JP2009021881A - Electronic device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic device which is driven by batteries to transmit data efficiently and reliably even when a remaining power is low and a radio wave state deteriorates upon a radio data transmission operation. <P>SOLUTION: An electronic device 100 which is driven by batteries 26 has an information acquiring means 2 which acquires information, a storage means 16 which stores the information acquired by the information acquiring means as a data file, a file size specifying means 31c which specifies a file size of the data file stored in the storage means, a transmission means 31f which transmits the data file to an external device, a battery remaining power detection means 29 which detects a remaining power of batteries, and a ranking means 31d which ranks the data file to be transmitted stored in the storage means. The ranking means switches conditions of ranking according to the remaining power detected by the remaining power detection means, and the transmission means transmits the data file to be transmitted based on the order assigned by the ranking means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to transmission control of a data file in a case where the remaining amount of battery power is reduced when data transmission is performed by wireless connection in an electronic device, more specifically, an electronic device operated by a battery.

  In recent years, various electronic devices such as still cameras or video cameras (hereinafter referred to as cameras) that handle digitized image data and audio data, and recorders that handle digital audio data and the like have become widespread. In such an electronic apparatus, an electronic apparatus that is operated with a battery and is reduced in size and weight so that the user can carry it around and use it anywhere is put into practical use.

  In addition, the conventional electronic device of this type has storage means for storing various data in a storage medium, and transmits various data stored in the storage medium by the storage means to other external devices. Some of them are equipped with communication means.

  As a communication means provided in a conventional electronic device, a connection cable is used to connect devices and a wired connection interface (hereinafter abbreviated as a wired connection IF) that transmits and receives various data using the connection cable. There is a wireless connection interface (hereinafter abbreviated as a wireless connection IF) that transmits and receives various data using electromagnetic waves, infrared rays, and the like.

  Specific examples of the wired connection IF include a USB connection unit that performs wired communication conforming to the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, a wired LAN (Local Area Network) connection unit, and the like.

  Further, as the wireless connection IF, specifically, WUSB connection means for performing wireless connection in conformity with the wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus; WUSB) standard, Ultra Wide Band (UWB) wireless connection means, wireless LAN connection And optical wireless connection means for performing infrared communication conforming to IrDA (Infrared Data Association) standards.

  It is well known that in an electronic device having such wireless communication means, more power is required when transmitting / receiving various data by wireless communication than during normal operation.

  Therefore, even when a conventional electronic device is operated by a battery, when a data transmission operation is performed by wireless connection and power is consumed, a stable communication state cannot be maintained, and the communication state is interrupted. there is a possibility. In this case, all desired data cannot be transmitted.

  Also, in normal electronic devices, when performing communication by wireless connection, it may be difficult to always ensure a stable communication state depending on the state of radio waves, etc., and the communication state is interrupted during the data transmission operation. There is also a possibility that.

  Therefore, in a conventional electronic device that operates with a battery and has a communication means for data transmission by wireless connection, the battery remaining amount detection result, etc. by monitoring the state of the power battery and detecting the remaining power Various proposals have been made for means for controlling the operation of the wireless communication function according to Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-086393, for example.

  On the other hand, some conventional electronic devices employ a file system that handles a plurality of data as individual data files such as image data and audio data. In such a conventional electronic device, various functions can be realized by associating a plurality of different data files with each other and storing them in a storage medium, and by linking the associated data files at the time of reproduction or the like. It may be.

  Here, as a plurality of data files to be associated, for example, image data and audio data acquired when the image data was captured, audio data associated with the image data, image data and album registration in which the data is registered There are setting data, image data and print registration setting data in which the data is registered.

By the way, in recent years, as a power source for driving an electronic device, in addition to a conventional commercial power source, a primary battery, a secondary battery, etc., a proposal to adopt a fuel cell that extracts power by an electrochemical reaction with hydrogen and oxygen, etc. However, various proposals have been made by, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-235519 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-25959.
JP 2001-86393 A JP 2005-235519 A JP 2005-25959 A

  However, when a plurality of data files including highly relevant data files as described above are subjected to a data transmission operation by wireless connection in the above-described conventional electronic device, power consumption and radio wave conditions are reduced during the data transmission operation. When the communication state is interrupted due to deterioration or the like, after canceling the factor that hindered the communication, the wireless communication is reconnected and the same communication operation is resumed.

  When the communication is resumed, first, it is necessary to redo the same data transmission operation for the same data that was being transmitted in the previous communication operation. In general, it is well known that the time required for a data transmission operation is proportional to the file size. Therefore, when performing a data transmission operation by wireless connection, it is considered that the data transmission operation can be performed more efficiently by considering the file size of data to be transmitted.

  In addition, during a data transmission operation using a wireless connection, it may be difficult to reconnect the wireless connection depending on the situation at the site. In this case, if only one of the highly relevant data is transmitted and the other is not transmitted, and the reconnection is not possible, the function cannot be realized in the transmission destination device. Also become.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to use battery power when performing data transmission operation by wireless connection in an electronic device that operates on a battery and has wireless communication means. To provide an electronic device capable of efficiently and reliably executing a data transmission operation by switching the transmission order of transmission target data files when the remaining amount is reduced.

  In order to achieve the above object, an electronic device according to the present invention is an electronic device that operates on a battery, and includes information acquisition means for acquiring information, and storage means for storing the information acquired by the information acquisition means as a data file. A file size specifying means for specifying the file size of the data file stored in the storage means, a transmission means for transmitting the data file to an external device, and a remaining battery level for detecting the remaining battery power Detection means, and rank assigning means for assigning ranks to the transmission target data files stored in the storage means, wherein the rank assigning means is a remaining power level detected by the remaining battery level detection means. The transmission means switches the transmission target data file in the order based on the rank given by the rank assignment means. It is characterized in.

  According to the present invention, in an electronic device that operates on a battery and has wireless communication means, when the remaining battery power is reduced when performing a data transmission operation by wireless connection, the transmission order of the transmission target data file is switched. Thus, it is possible to provide an electronic device that can execute a data transmission operation efficiently and reliably.

  The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

  Specifically, as an electronic apparatus to which the present invention is applied, a still camera that mainly acquires and handles still image data and related data, etc., and a video camera that mainly acquires and handles moving image data and related data, etc. There are recorders that mainly acquire and handle audio data and related data.

  Among these, in each of the following embodiments, an imaging device that mainly acquires and handles electronic image data files (still image data and moving image data) and related data (including audio data) is taken as an example. explain.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a flowchart of data transmission processing by wireless connection in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually showing the structure of a plurality of data files stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. 4 and 5 are diagrams conceptually showing a transmission list when a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 3 are rearranged based on the file size. Of these, FIG. FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of a list rearranged in order from data, and FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of a list rearranged in order from data having a smaller file size. In FIGS. 3 to 5, the size of the area of each portion representing each file on the drawing indicates the size of the file.

  The photographing apparatus of the present embodiment receives an optical image of a subject formed by a photographing optical system including an optical lens, for example, by a photoelectric conversion element such as an image pickup element, and performs photoelectric conversion processing on the received light. A digital image data file (hereinafter simply referred to as an image file) consisting of image data in the form of digital image data obtained from the image signal and various information data (hereinafter referred to as related information) related to the image signal. An image capturing unit for generating the image file, a display unit for displaying an image based on the image file generated by the image capturing unit, a storage unit for storing the image file in a storage medium, and the like. Including communication means having a wired communication function and a wireless communication function for performing data communication between them and transmitting and receiving image files. Get the data handled is a so-called digital still camera. Note that the digital still camera which is the photographing apparatus of the present embodiment can also handle moving image data, audio data, and the like incidentally.

  In addition, as an external device that performs data communication such as an image file with the imaging device using the communication means (wired or wireless), specifically, for example, an image reproducing device or an image processing device such as a small computer In addition to external storage devices and other photographing devices, there are image printing devices such as printers. The communication means in this embodiment includes a transmission means for transmitting various data files such as image files to the external device as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the specific configuration of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes a lens 1, an imaging device 2, an imaging circuit 3, and an A / D converter (in FIG. 1, simply “A / D”). 4), signal processing circuit 5, frame memory 6, FIFO memory 7, TFT liquid crystal drive circuit 9, TFT panel 10, backlight unit 11, video output circuit 12, video An output terminal 13, a storage buffer 14, a storage medium interface (hereinafter referred to as storage medium I / F) 15, a storage medium 16, an actuator 17, an actuator drive circuit 18, and an external wired data interface (hereinafter external wired). (Referred to as data I / F) 22, key matrix 23, LCD display circuit 24, LCD panel 25, battery 26, power supply circuit 27, and backup power supply. 8, a battery state detection circuit 29, a first CPU 31, a second CPU 32, an EEPROM (FlashROM) 19, an external wireless data interface (hereinafter referred to as external wireless data I / F) 20, and a wireless antenna 21. It is configured.

