JP2008141514A - Compound eye digital camera - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent wasteful consumption of recording capacity of a recording medium when so-called vertical photography is performed with a compound eye digital camera. <P>SOLUTION: The compound eye digital camera with a plurality of imaging means comprises: a detection means for detecting whether or not photography is the vertical photography; a recording means for recording images obtained by a part or the whole of the plurality of imaging means in the recording medium; a shutter button for instructing the photography and a control means for controlling the recording means so that the images obtained from a part of the imaging means among the plurality of imaging means are recorded in the recording medium when the vertical photography is detected by the detection means and the photography is instructed by the shutter button. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a digital camera, and more particularly to a compound-eye digital camera.

  Conventionally, a digital camera having a plurality of imaging systems (hereinafter also referred to as a compound-eye digital camera) is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a digital camera having a plurality of imaging systems, a set of images having parallax is obtained from the plurality of imaging systems, and a so-called lenticular lens having, for example, a semi-cylindrical lens group is arranged on the front surface. Display on a display device such as a liquid crystal panel. If the pair of images are so-called horizontal images, a parallax similar to that of the human eye can be obtained, so that the user visually recognizes the displayed image as a stereoscopic image.

Other patent documents 2 to 4 are considered to be related to the present application.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-224820 JP-A-6-148774 JP 2004-356997 A JP 2006-128899 A

  However, if a set of images is a so-called vertical image obtained by rotating a compound-eye digital camera 90 degrees, the direction of parallax is a vertical direction, and the user visually recognizes the displayed image as a stereoscopic image. It becomes difficult. In this case, if the images obtained from each of the plurality of imaging systems are recorded, a set of images is recorded even though it is difficult to view as a stereoscopic image, and the recording capacity of the recording medium There is a problem that it will be consumed in vain.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of a recording medium when performing so-called vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and the invention according to claim 1 is a compound eye digital camera having a plurality of image pickup means, and a detection means for detecting whether or not vertical shooting is performed, Recording means for recording an image obtained from a part or all of the plurality of imaging means on a recording medium, a shutter button for instructing photographing, and vertical detection is detected by the detection means, and the shutter Control means for controlling the recording means so as to record an image obtained from a part of the plurality of image pickup means on a recording medium when shooting is instructed by a button. To do.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, when vertical shooting is detected and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained only from some of the plurality of imaging units is recorded. It will be recorded on the medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium when performing vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  The invention described in claim 2 is the invention described in claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying a display for identifying the part of the image pickup means.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, since a display for identifying some of the imaging means is displayed, which imaging means is currently driven by the user viewing this display. Alternatively, it is possible to grasp which imaging means is used for imaging.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, when the detection unit detects vertical shooting, the control unit controls only a part of the plurality of imaging units. The recording unit is controlled to operate, and further, when photographing is instructed by the shutter button, the recording unit is controlled to record an image obtained from the part of the imaging unit on a recording medium.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, when vertical shooting is detected, control is performed so that only some of the plurality of imaging units are operated. Further, when shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from the part of the imaging means is recorded on a recording medium. That is, when taking a vertical image with a compound-eye digital camera, each of the plurality of imaging means is not operated.

  As a result, it is possible to realize power saving when shooting vertically with a compound-eye digital camera.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the control unit operates all of the plurality of imaging units, and the detection unit detects vertical shooting. And when imaging | photography is instruct | indicated by the said shutter button, the said recording means is controlled so that the image obtained from some imaging means of the said several imaging means is recorded on a recording medium, It is characterized by the above-mentioned. .

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, all the image pickup means among the plurality of image pickup means are operated in advance. Further, when vertical shooting is detected and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from some of the plurality of imaging units is recorded on a recording medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium when performing vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  The invention according to claim 5 further comprises selection means for allowing a user to select an imaging means to be used for vertical shooting among the plurality of imaging means in the invention according to claim 1, wherein the control means comprises: When vertical detection is detected by the detection unit and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from the imaging unit selected by the selection unit among the plurality of imaging units is recorded on a recording medium. The recording means is controlled as described above.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, an image obtained only from the image pickup means manually selected by the user by the selection means among the plurality of image pickup means is recorded on the recording medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium when performing vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  The invention according to claim 6 further comprises selection means for automatically selecting an imaging means to be used for vertical shooting among the plurality of imaging means in the invention according to claim 1, wherein the control means includes: When vertical detection is detected by the detection unit and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from the imaging unit selected by the selection unit among the plurality of imaging units is recorded on a recording medium. The recording means is controlled as described above.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, an image obtained from only the image pickup means automatically selected by the selection means among the plurality of image pickup means is recorded on the recording medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  As a result, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium when performing vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect of the invention, the selection unit includes a photographing height detection unit, a storage unit, and a reading unit, and the photographing height detection unit performs photographing from a reference plane. The height is detected, and the storage means stores a correspondence relationship between an imaging height and an identifier for identifying an imaging means selected when the imaging height is detected by the imaging height detection means, and the readout The means reads an identifier for identifying the imaging means corresponding to the imaging height detected by the detection means from the storage means, and the control means detects vertical shooting by the detection means, and uses the shutter button. When recording is instructed, the recording unit records an image obtained from the imaging unit identified by the identifier read by the reading unit among the plurality of imaging units on a recording medium. And controlling.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, when vertical shooting is detected and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, the identifier read by the reading means among the plurality of imaging means (this identifier is the shooting An image obtained from the imaging means identified by the imaging means corresponding to the height is recorded on the recording medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  This makes it possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the capacity of the recording medium when shooting vertically with a compound-eye digital camera. In addition, since vertical shooting is performed only with an imaging unit corresponding to the shooting height, when shooting at a low angle, shooting at a lower angle is possible, such as shooting at a lower angle.

  The invention according to claim 8 further comprises mode setting means for setting the 3D mode or 2D mode in the invention according to claim 1, wherein the mode setting means is set to the 3D mode by the mode setting means. In addition, when vertical shooting is detected by the detection unit, a 2D mode is set.

  According to the eighth aspect of the invention, when the 3D mode is set and vertical shooting is detected, the 2D mode is set.

  This makes it possible to automatically set an appropriate mode. In addition, the user can quickly take a portrait without being aware of the mode setting. It can also be used to cancel the 3D mode.

  The invention according to claim 9 further includes mode setting means for setting an automatic mode in the invention according to claim 1, wherein the mode setting means is configured to perform 2D mode when vertical detection is detected by the detection means. Is set, and when the vertical shooting is not detected by the detection means, the 3D mode is set.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the 2D mode is set when vertical shooting is detected, and the 3D mode is set when vertical shooting is not detected (when horizontal shooting is detected).

  This makes it possible to automatically set an appropriate mode. In addition, the user can quickly take a portrait without being aware of the mode setting.

  A tenth aspect of the invention further includes a 3D distance measuring circuit according to the first aspect of the invention, and stops power supply to the 3D distance measuring circuit when vertical detection is detected by the detecting means. It is characterized by doing.

  According to the invention described in claim 10, when vertical shooting is detected, power supply to the 3D distance measuring circuit is stopped, so that power saving can be realized.

  The invention described in claim 11 is characterized in that, in the invention described in claim 1, when the vertical shooting is detected by the detecting means, the distance measurement data is not recorded.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, when vertical shooting is detected, the distance measurement data is not recorded, so that it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of recording capacity of the recording medium.

  According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the first aspect, the control means detects the plurality of images when vertical detection is detected by the detection means and photographing is instructed by the shutter button. The recording means is controlled to record an image obtained from a part of the imaging means of the means on a recording medium together with a flag indicating that the image is vertical shooting.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is determined whether the image is vertical or horizontal by referring to the flag recorded together with the image obtained from some of the plurality of imaging means. It becomes possible to distinguish. In addition, by referring to the flag in the case of image reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily perform 2D / 3D switching and whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the control means detects the plurality of images when vertical detection is detected by the detection means and photographing is instructed by the shutter button. The recording unit is controlled to record an image obtained from a part of the imaging unit of the unit together with an identifier for identifying the imaging unit that has captured the image on a recording medium.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to identify which image pickup means is an image taken by referring to a flag recorded together with an image obtained from some of the plurality of image pickup means. It becomes possible.

