JP2009216895A - Electronic instrument, demonstration dictating device and demonstration system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To simplify the handling of an electronic instrument having a demonstration mode. <P>SOLUTION: A digital camera 2 has: a normal mode of performing an operation such as a photographing mode and a reproduction mode; and a demonstration mode of performing demonstration. A serial number of the digital camera 2 is stored in a setting memory 42. Serial numbers of respective digital cameras 2 to be objects of demonstration mode are registered beforehand on a PC. The PC inspects the serial numbers of the digital cameras 2 connected by wireless communication and transmits to the digital camera 2 a demonstration mode translating signal which dictates the digital camera 2 to be the object of demonstration mode. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device having a demonstration mode for demonstrating the function of the device, a control method thereof, and a demonstration instruction device.

  Some electronic devices such as a digital camera and a car navigation device have a demonstration mode for demonstrating the functions of the electronic device when it is displayed at a store. In recent years, electronic devices have become highly functional, and the usefulness of demo modes that introduce various functions has increased.

  However, the demo mode that appeals as a product of electronic equipment is useless when used by the user, so it is not intended to shift to the demo mode by mistake, and the normal mode when the demo mode is switched to It is necessary to devise a way to return to In addition, since many electronic devices are displayed at stores, etc., it is desirable that the transition to the demo mode is performed with an easy operation, and the customer is allowed to shift from the demo mode to the normal mode and leave it alone. It is also necessary to consider such cases.

  In the navigation device described in Patent Document 1, when a disc on which demonstration data is recorded together with map data is loaded into the navigation device, the navigation device automatically shifts to the demo mode, and the demo mode is canceled to shift to the normal mode. Even if it is in a state of being let go, it automatically shifts to demo mode if there is no operation for a certain period of time.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker described in patent document 2, it shifts to demo mode only when operation of the predetermined key a predetermined number of times is performed within a predetermined time in the predetermined mode, and after shifting to the demo mode The demo mode is canceled after a predetermined time. In the air conditioner described in Patent Document 3, for example, by determining the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the indoor unit and the outdoor unit, the installation state as to whether the installation is for store display or actual use is determined. Detection is performed, and the demonstration operation in the demonstration mode or the normal operation is automatically switched based on the detection result. In the electronic device described in Patent Document 4, it is determined whether to set the demo mode or the normal mode depending on whether or not the time has been set.

In the digital camera described in Patent Document 5, it is checked whether or not a recording medium for recording a photographed image is installed, and when a predetermined operation is performed when the recording medium is not installed, a transition is made to a demo mode. Yes, the demo mode is canceled when a predetermined operation is performed from the outside.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-132583 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-295542 JP 2001-272078 A JP-A-11-344963 JP 2002-118782 A

  By the way, in the electronic device having the demo mode as described above, in order to set the demo mode in a store display or the like, or to cancel the demo mode, a specific disk is loaded / removed, a predetermined key is operated, a battery is Various operations and procedures such as removal must be performed for each electronic device that should be in the demo mode. Therefore, it is inconvenient for many electronic devices.

  When a medium such as a specific disk is used as in Patent Document 1, an increase in cost due to the manufacture of the medium is caused, and an electronic device that does not use an electronic device or a medium that stores operation software or data in advance is used. Not available for equipment.

  In addition, when a function for automatically returning from the normal mode to the demo mode as described in Patent Document 1 is incorporated in an electronic device in advance, an operation for completely canceling the automatic return when the user accidentally switches to the demo mode. Unless this is done, the use of the user will be hindered. On the contrary, the configuration in which the demo mode is canceled after a lapse of a certain time as in Patent Document 2 is not suitable for store display. Of course, as in Patent Document 5, when the demo mode once released is shifted to the demo mode again, if a predetermined operation is required for the operation unit, the demo mode is set for each electronic device to be restored. In addition to requiring an operation to return to the demo mode, the demo mode cannot be entered unless the store clerk notices that the demo mode has been canceled and resets it.