  The lens 1 is provided to form an optical subject image and form it on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 2.

  The image sensor 2 is an element that receives an optical subject image formed by the lens 1 and performs photoelectric conversion processing to output an electrical image signal. The image pickup device 2 is a solid-state image pickup device that can perform high-speed reading, and includes, for example, a CCD (charge coupled device), a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor), or other various types of image pickup devices. Can be applied.

  The imaging circuit 3 is an electronic circuit that receives an output signal from the imaging device 2 and performs various analog signal processing on the image signal.

  The A / D converter 4 is a circuit for receiving an analog image signal output from the imaging circuit 3 and converting it into a digital image signal.

  The signal processing circuit 5 is a circuit that receives the digital image signal output from the A / D converter 4 and performs various digital signal processing.

  The frame memory 6 is a temporary storage unit that receives the image signal processed by the signal processing circuit 5 and temporarily stores the processed image signal and various data related to the image signal. As the frame memory 6, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as SDRAM is applied.

  In the photographing apparatus 100, a subject is photographed and an image signal is acquired by the lens 1, the imaging element 2, the imaging circuit 3, the A / D converter 4, the signal processing circuit 5, the frame memory 6, and the like. The main part of the imaging | photography means which produces | generates an image file is comprised. That is, this photographing unit functions as an information obtaining unit that obtains image information in the photographing apparatus 100.

  In addition, although not particularly illustrated, the photographing apparatus 100 includes a sound collection device such as a microphone as information acquisition means for acquiring information other than image information, such as audio data.

  The FIFO memory 7 is a memory provided to temporarily store the image signal when outputting the image signal to various display devices.

  The TFT liquid crystal driving circuit 9 is a circuit that receives the image signal output from the FIFO memory 7 and controls the TFT panel 10.

  The TFT panel 10 is a display unit for displaying an image based on an image signal, various kinds of information in the photographing apparatus 100, and the like under the control of the TFT liquid crystal driving circuit 9, and is capable of color display.

  The backlight unit 11 is provided on the back side of the TFT panel 10 and illuminates the TFT panel 10 from the back side.

  The video output circuit 12 receives the image signal from the FIFO memory 7, converts it into, for example, an NTSC format video signal, and outputs it to the external display device connected to the video output terminal 13 via the video output terminal 13. It is a circuit for doing.

  The video output terminal 13 is a connection terminal for connecting a signal line such as a video cable that electrically connects the photographing apparatus 100 and an external display apparatus.

  In the photographing apparatus 100, the above-mentioned FIFO memory 7, TFT liquid crystal drive circuit 9, TFT panel 10, backlight unit 11 and the like are display means for displaying an image based on the image file generated by the photographing means. The main part is composed.

  The storage buffer 14 stores image signals and the like temporarily stored in the frame memory 6 as image data in the storage medium 16 or reads image data from the storage medium 16 and temporarily stores them in the frame memory 6. This is a buffer (temporary storage area) used at times.

  The storage medium I / F 15 is a circuit for controlling storage processing of image data and the like to the storage medium 16 and reading processing of image data and the like from the storage medium 16.

  The storage medium 16 is a non-volatile storage medium for storing image data and other various data, such as a memory card having a thin plate shape or a card shape. The storage medium 16 may have various forms such as a form that is detachable with respect to a device such as the photographing apparatus 100 or a form that is fixed to an electric circuit inside a device such as the photographing apparatus 100. Any of these forms can be applied to the photographing apparatus 100.

  It should be noted that the image file (image data and related information data) generated by the photographing means, etc., by the storage buffer 14, the storage medium I / F 15, the storage medium 16, and the like constitute the main part of the storage means. The The storage unit is a circuit unit that functions as a storage unit that stores the image information acquired by the information acquisition unit in the storage medium 16 as a data file in a predetermined form.

  The actuator 17 is a drive source for driving the lens 1 to perform an autofocus operation or a zooming operation.

  The actuator drive circuit 18 is a circuit that controls and drives the actuator 17 based on the control of the first CPU 31.

  The actuator 17 and the actuator drive circuit 18 constitute the main part of the lens drive means for performing an automatic focus adjustment (autofocus (AF)) operation and a zooming operation of the subject image by moving the lens 1 in the optical axis direction. is doing.

  The external wired data I / F 22 is a connection part (interface) for performing transmission (transmission / reception) of image data and the like between the photographing apparatus 100 and an external apparatus (not shown) via a connection cable or the like. For example, a device having a wired communication function compliant with the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, the IEEE 1394 standard, or the like is applied. As shown in FIG. 1, the photographing apparatus 100 is illustrated as a system having a wired communication function compliant with the USB standard.

  Using this external wired data I / F 22 and a connection cable (not shown) connected thereto, wired communication control means (such as a USB communication control function unit 31e described later) provided in the system control unit 31a of the first CPU 31 Thus, the main part of wired communication means for establishing data communication by wired connection between the photographing apparatus 100 and an external apparatus (not shown) and transmitting an image file between the two is configured.

  The key matrix 23 is used as a general term for operation input means including various operation switches and operation buttons provided in the photographing apparatus 100.

  That is, specific operation members included in the key matrix 23 include, for example, a power button for switching the power state of the photographing apparatus 100 to an on or off state, a release button for starting the photographing operation, and a zoom for changing the photographing magnification during the photographing operation. A zoom button (TW button) that functions as a button and functions as a display switching button for playback image enlargement or reduction display during playback operation, a plurality of operation buttons that are assigned to various functions such as calling a menu screen, and a menu screen These are members of an input operation system such as a four-way selection key (also referred to as a cross key) for selecting and setting, an OK button for determining and instructing an item selected using various operation buttons.

  The key matrix 23 includes a plurality of operation members described above, a switch member that generates a predetermined instruction signal in conjunction with each of the operation members, an electric circuit that transmits an instruction signal from each switch member, and the like. It is comprised including.

  An instruction signal generated by operating each operation member of the key matrix 23 by a user is output to the first CPU 31.

  The LCD display circuit 24 is a circuit that controls the LCD panel 25 based on the control of the first CPU 31 and displays various information on the LCD panel 25.

  The LCD panel 25 is configured by, for example, a small liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like, and is stored in the storage medium 16 with imaging conditions and various setting information set in the imaging apparatus 100, for example, operation mode information such as an imaging mode. It is an information display member that displays information about the number of images that can be taken, information about exposure such as shutter speed and aperture value at the time of shooting, and the like.

  The battery 26 is a main power source in the photographing apparatus 100. As the battery 26, for example, a primary battery such as a dry battery or a secondary battery such as a rechargeable storage battery is applied.

  The backup power source 28 is provided to constantly supply power to the internal memory, the internal clock, and the like of the photographing apparatus 100, and holds information such as various setting values and date / time information in the photographing apparatus 100, for example. This is a sub power supply for enabling the date display to be always performed using the LCD panel 25 or the like.

  The power supply circuit 27 is a circuit that performs control to receive power from the battery 26 and the backup power supply 28 based on a command from the first CPU 31 and appropriately supply the power to each electric circuit in the photographing apparatus 100.

  The battery state detection circuit 29 is a circuit that detects a state of the battery 26 such as a voltage in the battery 26 and outputs the detected state to the first CPU 31 (a battery remaining amount management function unit 31g; described later).

  The first CPU 31 is arranged as a main CPU. The first CPU 31 is a main control unit that controls each circuit in the photographing apparatus 100 in an integrated manner, and controls each component to realize various functions.

  For this purpose, the first CPU 31 of the photographing apparatus 100 includes a system control unit 31a for controlling the entire system by appropriately controlling (controlling) each component in the photographing apparatus 100.

