81 as shown in FIG. Thereafter, when the left and right dials are continuously operated to rotate clockwise, the movement to 82, 83, and 84 occurs. After the focus detection area has moved to 85 as shown in FIG. 14C, the entire outermost focus detection area is turned on as shown in FIG. This indicates that the camera is in an automatic selection mode in which the focus detection area is automatically selected. When the focus detection area is fixed in this state, the camera automatically selects the focus detection area, and starts a photographing operation based on the focus detection area.

  Furthermore, when the left and right dials are operated to rotate clockwise from the state of FIG. 14D, the leftmost focus detection area 86 is selected as shown in FIG. Thereafter, when the left and right dials are continuously operated to rotate right, as shown in FIG. 14 (f), the robot moves to 87, 88, 89, 90. Thereafter, the process returns to the central focus detection area 80 shown in FIG. Similarly, when the left and right dials are operated to rotate left, the selected focus detection area moves to the left, and the focus detection areas are selected in the reverse order to that described above.

  Next, selection in the vertical direction of the focus detection area will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 15A, when the upper and lower dials are operated to the right while the central region 80 is selected in the focus detection region arbitrary selection mode, the focus detection region 91 at the upper end shown in FIG. Move to. When the upper and lower dials are further operated clockwise, the focus detection area 92 is selected, and the state shown in FIG. 15D, that is, the outermost focus detection area is turned on. Becomes an automatic selection mode for automatically selecting a focus detection area. When the upper and lower dials are further operated to rotate clockwise, the focus detection area 93 at the lower end shown in FIG. 15E is selected, and after moving to the focus detection area 94, the focus in the center is moved. Return to the detection area 80. Similarly, when the up / down dial is operated to rotate counterclockwise, the focus detection area moves downward, and the focus detection area is selected in the reverse order to the above description.

  As described above, any of the focus detection areas shown in FIG. 3 can be selected by performing a combination of two selection operations in the left and right directions and the up and down direction.

  However, in the conventional selection method, when there are many focus detection areas that can be selected, it takes time for the photographer to select a desired focus detection area, and there is a possibility that the shooting timing may be missed.

  Therefore, in Patent Document 1, a focus detection area frequently used by a photographer is set and registered in advance, and is selected from the focus detection areas set and registered when the focus detection area is selected in the arbitrary selection mode. Possible functions are disclosed.

  Patent Document 2 discloses a function that can limit a focus detection area that can be selected from a plurality of focus detection areas.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 7-29511 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-170813

  However, when selecting the focus detection area in the arbitrary selection mode, even if the focus detection area is limited, the selection of the left and right directions and the up and down direction is still performed using two dials, and the operation becomes complicated. It is not a fundamental solution to this. Further, even if direction detection switches such as two directions, four directions, and eight directions are used as operation members instead of two dials, the photographer selects a desired focus detection region when there are a large number of focus detection regions. It took time.

  Further, as described in Patent Document 2, when the selectable focus detection areas are limited, it is impossible to select other focus detection areas.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in an imaging apparatus that performs imaging using a parameter that can set any of a plurality of options, the selection operation of the options is facilitated, and the time required for the selection operation is reduced. The purpose is to enable shortening and to maintain the freedom of selection.

  In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus of the present invention that performs imaging using a parameter that can set any of a plurality of options includes a selection unit that selects any one of the plurality of options, and the selection unit. A setting unit configured to set the selected option as the parameter; and a storage unit configured to store a history of options set as the parameter by the setting unit, wherein the selection unit stores the option stored in the storage unit. A first mode for selecting any one of the plurality of options regardless of the history of the second mode, and a second mode for selecting any one of the plurality of options using the history of options stored in the storage means. And the storage means stores a history of options set in the first mode.

  In addition, the setting method of the present invention for the parameter in the imaging apparatus that performs imaging using a parameter that can set one of a plurality of options is a first selection that selects any one of the plurality of options in the first mode. A setting step for setting the option selected in the first selection step as the parameter, a storage step for storing a history of options set in the parameter in the setting step in a storage means, a second step A second selection step of selecting any of the plurality of options in a mode; and a resetting step of resetting the option selected in the second selection step to the parameter, the first mode Is a mode for selecting one of the plurality of options regardless of the history of options stored in the storage means, and the second mode uses the history of options stored in the storage means. Characterized in that it is a mode for selecting one of the multiple choice Te.

  According to the present invention, in an imaging device that performs imaging using a parameter that can set one of a plurality of options, the option selection operation is facilitated, the time required for the selection operation is shortened, and the option selection is free. The degree can be maintained.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like of the components exemplified in the present embodiment should be changed as appropriate according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. It is not limited to.

  With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a configuration of a single-lens reflex camera will be described as an example of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a single-lens reflex camera according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating an example of the appearance of the single-lens reflex camera in FIG. 1, in which FIG. 2A shows a top view and FIG. 2B shows a rear view. In FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same components.

  Reference numeral 1 denotes a camera body, and reference numeral 30 denotes a detachable photographic lens. Various photographic lenses can be attached to the camera body 1. First, the configuration of the camera body 1 will be described.