  According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the control unit detects the plurality of image pickups when vertical detection is detected by the detection unit and shooting is instructed by the shutter button. The recording means is controlled so as to record an image obtained from a part of the imaging means of the means in a vertical shooting folder.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, an image obtained from some of the plurality of image pickup means is recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder.

  As a result, it is possible to distinguish by folder whether the image to be reproduced is vertical shooting or horizontal shooting. In addition, in the case of image reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily perform 2D / 3D switching and whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reproduction image instruction means for instructing reproduction of an image obtained from a part of the plurality of imaging means by the compound-eye digital camera according to the twelfth aspect, and the reproduction Based on the flag recorded together with the image instructed to be reproduced by the image instruction means, a determination means for determining whether or not the image instructed to be reproduced is a vertically shot image, and the reproduction instructed by the determination means When it is determined that the image is a vertically shot image, display means for displaying the image instructed to be reproduced as a 2D image is provided.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, based on the flag recorded together with the reproduction-instructed image, it is determined whether or not the reproduction-instructed image is a vertically shot image. If it is determined that there is, the image instructed to be reproduced is displayed so as to be visually recognized as a 2D image.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the vertically captured image from being displayed as a 3D image. That is, the vertically captured image can be viewed without a sense of incongruity by displaying it as a 2D image.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an instruction unit for instructing a vertical image reproduction mode, and when the vertical image reproduction mode is instructed by the instruction unit, the compound eye digital camera according to claim 14 is used for the vertical image reproduction mode. Reproduction image instruction means for instructing reproduction of at least one of the images recorded in the folder; display means for displaying the image instructed to reproduce by the reproduction image instruction means so as to be viewed as a 2D image; It is characterized by providing.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, an image instructed to be reproduced among images recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder is displayed so as to be visually recognized as a 2D image.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the vertically shot image from being displayed as a 3D image. That is, the vertically captured image can be viewed without a sense of incongruity by displaying it as a 2D image.

  According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the method for recording an image taken vertically by a compound-eye digital camera having a plurality of imaging means, the step of detecting whether or not the compound-eye digital camera is taken vertically, from the reference plane Detecting the shooting height, selecting an imaging means corresponding to the detected shooting height, when vertical shooting of the compound-eye digital camera is detected, and shooting is instructed by a shutter button, A step of operating only the selected imaging means among a plurality of imaging means, and an image obtained from the operated imaging means is recorded in a vertical shooting dedicated folder together with a flag indicating that the image is vertical shooting. And a step.

  According to the invention of claim 17, when vertical shooting is detected and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained only from some of the plurality of imaging units is recorded. It will be recorded on the medium. That is, in the case of vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera, images obtained from each of a plurality of imaging means are not recorded.

  This makes it possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the capacity of the recording medium when shooting vertically with a compound-eye digital camera.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in a method of reproducing an image taken vertically by a compound-eye digital camera having a plurality of image pickup means, a step of instructing a vertically shot image reproduction mode, and a vertically shot image reproduction mode by the instruction means When instructed, the step of instructing reproduction of at least one of the images recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder according to claim 14 so that the image instructed to be reproduced is viewed as a 2D image. A step of displaying.

  According to the invention described in claim 18, the image instructed to be reproduced among the images recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder is displayed so as to be visually recognized as a 2D image.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the vertically shot image from being displayed as a 3D image. That is, the vertically captured image can be viewed without a sense of incongruity by displaying it as a 2D image.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the capacity of a recording medium when performing so-called vertical shooting with a compound-eye digital camera.

  Hereinafter, a digital camera (imaging device) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a front perspective view showing an external configuration of a digital camera according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view showing the external configuration of the digital camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The digital camera 10 of the present embodiment is a digital camera (corresponding to the compound-eye digital camera of the present invention) provided with a plurality of (two are illustrated in FIG. 1) imaging means (also referred to as an imaging system). Images can be taken from a plurality of viewpoints (two left and right viewpoints are illustrated in FIG. 1).

  The camera body 12 of the digital camera 10 is formed in a rectangular box shape, and a pair of photographing lenses 14R and 14L, a strobe 16 and the like are provided on the front surface thereof as shown in FIG. On the upper surface of the camera body 12, a shutter button 18, a power / mode switch 20, a mode dial 22, and the like are provided.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2, a monitor 24, a zoom button 26, a cross button 28, a MENU / OK button 30, a DISP button 32, a BACK button 34, a macro button 36, and the like are provided on the back of the camera body 12. Yes.

  Although not shown, the bottom of the camera body 12 is provided with a tripod screw hole, an openable / closable battery cover, and the like. A battery storage chamber for storing a battery, a memory is provided inside the battery cover. A memory card slot or the like for installing a card is provided.

  Each of the pair of left and right photographing lenses 14R and 14L is constituted by a retractable zoom lens, and has a macro photographing function (proximity photographing function). The photographing lenses 14R and 14L are extended from the camera body 12 when the digital camera 10 is turned on.

  In addition, since the zoom mechanism, the retracting mechanism, and the macro photographing mechanism in the photographing lens are well-known techniques, description of the specific configuration is omitted here.

  The strobe 16 is composed of a xenon tube, and emits light as necessary when shooting a dark subject or when backlit.

  The shutter button 18 is composed of a two-stroke switch that includes a so-called “half-press” and “full-press”. When the digital camera 10 shoots a still image (for example, when the still image shooting mode is selected with the mode dial 22 or when the still image shooting mode is selected from the menu), when the shutter button 18 is pressed halfway, a shooting preparation process, that is, AE ( Automatic exposure (AF), AF (auto focus), and AWB (automatic white balance) processing are performed, and when fully pressed, image capture / recording processing is performed. Also, during movie shooting (for example, when the movie shooting mode is selected with the mode dial 22 or when the movie shooting mode is selected from the menu), when the shutter button 18 is fully pressed, shooting of the movie is started, and when the shutter button 18 is fully pressed again, shooting is performed. Exit. Depending on the setting, the moving image can be shot while the shutter button 18 is fully pressed, and the shooting can be terminated when the full press is released. A shutter button dedicated to still image shooting and a shutter button dedicated to moving image shooting may be provided.

  The power / mode switch 20 functions as a power switch of the digital camera 10 and also functions as a switching unit that switches between the playback mode and the shooting mode of the digital camera 10, and includes “OFF position”, “playback position”, and “shooting position”. It is slidably provided between the two. The digital camera 10 is set to the playback mode when the power / mode switch 20 is positioned at the “playback position”, and is set to the shooting mode when it is positioned at the “shooting position”. Further, when it is positioned at the “OFF position”, the power is turned off.

  The mode dial 22 is used for setting the shooting mode. The mode dial 22 is rotatably provided on the upper surface of the camera body 12, and “2D still image position”, “2D moving image position”, “3D still image position”, “3D moving image position” are not shown by a click mechanism (not shown). It is provided so that it can be set. The digital camera 10 is set to a 2D still image shooting mode for shooting a 2D still image by setting the mode dial 22 to “2D still image position”, and the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set in the 2D mode. A flag indicating that there is something is set. Also, by setting the “2D moving image position”, the 2D moving image shooting mode for shooting a 2D moving image is set, and the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set with a flag indicating the 2D mode.

  Also, by setting the “3D still image position”, the 3D still image shooting mode for shooting a 3D still image is set, and the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set with a flag indicating the 3D mode. The Further, by setting the “3D moving image position”, the 3D moving image shooting mode for shooting a 3D moving image is set, and the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set with a flag indicating the 3D mode. The CPU 110 to be described later refers to the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 and grasps whether the mode is the 2D mode or the 3D mode.