  Various electrical circuits and the like are formed inside the system control unit 31a. For example, a file relevance management function unit 31b, a file size management function unit 31c, a transmission order list generation function unit 31d, and a USB communication control function unit 31e, a WUSB communication control function unit 31f, a battery remaining amount management function unit 31g, and the like, although not shown, serve as shooting condition setting means for setting various shooting conditions when performing shooting operations with the shooting means. A circuit unit, a circuit unit as an image file generation means for generating an image file by combining image data of an image signal acquired by photographing operation and various information (related information data) related to the image data, and a recording function The circuit unit that generates and manages the audio data acquired by the file, and various data files stored in the storage medium Execute the album function and print function or perform registration settings to generate various registration setting data and store them in the storage medium, and the generated image file, audio file, registration setting data, etc. A circuit unit that performs storage operation control stored in the storage medium 16 in a form, a circuit unit that executes a display operation that presents an image based on an image file and related information in a form that can be visually displayed using a display unit, Various control circuits for controlling various operations and various functions in the photographing apparatus 100 such as a circuit unit for generating sound based on an audio file using a speaker or the like (not shown) are configured. ing.

  The wireless communication means in the photographing apparatus 100 is provided for establishing a wireless connection with an external device (not shown) having a wireless communication function and transmitting / receiving data signals such as image files. is there.

  As a method for realizing the wireless communication function in the photographing apparatus 100, for example, WUSB connection by a wireless communication function compliant with the wireless USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus; WUSB) standard, or ultra wide band (UWB) wireless. Connection, optical wireless connection by an infrared communication function based on IrDA (Infrared Data Association) standard, and the like can be applied. The photographing apparatus 100 is illustrated as a system having a wireless communication function compliant with the WUSB standard as shown in FIG.

  More specifically, the photographing apparatus 100 includes wireless communication including a wireless antenna 21, an external wireless data I / F 20, and a WUSB communication control function unit 31f as wireless communication control means provided in the system control unit 31a of the first CPU 31. Have means.

  The WUSB communication control function unit 31f of the system control unit 31a of the first CPU 31 performs on / off control of the external wireless data I / F 20 or the like that is a part of the wireless communication unit, and controls the data communication function by wireless connection. A circuit configured as means.

  The wireless antenna 21 is a wireless signal such as an electromagnetic wave of a predetermined form that is transmitted from an external device when performing wireless data communication between the photographing apparatus 100 and an external device (not shown). And a wireless signal input / output unit for transmitting a wireless signal for data communication, which is a wireless signal such as an electromagnetic wave of a predetermined form transmitted from the photographing apparatus 100.

  The wireless antenna 21 is connected to the external wireless data I / F 20 so that transmitted and received wireless signals can be input / output to / from the first CPU 31 via the external wireless data I / F 20.

  The external wireless data I / F 20 is interposed between the wireless antenna 21 and the first CPU 31 and converts a wireless signal input to the wireless antenna 21 into an electric signal of a predetermined form and outputs it to the first CPU 31, or It is a part of wireless communication means for converting a signal from the WUSB communication control function unit 31f into a wireless signal and outputting it to the wireless antenna 21 and functions as a wireless communication connection unit (interface). The external wireless data I / F 20 is controlled by the WUSB communication control function unit 31f (wireless communication control means) of the system control unit 31a of the first CPU 31.

  On the other hand, the USB communication control function unit 31e is a circuit configured as a wired communication control unit that controls on / off control of the external wired data I / F 22 or the like that is a part of the wired communication unit and controls the data communication function by wired connection. It is. The USB communication control function unit 31e is electrically connected to the external wired data I / F 22.

  As described above, in the photographing apparatus 100, the wired connection between the photographing apparatus 100 and the external device is controlled by the USB communication control function unit 31e (wired communication unit) or the WUSB communication control function unit 31f (wireless communication unit). Alternatively, while securing a wireless connection, the image file stored in the storage unit (storage medium 16) of the photographing apparatus 100 is transmitted to the external device, or a data signal from the external device is received and stored in the storage unit ( It can be stored in a storage medium 16).

  The file relevance management function unit 31 b is a circuit unit that manages relevance information about the image file and other data files among the data files stored in the storage medium 16.

  The file size management function unit 31c functions as a file size specifying unit that checks and specifies the individual file sizes of the data files stored in the storage medium 16, and is a circuit unit that manages information about the file size of the data file. is there.

  The transmission order list generation function unit 31d receives a result of the file size confirmation and specific processing performed by the file size management function unit 31c and ranks the data files to be transmitted among the data files stored in the storage medium 16. It is a circuit unit that functions as an adding unit and generates a list that lists transmission orders.

  The battery remaining amount management function unit 31 g is a battery remaining amount detecting unit that receives the state information of the battery 26 detected by the battery state detecting circuit 29 and detects the remaining amount of power of the battery 26.

  That is, the remaining battery power management function unit 31g detects the remaining battery power based on the detection result of the battery state detection circuit 29, and the transmission order list generation function unit 31d (rank assignment) according to the detection result (remaining power). (Means) assigns a transmission order to the transmission target file.

  As described above, the first CPU 31 in the photographing apparatus 100 is mainly composed of a plurality of integrated circuits for performing various operation controls.

  On the other hand, the second CPU 32 is composed of a plurality of integrated circuits that execute signal processing control mainly handling image signals and various data in the photographing apparatus 100.

  That is, the second CPU 32 performs various signal processing, such as an image compression / decompression unit 32a, on the basis of the image data fetched from the photographing unit or the storage unit and temporarily stored in the frame memory 6. In addition to the medium access unit 32b and the like, it has various circuits and the like for processing the internal state of the storage medium 16 and various files stored in the storage medium 16 via the storage medium access unit 32b. Configured.

  The image compression / decompression unit 32a reads out image data or the like stored in the frame memory 6 and performs, for example, JPEG compression processing or the like, or decompression processing of compressed image data read from the storage medium 16 or the like It is.

  The storage medium access unit 32 b is a circuit unit for controlling access to the storage medium 16 by the storage medium interface 15.

  In addition, about the structure of the part which is not related to this invention, the detailed illustration and description are abbreviate | omitted as what is substantially the same structure as imaging | photography apparatuses, such as a general digital still camera.

  Next, a sequence of data transmission processing executed when the image capturing apparatus 100 configured as described above transmits an image file or the like to an external apparatus using wireless communication means will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. .

  First, when the power button in the key matrix 23 of the imaging apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is operated by the user, the imaging apparatus 100 is activated (power on).

  Next, when the user performs an operation mode selection switching operation by a predetermined operation of the key matrix 23, the photographing apparatus 100 switches to a wireless transmission mode in which a transmission operation can be performed using wireless means.

  When the photographing apparatus 100 is activated in the wireless transmission mode, the first CPU 31 executes a wireless function initialization process in the wireless communication means of the internal circuit of the photographing apparatus 100 in step S1 of FIG. This initialization process is the same as that performed in the photographing apparatus having a normal wireless communication means. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the first CPU 31 controls the file size management function unit 31c to transmit a data file to be transmitted (hereinafter referred to as transmission) among various data files stored in the storage medium 16 via the storage medium I / F 15. Execute the process to check the file size of the target file. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3.

  Here, the transmission target file is a data file to which additional information indicating that transmission is desired toward another external device is performed by a user performing a predetermined operation in advance. Further, the present invention is not limited to this, and all data files stored in the storage medium 16 may be transmission target files.

  In step S3, the first CPU 31 controls the transmission order list generation function unit 31d based on the processing result of the file size management function unit 31c, and sets the transmission target file among the data files stored in the storage medium 16 as the file size. A process of generating a list in the form rearranged in order is executed. Here, the first CPU 31 resets transmission order counters n and m included therein. That is, n = 0 and m = 0 are set.

  In the photographing apparatus 100, a plurality of data files stored in the storage medium 16 are stored in the order in which data is acquired, as shown in FIG. 3, for example. In the example shown in FIG. 3, numbers unique to file names are assigned in ascending order in the order of data acquisition.

  In the example shown in FIG. 3, each data file is specified in the form of file name + extension. Only data files having the extension “JPG”, that is, image files are set as transmission target files.

  In the rearrangement process in step S3, for example, a transmission order list is generated in a form in which the file sizes are arranged in the descending order as shown in FIG. In FIGS. 3 to 5, the area of the portion representing each file on the drawing represents the relative file size of each file.

  Next, in step S4, the first CPU 31 executes a process for detecting the remaining power of the battery. That is, the first CPU 31 first controls the battery state detection circuit 29 to detect the state of the battery 26. The detection result is output to the battery remaining amount management function unit 31g. In response to this, the remaining battery level management function unit 31g detects the remaining power level. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S5.

  In step S5, the first CPU 31 confirms whether or not the remaining amount of power is sufficient (whether or not it is equal to or more than a predetermined remaining amount) based on the result of detecting the remaining battery level in the process of step S4 described above. . Here, when it is confirmed that the remaining amount of power is sufficient, that is, greater than or equal to the predetermined remaining amount, the process proceeds to the next step S6.