  Reference numeral 2 denotes a main mirror, which is obliquely set in or removed from the photographing optical path in accordance with the finder system observation state and photographing state. Reference numeral 3 denotes a sub-mirror that reflects the light beam transmitted through the main mirror 2 toward the lower side of the camera body 1. Reference numeral 4 denotes a shutter for controlling the exposure amount, and is driven and controlled by the shutter control unit 5. Reference numeral 6 denotes a solid-state imaging device, such as a CCD or CMOS.

  A focus detection unit 7 includes a field lens 7a, reflection mirrors 7b and 7e, an aperture 7c, a secondary imaging lens 7d, an area sensor 7f including a plurality of CCDs, and the like disposed near the imaging surface. . The focus detection unit 7 in the present embodiment uses a known phase difference detection method, and is configured to be able to detect the focus in 45 areas in the finder screen as shown in FIG.

  Reference numeral 8 denotes a focusing plate disposed on the planned imaging plane of the photographing lens 30, and 9 denotes a pentaprism for changing the finder optical path. Reference numerals 10 and 11 denote an imaging lens and a photometric sensor for measuring the luminance of the subject in the photographing screen, respectively. The imaging lens 10 conjugates the focusing plate 8 and the photometric sensor 11 via the reflected light path in the pentaprism 9. It is related. Reference numeral 20 denotes an eyepiece lens disposed behind the exit surface of the pentaprism 8 and is used for observing the focusing screen 8 by the photographer's eyes. The main mirror 2, the focus plate 8, the pentaprism 9 and the eyepiece 20 constitute a finder optical system.

  Reference numeral 21 denotes a high-luminance LED that can be visually recognized even in a bright subject. For example, the emission center wavelength is red of 680 nm. Reference numeral 22 denotes a superimpose liquid crystal display panel for displaying the positions of 45 focus detection areas described later. The liquid crystal display panel 22 passes through the display pattern in which only the display pattern corresponding to the position of the selected focus detection region is in the transmissive state, and the light emitted from the rear high-intensity LED 21 is in the transmissive state. Then, the light reaches the photographer's eye through the eyepiece 20 via the light projecting lens 23 and the dichroic mirror 24. Thereby, the photographer can visually recognize the focus detection area display pattern. Here, the dichroic mirror 24 has a characteristic of reflecting light having a wavelength of 680 nm or more, efficiently guides the light of the high-brightness LED 21, and finder field image with almost no light loss from the photographing lens 30. Can be observed by the photographer.

  Reference numeral 25 denotes a liquid crystal in the finder for displaying photographing information outside the screen in the finder, which is illuminated by the illumination LED 26. The light transmitted through the liquid crystal 25 in the finder is guided outside the screen in the finder by the triangular prism 27. Thereby, the photographer can know various kinds of photographing information.

  Reference numeral 38 denotes a focus detection area history mode switch. By operating the sub electronic dial 46 in the ON state, the focus detection areas selected in the past can be sequentially selected (hereinafter referred to as “history selection mode”). Call it.) Reference numeral 39 denotes a photometric area history mode switch. By operating the sub electronic dial 46 in the ON state, it is possible to sequentially select spot photometric areas selected in the past.

  42 is a release button, and SW1 (42a) is turned ON by a first stroke (for example, half-pressed), and operations such as AF (autofocus) processing, AE (automatic exposure) processing, and EF (strobe light control) processing are started. Instruct. Further, SW2 (42b) is turned ON by the second stroke (for example, full press), and an instruction to start a series of imaging processing operations including exposure processing, development processing, and recording processing is given.

  Reference numeral 44 denotes a main electronic dial, which can perform various settings of the camera state such as a shooting mode and select a focus detection area / spot photometry area. Reference numeral 46 denotes a sub-electronic dial that can perform various settings of the camera state and select a focus detection area / spot photometry area.

  Reference numeral 48 denotes a focus detection area selection mode switch. By operating the main electronic dial 44 and the sub electronic dial 46 while pressing (turning on) the focus detection area selection mode switch 48, an arbitrary focus detection area is selected from among the 45 focus detection areas shown in FIG. (Optional mode). When the focus detection area selection mode switch is OFF, the automatic selection mode is set, and the camera automatically selects the focus detection area.

  Reference numeral 49 denotes a photometry area selection mode switch for the spot photometry area. By operating the main electronic dial 44 and the sub electronic dial 46 while pressing (turning on) the photometry area selection mode switch 49, an arbitrary spot photometry area can be selected from among the 45 spot photometry areas described later. it can. When the photometry area selection mode switch is OFF, the camera automatically selects the spot photometry area.

  Reference numeral 50 denotes a system control circuit that controls the overall operation of the camera body 1, and 52 denotes a memory that stores constants, variables, programs, and the like for operation of the system control circuit 50.

  Reference numeral 54 denotes a notification unit for notifying the outside of an operation state, a message, and the like using characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with execution of a program in the system control circuit 50. As the notification unit 54, for example, a display unit that performs visual display using an LCD, an LED, or the like, or a sound generation element that performs voice notification, etc., is used, and the notification unit 54 is configured by a combination of one or more of these.

  Reference numeral 60 denotes a focus detection area storage unit that stores the arbitrary selection mode or the selected focus detection area together with the selected order. A focus position information storage unit 62 stores information (focus position information) indicating the position of the focus lens when focused on the focus detection area stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60.