  The monitor 24 is a display device such as a color liquid crystal panel in which a so-called lenticular lens having a semi-cylindrical lens group is arranged on the front surface. The monitor 24 is used as an image display unit for displaying captured images, and is used as a GUI when various settings are made. Further, at the time of shooting, an image captured by the image sensor is displayed through and used as an electronic viewfinder.

  Here, a mechanism that enables stereoscopic display on the monitor 24 will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a mechanism that enables stereoscopic display on the monitor 24. A lenticular lens 24a is disposed on the front surface of the monitor 24 (in the z-axis direction where the viewer's viewpoint (left eye EL, right eye ER) is present). The lenticular lens 24a is configured by connecting a plurality of cylindrical convex lenses in the x-axis direction in FIG.

  The display area of the stereoscopic image displayed on the monitor 24 includes a strip image display area 24R for the right eye and a strip image display area 24L for the left eye. The strip image display area 24R for the right eye and the strip image display area 24L for the left eye each have an elongated strip shape in the y-axis direction in FIG. 11 of the screen, and are alternately arranged in the x-axis direction in FIG. .

  Each convex lens of the lenticular lens 24a has a strip image display area 24c including a pair of right eye strip image display areas 24R and a left eye strip image display area 24L with reference to a given observation point of the viewer. It is formed in the corresponding position.

  In FIG. 11, the strip image for the right eye displayed in the strip image display area 24R for the right eye of the monitor 24 is incident on the viewer's right eye ER due to the light refraction action of the lenticular lens 24a. Further, the left eye strip image displayed in the left eye strip image display area 24L of the monitor 24 is incident on the viewer's left eye EL due to the photorefractive action of the lenticular lens 24a. Therefore, the viewer's right eye sees only the right-eye strip image, and the viewer's left eye sees only the left-eye strip image, and the right-eye image and the left eye are a set of these right-eye strip images. Stereoscopic viewing is possible by the left-right parallax of the left-eye image that is a set of ophthalmic strip images.

  The zoom button 26 is used for zooming of the photographing lenses 14R and 14L, and includes a zoom tele button for instructing zooming to the telephoto side and a zoom wide button for instructing zooming to the wide angle side.

  The cross button 28 is provided so that it can be pressed in four directions, up, down, left, and right, and a function corresponding to the setting state of the camera is assigned to the button in each direction. For example, at the time of shooting, a function for switching on / off of the macro function is assigned to the left button, and a function for switching the strobe mode is assigned to the right button. In addition, a function for changing the brightness of the monitor 24 is assigned to the upper button, and a function for switching ON / OFF of the self-timer is assigned to the lower button. Further, during playback, a frame advance function is assigned to the left button, and a frame return function is assigned to the right button. Also, a function for changing the brightness of the monitor 24 is assigned to the upper button, and a function for deleting the image being reproduced is assigned to the lower button. In various settings, a function for moving the cursor displayed on the monitor 24 in the direction of each button is assigned.

  The MENU / OK button 30 is used to call a menu screen (MENU function), and is used to confirm selection contents, execute a process, etc. (OK function), and is assigned according to the setting state of the digital camera 10. Is switched.

  On the menu screen, for example, all adjustment items that the digital camera 10 has such as image quality adjustment such as exposure value, hue, ISO sensitivity, number of recorded pixels, self-timer setting, photometry method switching, and whether or not to use digital zoom. Settings are made. The digital camera 10 operates according to the conditions set on this menu screen.

  The DISP button 32 is used to input an instruction to switch the display contents of the monitor 24, and the BACK button 34 is used to input an instruction to cancel the input operation.

  The vertical / horizontal shooting switch button 36 is a button for instructing whether to perform vertical shooting or horizontal shooting (vertical shooting mode or horizontal shooting mode). The vertical / horizontal shooting detection circuit 166 detects whether shooting is performed in vertical shooting or horizontal shooting depending on the state of this button.

  The height detection unit 38 is a circuit for detecting a distance from a reference plane (for example, the ground). As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the height detection unit 38 is provided on both side surfaces of the camera body 12 so that the height can be detected in any posture of vertical shooting.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the digital camera 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to acquire image signals from two imaging systems, and includes a CPU 110, a height detection circuit 38, an operation unit (shutter button 18, power supply). / Mode switch 20, mode dial 22, zoom button 26, cross button 28, MENU / OK button 30, DISP button 32, BACK button 34, 2D / 3D mode switching button 36, etc.) 112, ROM 116, flash ROM 118, SDRAM 120, VRAM 122 , Taking lenses 14R and 14L, zoom lens controllers 124R and 124L, focus lens controllers 126R and 126L, aperture controllers 128R and 128L, image sensors 134R and 134L, timing generators (TG) 136R and 136L, analog signal processing Units 138R, 138L, A / D converters 140R, 140L, image input controllers 141R, 141L, digital signal processing units 142R, 142L, AF detection unit 144, AE / AWB detection unit 146, 3D image generation unit 150, compression / decompression A processing unit 152, a media control unit 154, a memory card 156, a display control unit 158, a monitor 24, a power supply control unit 160, a battery 162, a strobe control unit 164, a strobe 16 and the like are provided.

  The imaging unit R on the right side in FIG. 1 mainly includes a photographic lens 14R, a zoom lens control unit 124R, a focus lens control unit 126R, an aperture control unit 128R, an image sensor 134R, a timing generator (TG) 136R, an analog signal processing unit 138R, An A / D converter 140R, an image input controller 141R, a digital signal processing unit 142R, and the like are included.

  1 mainly includes a photographing lens 14L, a zoom lens control unit 124L, a focus lens control unit 126L, an aperture control unit 128L, an image sensor 134L, a timing generator (TG) 136L, an analog signal processing unit 138L, An A / D converter 140L, an image input controller 141L, a digital signal processing unit 142L, and the like are included.

  The CPU 110 functions as a control unit that performs overall control of the operation of the entire camera, and controls each unit according to a predetermined control program based on an input from the operation unit 112.

  The ROM 116 connected via the bus 114 stores a control program executed by the CPU 110 and various data necessary for control (AE / AF control cycle and the like described later). Various setting information relating to the operation of the digital camera 10 such as setting information is stored.

  The SDRAM 120 is used as a calculation work area for the CPU 110 and is also used as a temporary storage area for image data, and the VRAM 122 is used as a temporary storage area dedicated to image data for display.

  The pair of left and right photographing lenses 14R and 14L are configured to include zoom lenses 130ZR and 130ZL, focus lenses 130FR and 130FL, and apertures 132R and 132L, and are disposed on the camera body 12 with a predetermined interval.

  The zoom lenses 130ZR and 130LR are driven by a zoom actuator (not shown) to move back and forth along the optical axis. The CPU 110 controls the position of the zoom lens by controlling the driving of the zoom actuator via the zoom lens control units 124R and 124L, and zooms the photographing lenses 14R and 14L.

  The focus lenses 130FR and 130FL are driven by a focus actuator (not shown) to move back and forth along the optical axis. The CPU 110 controls the position of the focus lens by controlling the drive of the focus actuator via the focus lens control units 126R and 126L, and performs focusing of the photographing lenses 14R and 14L.

  The diaphragms 132R and 132L are constituted by, for example, iris diaphragms, and are operated by being driven by a diaphragm actuator (not shown). The CPU 110 controls the aperture amount (aperture value) of the diaphragms 132R and 132L by controlling the driving of the diaphragm actuator via the diaphragm controllers 128R and 128L, and controls the amount of light incident on the image sensors 134R and 134L.

  The CPU 110 drives the left and right photographing lenses 14R and 14L in synchronism when driving the zoom lenses 130ZR and 130ZL, the focus lenses 130FR and 130FL, and the apertures 132R and 132L constituting the photographing lenses 14R and 14L. That is, the left and right photographing lenses 14R and 14L are always set to the same focal length (zoom magnification), and focus adjustment is performed so that the same subject is always in focus. Further, the diaphragm is adjusted so that the same incident light quantity (aperture value) is always obtained.