  Furthermore, as in Patent Document 3, it is effective to determine whether or not to set the demo mode according to the installation state of a device whose installation state for store display is different from the actual usage state. It is not effective for an electronic device such as an electronic camera displayed in a store in a state that is almost the same as a normal use state. Further, as in Patent Document 4, the configuration for determining whether or not to set the demo mode based on the presence / absence of the time setting indicates that, for example, if the customer sets the time at the store display, the mode does not shift to the demo mode. There was a problem.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and it is easy to shift to the demo mode. Even when the demo mode is canceled by an operation at a storefront or the like, the demo mode can be easily restored after the operation. It is another object of the present invention to provide an electronic device, a demo instruction device, and a demo system that can prevent the shift to the demo mode when used outside the store.

  In order to achieve the above object, in the electronic device according to claim 1, an identification information storage unit that stores preset identification information, a device-side communication unit that communicates with an external device, and the identification information The identification information stored in advance in the storage means is sent from the communication means, and the demonstration mode transition signal instructing the transition to a demonstration in which the communication means receives the device as a transmission destination is an effective demonstration mode transition signal. In response to receiving the effective demo mode transition signal in the normal mode, mode transition control means for shifting from the normal mode to the demo mode is provided.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, the electronic device includes a battery detection unit that detects whether or not a battery mounted on the device main body is mounted as a power source, and the mode transition control unit detects the mounting of the battery by the battery detection unit. Only when there is not, the mode is shifted to the demo mode in response to reception of a valid demo mode shift signal.

  In the electronic device according to claim 3, the device-side communication unit is activated so as to receive a demo mode transition signal when the power of the device body is turned off, and the mode transition control unit is operated when the power is turned off. When the device-side communication means receives a valid demo mode transition signal, the device main body is shifted to the demo mode when the power of the device body is turned on.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, the electronic device includes power control means for turning on the power of the device body in response to the device-side communication means receiving a demo mode transition signal that is valid when the power is off. .

  In the electronic device according to claim 5, the power is turned on after a predetermined return waiting time elapses after the power is turned off in the normal mode after the demo mode is changed to the normal mode by the operation of the device body. Power supply control means.

  The electronic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the mode transition control unit shifts to the demo mode when the power source control unit is turned on after a predetermined return waiting time elapses.

  The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the mode transition control unit receives a valid demo mode transition signal or a continuation request signal for requesting continuation of the demo mode within a predetermined time-out period after receiving the device side communication unit. When the device-side communication means does not receive a valid demo mode transition signal or continuation request signal, the demo mode is shifted to the normal mode or the power is turned off.

  In the electronic device according to claim 8, the mode transition control means initializes the device settings when shifting to the demo mode.

  In the electronic device according to claim 9, the mode transition control unit erases the acquired data stored in the storage unit that stores the acquired data acquired in the normal mode when shifting to the demo mode. is there.

  The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the device-side communication unit includes an operation control unit configured to receive a control command from an external device and to perform an operation according to the received control command. is there.

  In the electronic device according to claim 11, the device-side communication means is configured to receive demo data from an external device, and the demo mode operation is performed using the received demo data. .

  13. The electronic apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising identification information storage means for storing preset identification information, wherein the communication means transmits identification information stored in advance in the identification information storage means. It is.

  In the demonstration instruction device according to claim 13, identification information holding means for holding unique identification information preset in an electronic device to which a demo mode transition signal for shifting from a normal mode in which a normal operation is performed to a demonstration is to be transmitted; A command-side communication unit for performing wireless communication with the electronic device, and a demo for specifying the electronic device registered in the identification information holding unit as a transmission destination and shifting from the normal mode to the demo mode. Control means for transmitting a mode transition signal from the instruction side communication means.

  15. The demonstration instruction apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the control unit acquires identification information of the electronic device from an electronic device in a communicable state via the instruction side communication unit, and the acquired identification information is the identification information. A demo mode transition signal is transmitted from the instruction side communication means to an electronic device that matches any of the identification information held in the holding means.