  Reference numeral 64 denotes a photometric area storage unit which stores the spot photometric areas selected by operating the main electronic dial 44 and the sub electronic dial 46 together with the selected order.

  Reference numeral 66 denotes a storage number storage unit, which stores a focus detection area and a spot photometry area that can be set by operating the main electronic dial 44 or the sub electronic dial 46 when a storage number setting mode is set by an operation member 70 described later. Memorize the number.

  An operation unit 70 includes various buttons and a touch panel. As an example, a single shooting / continuous shooting / self-timer switching button, an exposure correction button, a date / time setting button, and a selection / switching button for setting selection and switching of various functions are included. In addition, there is an AF mode setting switch that can set a one-shot AF mode and a servo AF mode. In the one-shot AF mode, the auto-focus operation is started when the release switch 42 is pressed and the SW1 (42a) is turned on, and once focused, the focused state is maintained. In the servo AF mode, the autofocus operation continues continuously while SW1 (42a) is ON.

  Reference numeral 72 denotes a power switch, which can switch and set the power-on and power-off modes of the camera body 1. A power control unit 74 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit that switches a block to be energized, and the like. The power supply control unit 74 detects the type and remaining amount of the battery, controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system control circuit 50, and supplies the necessary voltage to each unit including the recording medium for a necessary period. To supply.

  76 is a connector for connecting the camera body 1 and a power supply 78, 78 is a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, NiMH battery, Li-ion battery, Li polymer battery, or an AC adapter. Part.

  Next, the configuration of the photographic lens 30 will be described.

  30a and 30b are lenses, and 31 is a stop. In FIG. 1, the two lenses 30a and 30b are shown for the sake of convenience, but in practice they are composed of a large number of lenses.

  Reference numeral 32 denotes an aperture control unit that drives and controls the aperture 31. Reference numeral 33 denotes a focus lens driving motor, 34 denotes a focus lens driving unit including a driving gear, and 35 denotes a lens focus adjustment control unit. Here, rotation of a pulse plate (not shown) interlocked with the focus lens driving unit 34 is detected by a photocoupler (not shown) and transmitted to the focus adjustment control unit 35. The focus adjustment control unit 35 drives the lens driving motor 33 by a predetermined amount based on this information and information on the lens driving amount from the camera body 1 side to move the lens 30a to the in-focus position. .

  Reference numeral 36 denotes a lens system control circuit that controls the entire photographing lens 30. The lens system control circuit 36 includes a memory for storing operation constants, variables, programs, and the like. Furthermore, it also has a function of a non-volatile memory that holds identification information such as a number unique to the photographic lens 30, management information, function information such as an open aperture value, minimum aperture value, and focal length, and current and past setting values. Yes.

  Reference numeral 37 denotes a mount contact that serves as an interface between the camera body 1 and the photographic lens 30, and transmits control signals, status signals, data signals, and the like between the camera body 1 and the photographic lens 30, and currents of various voltages are transmitted. It also has a function to be supplied or to supply.

<First Embodiment>
Next, the operation of the camera having the above-described configuration in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  First, FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of setting the number of focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 in the first embodiment.

  The system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the storage number setting mode is set by operating the operation unit 70 (step S11). If the storage number setting mode is not set (NO in step S11), the determination as to whether or not the storage number setting mode is set is repeated.

  When the storage number setting mode is set (YES in step S11), the photographer operates the main electronic dial 44 or the sub electronic dial 46 to input the number of focus detection areas to be stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60. (Step S12). In response to this, the system control circuit 50 stores the number input in step S12 in the storage number storage unit 66 (step S13).

  This completes the operation of setting the number of focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step S14).

  Next, the operation of selecting a focus detection area in the first embodiment will be described.

First, the overall flow of the focus detection area selection operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  The system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the power switch 72 of the camera body 1 is turned on (step S101). If the power switch 72 is not turned on (NO in step S101), the determination is repeated until the power switch 72 is turned on.

  When the power switch 72 is turned on and the camera is in an operating state (YES in step S101), focus detection area selection processing is executed (step S102). In the focus detection area selection process, the system control circuit 50 determines the selection mode, and performs the processes shown in FIGS. 6 to 8 described later according to the determined selection mode.

  In the first embodiment, the selection mode includes the three modes described above, the arbitrary selection mode, the automatic selection mode, and the history selection mode. The system control circuit 50 receives the operation states of the focus detection area history mode switch 38 and the focus detection area selection mode switch 48, respectively, and determines the selection mode selected by the combination. Specifically, when the focus detection area history mode switch 38 is OFF, it is determined that the optional selection mode is selected when the focus detection area selection mode switch 48 is ON, and the automatic selection mode is determined when it is OFF. When the focus detection area history mode switch 38 is ON, the history selection mode is determined regardless of the state of the focus detection area selection mode switch 48.

  Although details will be described later, in the arbitrary selection mode and the automatic selection mode, the selected focus detection region, the selected order, and focus position information are stored in the focus detection region storage unit 60 and the focus position information storage unit 62. The

  The focus detection area selection process ends when the power switch 72 is turned off, as will be described later, and proceeds to step S103. The system control circuit 50 erases the focus detection areas and the order stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step S103). Subsequently, the focus position information stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 is deleted (step S104), and the power supply control unit 74 stops the power supply from the power supply unit 78 to the camera body 1 (step S105). Terminate the process.