  In step S6, the first CPU 31 performs a process of advancing (incrementing) the transmission order counter n by one. As a result, the transmission order counter n = n + 1 is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S <b> 7, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission order counter n and controls the wireless communication means to execute the transmission operation for the data file having the nth largest file size. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8.

  In this case, in the example shown in FIG. 3, the transmission operation process is executed first in the data file having the largest file size (n = 1) among the data files stored in the storage medium 16, In other words, the image file having the file name “DSC0002.JPG” is the processing target of the transmission operation.

  That is, when there is sufficient remaining power in the image capturing apparatus 100, there is no concern about interruption of wireless connection due to battery exhaustion during the transmission operation process, so transmission is performed in order from the file with the largest file size among the plurality of transmission target files. A rank is assigned and the transmission operation is executed sequentially. This is because the larger the file size, the longer the time required for the transmission operation process, so that the time-consuming process can be completed first while the power of the photographing apparatus 100 is sufficient. is there.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the process of step S5 described above that the remaining power is not sufficient, that is, less than the predetermined remaining capacity, the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S9, the first CPU 31 performs a process of advancing (incrementing) the transmission order counter m by one. As a result, the transmission order counter m = m + 1 is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S10, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission order counter m and controls the wireless communication means to execute the transmission operation for the data file having the mth smallest file size. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8.

  That is, when the remaining power of the image capturing apparatus 100 is not sufficient, the transmission order is assigned in order from the data file having the smallest file size among the plurality of transmission target files, and the transmission operation is sequentially performed. The transmission order list in this case is conceptually represented as shown in FIG. This means that the smaller the file size is, the less time is required for the transmission operation process. Therefore, when the remaining power of the photographing apparatus 100 is small, the remaining power is consumed by completing the process that does not take time. This is a measure to complete the transmission of as many target files as possible.

  In step S8, the first CPU 31 checks whether or not the transmission order counter n + m = the number of transmission target files. Here, when it is confirmed that the transmission order counter n + m is not equal to the number of transmission target files, the processing returns to the above-described step S4 and the subsequent processing is repeated. Thus, the data transmission operation is sequentially performed on the transmission target file for each transmission order assigned.

  If it is confirmed in the process of step S8 that the transmission order counter n + m = the number of transmission target files, it is determined that the transmission operation process for all of the transmission target files has been completed, and the series of processes ends. Then, the data transmission processing sequence is completed.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, when the data transmission process is executed in the electronic apparatus that operates on the battery, first, the state of the battery 26 is detected, and the remaining power is sufficient. Whether or not (there is more than a predetermined remaining amount) is confirmed. Then, the condition for assigning the transmission order is switched according to the result of the remaining power detection.

  That is, in practice, a list arranged in order of increasing file size or decreasing file size is created before file transmission (step S3). When the remaining power is sufficient, the file size increases in the order of this list. Files are selected in order, and when the remaining power is small, the files are selected in ascending order of file size. Then, the wireless communication means (transmission means) sequentially transmits the transmission target file based on the selection.

  Therefore, the transmission operation is performed by appropriately switching the transmission order according to the file size of the transmission target file and the detection result of the remaining power of the imaging device. Also in the apparatus 100, the transmission operation of the transmission target file can be performed efficiently and reliably.

  Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  The configuration of the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the first embodiment described above, and only the data transmission processing sequence is different. Therefore, in the present embodiment, description of the configuration of the photographing apparatus itself is omitted, and only the data transmission processing sequence by wireless connection will be described below among the operations of the photographing apparatus.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart of data transmission processing by wireless connection in the photographing apparatus which is the electronic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram conceptually showing the structure of a plurality of data files stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of a transmission order list when related data files among a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 7 are grouped and rearranged. In FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the size of the area of the portion representing each file on the drawing indicates the size of the file.

  In the above-described first embodiment, an example in which the transmission target file is only an image file is shown. However, in this embodiment, an image file and a data file related to the image file Is an example in which the files are grouped and placed at the top of the transmission target file.

  First, the imaging apparatus 100 is activated in the same procedure as in the first embodiment (power on), and switched to a wireless transmission mode in which a transmission operation can be performed using wireless means.

  Then, in step S <b> 11 of FIG. 6, the first CPU 31 executes a wireless function initialization process in the wireless communication means of the internal circuit of the photographing apparatus 100. This initialization process is the same as the process in step S1 in the first embodiment described above (see FIG. 2). Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S12.

  In step S <b> 12, the first CPU 31 controls the file relevance management function unit 31 b, and data related to the transmission target file among the plurality of data files stored in the storage medium 16 via the storage medium I / F 15. Execute the process to check whether or not exists. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S13.

  Here, the confirmation process of the relevance of the transmission target file is a confirmation process of whether or not a data file related to the image file to be transmitted exists, for example. When there is a data file related to the transmission target file, usually, some information for clearly indicating the association between the transmission target file and the related data file is the header of at least one data file. Included in the file, a file name common to both is assigned, or predetermined related information is stored as a separate file.

  For example, when an image file is acquired by a shooting operation, an audio file may be stored in the storage medium 16 as a separate file at the same time. In some cases, an audio file is generated for a specific image file that has been captured and stored, and this audio file is associated with the specific image file.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the storage medium 16 in the photographing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment includes an image file with the extension “JPG” and an audio file with the extension “WAV”. They are stored together.

  In this case, in the storage area of the storage medium 16, first, image files are stored in the order in which data is acquired, that is, in the order in which shooting operations are performed. A group of audio files is stored in an area subsequent to the storage area of the group of image files.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, for the image file, a unique number is assigned to the file name in ascending order in the data acquisition order. As for the audio file, a file name having the same name (same number) as that of the related image file is assigned. As a result, the image file and the audio file are associated with each other. That is, in this case, the file name is information indicating the relation, and the extension is information indicating the type of the file.

  Returning to FIG. 6, in step S <b> 13, the first CPU 31 controls the transmission order list generation function unit 31 d to generate a list (list) of transmission target files stored in the storage medium 16. At the same time, the first CPU 31 initializes (clears) the transmitted flag. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S14.

  Next, in step S <b> 14, the first CPU 31 executes a process for detecting the remaining power. This remaining power detection processing is the same as the processing in step S4 (see FIG. 2) in the first embodiment described above. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the first CPU 31 confirms whether or not the remaining amount of power is sufficient (whether or not it is greater than or equal to a predetermined remaining amount) based on the result of detecting the remaining amount of power in the process of step S14 described above. (Similar to the processing in step S5 in FIG. 2).

  Here, when it is confirmed that the remaining amount of power is sufficient, that is, greater than or equal to the predetermined remaining amount, the process proceeds to the next step S16.

  In step S <b> 16, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission target file list, the time stamp of each file, and the like, and performs a process of rearranging the transmission target files in the data acquisition order to generate a transmission order list. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S17.

  In step S <b> 17, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission order list generated in the process of step S <b> 16 described above, and controls the wireless communication means to perform the transmission operation process for the first unsent data file in the list. Execute. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S18.

  Subsequently, in step S18, the first CPU 31 sets a transmitted flag in the header portion or the like for the data file for which the transmission operation has been completed in the process of step S17 described above. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S19.

  Next, in step S <b> 19, the first CPU 31 executes a confirmation process as to whether or not the transmitted flag is set for all the files to be transmitted. Here, when the transmission end flag is not set in all the transmission target files, that is, when there is a transmission target file and an untransmitted data file, the process returns to the above-described step S14, and the subsequent processing repeat. If it is confirmed that the transmission completion flag is set for all the transmission target files, it is determined that the transmission operation for all of the transmission target files has been completed, and the sequence of data transmission processing ends. .

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the process of step S15 described above that the remaining power is not sufficient, that is, less than the predetermined remaining capacity, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S20, the first CPU 31 confirms whether or not there is a transmitted flag for the data file on the transmission target file list, and confirms whether or not there is a data file that has already been transmitted. If it is confirmed that there is a transmitted data file, the process proceeds to the next step S21.

  In step S21, the first CPU 31 controls the file relevance management function unit 31b to check whether there is a related untransmitted data file corresponding to the transmitted data file. If it is confirmed that there is a related untransmitted data file corresponding to the transmitted data file, the process proceeds to the next step S22.

  In step S22, the first CPU 31 controls the file relevance management function unit 31b and the transmission order list generation function unit 31d to set related untransmitted data files corresponding to the transmitted data files to the upper level of the transmission target file list. To increase the transmission order. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S23.