  16. The demonstration instruction device according to claim 15, wherein the instruction side communication means transmits an effective demonstration mode transition signal or a continuation request signal for requesting continuation of the demonstration mode to an external electronic device at a predetermined interval. is there.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, a demo system is constituted by the electronic device described above and the demo instruction device.

  According to the present invention, identification information stored in advance is sent to determine whether or not a demo mode is to be transferred, and a shift to a demonstration in which the device is received as a transmission destination is instructed. Since the demo mode transition signal is used as a valid demo mode transition signal and the demo mode transition is made in response to receiving this valid demo mode transition signal, only the electronic devices targeted for the demo mode are in the demo mode. Can be migrated to.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows a demonstration system (hereinafter referred to as a demo system) embodying the present invention. The demo system includes at least one digital camera 2 as an electronic device having a normal mode for normal operation and a demo mode for demonstration at a store, etc., and an external device for instructing wirelessly to shift the digital camera 2 to the demo mode. It consists of a PC (personal computer) 3 as a demonstration instruction device which is a device.

  The digital camera 2 is provided with a photographing lens 5, a strobe light emitting unit (not shown) and the like on the front surface of the body 4. Various operation members constituting the operation unit 6 (see FIG. 2) are provided on the upper surface and the rear surface, and the power button 7 and the release button 8 are provided on the upper surface, the determination button 9, the cursor button 10, and the cancel button 11 on the rear surface. , A playback button 12 is provided. In addition, an LCD 13 on which a through image and a reproduced image are displayed is provided on the back surface.

  The power of the digital camera 2 can be turned on / off by operating the power button 7. By pressing the release button 8, shooting is performed after the photographing lens 4 is focused. By operating the enter button 9 or the cursor button 10, it is possible to select a shooting mode for shooting, a playback mode for playback, various settings of the digital camera 2, and the like.

  By operating the operation unit 6, it is possible to give a normal mode shift instruction for shifting from the demo mode to the normal mode. The normal mode is a mode for performing the original operation of the digital camera 2 and can be operated by selecting the photographing mode and the reproduction mode as described above.

  The demo mode is a mode for introducing the functions of the digital camera 2 by itself. The demo mode is received by receiving a demo mode transition signal that is judged to be valid from among the demo mode transition signals transmitted from the PC 3 wirelessly. The mode is switched to, for example, a function explanation, an operation explanation, a sample image or the like is displayed on the LCD 13, or an operation for photographing is performed with photographing settings prepared in advance for the demo mode. The effective demo mode transition signal is a demo mode transition signal designated with the digital camera 2 received as the transmission destination as described in detail later.

  A card slot into which a memory card 15 for recording a photographed image is inserted and a battery slot into which a battery 16 as a power source is inserted are provided at the bottom of the body 4. Each of these slots is exposed by releasing the lid 17 provided on the bottom, and the memory card 15 and the battery 16 can be inserted and removed. Further, a power supply terminal 18 for connecting an external power supply such as an AC adapter is provided on the side surface of the body 4. When the external power supply is connected to the power supply terminal 18, the digital camera 2 is connected with the external power supply. Driven.

  The PC 3 has a built-in PC-side communication unit 20 (see FIG. 5) that performs wireless communication with the digital camera 2 in a conventional personal computer having a keyboard 3a and a mouse 19b as a monitor 3a and an operation unit 19. Yes, it functions as a demonstration instruction device by installing a predetermined program. The PC 3 communicates with the digital camera 2 to acquire a serial number assigned to each of the digital cameras 2 and transmits a demo mode transition signal for shifting the digital camera 2 to the demo mode.