  Next, the focus detection area selection process performed in step S102 will be described.

Arbitrary Selection Mode FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing focus detection area selection processing when the arbitrary selection mode is selected as the selection mode.

  First, the system control circuit 50 accepts selection of a focus detection area by operating the main electronic dial 44 and the sub electronic dial 46 while the focus detection area selection mode switch 48 is pressed (step S110). Then, it is determined whether or not the selection mode has been changed (in this case, the mode has been changed to the automatic selection mode or the history selection mode) (step S111). If it has been changed, the process returns to step S102 in FIG. 5 to perform processing corresponding to the changed selection mode.

  On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the release switch SW1 (42a) has been turned on (step S112). If the release switch SW1 (42a) is not turned on (NO in step S112), the process proceeds to step S121 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S110 to continue accepting selection of the focus detection area, and if it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 5 and proceeds to step S103.

  If the release switch SW1 (42a) is ON (YES in step S112), the system control circuit 50 stores the number of focus detection areas to be stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 in the storage number storage unit 66. It is determined whether or not (step S113). If not stored, the process proceeds to step S114. On the other hand, if it is stored, the process proceeds to step S116, where it is determined whether or not the number of focus detection areas already stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 is equal to or greater than the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66. In that case, the process proceeds to step S114.

  The system control circuit 50 stores the focus detection area selected when the release switch SW1 is turned ON in the focus detection area storage unit 60 together with the selected order (step S114). Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 associates the focus position information of the focus detection area stored in step S114 with the focus detection area and stores it in the focus position information storage unit 62 (step S115).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S116 that the number of focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 is greater than or equal to the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66, the process proceeds to step S117. The system control circuit 50 deletes the oldest stored focus detection area and order among the focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step S117). Then, the focus detection area selected when the release switch SW1 is turned on is stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 together with the selected order (step S118).

  Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 erases the focus position information associated with the focus detection area erased in step S117, which is stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 (step S119). Subsequently, the newly stored focus position information of the focus detection area is stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 in association with the focus detection area stored in step S118 (step S120).

  After the process of step S115 or S120, the process proceeds to step S121 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S110 and repeats the above process. If it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. Then, the process proceeds to step S103.

Automatic Selection Mode Next, the focus detection area selection process when the automatic selection mode is selected as the selection mode will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the focus detection area when the camera automatically selects the focus detection area.

  In the automatic selection mode, first, the system control circuit 50 automatically selects a focus detection area (step S130). Here, when a plurality of focus detection regions (for example, the focus detection region group 108 shown in FIG. 9) are selected, the focus detection region (FIG. 9) having the best focus detection result among the plurality of focus detection regions. In the example of 9, the focus detection area 109) is further selected. Next, it is determined whether or not the selection mode has been changed (in this case, the mode has been changed to the arbitrary selection mode or the history selection mode) (step S131). If the selection mode has been changed, the process returns to step S102 in FIG. The processing corresponding to the selection mode is performed.

  On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the release switch SW1 (42a) has been turned on (step S132). If the release switch SW1 (42a) is not turned on (NO in step S132), the process proceeds to step S145 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S130 and the focus detection area is automatically selected. If it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 5 and proceeds to step S103.

  If the release switch SW1 (42a) is ON (YES in step S132), the system control circuit 50 stores the number of focus detection areas to be stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 in the storage number storage unit 66. It is determined whether or not (step S133). If not stored, the process proceeds to step S134. On the other hand, if it is stored, the process proceeds to step S139, and it is determined whether or not the number of focus detection areas already stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 is equal to or greater than the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66. In that case, the process proceeds to step S134.

  In step S <b> 134, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the selected focus detection area is the same as the focus detection area newly stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60. When the selected focus detection area is the same as the newly stored focus detection area (YES in step S134), the process proceeds to step S137. In step S137, the system control circuit 50 uses the focus position information stored in association with the focus detection area stored most recently in the focus detection area stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 as the focus position information. Erasing from the storage unit 62. Then, the current focus position information is associated with the newly stored focus detection area and stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 (step S138).

  On the other hand, when the selected focus detection area is different from the most recently stored focus detection area (NO in step S134), the system control circuit 50 selects the newly selected focus detection area together with the order in which the focus detection areas are stored. It memorize | stores in the detection area memory | storage part 60 (step S135). Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 stores the focus position information in the focus detection area stored in step S135 in the focus position information storage unit 62 in association with the focus detection area (step S136).

  If it is determined in step S139 that the number of focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 is equal to or greater than the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66, the process proceeds to step S140. In step S <b> 140, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the selected focus detection area is the same as the focus detection area newly stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60. If the selected focus detection area is the same as the most recently stored focus detection area (YES in step S140), the process proceeds to step S137, and the above-described processing is performed. If the selected focus detection area is different from the most recently stored focus detection area (NO in step S140), the process proceeds to step S141. The system control circuit 50 erases the oldest focus detection area stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step S141). Then, the newly selected focus detection area is stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 together with the selected order (step S142).

  Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 erases the focus position information associated with the focus detection area erased in step S141, which is stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 (step S143). Subsequently, the newly stored focus position information of the focus detection area is stored in the focus position information storage unit 62 in association with the focus detection area stored in step S142 (step S144).