  In step S23, the first CPU 31 controls the transmission order list generation function unit 31d so that other remaining data files (single data files unrelated to other data files, etc.) are subordinate to the transmission target file list. The transmission order list is generated by performing the rearrangement processing to be arranged in the. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  That is, the rank of the data files grouped by the grouping means (file relevance management function unit 31b, transmission order list generation function unit 31d) is ranked higher than that of a single transmission target file. Then, the data files grouped according to the order set by the order assigning means (transmission order list generating function unit 31d) are transmitted with priority over the single data file.

  In step S <b> 24, the first CPU 31 controls the wireless communication means to execute a transmission operation process for the highest data file in the transmission order list. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S18 described above. The subsequent processing is as described above.

  On the other hand, in the process of step S20 described above, when the first CPU 31 confirms that there is no transmitted data file in the data file on the transmission target file list, the first CPU 31 proceeds to the process of step S26.

  In step S26, the first CPU 31 controls the file relevance management function unit 31b and the transmission order list generation function unit 31d to group related data files in the transmission target file list so as to be higher in the transmission target file list. To increase the transmission order. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S23.

  That is, here, the file association management function unit 31b and the transmission order list generation function unit 31d are grouping means for performing grouping based on association information set between data files stored in the storage medium 16. The role of.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in the process of step S21 described above that there is no related data file corresponding to the transmitted data file, the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, the first CPU 31 controls the file relevance management function unit 31b and the transmission order list generation function unit 31d to group related data files among the untransmitted data files, and to store the transmission target file list. A process of raising the transmission order by placing it at the upper level is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S23.

  Thus, in steps S22, S23, S25, and S26, the rearrangement process is performed under the respective conditions, thereby generating a transmission order list as shown in FIG. 8, for example.

  This transmission order list is a list generated in the transmission order list generation function unit 31d based on the processing result of the file relevance management function unit 31b. For example, as shown by reference numerals A and B shown in FIG. Related data files, that is, image files (extension “JPG”) and audio files (extension “WAV”) in which the file name excluding the extension is set to the same name are grouped as a set. The set will be ranked higher in the list. In this case, the ranks between the groups are arranged in ascending order in numerical order of the file names. Further, as in the first embodiment described above, the order between groups may be rearranged according to the size of the file.

  In the example shown in FIG. 8, the transmission operation process is executed first in the image file having the file name “DSC0002.JPG” and the audio file (file name “DSC0002.WAV”). )) Is the processing target of the sequential transmission operation.

  In other words, when the power of the photographing apparatus 100 is sufficient, the grouping of the image file and the related data file is set to be preferentially transmitted. This is because it is assumed that data files that are related to other data files are more important to users than single data files, and are more important. There is a concept that these data files are preferentially transmitted while there is sufficient capacity.

The sequence of the data transmission process of this embodiment will be briefly described.
When it is determined that the remaining power is sufficient (step S15), in the sequence of steps S16, S17, S18, and S19, data transmission processing is performed in the order in which the data is stored in the storage medium 16, for example, in the order of file names. Are made sequentially. In this case, since there is room in the battery, it is only necessary to perform a simple process of sequentially transmitting.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the remaining amount of power is not sufficient (step S15) and there is a file that has already been transmitted among the processes after branching, steps S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S18, S19 are performed. In this sequence, a process for preferentially transmitting the related data of the transmitted file is performed.

  If it is determined that the remaining amount of power is not sufficient (step S15) and there is no transmitted file, the sequence of steps S20, S26, S23, S24, S18, and S19 is performed. In the transmission target list, related data files (a pair of image files and related data) are grouped and transmitted with priority.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the remaining amount of power is not sufficient (step S15) and there is a transmitted file and the related file of the transmitted file has already been transmitted in the processing after branching. Performs a process of grouping related data files (a pair of sets of image files and related data) among untransmitted files and transmitting them preferentially.

  Through this series of processing, related data files, that is, a set of image files and related files, for example, can exist on the same medium as much as possible, so that the relationship between the two can always be maintained. The file that has already been transmitted to the external device of the transmission destination can be effectively used based on the information of the related file.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, when the data transmission process is executed in the electronic device operated by the battery, first, the state of the battery 26 is detected, and the remaining power is sufficient. Whether or not (there is more than a predetermined remaining amount) is confirmed. Then, the condition for assigning the transmission order is switched according to the result of the remaining power detection.

  In this case, specifically, when the remaining amount of power is sufficient, the data transmission order is given in the order of the oldest time stamp at the time of data acquisition. On the other hand, when the remaining amount of power is small (less than a predetermined amount), related data files are grouped together, and then a data transmission order is given to each group. The wireless communication means (transmission means) transmits the data file to be sequentially transmitted based on the order given by the order assignment means (transmission order list generation function unit 31d).

  Accordingly, since the transmission operation is performed by appropriately switching the transmission order according to the relevance of the transmission target file and the detection result of the remaining power, the photographing apparatus 100 that is an electronic device that operates on a battery also performs the transmission operation. Thus, the transmission operation of the transmission target file can be performed efficiently and reliably.

  Thus, in steps S22, S23, S25, and S26, the rearrangement process is performed under the respective conditions, thereby generating a transmission order list as shown in FIG. 8, for example.

  This transmission order list is a list generated in the transmission order list generation function unit 31d based on the processing result of the file relevance management function unit 31b. For example, as shown by reference numerals A and B shown in FIG. Related data files, that is, image files (extension “JPG”) and audio files (extension “WAV”) in which the file name excluding the extension is set to the same name are grouped as a set. The set will be ranked higher in the list. In this case, the ranks between the groups are arranged in ascending order in numerical order of the file names. Further, as in the first embodiment described above, the order between groups may be rearranged according to the size of the file.

  In the example shown in FIG. 8, the transmission operation process is executed first in the image file having the file name “DSC0002.JPG” and the audio file (file name “DSC0002.WAV”). )) Is the processing target of the sequential transmission operation.

  In other words, when the power of the photographing apparatus 100 is sufficient, the grouping of the image file and the related data file is set to be preferentially transmitted. This is because it is assumed that data files that are related to other data files are more important to users than single data files, and are more important. These data files are preferentially transmitted and processed while there is sufficient capacity.

  In the example shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 described above, an example of grouping image files and related audio files as a set is shown for the relationship between data files. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Other examples of file relationships are also possible.

  For example, the example shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 is an example in which an image file and a data file describing a print condition or the like for printing an image based on the image file are grouped.

  FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing another example of the structure of a plurality of data files stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic apparatus of this embodiment. FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram of a transmission order list when related data files among a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 9 are grouped and rearranged. In FIGS. 9 and 10, the size of the area of the portion representing each file on the drawing indicates the size of the file.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the storage medium 16 stores a mixture of an image file with the extension “JPG” and an audio file with the extension “WAV”. This is the same as in the case of the second embodiment described above (see FIG. 7), but in this example, a specific image file of a plurality of image files is printed in its header portion. Embedded with relevant information about the condition. This related information is information attached in accordance with, for example, the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard. In FIG. 9, it is clearly shown for convenience by writing in parentheses “DPOF designation”.

  In this example, in addition to this, as shown in FIG. 9, the file name “AUTOPRINT.MRK” is stored as a separate file as a data file related to print information.

  Therefore, when the data transmission process is executed and the remaining power is insufficient, when the transmission target files related to each other are grouped, as shown by reference C in FIG. The information related data file “AUTOPRINT.MRK” and the image file with the print condition information attached to the header portion, that is, the image file with “DPOF designation” shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, are grouped. A transmission order list in which the group file is arranged at the top of the list is generated.

  Similarly, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 show still another example, and an image file, an audio file as data related to the image file, and conditions regarding album registration when the image file is displayed in the album format This is an example in the case of grouping data files in which etc. are described. In FIGS. 11 and 12, the size of the area on the drawing of the portion representing each file indicates the size of the file.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, an image file with the extension “JPG” and an audio file with the extension “WAV” are mixedly stored in the storage medium 16. Is the same as in the above examples (see FIGS. 7 and 9), but in this example, a specific image file of a plurality of image files has an album in its header portion. Embedded information related to registration. This related information is information attached in accordance with, for example, the EXIF (Exchangeable Image File Format) standard. In FIG. 11, it is clearly shown for convenience by parentheses “album registration”.

  In this example, in addition to this, as shown in FIG. 11, file names “ALBUM.PVM”, “ALBUM001.PVM”, and the like are stored as separate files as related data files of album registration information.