  The image sensors 134R and 134L are composed of color CCDs having a predetermined color filter array. In the CCD, a large number of photodiodes are two-dimensionally arranged on the light receiving surface. The optical image of the subject formed on the light receiving surface of the CCD by the photographing lenses 14R and 14L is converted into signal charges corresponding to the amount of incident light by the photodiode. The signal charges accumulated in each photodiode are sequentially read out from the image sensors 134R and 134L as voltage signals (image signals) corresponding to the signal charges based on the drive pulses given from the TGs 136R and 136L in accordance with instructions from the CPU 110.

  The imaging elements 134R and 134L have an electronic shutter function, and the exposure time (shutter speed) is controlled by controlling the charge accumulation time in the photodiode.

  In the present embodiment, a CCD is used as the image sensor, but an image sensor having another configuration such as a CMOS sensor can also be used.

  Analog signal processing units 138R and 138L are correlated double sampling circuits (CDS) for removing reset noise (low frequency) included in the image signals output from the image sensors 134R and 134L, amplify the image signals, and are constant An AGS circuit for controlling the magnitude of the level is included, and the image signals output from the image sensors 134R and 134L are subjected to correlated double sampling processing and amplified.

  The A / D converters 140R and 140L convert the analog image signals output from the analog signal processing units 138R and 138L into digital image signals.

  The image input controllers 141R and 141L take in the image signals output from the A / D converters 140R and 140L and store them in the SDRAM 120.

  The digital signal processing units 142R and 142L take in the image signal stored in the SDRAM 120 in accordance with a command from the CPU 110, perform predetermined signal processing, and generate a YUV signal including the luminance signal Y and the color difference signals Cr and Cb.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the digital signal processing units 142R and 142L.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the digital signal processing units 142R and 142L include a white balance gain calculation circuit 142a, an offset correction circuit 142b, a gain correction circuit 142c, a gamma correction circuit 142d, an RGB interpolation calculation unit 142e, and an RGB / YC conversion circuit 142f. , A noise filter 142g, a contour correction circuit 142h, a color difference matrix circuit 142i, and a light source type determination circuit 142j.

  The white balance gain calculation circuit 142a takes in the integrated value calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146 and calculates a gain value for white balance adjustment.

  The offset correction circuit 142b performs an offset process on the image signals of R, G, and B colors captured via the image input controllers 141R and 141L.

  The gain correction circuit 142c takes in the image signal that has been subjected to the offset processing, and performs white balance adjustment using the gain value calculated by the white balance gain calculation circuit 142a.

  The gamma correction circuit 142d takes in an image signal that has undergone white balance adjustment, and performs gamma correction using a predetermined γ value.

  The RGB interpolation calculation unit 142e interpolates the gamma-corrected R, G, and B color signals to obtain R, G, and B3 color signals at each pixel position. That is, in the case of a single-plate image sensor, only one color signal of R, G, and B is output from each pixel, so that a color that is not output is obtained from the color signals of surrounding pixels by a complementary operation. For example, in a pixel that outputs R, the level of G and B color signals at this pixel position is determined by interpolation from the G and B signals of surrounding pixels. As described above, since the RGB complementary calculation is specific to the single-plate image sensor, it is not necessary when a three-plate image sensor is used as the image sensor 134.

  The RGB / YC conversion circuit 142f generates a luminance signal Y and color difference signals Cr and Cb from the R, G, and B signals after the RGB interpolation calculation.

  The noise filter 142g performs noise reduction processing on the luminance signal Y and the color difference signals Cr and Cb generated by the RGB / YC conversion circuit 142f.

  The contour correction circuit 142h performs contour correction processing on the luminance signal Y after noise reduction, and outputs a luminance signal Y ′ whose contour has been corrected.

  On the other hand, the color difference matrix circuit 142i performs color correction by multiplying the color difference signals Cr and Cb after noise reduction by the color difference matrix (C-MTX). That is, the color difference matrix circuit 142i is provided with a plurality of types of color difference matrices corresponding to the light sources, and the color difference matrix to be used is switched according to the light source type obtained by the light source type determination circuit 142j. The input color difference signals Cr and Cb are multiplied, and color-tone-corrected color difference signals Cr ′ and Cb ′ are output.

  The light source type determination circuit 142j determines the light source type by taking in the integrated value calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146, and outputs a color difference matrix selection signal to the color difference matrix circuit 142i.

  In the digital camera of this embodiment, the digital signal processing unit is configured by a hardware circuit as described above, but the same function as that of the hardware circuit can be configured by software.

  The AF detection unit 144 captures R, G, and B color image signals captured from one image input controller 141R, and calculates a focus evaluation value necessary for AF control. The AF detection unit 144 includes a high-pass filter that allows only a high-frequency component of the G signal to pass, an absolute value processing unit, a focus area extraction unit that extracts a signal within a predetermined focus area set on the screen, and a focus area An integration unit for integrating the absolute value data is included, and the absolute value data in the focus area integrated by the integration unit is output to the CPU 110 as a focus evaluation value.

  During the AF control, the CPU 110 searches for a position where the focus evaluation value output from the AF detection unit 144 is maximized, and moves the focus lenses 130FR and 130FL to the position to perform focusing on the main subject. . That is, during the AF control, the CPU 110 first moves the focus lenses 130FR and 130FL from the close range to the infinity, sequentially acquires the focus evaluation value from the AF detection unit 144 in the moving process, and the focus evaluation value becomes maximum. Detect position. Then, the position where the detected focus evaluation value is maximum is determined as the in-focus position, and the focus lenses 130FR and 130FL are moved to that position. Thereby, the subject (main subject) located in the focus area is focused.

  The AE / AWB detection unit 146 takes in image signals of R, G, and B colors taken from one image input controller 141R, and calculates integrated values necessary for AE control and AWB control. That is, the AE / AWB detection unit 146 divides one screen into a plurality of areas (for example, 8 × 8 = 64 areas), and calculates an integrated value of R, G, and B signals for each divided area.

  At the time of AE control, the CPU 110 acquires an integrated value of R, G, B signals for each area calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146, obtains the brightness (photometric value) of the subject, and obtains an appropriate exposure amount. Set the exposure to obtain That is, sensitivity, aperture value, shutter speed, and necessity of strobe light emission are set.

  In addition, during the AWB control, the CPU 110 calculates the integrated values of the R, G, and B signals for each area calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146, the white balance gain calculation circuit 142a and the light source type determination circuit 142j of the digital signal processing unit 142. Add to.

  The white balance gain calculation circuit 142a calculates a gain value for white balance adjustment based on the integrated value calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146.

  The light source type determination circuit 142j detects the light source type based on the integrated value calculated by the AE / AWB detection unit 146.

  The compression / decompression processing unit 152 performs compression processing in a predetermined format on the input image data in accordance with a command from the CPU 110 to generate compressed image data. Further, in accordance with a command from the CPU 110, the input compressed image data is subjected to a decompression process in a predetermined format to generate uncompressed image data. In the digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment, a still image is subjected to compression processing conforming to the JPEG standard, and a moving image is subjected to MPEG2, MPEG4, H.264, or the like. A compression process conforming to the H.264 standard is performed.

  The media control unit 154 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the memory card 156 in accordance with a command from the CPU 110.

  The display control unit 158 controls display on the monitor 24 in accordance with a command from the CPU 110. That is, in accordance with a command from the CPU 110, the input image signal is converted into a video signal (for example, NTSC signal, PAL signal, SCAM signal) to be displayed on the monitor 24 and output to the monitor 24. The graphic information is output to the monitor 24.

  The power control unit 160 controls power supply from the battery 162 to each unit in accordance with a command from the CPU 110.