  After the process of step S136, S138 or S144, the process proceeds to step S145 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S130 and the above process is repeated. Return to step S103.

History Selection Mode Next, the focus detection area selection process when the history selection mode is selected as the selection mode will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined whether or not a focus detection area is stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step S150). If no focus detection area is stored, it is determined whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off (step S151). If it is ON, the process exits the history selection mode, returns to step S102 in FIG. 5, and is repeated until a selection mode other than the history selection mode (in this case, the arbitrary selection mode or the automatic selection mode) is selected. . At this time, a message indicating that the focus detection area is not stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 is notified by the notification unit 54 to prompt the photographer to set a selection mode other than the history selection mode. good.

  On the other hand, if the power switch 72 is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 5 and proceeds to step S103.

  If the focus detection area is stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60 (YES in step S150), the newest focus detection area is read from the focus detection area storage unit 60 and selected (step S152).

  Next, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the sub electronic dial 46 has been operated (step S153). If the sub electronic dial 46 has not been operated (NO in step S153), it is determined whether or not the selection mode has been changed in step S154 (in this case, the mode has been changed to the arbitrary selection mode or the automatic selection mode). If it has been changed, the process returns to step S102 in FIG. 5 to perform processing corresponding to the changed selection mode. On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the process proceeds to step S160 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 has been turned OFF. If ON, the process returns to step S153, and if OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. Proceed to step S103.

  When sub electronic dial 46 is operated (YES in step S153), system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the operation is counterclockwise (step S155). In the case of counterclockwise rotation (YES in step S155), the system control circuit 50 reads out and selects the focus detection area selected immediately before the currently selected focus detection area from the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step). S156).

  Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 reads the focus position information associated with the focus detection area selected in step S156 from the focus position information storage unit 62 and transmits the focus position information to the lens system control circuit 36 via the mount contact 37. Based on the focus position information, the lens system control circuit 36 drives the focus lens drive motor 33 and the focus lens drive unit 34 via the focus adjustment control unit 35 to move the photographing lens 30a (step S157). ).

  On the other hand, in the case of clockwise rotation (NO in step S155), the system control circuit 50 reads out and selects the focus detection area selected after the focus detection area currently selected from the focus detection area storage unit 60 (step). S158). At this time, when the currently selected focus detection area is the newest, the oldest focus detection area is selected from the focus detection areas stored in the focus detection area storage unit 60. That is, the selection target is cyclically continuous.

  Subsequently, the system control circuit 50 reads out the focus position information associated with the focus detection area selected in step S158 from the focus position information storage unit 62 and transmits the focus position information to the lens system control circuit 36 via the mount contact 37. Based on the focus position information, the lens system control circuit 36 drives the focus lens drive motor 33 and the focus lens drive unit 34 via the focus adjustment control unit 35 to move the photographing lens 30a (step S159). ).

  After the process of step S157 or step S159, the process proceeds to step S160 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If the switch is on, the process returns to step S153 and the above process is repeated. Return to step S103.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the history selection mode is set, it is possible to effectively limit the options by using the history of the focus detection area that is already stored. Therefore, the focus detection area can be selected easily and quickly. In addition, when the arbitrary selection mode and the automatic selection mode are set, the focus detection area can be newly selected regardless of the focus detection area selected in the past, so that the focus detection area can be freely selected. The degree can be maintained.

  In the first embodiment, the focus detection area and the focus position information are erased when the power is turned off. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the focus detection area and the focus position information can be stored in the nonvolatile memory so that the focus detection area and the focus position information are not erased. With this configuration, history information can be used even when the power is turned on.

  In the first embodiment, the focus detection area and the focus position information are stored as a pair. However, when the power is turned off, one may be deleted and the other may be stored / saved. For example, since the focus detection area is biased in the area frequently used for each user, the selected area is stored. On the other hand, since the subject is different each time, the focus position information is deleted. May be. In this case, when the focus detection area is selected in the history selection mode when the power is turned on again, the focus position information corresponding to the subject at that time may be stored in correspondence.

<Second Embodiment>
Next, the operation of the camera having the above-described configuration in the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  In the first embodiment, the process of selecting one of a plurality of focus detection areas has been described. In the second embodiment, a spot photometry area to be used for photometry is selected from a plurality of spot photometry areas. The plurality of spot photometry areas are arranged as shown in FIG. 3, for example.

  In the second embodiment, the number of focus detection areas stored in the photometric area storage unit 66 can be set. Since this setting operation is substantially the same as the operation described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4 in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the operation for selecting a spot photometry area in the second embodiment will be described.

First, the overall flow of the spot photometry area selection operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  The system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the power switch 72 of the camera body 1 is turned on (step S201). If the power switch 72 is not turned on (NO in step S201), the determination is repeated until the power switch 72 is turned on.

  When the power switch 72 is turned on and the camera is in an operating state (YES in step S201), spot photometry area selection processing is executed (step S202). In the spot photometry area selection process, the system control circuit 50 determines the spot photometry area selection mode, and performs the processes shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 described later according to the determined selection mode.