  Therefore, when the data transmission process is executed and the remaining power is insufficient, when the files to be transmitted are grouped based on the relevance, as shown by symbol D in FIG. Related data files of album registration information “ALBUM.PVM”, “ALBUM001.PVM”, and an image file with album registration information added to the header, that is, “album registration” shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. The transmission order of the form in which the specified image file and, in some cases, the audio file as related data stored in association with the image file are grouped and the group file is arranged at the top of the list A list is generated.

  Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  The configuration of the imaging apparatus of the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the imaging apparatus of the first and second embodiments described above, and only the data transmission processing sequence is different. Therefore, also in the present embodiment, the description of the configuration of the photographing apparatus itself is omitted, and only the data transmission processing sequence by wireless connection will be described below among the functions of the photographing apparatus.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart of data transmission processing by wireless connection in the photographing apparatus which is the electronic apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  In the first embodiment, an example in which the transmission order is switched according to the file size of the transmission target file and the remaining power is shown. In the second embodiment, the relationship between the remaining power and the transmission target file is shown. An example of switching the transmission order based on the above is shown.

  The basic processing flow of data transmission processing by the image capturing apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is substantially the same as that of the second embodiment described above. In the present embodiment, a processing step for setting the transmission order for a single transmission target file that is not grouped based on the size of the file in a sequence that branches when the remaining power is not sufficient is added. .

  Therefore, in the following description, the same step number is attached | subjected about the process step similar to the data transmission process sequence in the above-mentioned 2nd Embodiment, the description is abbreviate | omitted, and only a different process step is demonstrated.

  First, after the imaging apparatus 100 is activated in a state of operating in the wireless transmission mode according to the same procedure as in each of the above-described embodiments, the processes in steps S11 to S14 in FIG. 13 are executed, and then the process in step S15. The first CPU 31 confirms whether or not the remaining power of the photographing apparatus 100 is sufficient (whether or not it is equal to or greater than a predetermined remaining amount).

  In the process of step S15, when it is confirmed that the remaining power is sufficient, the processes of step S16 to step S19 are executed. As a result, the transmission target file is transmitted in the order of data acquisition.

  On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S15 that the remaining power is not sufficient, the process proceeds to step S20. In step S20, it is confirmed whether there is a data file that has already been transmitted. Made.

  Here, if it is confirmed that there is no data file that has already been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S26. In this step S26, the data files related in the data file list to be transmitted are grouped together and A process of raising the transmission order by placing it at the top of the transmission target file list is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S27.

  If it is confirmed in step S20 that there is a data file that has already been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, whether or not there is a data file related to the transmitted data file. If there is a data file related to the transmitted data file, the process proceeds to the next step S22. In step S22, a data file related to the transmitted data file is placed at the top of the transmission target file list to increase the transmission order. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S27.

  On the other hand, if there is no data file related to the transmitted data file in the process of step S21 described above, the process proceeds to step S25, and in step S25, the related data among the untransmitted data files. The files are grouped and placed at the top of the transmission target file list to increase the transmission order. Thereafter, the process proceeds to the next step S27.

  In this way, when the process proceeds to step S27, in this step S27, the first CPU 31 adds to the transmission target file list generated in either the above-described step S22, step S25, or step S26. After checking the file size of each listed group by controlling the file size management function unit 31c, the transmission order list generation function unit 31d performs a process of rearranging in order from the smallest file size. In other words, the rank assigning means (transmission order list generation function unit 31d) assigns a higher rank to the transmission order list as the file size of each group, that is, the total file size of the data files included in the group is smaller. , Will be sent preferentially. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S23.

  In step S23, a rearrangement process is performed in which other remaining data files (single data files not related to other data files, etc.) are arranged in the lower area of the transmission target file list. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S28.

  In step S28, the first CPU 31 checks the file sizes of the remaining remaining data files (single data files not related to other data files, etc.) by controlling the file size management function unit 31c, and then transmits them in the transmission order. The list generation function unit 31d performs rearrangement processing in ascending order of file size to generate a transmission order list. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  Other processing steps are the same as those in the second embodiment (see FIG. 6).

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the same effects as those of the second embodiment can be obtained, and the file size of each group, that is, the data file included in the group can be obtained. The higher order of the transmission order list is given by the order giving means (transmission order list generation function unit 31d) in the order of the smallest file size, so that smaller groups are preferentially transmitted.

  In addition to this, in the present embodiment, a single data file that is not related to other data files is also given a rank in order of decreasing file size.

  Therefore, by these processes, the transmission operation of the transmission target file can be performed more efficiently and reliably when the remaining power is low.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the transmission order is switched according to the remaining power of the photographing apparatus 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a radio wave state detection unit that detects a radio wave state is further provided. A configuration in which the transmission order is switched according to the radio wave condition can be easily configured.

  In this case, as the radio wave state detection means, for example, a signal input from the radio antenna 21 is received, and a response signal from an external device serving as a communication partner is received, and this radio wave intensity is converted into the external radio data I. / F21 and the first CPU 31 may perform transmission order switching control based on the detection result.

  Next, an electronic device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

  The configuration of the imaging device which is an electronic device of the present embodiment is substantially the same as the configuration of the imaging device of the first embodiment described above. However, the main power source is a secondary battery, and the fuel cell charges the secondary battery. Is different in that it is arranged. Along with this, a part of the sequence of data transmission processing by wireless connection is different among the operations of the photographing apparatus.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and only different configurations and operations will be described below.

  FIG. 14 is a block configuration diagram showing an outline of an internal configuration of a photographing apparatus which is an electronic apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of the fuel cell unit in the photographing apparatus of FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of data transmission processing by wireless connection in the electronic apparatus (imaging apparatus) of this embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the specific configuration of the imaging apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is a first battery that replaces the battery 26 that is the main power source in the first embodiment (see FIG. 1). A secondary battery 26A is disposed, and further, a fuel cell unit 34 for charging the secondary battery 26A, a charging circuit 33 for supplying the secondary battery 26A with electric power output from the fuel cell unit 34, and the like, and the like. It is arranged.

  The secondary battery 26 </ b> A is connected to the power supply circuit 27. Thereby, the power of the secondary battery 26 </ b> A is supplied to the power supply circuit 27. The power supply circuit 27 appropriately supplies the power of the secondary battery 26 </ b> A to each electric circuit of the photographing apparatus 100 based on a command from the first CPU 31.

  The secondary battery 26 </ b> A is connected to the battery state detection circuit 29. Thereby, the battery state detection circuit 29 detects the state of the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A and the like, and outputs the detection result to the battery remaining amount management function unit 31g of the first CPU 31.

  Further, a fuel cell unit 34 is connected to the secondary battery 26 </ b> A via a charging circuit 33. Thereby, the electric power supplied from the fuel cell unit 34 is output to the secondary battery 26A via the charging circuit 33, and the secondary battery 26A is charged.

  The fuel cell unit 34 is connected to the battery state detection circuit 29. Thereby, the battery state detection circuit 29 detects the state of the fuel cell unit 34 such as the remaining amount of fuel, and outputs the detection result to the battery remaining amount management function unit 31g of the first CPU 31.

  The fuel cell unit 34 is connected to the first CPU 31. Thereby, the fuel cell unit 34 is controlled by the first CPU 31.

  As the fuel cell unit 34 applied to the present embodiment, for example, a methanol direct fuel cell (DMFC) is applied.

  Here, the detailed configuration of the fuel cell unit 34 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The fuel cell unit 34 of the form shown in FIG. 15 is a kind of polymer electrolyte fuel cell, and details of a methanol direct fuel cell (DMFC) in which methanol is used as a fuel and methanol water is directly supplied to the cell. The configuration is shown.

  This type of fuel cell unit 34 includes a fuel cartridge 41 having a methanol tank 41a and a pure water tank 41b, a fuel amount detection circuit 42, adjustment valves 43a and 43b, a mixer 44, a fuel cell 46, A pump 45, an air pump 47, a gas-liquid separator 48, a recovery pump 49, a methanol concentration detection circuit 51, a fuel controller 50, and the like are included.

  The fuel cartridge 41 has a methanol tank 41a for storing high-concentration methanol and a pure water tank 41b for storing pure water, and is detachably formed on the main body of the photographing apparatus 100A.

  The fuel amount detection circuit 42 is a circuit that detects the remaining amount of fuel in the fuel cartridge 41, that is, the remaining amount of methanol in the methanol tank 41 a and pure water in the pure water tank 41 b, and outputs remaining fuel information. The fuel remaining amount detection signal output from the fuel amount detection circuit 42 is output to the battery state detection circuit 29 (see FIG. 14).