  The strobe control unit 164 controls the light emission of the strobe 16 in accordance with a command from the CPU 110.

  The height detection unit 38 is a circuit for detecting a shooting height (distance) from a reference plane (for example, the ground).

  The vertical shooting / horizontal shooting detection circuit 166 detects whether the shooting is vertical shooting or horizontal shooting depending on the state of the vertical shooting / horizontal shooting switching button 36.

  The 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set with a flag indicating the 2D mode or the 3D mode.

  Next, the operation of the digital camera 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Operation during shooting]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (operation at the time of photographing) of the digital camera 10 of the first embodiment.

  The following processing is realized mainly by the CPU 110 executing a predetermined program read into the SDRAM 120 or the like. When the first stage of the shutter button 18 is turned on in a state where either the vertical shooting mode or the horizontal shooting mode is set by the operation of the vertical shooting / horizontal shooting switching button 36 (step S10: Yes), the vertical shooting / horizontal shooting is performed. The shooting detection circuit 166 detects whether the vertical shooting mode or the horizontal shooting mode is set according to the state of the vertical shooting / horizontal shooting switching button 36 (step S12).

  When the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), the mode is switched to the 2D mode (step S13). That is, the 3D mode is canceled and the mode is automatically switched to the 2D mode. Then, a flag indicating the 2D mode is set in the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168.

  This makes it possible to automatically set an appropriate mode. In addition, the user can quickly take a portrait without being aware of the mode setting. It can also be used to cancel the 3D mode.

  Next, the photographing height (distance) from the reference plane (for example, the ground) is detected (step S14). For example, the height detection circuit 38 measures the time until light and radio waves are emitted from the reference plane, reflected, and returned, thereby detecting the photographing height. Alternatively, the shooting height may be set by the user operating the operation unit 112 or the like.

  Next, of the two imaging means R and L (corresponding to a plurality of imaging means of the present invention), an imaging means to be driven (corresponding to a part of the imaging means of the present invention) is determined (step S15). For example, the correspondence relationship between the photographing height (multiple distances) and the identifier for identifying the photographing means R or L selected when the photographing height is detected in step S14 is stored in the ROM 118 or the like. When the shooting height is detected (step S14), an identifier for identifying the imaging unit corresponding to the detected shooting height is read from the ROM 118, and one imaging unit R or L identified by this identifier is read. It is automatically determined as the imaging means to be driven.

  As a result, since vertical shooting is performed by the imaging means R or L corresponding to the shooting height, when shooting at a lower angle, shooting at an optimum angle is possible, such as shooting at a lower angle.

  Next, a display for identifying the driving imaging means R or L determined in step S15 is displayed (step S16). For example, the image is displayed on a display provided separately on the monitor 24 or the camera body 12. By visually recognizing this display, the user can grasp which imaging means R or L is currently driven or which imaging means R or L is used for imaging.

  As this display, for example, the identification number of the imaging means R or L, or the portion corresponding to the driving imaging means R or L in the schematic diagram including the plurality of imaging means R and L is displayed blinking or different. It is possible to highlight with color.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the imaging means R or L identified by the display in step S16 is acceptable (step S17). When selecting an imaging unit R or L different from the imaging unit R or L identified by the display in step S16, for example, the desired imaging unit R or L is selected by operating the operation unit 112, and the selected imaging unit is selected. The means R or L is determined as the imaging means to be driven (step S17: No, step S18).

  On the other hand, if the imaging means R or L identified by the display in step S16 is acceptable (step S17: Yes), only the imaging means R or L determined in step S15 is driven (step S19). Thereby, power consumption can be reduced.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 7, a vertical shooting folder (vertical shooting image folder in FIG. 7) is set in the memory card 156 (step S20). The vertical shooting folder is a folder for recording (saving) a file including the shot image when the vertical shooting mode is set. Note that the vertical shooting folder is set when it is not set in advance, and is not set again when it is set in advance.

  Next, file initialization is executed (step S21).

  Next, when the second stage of the shutter button 18 is turned on (corresponding to the shooting instruction of the present invention) (step S22: Yes), shooting is performed only by the imaging means R or L determined in step S15, and the determination is made. A file including an image captured by only the imaging means R or L (hereinafter also referred to as a vertically captured image) is generated (step S23). Since the generated file is automatically sorted and recorded (saved) in the vertical shooting folder, whether the image to be reproduced is vertical shooting or horizontal shooting (in the shooting position column described later). It is possible to distinguish between folders (without reference). Further, in the case of reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily switch between 2D / 3D and determine whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  Further, the image included in the generated file is an image obtained only from the imaging means R or L instead of recording images obtained from the imaging means R and L, respectively. For this reason, the recording capacity of the recording medium is not wasted.

  If the photographing is finished (step S24: Yes), the header information is updated (step S25), and the process is finished.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the file stored in the vertical shooting folder as described above.

  FIG. 7 shows a state in which files including vertically taken images (N files indicated by images 1 to N in FIG. 7) are stored in the vertically taken folder.

  Each file includes an image information tag, a thumbnail (also referred to as a thumbnail image), and an image (also referred to as a main image or a main image).

  The image information tag is attached information to the main image, and includes an ID number column, a file name column, a shooting date / time column, a shooting position column, a 2D / 3D column, a shooting system column, a vertical shooting direction column, and Consists of a shooting height column.

  In the ID number column, an identifier for identifying the file is recorded. The file name is recorded in the file name column. The shooting date and time are recorded in the shooting date / time field. In the shooting position column, an identifier (also referred to as a flag) for identifying whether the shooting was performed in the vertical shooting or the horizontal shooting is recorded. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (= representing vertical shooting) or 0 (= representing horizontal shooting) is recorded. Since this identifier is recorded for each main image, by referring to this identifier, it is possible to distinguish whether the image is taken by vertical shooting or horizontal shooting. In addition, by referring to the flag in the case of image reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily perform 2D / 3D switching and whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  In the 2D / 3D column, an identifier (for example, the content of the 2D / 3D mode switching flag) for identifying whether the image is captured in the 2D mode or the 3D mode is recorded. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (represents 2D mode) or 0 (represents 3D mode) is recorded. If a file name (for example, ds2d00001.jpg, ds3d0001.jpg) including an identifier for identifying whether the image was taken in 2D mode or 3D mode is used, this 2D / 3D field may be omitted. it can.

  In the photographing system column, an identifier for identifying the photographing imaging means R or L is recorded. By referring to this photographing system column (flag), it is possible to identify which imaging means R or L is the image photographed. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (= represents imaging means R) or 0 (= represents imaging means L) is recorded. In the vertical shooting direction column, an identifier for identifying the vertical shooting direction (for example, right or left) is recorded. For example, 1 (= represents right) or 0 (= represents left) is recorded as such an identifier. The shooting height from the reference plane is recorded in the shooting height column.

  Note that what is recorded in the image information tag is not limited to these items. For example, the same items as Exif (Exchangeable image file format) (shutter speed, lens aperture value, compression mode, color space information, number of pixels, manufacturer specific information (maker note), etc.) may be recorded.

  For one image, the attribute information of the image, the thumbnail image, and the main image may be recorded in one file, or may be recorded separately. 3D and multi-viewpoint images are recorded on the main image in image units. In the case of a moving image, it is recorded in field or frame units. When MPEG is compressed in a moving image, tag information may be added in image units or GOP units.

  On the other hand, if the photographing is not finished (step S24: No), the process returns to step S10 and the processes in step S10 and subsequent steps are repeated again.

  Next, the operation when the landscape mode is detected in step S12 will be described.

  When the landscape mode is detected (step S12: No), the mode is switched to the 3D mode (step S26). That is, the 2D mode is canceled and the mode is automatically switched to the 3D mode. Then, a flag indicating the 3D mode is set in the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168.

  This makes it possible to automatically set an appropriate mode. Further, the user can quickly perform horizontal shooting without being aware of the mode setting. It can also be used to cancel 2D mode.