  In the second embodiment, the selection mode has three modes, an arbitrary selection mode, an automatic selection mode, and a history selection mode, as in the first embodiment. The system control circuit 50 receives the operation states of the photometry area history mode switch 39 and the photometry area selection mode switch 49, respectively, and determines the selection mode selected by the combination. Specifically, when the photometry area history mode switch 39 is OFF, it is determined that the photometry area selection mode switch 49 is in the arbitrary selection mode when the switch is ON, and the automatic selection mode when it is OFF. When the photometry area history mode switch 39 is ON, the history selection mode is determined regardless of the state of the photometry area selection mode switch 49.

  Although details will be described later, in the optional selection mode and the automatic selection mode, the selected spot photometry area and the selected order are stored in the photometry area storage unit 64.

  As will be described later, the spot photometry area selection processing ends when the power switch 72 is turned off, and the process proceeds to step S203. The system control circuit 50 erases the spot photometry area and the order stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S203), and then stops the power supply from the power supply unit 78 to the camera body 1 by the power supply control unit 74. (Step S204), and a series of processing is terminated.

  Next, the spot photometry area selection process performed in step S202 will be described.

Arbitrary Selection Mode FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing spot photometry area selection processing when the arbitrary selection mode is selected as the selection mode.

  First, the system control circuit 50 accepts the selection of the spot photometry area by operating the main electronic dial 44 and the sub electronic dial 46 with the photometry area selection mode switch 49 pressed (step S210). Then, it is determined whether or not the selection mode has been changed (in this case, the mode has been changed to the automatic selection mode or the history selection mode) (step S211). If it has been changed, the process returns to step S202 in FIG. 10, and processing corresponding to the changed selection mode is performed.

  On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the release switch SW1 (42a) is turned on (step S212). If the release switch SW1 (42a) is not turned on (NO in step S212), the process proceeds to step S221 to determine whether the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S210 to continue accepting the selection of the spot photometry area. If it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 10 and proceeds to step S203.

  When the release switch SW1 (42a) is ON (YES in step S212), the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the number of spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is stored in the storage number storage unit 66. Is determined (step S213). If not stored, the process proceeds to step S214. On the other hand, if it is stored, the process proceeds to step S216, where it is determined whether or not the number of spot photometry areas already stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is greater than or equal to the storage number of the storage number storage unit 66. Then, the process proceeds to step S214.

  The system control circuit 50 stores the spot photometry area selected when the release switch SW1 is turned ON in the photometry area storage unit 64 together with the selected order (step S214).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S216 that the number of spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is equal to or greater than the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66, the process proceeds to step S217. The system control circuit 50 erases the oldest stored spot photometry area and order among the spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S217). Then, the spot photometry area selected when the release switch SW1 is turned on is stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 together with the selected order (step S218).

  After the process of step S215 or S220, the process proceeds to step S221 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If the power switch 72 is turned on, the process returns to step S210 and the above process is repeated. Then, the process proceeds to step S203.

Automatic Selection Mode Next, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12, the spot photometry area selection process when the automatic selection mode is selected as the selection mode will be described. FIG. 9 is a view showing the display in the finder when the camera automatically selects a spot photometry area (spot photometry area automatic selection mode).

  In the automatic selection mode, first, the system control circuit 50 automatically selects a spot photometry area (step S230). Here, when a plurality of spot photometry areas (for example, the spot photometry area group 108 shown in FIG. 9) are selected, the spot photometry areas (FIG. 9) having the best focus detection results among the plurality of spot photometry areas. In the example of 9, the spot metering area 109) is further selected. Next, it is determined whether or not the selection mode has been changed (in this case, the mode has been changed to the arbitrary selection mode or the history selection mode) (step S231), and if changed, the process returns to step S202 in FIG. The processing corresponding to the selection mode is performed.

  On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the release switch SW1 (42a) is turned on (step S232). If the release switch SW1 (42a) is not turned on (NO in step S232), the process proceeds to step S245 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S230, and the spot photometry area is automatically selected. If it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 10 and proceeds to step S203.

  When the release switch SW1 (42a) is ON (YES in step S232), the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the number of spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is stored in the storage number storage unit 66. Is determined (step S233). If not stored, the process proceeds to step S234. On the other hand, if it is stored, the process proceeds to step S239, where it is determined whether or not the number of spot photometry areas already stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is greater than or equal to the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66. Then, the process proceeds to step S234.

  In step S234, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the selected spot photometry area is the same as the most recently stored spot photometry area in the photometry area storage unit 64. When the selected spot photometry area is the same as the newly stored spot photometry area (YES in step S234), the process proceeds to step S245.

  On the other hand, when the selected spot photometry area is different from the most recently stored spot photometry area (NO in step S234), the system control circuit 50 displays the newly selected spot photometry area together with the photometry area storage unit. 64 (step S235). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S245.

  If it is determined in step S239 that the number of spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is equal to or greater than the number stored in the storage number storage unit 66, the process proceeds to step S240. In step S240, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the selected spot photometry area is the same as the most recently stored spot photometry area in the photometry area storage unit 64. When the selected spot photometry area is the same as the newly stored spot photometry area (YES in step S240), the process proceeds to step S245. If the selected spot photometry area is different from the most recently stored spot photometry area (NO in step S240), the process proceeds to step S241. The system control circuit 50 erases the oldest spot photometry area stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S241). Then, the newly selected spot photometry area is stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 together with the selected order (step S242), and the process proceeds to step S245.