  In FIG. 2, each part of the digital camera 2 is controlled by the CPU 22. The CPU 22 is connected to a ROM 22a and a RAM 22b, and a control program, a demonstration mode program, and the like are stored in the ROM 22a. CPU22 controls each part according to the program of ROM22a based on the operation signal input from the operation part 6. FIG. The RAM 22b is used as a work memory that temporarily stores data necessary for the CPU 22 to execute a program.

  The CPU 22 functions as a mode transition control unit. In response to the communication unit 23 receiving a valid demo mode transition signal when the power is turned on, the CPU 22 shifts the digital camera 2 to the demo mode and causes each unit to perform a demonstration operation. .

  The taking lens 5 includes a diaphragm mechanism and a focus adjustment mechanism that are driven by a lens driver 24. A CCD type image sensor 26 is arranged behind the photographing lens 5. As is well known, the image sensor 26 includes a light receiving surface in which a large number of light receiving elements are arranged in a matrix. The image sensor 26 is driven by a CCD driver 27 and photoelectrically converts an object image formed by the photographing lens 5 to generate an image. Output as a signal. A CMOS type image sensor may be used instead of the CCD type.

  The AFE 28 includes a CDS (correlated double sampling) circuit 28a, an AGC (automatic gain adjustment amplifier) 28b, and an A / D converter 28c. The image signal obtained from the image sensor 26 is subjected to sequential removal of reset noise, amplification of the image signal, and digitization processing by these CDS circuits 28a, AGC 28b, and A / D converter 28c, and the image input controller as image data. 31.

  The image input controller 31 controls input of image data to the bus 32. In addition to the CPU 22 and communication unit 23, the bus 32 includes an image signal processing circuit 33, a compression / decompression processing circuit 34, a VRAM 35, an LCD driver 36, an AF detection circuit 37, an AE / AWB detection circuit 38, a face detection unit 39, an internal A memory 40, a media controller 41, and a setting memory 42 are connected. These units are controlled by the CPU 22 via the bus 32 and can exchange data with each other.

  The image signal processing circuit 33 performs image processing such as gradation conversion, white balance correction, γ correction processing, and YC conversion processing on the input image data. In the YC conversion process, the image data is converted from RGB image data of three colors into image data of luminance signal Y and color difference signals Cr and Cb. The compression / decompression processing circuit 34 compresses the YC converted image data, for example, in JPEG format, and decompresses the compressed image data.

  In the VRAM 35, data to be displayed on the LCD 13 is written. The LCD driver 36 reads the data written in the VRAM 35 and drives the LCD 13 based on the data. Under the shooting mode, the image data YC-converted by the image signal processing circuit 33 is sequentially updated and written in the VRAM 35, whereby a through image is displayed on the LCD 13. In the demonstration mode, the demonstration display data can be displayed on the LCD 13 by writing the demonstration display data in the VRAM 35.

  The AF detection circuit 37 calculates an AF evaluation value obtained by evaluating the contrast for each captured image based on image data input via the image input controller 31. The CPU 22 adjusts the focus of the photographing lens 5 by controlling the lens driver 24 so that the AF evaluation value from the AF detection circuit 37 is maximized, that is, the contrast of the subject image is maximized.

  The AE / AWB detection circuit 38 detects subject luminance and calculates a WB evaluation value for white balance correction based on the image data. The CPU 22 controls the image signal processing circuit 33 so that the white balance of the subject image is appropriate based on the WB evaluation value. Further, the CPU 22 adjusts the aperture of the aperture mechanism, the gain of the AGC 28b, and the like so that proper exposure is obtained based on the subject brightness detected by the AE / AWB detection circuit 38.

  When the face detection function is on, the face detection unit 39 detects a human face portion from the captured image and outputs the detected face area information. The face area information is sent to the AF detection circuit 37 and the AE / AWB detection circuit 38, and control is performed so that the image portion indicated by the face area information is brought into focus and the proper exposure is obtained. Is done. The face detection function can be turned on / off by operating the operation unit 6.