  Note that a display for identifying the shooting in the 3D mode may be displayed. For example, the image is displayed on a display provided separately on the monitor 24 or the camera body 12. By visually recognizing this display, the user can grasp in which mode the user is currently shooting.

  Next, all the imaging means R and L are driven (step S27). In this case, as in step S16, a display for identifying the imaging means R and L to be driven may be displayed. By visually recognizing this display, the user can grasp that both the imaging means R and L are currently driven, or that imaging is performed by both the imaging means R and L. .

  Next, as shown in FIG. 8, a 3D folder (a 3D folder under the horizontal shooting image folder in FIG. 8) is set in the memory card 156 (step S28). The 3D folder is a folder for recording (saving) a file including the photographed image when the image is photographed in a state where the landscape photographing mode is set. Note that the 3D folder is set when not set in advance, and is not set again when set in advance.

  Next, file initialization is executed (step S29).

  Next, when the second stage of the shutter button 18 is turned on (corresponding to the shooting instruction of the present invention), shooting is performed by all the imaging units R and L, and images (all captured by the imaging units R and L) ( A file including a horizontal shooting image is generated (step S23). Since the generated file is automatically sorted and recorded (saved) in the 3D folder, whether the image to be reproduced is vertical shooting or horizontal shooting (see the shooting position column described later). It is possible to distinguish between folders (without Further, in the case of reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily switch between 2D / 3D and determine whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  If the photographing is finished (step S24: Yes), the header information is updated (step S25), and the process is finished.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the structure of the file stored in the 3D folder as described above.

  FIG. 8 shows a state in which files including horizontally taken images (N files indicated by images 1 to N in FIG. 8) are stored in the 3D folder.

  Each file includes an image information tag, a thumbnail (also referred to as a thumbnail image), and an image (also referred to as a main image or a main image).

  The image information tag is attached information to the main image, and includes an ID number column, a file name column, a shooting date / time column, a shooting position column, a 2D / 3D column, and a shooting system column.

  In the ID number column, an identifier for identifying the file is recorded. The file name is recorded in the file name column. The shooting date and time are recorded in the shooting date / time field. In the shooting position column, an identifier (also referred to as a flag) for identifying whether the shooting was performed in the vertical shooting or the horizontal shooting is recorded. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (= representing vertical shooting) or 0 (= representing horizontal shooting) is recorded. Since this identifier is recorded for each main image, by referring to this identifier, it is possible to distinguish whether the image is taken in the vertical shooting or the horizontal shooting. In addition, by referring to the flag in the case of image reproduction or the like, it is possible to easily perform 2D / 3D switching and whether vertical / horizontal conversion is necessary.

  In the 2D / 3D column, an identifier (for example, the content of the 2D / 3D mode switching flag) for identifying whether the image is captured in the 2D mode or the 3D mode is recorded. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (represents 2D mode) or 0 (represents 3D mode) is recorded. If a file name (for example, ds2d00001.jpg, ds3d0001.jpg) including an identifier for identifying whether the image was taken in 2D mode or 3D mode is used, the 2D / 3D field can be omitted. .

  In the photographing system column, an identifier for identifying the photographing imaging means R or L is recorded. By referring to this photographing system column (flag), it is possible to identify which imaging means R or L is the image photographed. As such an identifier, for example, 1 (= represents imaging means R) or 0 (= represents imaging means L) is recorded.

  Note that what is recorded in the image information tag is not limited to these items. For example, the same items as Exif (Exchangeable image file format) (shutter speed, lens aperture value, compression mode, color space information, number of pixels, manufacturer specific information (maker note), etc.) may be recorded.

  For one image, the attribute information of the image, the thumbnail image, and the main image may be recorded in one file, or may be recorded separately. 3D and multi-viewpoint images are recorded on the main image in image units. In the case of a moving image, it is recorded in field or frame units. When MPEG is compressed in a moving image, tag information may be added in image units or GOP units. Note that when images of a plurality of viewpoints are recorded, the main viewpoint images may be arranged in the order of image arrangement.

  On the other hand, if the photographing is not finished (step S24: No), the process returns to step S10 and the processes in step S10 and subsequent steps are repeated again.

  As described above, according to the digital camera 10 of the present embodiment, when the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), the two imaging units R and L (corresponding to a plurality of imaging units of the present invention). The imaging means to be driven (corresponding to some imaging means of the present invention) is determined (step S15), and only the determined imaging means R or L is driven (step S19). That is, when taking a vertical image with the compound-eye digital camera 10, the two imaging means R and L are not operated.

  As a result, it is possible to realize power saving when taking a portrait with the compound-eye digital camera 10.

  Further, according to the digital camera 10 of the present embodiment, when the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), shooting is performed only by the imaging unit R or L determined in step S15, and the determined imaging unit. A file including an image captured only by R or L (hereinafter also referred to as a vertically captured image) is generated and recorded on the recording medium 156. That is, when taking a vertical image with the compound-eye digital camera 10, images obtained from the two imaging means R and L are not recorded.

  This makes it possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium 156 when the compound-eye digital camera 10 performs vertical shooting. Further, when the left and right images are divided and recorded within the number of pixels in 3D, a vertically shot image can be displayed with high resolution.

[Operation during playback]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (reproduction operation) of the digital camera 10 of the first embodiment.

  The following processing is realized mainly by the CPU 110 executing a predetermined program read into the SDRAM 120 or the like.

  A playback instruction is input by operating the operation unit 112 (step S30: Yes), and the operation unit 112 (2D / 3D display switching unit) is selected to perform either vertical shooting or horizontal shooting image playback. Then (step S31), it is detected whether or not the vertical shooting mode is set (step S32).

  When the vertical shooting mode is set (step S32: Yes), the mode is switched to the 2D mode (step S33). That is, a flag indicating the 2D mode is set in the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168.

  Next, the file is read from the vertically shot image folder shown in FIG. 6 (step S34), and the thumbnail images in the read file are displayed in a predetermined format on the monitor 24 (step S35). FIG. 6 shows a hierarchical structure of folders.

  The user operates the operation unit 112 to select any thumbnail image from the displayed thumbnail images. As described above, in the case of vertical shooting, since the file (image) is read from the folder dedicated to vertical shooting, it is easy to select, and the display of the thumbnail image and the main image (display for selecting) is quick. Can be done. In addition, the image can be easily selected. If there is no mistake in the selected thumbnail image, the user operates the operation unit 112 and inputs OK (step S36: Yes).

  Next, it is determined whether or not it is a 2D image with reference to the 2D / 3D column in the image information tag of the file whose thumbnail image is selected in step S35 (step S37). As a result of this determination, if it is determined that the image is a 2D image (step S37: Yes), it is displayed as a 2D image (step S38). That is, according to the content of the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 (the flag indicating that the 2D mode is set), the right eye strip image display area 24R and the left eye strip image display area 24L of the monitor 24 are displayed. The display control unit 158 and the like are controlled so that the same image (for example, image 1 in FIG. 7) is displayed. In this case, the user visually recognizes the displayed image as a normal image, not as a stereoscopic image.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the vertically captured image from being displayed as a 3D image. That is, the vertically captured image can be viewed without a sense of incongruity by displaying it as a 2D image.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the image is not a 2D image (step S37: No), the process proceeds to step S39 without displaying the image. Thus, before displaying an image, it is determined whether or not it is a 2D image, and if it is not a 2D image, the image is not displayed. Therefore, when the image information is incorrect, the wrong image is displayed. Can be prevented.

  And if a display is complete | finished (step S39: Yes), a process will be complete | finished. On the other hand, if the display is not finished (step S39: No), the process returns to step S30 and the processes from step S30 onward are repeated again.

  Next, the operation when the landscape mode is detected in step S32 will be described.

  When the landscape mode is selected (step S32: No), the mode is switched to the 3D mode (step S40). That is, the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 is set with a flag indicating the 3D mode.