  In step S245, it is determined whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If the power switch 72 is turned on, the process returns to step S230 to repeat the above process. If it is turned off, the process returns to the process of FIG. 10 and proceeds to step S203.

History Selection Mode Next, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 13, the spot photometry area selection process when the history selection mode is selected as the selection mode will be described.

  First, it is determined whether or not a spot photometry area is stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S250). Here, if no spot photometry area is stored, it is determined whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off (step S251). If it is ON, the process exits the history selection mode, returns to step S202 in FIG. 10, and is repeated until a selection mode other than the history selection mode (in this case, the arbitrary selection mode or the automatic selection mode) is selected. . At this time, a message that the spot metering area is not stored in the metering area storage unit 64 may be notified by the notification unit 54 to prompt the photographer to set a selection mode other than the history selection mode. .

  On the other hand, if the power switch 72 is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. 10 and proceeds to step S203.

  If the spot photometry area is stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 (YES in step S250), the newest spot photometry area is read from the photometry area storage unit 64 and selected (step S252).

  Next, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the sub electronic dial 46 has been operated (step S253). If the sub electronic dial 46 is not operated (NO in step S253), it is determined in step S254 whether the selection mode has been changed (in this case, the mode has been changed to the arbitrary selection mode or the automatic selection mode). If it has been changed, the process returns to step S202 in FIG. 10, and processing corresponding to the changed selection mode is performed. On the other hand, if the selection mode has not been changed, the process proceeds to step S260 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If it is ON, the process returns to step S253, and if it is OFF, the process returns to the process of FIG. Proceed to step S203.

  When sub electronic dial 46 is operated (YES in step S253), system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the operation is counterclockwise (step S255). If it is counterclockwise (YES in step S255), the system control circuit 50 reads out and selects the spot photometry area selected immediately before the currently selected spot photometry area from the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S256). ).

  On the other hand, in the clockwise direction (NO in step S255), the system control circuit 50 reads out and selects the spot photometry area selected immediately after the currently selected spot photometry area from the photometry area storage unit 64 (step S258). ). At this time, if the currently selected spot photometry area is the newest, the oldest spot photometry area among the spot photometry areas stored in the photometry area storage unit 64 is selected. That is, the selection target is cyclically continuous.

  After the process of step S256 or step S258, the process proceeds to step S260 to determine whether or not the power switch 72 is turned off. If the switch is on, the process returns to step S253 to repeat the above process. Return to step S203.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, when the history selection mode is set, the options can be effectively limited by using the history of the spot metering area that has already been stored. Therefore, it is possible to easily and quickly select the spot photometry area. In addition, when the arbitrary selection mode and the automatic selection mode are set, it is possible to select a new spot metering area regardless of the spot metering area selected in the past. The degree can be maintained.

  In the second embodiment, the spot photometry area is erased when the power is turned off. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the focus detection area and the focus position information can be stored in the nonvolatile memory so that the focus detection area and the focus position information are not erased. With this configuration, history information can be used even when the power is turned on.

  Further, when one of the focus detection area and the spot photometry area is selected, the other may be set as a corresponding area. In other words, when the focus detection area and spot metering area are set in conjunction with each other, by handling these as paired information, it is possible to perform both settings at once by a single operation in the history selection mode. It becomes.

<Other embodiments>
The object of the present invention can also be achieved as follows. First, a storage medium (or recording medium) that records a program code of software that implements the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus. Then, the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the following can be achieved. That is, when the operating system (OS) running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing based on the instruction of the read program code, the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing. It is. Examples of the storage medium for storing the program code include a flexible disk, hard disk, ROM, RAM, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, CD-ROM, CD-R, DVD, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, and the like. Can be considered. Also, a computer network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) can be used to supply the program code.

It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the single-lens reflex camera in embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the external appearance of the single-lens reflex camera shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of a focus detection area or a spot photometry area | region. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement which sets the number of the focus detection area memorize | stored in the focus detection area memory | storage part in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the whole flow of selection operation | movement of the focus detection area | region in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area selection process in case the arbitrary selection modes in the 1st Embodiment of this invention are selected. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area | region selection process in case the automatic selection mode in the 1st Embodiment of this invention is selected. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area selection process in case the log | history selection mode in the 1st Embodiment of this invention is selected. It is a figure which shows a focus detection area in case the some camera selects a focus detection area automatically in the automatic selection mode in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the whole flow of selection operation | movement of the spot photometry area | region in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area selection process in case the arbitrary selection modes in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention are selected. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area | region selection process in case the automatic selection mode in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention is selected. It is a flowchart which shows the focus detection area | region selection process in case the log | history selection mode in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention is selected. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a state when a focus detection region is moved in a horizontal direction when a focus detection region is selected in a conventional imaging device. In the conventional imaging device, it is a figure which shows the mode at the time of moving a focus detection area to the vertical direction especially at the time of focus detection area selection.