  The adjustment valve 43a is provided to adjust the flow rate of the high-concentration methanol flowing out from the methanol tank 41a.

  The adjustment valve 43b is provided to adjust the flow rate of pure water flowing out from the pure water tank 41b.

  The mixer 44 mixes high-concentration methanol and pure water flowing from the fuel cartridge 41a through the regulating valves 43a and 43b and an aqueous methanol solution recovered through the recovery pump 49, and contains methanol having a predetermined concentration. It produces methanol fuel.

  The fuel pump 45 supplies methanol fuel to the fuel electrode side of the fuel battery cell 46.

  The air pump 47 takes in air from the outside and supplies oxygen to the air electrode side of the fuel cell 46.

  The fuel battery cell 46 is a methanol direct battery cell. In this type of fuel cell, a cathode side (fuel electrode) to which a methanol solution is supplied and an anode side (air electrode) to which air is supplied are separated by a solid polymer membrane. At the fuel electrode, the methanol solution is decomposed into electrons, hydrogen ions, and carbon dioxide on the surface of the polymer film, and the hydrogen ions move to the air electrode through the polymer film. At the air electrode, hydrogen ions flowing through the polymer film react with oxygen in the air and electrons to generate water. The electrons generated at the fuel electrode are supplied to an external circuit (charging circuit 33 in this embodiment), and are eventually consumed for water generation at the air electrode.

  The fuel cell 46 is connected to the charging circuit 33 (see FIG. 14). Thereby, the electric power generated in the fuel battery cell 46 is supplied to the charging circuit 33.

  The gas-liquid separator 48 separates a gas component such as carbon dioxide from the waste liquid generated in the fuel cell 46, exhausts the gas component to the outside, collects an aqueous methanol solution, and supplies this to the recovery pump 49. And supply.

  The recovery pump 49 supplies the aqueous methanol solution recovered by the gas separator 48 to the mixer 44.

  The methanol concentration detection circuit 51 detects the methanol concentration in the fuel battery cell 46 and outputs the detected information to the fuel controller 50.

  The fuel controller 50 receives the methanol concentration information detected by the methanol concentration detection circuit 51 and the control signal from the first CPU 31 and receives various pumps and valves in the fuel cell unit 34, that is, the adjustment valves 43a and 43b, the fuel pump 45, The air pump 47 and the like are controlled.

  Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.

  A sequence of data transmission processing executed when transmitting an image file or the like to the external apparatus using the wireless communication unit in the imaging apparatus 100A of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. .

  First, the user activates the photographing apparatus 100A of the present embodiment in the wireless transmission mode by a predetermined operation (power on).

  When the photographing apparatus 100A is activated in the wireless transmission mode, in step S1 of FIG. 16, the first CPU 31 executes a wireless function initialization process by wireless communication means of an internal circuit of the photographing apparatus 100A. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2.

  In step S2, the first CPU 31 controls the file size management function unit 31c to check the file size of the transmission target file among various data files stored in the storage medium 16 via the storage medium I / F 15. Execute the process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S3.

  In step S3, the first CPU 31 controls the transmission order list generation function unit 31d based on the processing result of the file size management function unit 31c, and sets the transmission target file among the data files stored in the storage medium 16 as the file size. A process of generating a list in the form arranged in order is executed. Here, the first CPU 31 resets transmission order counters n and m included therein. That is, n = 0 and m = 0 are set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S4A.

  The internal structure of the plurality of data files stored in the storage medium 16 is the same as that in FIG. 3 described in the first embodiment, and the transmission generated in the process in step S3 described above. The order list is the same as in FIG.

  Moreover, the process of the above-mentioned step S1-step S3 is the same as the operation | movement step which attached | subjected the same code | symbol shown in FIG. 2 in the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment.

  Next, in step S4A, the first CPU 31 executes a process of detecting the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A. That is, the first CPU 31 first controls the battery state detection circuit 29 to detect the state of the battery 26A. The detection result is output to the battery remaining amount management function unit 31g. In response to this, the remaining battery level management function unit 31g detects the remaining power level. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S5A.

  In step S5A, the first CPU 31 determines whether or not the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A, which is the first battery, is sufficient based on the result of detection of the remaining battery capacity in the process of step S4A, that is, the secondary battery. It is confirmed whether or not the remaining power of 26A is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (first reference value). Here, when it is confirmed that the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount (first reference value), the process proceeds to the next step S6.

  In step S6, the first CPU 31 performs a process of advancing (incrementing) the transmission order counter n by one. As a result, the transmission order counter n = n + 1 is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S <b> 7, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission order counter n and controls the wireless communication means to execute the transmission operation for the data file having the nth largest file size. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S8, the first CPU 31 confirms whether or not the transmission order counter n + m = the number of transmission target files. Here, when it is confirmed that the transmission order counter n + m is not equal to the number of transmission target files, the processing returns to the above-described step S4 and the subsequent processing is repeated. Thus, the data transmission operation is sequentially performed on the transmission target file for each transmission order assigned.

  If it is confirmed in the process of step S8 that the transmission order counter n + m = the number of transmission target files, it is determined that the transmission operation process for all of the transmission target files has been completed, and the series of processes ends. Then, the data transmission processing sequence is completed.

  In addition, the process of the above-mentioned step S6-step S8 is the same as the operation | movement step which attached | subjected the same code | symbol shown in FIG. 2 in the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment.

  That is, when the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A of the image capturing apparatus 100A is sufficient, there is no fear of the wireless connection being interrupted due to battery exhaustion during the transmission operation process. The transmission order is assigned in order from the largest file, and the sequential transmission operation is executed.

  On the other hand, in the process of step S5A described above, it was confirmed that the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A is not sufficient, that is, the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A is less than a predetermined amount (first reference value). In that case, the process proceeds to step S31.

  In step S31, the first CPU 31 confirms whether or not the fuel cell unit 34 is charging the secondary battery 26A via the charging circuit 33. If it is confirmed that the secondary battery 26A is being charged, the process proceeds to step S6 described above. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the secondary battery 26A is not being charged, the process proceeds to the next step S32.

  In step S <b> 32, the first CPU 31 confirms the detection signal from the fuel amount detection circuit 42 of the fuel cell unit 34, and executes a process of detecting the attachment / detachment status of the fuel cartridge 41 and the remaining fuel amount. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, the first CPU 31 confirms whether the fuel cartridge 41 is not attached or has no remaining fuel (zero (0)) based on the detection result obtained in step S32. I do. Here, when it is confirmed that the fuel cartridge 41 is not in an unmounted state (attached), and it is confirmed that the fuel remaining in each tank 41a, 41b of the fuel cartridge 41 is present (not zero) The process proceeds to step S34.

  In step S34, the first CPU 31 transmits a control signal to the fuel controller 50 of the fuel cell unit 34, and executes a process for starting the charging operation of the secondary battery 26A. Thereby, the fuel cell unit 34 starts the operation of charging the secondary battery 26 </ b> A via the charging circuit 33. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S9.

  In step S9, the first CPU 31 performs a process of advancing (incrementing) the transmission order counter m by one. As a result, the transmission order counter m = m + 1 is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S10, the first CPU 31 refers to the transmission order counter m and controls the wireless communication means to execute the transmission operation for the data file having the mth smallest file size. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S8.

  That is, when the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A of the photographing apparatus 100A is less than a predetermined amount, the transmission order is assigned in order from the data file having the smallest file size among the plurality of transmission target files, and the transmission operation is sequentially executed. Will be. In this case, the transmission order list has the form shown in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the process of step S33 described above, it is confirmed that the fuel cartridge 41 is not attached, or there is no remaining fuel (zero) in any tank 41a, 41b of the fuel cartridge 41. Is confirmed, that is, when the fuel cell is not operable, the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S <b> 35, the first CPU 31 determines that the remaining power level of the secondary battery 26 </ b> A is required for starting the fuel cell unit 34 based on the remaining battery level detection result in the process of step S <b> 4 </ b> A described above. It is confirmed whether or not it is equal to or greater than (reference value of 2). If it is confirmed that the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the remaining power of the secondary battery 26A is less than the second reference value, the process proceeds to the next step S36.

  In step S36, the first CPU 31 executes processing for temporarily storing a list of untransmitted files in an internal memory (not shown) or the like. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S37.

  In step S37, the first CPU 31 executes a power-off process. Thus, the photographing apparatus 100A ends all operations and is shut down.