  Next, the file is read out from the folder for horizontally shot images shown in FIG. 6 (step S41), and the thumbnail images in the read file are displayed in a predetermined format on the monitor 24 (step S42).

  The user operates the operation unit 112 to select one of the thumbnail images displayed. If there is no mistake in the selected thumbnail image, the user operates the operation unit 112 and inputs OK (step S42: Yes).

  Next, it is determined whether or not it is a 3D image by referring to the 2D / 3D column in the image information tag of the file in which the thumbnail image is selected in step S42 (step S43). If it is determined that the image is a 3D image (step S44: Yes), the image is displayed as a 3D image (step S45). That is, according to the content of the 2D / 3D mode switching flag 168 (the flag indicating that the 3D mode is set), the right eye strip image display area 24R of the monitor 24 has a right image (for example, FIG. 8). The display control unit 158 and the like are controlled so that the left image (for example, the image 2 image in FIG. 8) is displayed in the left eye strip image display area 24L. Become. In this case, the user visually recognizes the displayed image as a stereoscopic image.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the image is not a 3D image (step S44: No), the process proceeds to step S39 without displaying the image. In this way, before displaying an image, it is determined whether or not it is a 3D image, and if it is not a 3D image, it is not displayed, so that it is possible to prevent an incorrect image from being displayed when the image information is incorrect. .

  And if a display is complete | finished (step S39: Yes), a process will be complete | finished. On the other hand, if the display is not finished (step S39: No), the process returns to step S30 and the processes from step S30 onward are repeated again.

(Modification)
Next, a modified example of the digital camera 10 of the present embodiment will be described.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the example in which the digital camera 10 includes two imaging units R and L has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the digital camera 10 may include three or more photographing units. Further, the photographing lenses constituting the photographing means may not be arranged in a horizontal row as shown in FIG. For example, when three imaging units are provided, each photographing lens may be arranged at a position corresponding to each vertex of a triangle. Similarly, when four image pickup means are provided, each photographing lens may be arranged at a position corresponding to each vertex of the quadrangle.

  In the present embodiment, it has been described that when the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), shooting is performed only by the imaging means R or L determined in step S15. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Not.

  For example, when the digital camera 10 includes three image capturing units, the image may be captured by only a part of the three image capturing units (one or two image capturing units).

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), the driving imaging unit (the present invention) out of the two imaging units R and L (corresponding to a plurality of imaging units of the present invention). Is determined (step S15), only the determined imaging means R or L is driven (step S19), and imaging is performed only by the driving imaging means R or L. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, all of the plurality of imaging units are driven in advance before (or after) detection of the vertical shooting mode. When the vertical shooting mode is detected (step S12: Yes), shooting may be performed with only some of the plurality of imaging units. This also makes it possible to prevent wasteful consumption of the recording capacity of the recording medium when shooting vertically with a compound-eye digital camera.

  In the present embodiment, when the horizontal shooting mode is detected (step S12: No), the recorded file (step S23) includes an image shot by each of the two shooting means R and L. Although described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, stereoscopic shooting, multi-viewpoint shooting, or shooting in all directions may be performed, and a file including an image obtained as a result of the shooting may be recorded.

  In the present embodiment, the digital camera 10 is described as being able to set the vertical shooting mode or the horizontal shooting mode by the vertical shooting / horizontal shooting switching button 36, but the present invention is not limited to this. .

  For example, when the rotation stop position (a plurality of positions) of the mode dial 22 and the mode are associated with each other and stored in the memory and the mode dial 22 is manually operated and stopped at a predetermined position, the memory is referred to. A mode (vertical shooting mode or horizontal shooting mode) corresponding to the rotation stop position of the mode dial 22 may be set. Alternatively, the mode may be set by providing a switch for switching between the vertical shooting mode and the horizontal shooting mode in the camera body 12 and manually switching the switch. Alternatively, the menu screen displayed on the monitor 24 and the operation unit 112 may be manually operated to select the vertical shooting mode or the horizontal shooting mode, and the selected mode may be set. Alternatively, the posture of the digital camera 10 (vertical shooting posture or horizontal shooting posture) is detected by a sensor using gravity, a sensor or a hall element, or a sensor using MEMS (micro electro mechanical systems), etc., and according to the posture. Mode may be set automatically.

  In this embodiment, the correspondence between the shooting height (multiple distances) and the identifier for identifying the shooting means R or L selected when the shooting height is detected in step S14 is stored in the ROM 118 or the like. Keep it. When the shooting height is detected (step S14), an identifier for identifying the imaging unit corresponding to the detected shooting height is read from the ROM 118, and one imaging unit R or L identified by this identifier is read. Although it has been described that the imaging unit to be driven is automatically determined, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, a selection switch for selecting an imaging unit to be driven may be provided in the camera body 12, and the imaging unit R or L selected by the selection switch may be determined as the driving imaging unit. In this case, the detected distance from the reference plane may be displayed on the monitor 24 or the like so as to be a reference when selecting the imaging means R or L driven by the user.

  In the present embodiment, a distance light emitting element and a distance imaging element for performing distance measurement in the 3D mode, a drive / control circuit thereof, a distance information processing circuit, and a distance information storage circuit are further provided, When the vertical shooting mode is detected in S11, it may be controlled to stop the power supply to some or all of these elements or circuits. As a result, it is possible to reduce power consumption during vertical shooting. Further, when the vertical shooting mode is detected in step S11, it may be controlled not to store the distance data. This can prevent wasteful consumption of the recording medium during vertical shooting.

  In this embodiment, all pixels may be recorded for 2D and 3D shooting, or may be recorded by thinning out horizontally or vertically only during 3D shooting. In a display element capable of turning on / off the parallax barrier, all pixel data is sent to the display element in the case of 2D display, and R and L image data in the case of 3D display are thinned out horizontally or vertically. It is possible to display with an increased 2D resolution.

  Further, in the present embodiment, at the time of horizontal shooting and 3D shooting (in 3D still image shooting mode or 3D moving image shooting mode), a 3D image is generated from image data obtained from each of the two imaging means R and L. It may be. For example, in the 3D still image shooting mode, a stereoscopic still image that is observed by an anaglyph method, a stereoscope method, a parallel method, an intersection method, or the like is generated. In the 3D moving image shooting mode, a time-division 3D moving image is generated. May be generated. Since this type of 3D image generation method is a known technique, a description of the specific generation method is omitted here.

  In the present embodiment, the audio recording is not particularly mentioned, but it is of course possible to enable the audio recording.

  Next, a digital camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the digital camera according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  The digital camera of this embodiment is different from the digital camera 10 of the first embodiment in the following points.

  First, the digital camera according to the present embodiment is configured such that the interval between the imaging units R and L (mainly the imaging lenses 14R and 14L, etc.) and the imaging units R and L are controlled according to the shooting purpose by operating the predetermined operation unit 112. Whereas the angle of convergence of the photographing lenses 14R and 14L (mainly the photographing lenses 14R, 14L, etc.) is configured to be adjustable, the digital camera of the first embodiment is not configured as such.

  Second, the digital camera of this embodiment includes interval / convergence angle driving circuits 170R and 170L, interval / convergence angle detection circuits 172R and 172L, interval convergence angle driving circuit 174, and lens interval convergence angle storage circuit 176. On the other hand, the digital camera of the first embodiment is not provided with such a circuit.

  Third, the digital camera of the present embodiment is configured to perform distance measurement for 3D shooting (distance light emitting elements 178R and 178L and distance image sensors 180R and 180L, their drive / control circuits 182, AD184R, 184L, distance information processing circuit 186, distance information storage circuit 188, etc.), whereas the digital camera of the first embodiment does not have a configuration for performing such distance measurement. (However, a modification is provided).

  Fourth, the digital camera of the present embodiment does not include a height detection circuit, whereas the digital camera of the first embodiment includes a height detection circuit 38.

  Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the operation of the digital camera 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The operation of the digital camera of the present embodiment is the same as that of FIG. 5 except for the following points.

  First, since the digital camera of this embodiment does not include a height detection circuit, the steps S14 to S18 are not performed among the steps shown in FIG. That is, instead of automatically determining the imaging unit R or L that drives the imaging unit according to the distance from the reference plane, all the imaging units R and L are driven (step S19), and all the imaging units R are driven. And L are taken, and a file including an image taken by all the imaging means R and L (may be a single image obtained by combining all the images taken by the imaging means R and L) is generated. (Step S23). The generated file is automatically distributed to a predetermined folder and recorded (saved).

  Second, it is possible to adjust the interval between the imaging means R and L and the convergence angle of the imaging means R and L by the operation of the predetermined operation unit 112, and the adjusted imaging means R and L A file containing captured images (each of the imaging means R and L may be separate images or may be a single image resulting from the synthesis) is obtained (step S23). As a result, it is possible to obtain an image with a wide vertical shooting angle of view. It is also possible to obtain multi-viewpoint images in the vertical direction.

  Third, the distance measurement is stopped when the vertical shooting mode is detected in step S11. Or the distance data is not saved. In order to stop the distance measurement or not to store the distance data, for example, a configuration for performing distance measurement for 3D imaging (distance light emitting elements 178R and 178L and distance image sensors 180R and 180L, these It is conceivable to control the power supply to a part or all of the drive / control circuit 182, AD 184R, 184L, the distance information processing circuit 186, the distance information storage circuit 188, and the like. Thereby, power consumption can be reduced. In addition, useless consumption of recording media can be prevented.

  The other steps are the same as in FIG.

  The above embodiment is merely an example in all respects. The present invention is not construed as being limited to these descriptions. The present invention can be implemented in various other forms without departing from the spirit or main features thereof.

1 is a front perspective view showing an external configuration of a digital camera that is a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a rear perspective view showing an external configuration of a digital camera that is a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the digital camera 10 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the digital signal processing parts 142R and 142L. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement (operation | movement at the time of imaging | photography) of the digital camera 10 of 1st embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the hierarchical structure of a folder. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the file preserve | saved at the vertical photography folder. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of the file preserve | saved at 3D folder. It is a flowchart for demonstrating operation | movement (operation | movement at the time of reproduction | regeneration) of the digital camera 10 of 1st embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the digital camera which is 2nd embodiment of this invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the mechanism in which the stereoscopic display is attained on the monitor.

Explanation of symbols

10 ... compound eye digital camera, R, L ... imaging means (imaging system)

Claims (18)

In a compound eye digital camera provided with a plurality of imaging means,
Detection means for detecting whether or not the vertical shooting;
A recording unit for recording an image obtained from a part or all of the plurality of imaging units on a recording medium;
A shutter button for instructing shooting;
When the vertical shooting is detected by the detection unit and the shooting is instructed by the shutter button, the recording is performed so that an image obtained from a part of the plurality of imaging units is recorded on a recording medium. Control means for controlling the means;
A compound-eye digital camera comprising:   The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying a display for identifying the part of the imaging means.   The control unit controls to operate only a part of the plurality of imaging units when the vertical shooting is detected by the detection unit, and further, the shooting is instructed by the shutter button. 2. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled to record an image obtained from the part of the imaging unit on a recording medium.   The control means controls to operate all of the plurality of image pickup means, and further, when vertical detection is detected by the detection means and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled to record an image obtained from a part of the plurality of imaging units on a recording medium. A selection unit that allows a user to select an imaging unit to be used for vertical shooting among the plurality of imaging units;
The control means is configured to display an image obtained from the imaging means selected by the selection means among the plurality of imaging means when vertical photographing is detected by the detection means and photographing is instructed by the shutter button. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled to record on a recording medium. A selection unit that automatically selects an imaging unit to be used for vertical shooting among the plurality of imaging units;
The control means is configured to display an image obtained from the imaging means selected by the selection means among the plurality of imaging means when vertical photographing is detected by the detection means and photographing is instructed by the shutter button. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled to record on a recording medium. The selection means includes a photographing height detection means, a storage means, a reading means,
The shooting height detection means detects the shooting height from the reference plane,
The storage means stores a correspondence relationship between an imaging height and an identifier for identifying an imaging means selected when the imaging height is detected by the imaging height detection means,
The reading unit reads an identifier for identifying an imaging unit corresponding to the shooting height detected by the detection unit from the storage unit,
The control means, when vertical detection is detected by the detection means and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, the imaging identified by the identifier read by the reading means among the plurality of imaging means 7. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 6, wherein the recording means is controlled to record an image obtained from the means on a recording medium. Further comprising mode setting means for setting the 3D mode or the 2D mode;
2. The compound eye according to claim 1, wherein the mode setting unit sets the 2D mode when the 3D mode is set by the mode setting unit and vertical shooting is detected by the detection unit. Digital camera. It further comprises mode setting means for setting the automatic mode,
The mode setting unit sets a 2D mode when vertical detection is detected by the detection unit, and sets a 3D mode when vertical detection is not detected by the detection unit. Compound eye digital camera. A 3D distance measurement circuit;
2. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein power supply to the 3D distance measuring circuit is stopped when vertical photographing is detected by the detection unit.   2. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein, when vertical shooting is detected by the detection unit, control is performed so that distance measurement data is not recorded.   The control means, when vertical shooting is detected by the detection means and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from a part of the plurality of imaging means is displayed as the image. 2. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled so as to record on a recording medium together with a flag representing vertical shooting.   The control means, when vertical photographing is detected by the detecting means and photographing is instructed by the shutter button, an image obtained from a part of the plurality of imaging means is selected as the image. 2. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording means is controlled so as to be recorded on a recording medium together with an identifier for identifying the imaged imaging means.   The control means, when vertical shooting is detected by the detection means and shooting is instructed by the shutter button, images obtained from some of the plurality of imaging means are dedicated to vertical shooting. The compound-eye digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit is controlled to record in a folder. Reproduction image instruction means for instructing reproduction of an image obtained from some of the plurality of imaging means by the compound-eye digital camera according to claim 12;
Determining means for determining whether the image instructed to be reproduced is a vertically shot image based on the flag recorded together with the image instructed to be reproduced by the reproduction image instructing means;
Display means for displaying the image instructed to be reproduced as a 2D image when the image instructed to reproduce is determined to be a vertically shot image by the determining means;
An image reproducing apparatus comprising: Instruction means for instructing a vertical image reproduction mode;
15. A reproduction image instruction for instructing reproduction of at least one of the images recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder by the compound-eye digital camera when the instruction means instructs the vertical image reproduction mode. Means,
Display means for displaying an image instructed to be reproduced by the reproduction image instruction means so as to be visually recognized as a 2D image;
An image reproducing apparatus comprising: In a method of recording an image taken vertically by a compound-eye digital camera provided with a plurality of imaging means,
Detecting whether or not the compound-eye digital camera is taken vertically;
Detecting a shooting height from the reference plane;
Selecting an imaging means corresponding to the detected imaging height;
When vertical shooting of the compound-eye digital camera is detected and shooting is instructed by a shutter button, operating only the selected imaging means among the plurality of imaging means;
Recording an image obtained from the operated imaging means in a vertical shooting dedicated folder together with a flag indicating that the image is vertical shooting;
A vertically shot image recording method using a compound-eye digital camera. In a method of reproducing an image taken vertically by a compound-eye digital camera equipped with a plurality of imaging means,
A step of instructing a vertical image reproduction mode;
Instructing the reproduction of at least one of the images recorded in the vertical shooting dedicated folder according to claim 14 when a vertical shooting image reproduction mode is instructed by the instruction means;
Displaying the playback-instructed image so as to be visually recognized as a 2D image;
A method for reproducing a vertically shot image using a compound-eye digital camera.

Images