Explanation of symbols

  1: camera body, 2: main mirror, 3: sub mirror, 4: shutter, 5: shutter control unit, 6: photosensitive member, 7: focus detection unit, 8: focus plate, 9: pentaprism, 10: imaging lens 11: photometric sensor, 20: eyepiece lens, 21: high brightness LED, 22: liquid crystal display panel, 23: projector lens, 24: dichroic mirror, 25: liquid crystal in viewfinder, 26: LED for illumination, 27: triangular prism , 30: photographing lens, 30a and 30b: lens, 31: aperture, 32: aperture control unit, 33: focus lens drive motor, 34: focus lens drive unit, 36: lens system control circuit, 37: mount contact, 38 : Focus detection area history mode switch, 39: Metering area history mode switch, 42: Release button, 44: Main electronic diagram , 46: Sub-electronic dial, 48: Focus detection area selection mode switch, 49: Photometry area selection mode switch, 50: System control circuit, 52: Memory, 54: Notification section, 60: Focus detection area storage section, 62: Focus Position information storage unit, 64: metering area storage unit, 66: storage number storage unit, 70: operation unit, 72: power switch, 74: power control unit, 76: connector, 78: power supply unit

Claims (21)

An imaging device that performs imaging using a parameter that can set one of a plurality of options,
Selecting means for selecting any of the plurality of options;
Setting means for setting the option selected by the selection means as the parameter;
Storage means for storing a history of options set in the parameter by the setting means,
The selection unit uses the first mode for selecting any of the plurality of options regardless of the history of options stored in the storage unit, and the plurality of options using the history of options stored in the storage unit. An imaging apparatus comprising: a second mode for selecting any one of the options; and the storage unit stores a history of options set in the first mode.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying at least one option including an option selected by the selection means among a plurality of options of the parameter.   In the second mode, the selection means selects a first operation that is sequentially selected from the newest storage order to the oldest one stored in the option history and the oldest storage order. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of options is selected by a second operation set in advance to select a new one sequentially. The parameter is a focus detection area, and the focus detection area is a partial area that is a target for adjusting a focus on a shooting screen.
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a focus adjustment unit that controls a focus lens so that a focus detection region set by the setting unit is focused.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the storage unit stores position information of a focus lens in a focused state in association with the set focus detection area in the first mode.   The focus adjustment unit controls the focus lens in the second mode based on the position information of the focus lens stored in association with the focus detection area set by the setting unit. The imaging device according to claim 5.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parameter is a partial area whose exposure is to be adjusted on a shooting screen.   The first mode includes a mode for automatically selecting any of the plurality of options and a mode for selecting any of the plurality of options according to an operation of an operation member. Item 8. The imaging device according to any one of Items 1 to 7. A storage number setting means for setting the number of options stored in the storage means;
The options stored in the storage means are deleted from the history in order from the oldest option so that the number of options stored in the storage means does not exceed the number set by the storage number setting means. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the history stored in the storage unit is erased in accordance with an operation of turning off the power of the imaging apparatus. A parameter setting method in an imaging apparatus that performs imaging using a parameter that can set one of a plurality of options,
A first selection step of selecting any of the plurality of options in a first mode;
A setting step of setting the option selected in the first selection step as the parameter;
A storage step of storing a history of options set in the parameter in the setting step in a storage unit;
A second selection step of selecting any of the plurality of options in a second mode;
A resetting step of resetting the option selected in the second selection step to the parameter,
The first mode is a mode for selecting any one of the plurality of options regardless of the history of the options stored in the storage unit, and the second mode is a mode for storing the option history stored in the storage unit. A setting method, wherein the mode is a mode for selecting any of the plurality of options.   12. The setting method according to claim 11, further comprising a display step of displaying at least one option including options selected in the first and second selection steps among the plurality of options of the parameter. .   In the second selection step, a preset first operation for sequentially selecting options stored in the history of options from the newest to the oldest, and from the oldest to the newest. 13. The setting method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein one of the plurality of options is selected by a second operation that is selected and sequentially selected. The parameter is a focus detection area, and the focus detection area is a partial area that is a target for adjusting a focus on a shooting screen.
14. The setting method according to claim 11, further comprising a focus adjustment step of controlling a focus lens so that a focus detection area set in the setting step and the resetting step is focused. .   The setting method according to claim 14, further comprising a step of storing position information of a focus lens in a focused state in the storage unit in association with the focus detection area set in the setting step.   16. The focus lens according to claim 15, wherein in the focus adjustment step, the focus lens is controlled based on position information of the focus lens stored in association with the focus detection area set by the resetting unit. Setting method.   The setting method according to claim 11, wherein the parameter is a partial area whose exposure is to be adjusted on a shooting screen.   The first mode includes a mode for automatically selecting any of the plurality of options and a mode for selecting any of the plurality of options according to an operation of an operation member. Item 18. The setting method according to any one of Items 11 to 17. A storage number setting step of setting the number of options stored in the storage means;
In the storage step, the options stored in the storage unit do not exceed the number set in the storage number setting step so that the number of options stored in the storage unit does not exceed the number set in the storage unit. The setting method according to claim 11, further comprising a step of deleting from the history.   The setting method according to claim 11, further comprising an erasing step of erasing the history stored in the storage unit in accordance with an operation of turning off the power of the imaging apparatus.   21. A program executable by an information processing apparatus, comprising program code for realizing each step of the parameter setting method according to claim 11.

Images