  That is, in a state where the means for charging the secondary battery 26A does not function, the predetermined amount of electric power (remaining electric energy required for starting the fuel cell unit 34 is at least the remaining electric power of the secondary battery 26A ( If it is less than the second reference value), the transmission operation of the data file to be transmitted is immediately stopped, and all the operations of the photographing apparatus 100A are terminated. This means that wireless communication can be terminated before the remaining amount of remaining power is consumed, and in addition to measures to prevent an unintentional power-off state due to power consumption during communication, self-recovery can be achieved by adding fuel. It is to make it.

  The fuel cell, by its nature, consumes power for starting until it generates power. That is, even if a fuel cartridge containing fuel is attached in FIG. 15, power generation is not started immediately. First, the pumps and regulating valves must be operated to distribute the fuel to the fuel unit. The secondary battery 26A can be charged only after the methanol concentration in the fuel cell reaches a predetermined concentration and electric power can be taken out. In the meantime, power must be supplied from the secondary battery. Therefore, the operation of the camera 100 is terminated with at least the power required for starting the fuel cell remaining in the secondary battery as determined in S35.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained even in the photographing apparatus 100A to which the fuel cell unit 34 is applied.

  In the imaging apparatus 100A of the above-described fourth embodiment, the methanol direct fuel cell having the form shown in FIG. 15 is applied as the fuel cell unit 34. However, the form of the fuel cell unit 34 is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to apply a hydrogen fuel cell of the form shown in FIG.

  FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an outline of the internal configuration of another form of fuel cell unit applied to the photographing apparatus of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  The fuel cell unit 34A in the form shown in FIG. 17 is a kind of solid polymer fuel cell, and shows a detailed configuration of a hydrogen fuel cell using hydrogen as a fuel and supplying hydrogen directly to the cell.

  This type of fuel cell unit 34A includes a hydrogen tank 56, an on-off valve 57, a pressure flow rate detector 58, a regulating valve 59, a fuel cell 60, a fuel controller 61, and the like.

  The hydrogen tank 56 is a tank that stores hydrogen. For example, hydrogen is stored in a hydrogen storage alloy or the like.

  The on-off valve 57 is a valve that is provided in a hydrogen supply path stored in the hydrogen tank 56 and opens and closes (turns on and off) the supply of the hydrogen.

  The pressure flow rate detector 58 is a detector having a sensor or the like for detecting the pressure or flow rate of hydrogen supplied from the hydrogen tank 56 via the on-off valve 57.

  The adjustment valve 59 is a valve provided to adjust the flow rate of hydrogen flowing out from the pressure flow rate detector 58.

  The fuel battery cell 60 is a polymer electrolyte battery cell (PEFC; Polymer Electric Fuel Cell). The fuel cell 60 is connected to the charging circuit 33 (see FIG. 14). Thereby, the electric power generated in the fuel battery cell 60 is supplied to the charging circuit 33.

  The fuel controller 61 receives the fuel cell control signal from the first CPU 31 and controls the opening / closing operation of the on-off valve 57, the adjustment valve 59 and the like, and receives the detection information from the pressure flow rate detector 58 to receive this fuel cell unit 34A. The pressure and flow rate of hydrogen in the internal flow path are monitored, and control for monitoring the remaining amount of fuel is performed.

  Even if the fuel cell unit 34A of the form shown in FIG. 17 is adopted instead of the fuel cell unit 34 of the imaging device 100A shown in FIG. 14, the imaging device 100A can be operated in exactly the same manner, and the above-described first The same effect as that of the fourth embodiment can be obtained.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications can of course be implemented without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, the above embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiment, the problem described in the column of the problem to be solved by the invention can be solved, and the effect described in the effect of the invention Can be obtained as an invention.

1 is a block configuration diagram showing an outline of an internal configuration of an electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a flowchart of data transmission processing by wireless connection in the electronic apparatus of FIG. 1. The figure which shows notionally the structure of the some data file memorize | stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic device of FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram conceptually showing a transmission list when a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 3 are rearranged based on the file size, and is a conceptual diagram of a list rearranged in order from data having a larger file size. FIG. 4 is a diagram conceptually showing a transmission list when a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 3 are rearranged based on the file size, and is a conceptual diagram of a list rearranged in order from data with a smaller file size. 10 is a flowchart of data transmission processing through wireless connection in the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows notionally the structure of the some data file memorize | stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic device of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of a transmission order list when related data files are grouped and rearranged among a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 7. The conceptual diagram which shows another example of the structure of the some data file memorize | stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic device of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram of a transmission order list when related data files are grouped and rearranged among a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 9. The conceptual diagram which shows another example of the structure of the some data file memorize | stored in the storage area of the storage medium in the electronic device of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a transmission order list when related data files are grouped and rearranged among a plurality of data files in the state of FIG. 11. 10 is a flowchart of data transmission processing through wireless connection in the imaging apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The block block diagram which shows the outline of the internal structure of the imaging device which is an electronic device of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. The block block diagram which shows the outline of the internal structure of the fuel cell unit in the imaging device of FIG. 15 is a flowchart of data transmission processing through wireless connection in the electronic apparatus (imaging apparatus) in FIG. 14. The block block diagram which shows the outline of the internal structure of the fuel cell unit of another form applied to the imaging device of the 4th Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Lens 2 ... Imaging device 3 ... Imaging circuit 9 ... TFT liquid crystal drive circuit 10 ... TFT panel 15 ... Storage medium interface 16 ... Storage medium 21 ... Wireless antenna 26 ... Battery 26A ... Two Secondary battery 27 …… Power supply circuit 29 …… Battery state detection circuit 31 …… First CPU
31a: System control unit 31b: File relevance management function unit 31c: File size management function unit 31d: Transmission order list generation function unit 31e: USB communication control function unit 31f: WUSB communication control function unit 31g ... ... Battery remaining amount management function unit 32 ... Second CPU
33... Charging circuit 34... Fuel cell unit 100.

Claims (8)

An electronic device operating on a battery,
Information acquisition means for acquiring information;
Storage means for storing the information acquired by the information acquisition means as a data file;
File size specifying means for specifying the file size of the data file stored in the storage means;
Transmitting means for transmitting the data file to an external device;
Battery remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining amount of power of the battery;
A rank assigning means for assigning a rank to the data file to be transmitted stored in the storage means;
Comprising
The rank assigning means switches the condition for assigning rank according to the remaining power detected by the battery remaining amount detecting means,
The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the transmission target data file in an order based on the rank assigned by the rank assigning unit.   When the remaining power detected by the battery remaining amount detecting unit is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, the rank assigning unit assigns a rank in descending order of file size and the remaining power detected by the battery remaining amount detecting unit. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein when the amount is less than a predetermined amount, the rank is given in order of increasing file size. The battery includes a first battery that is a primary battery or a secondary battery, and a fuel cell.
The battery remaining amount detecting means includes a fuel remaining amount detecting means for detecting a fuel remaining amount of the fuel cell;
Normal battery remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining power of the first battery;
Have
The rank assigning means detects that the fuel remaining amount detecting means detects that there is no fuel in the fuel cell, and further that the normal battery remaining amount detecting means is that the remaining power of the first battery is less than a predetermined amount. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein when an image is detected, a rank is assigned in order of increasing file size. The predetermined amount of power remaining in the first battery is equal to or greater than the power required to start the fuel cell,
The transmission means is configured to transmit the transmission target when the remaining power of the first battery is less than the predetermined amount and less than a second predetermined amount that is equal to or greater than the power necessary for starting the fuel cell. The electronic device according to claim 3, wherein transmission of the data file is stopped.   The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the electronic device is any one of a still camera, a video camera, and a recorder. An electronic device operating on a battery,
Information acquisition means for acquiring information;
Storage means for storing the information acquired by the information acquisition means as a data file;
Grouping means for grouping based on association information set between data files stored in the storage means;
Transmitting means for transmitting the data file to an external device;
Battery remaining amount detecting means for detecting the remaining power of the battery;
A rank assigning means for assigning a rank to the data file to be transmitted stored in the storage means;
Comprising
When the remaining power detected by the remaining battery level detection unit is less than a predetermined amount, the rank assigning unit determines the rank of the data file grouped by the grouping unit from a single transmission target data file. Higher,
The electronic device is characterized in that the transmitting means transmits data files grouped according to the order set by the order providing means in preference to a single data file.   7. The electronic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the rank assigning means assigns a rank to an order of a group having a small total file size of data files included in each group. The electronic device is a still camera,
7. The group according to claim 6, wherein the group is configured in any one of an image file and an audio file format, an image file and an album information file format, or an image file and a print information file format. The electronic device according to claim 7.

Images