  When a shooting instruction is issued by operating the release button 8, the image data subjected to various image processing by the image signal processing circuit 33 and then compressed by the compression / decompression processing circuit 34 is stored in the internal memory 40 or It is written in the memory card 15. Reading and writing of image data to the memory card 15 is performed by the media controller 41.

  For example, when the memory card 15 is mounted, either the memory card 15 or the internal memory 40 can be selected as the image data storage destination by operating the operation unit 6. If it is not attached, the image data is automatically stored in the internal memory 40.

  In the reproduction mode, the image data is read from the internal memory 40 or the memory card 15, decompressed, and written in the VRAM 35, whereby the image stored on the LCD 13 is reproduced and displayed.

  In a partial storage area of the internal memory 40, various display data for demonstration such as image data and text data used in the demonstration mode are written in advance. Under the control of the CPU 22, these demonstration display data are appropriately selected and written into the VRAM 35, whereby a demonstration display is performed on the LCD 13. Note that the display data for demonstration cannot be deleted.

  The setting memory 42 stores various setting information of the digital camera 2 such as a flash mode, on / off of the face detection function, photographing sensitivity, image data storage destination, and the like. As the setting memory 42, for example, a rewritable nonvolatile memory is used so that the setting information is not erased even when the power is turned off. The setting memory 42 serves as identification information storage means. The serial number of the digital camera 2 is written at the time of manufacture, and this is used as identification information for identifying a device to be demodulated.

  The identification information is not limited to the serial number. For example, from the point that the digital camera 2 purchased by the user is not set to the demo mode, the identification information having an identification function that can distinguish the digital camera 2 purchased by the user from the digital camera 2 used for the demonstration may be used. Further, from the viewpoint of distinguishing and handling a plurality of digital cameras 2 used for the demonstration, the identification information is sufficient to distinguish each digital camera 2 used for the demonstration. In addition, since a serial number is normally given to an electronic device, it is a preferable form to use a serial number as identification information.

  The communication unit 23 is a device-side communication unit that communicates with an external device (demonstration instruction device), and performs communication with the PC-side communication unit 20 of the PC 3. As shown in FIG. 3, when the communication unit 23 receives a serial number request signal for requesting a serial number from the PC 3, the CPU 22 reads the serial number stored in the setting memory 42, and transmits this to the communication unit 23. To the PC 3 via.

  Further, when the communication unit 23 receives the demo mode transition signal from the PC 3, the CPU 22 determines whether or not the demo mode transition signal is valid. In this determination, if the device is designated as the transmission destination, that is, the received digital camera 2 is designated as the transmission destination, the received demo mode transition signal is valid. FIG. 4 shows an example of the determination process. In this example, the demo mode transition signal is effective when the serial number included in the demo mode transition signal matches that of the setting memory 42.

  Note that the determination as to whether or not the demo mode transition signal is the transmission destination of the device can employ various methods depending on the communication method or the like. The MAC address assigned to the communication unit and the digital camera 2 can be determined. The determination may be made based on the assigned IP address or the like.

  Under the control of the CPU 22, the power supply unit 44 controls the supply of power necessary for operation to each unit of the digital camera 2 from the battery 16 or an external power supply connected to the power supply terminal 18. The power supply unit 44 preferentially supplies power from the external power supply from the power supply terminal 18. That is, when an external power supply is connected to the power supply terminal 18 regardless of whether or not the battery 16 is attached, power is supplied from the external power supply, and when the battery 16 is attached, the external power supply is connected to the power supply terminal 18. When is not connected, power is supplied from the battery 16. The power supply unit 44 includes a sensor 44 a that detects whether or not the battery 16 is attached to the battery slot.

  The digital camera 2 has an auto-off function in which the power is automatically turned off when the operation unit 6 is not operated for a certain time, for example, 3 minutes, in the normal mode. When the operation unit 6 is not operated for a certain period of time in the normal mode, the CPU 22 turns off the power of the digital camera 2 and stops power supply from the power supply unit 44 to the respective units to eliminate unnecessary power consumption. I am doing so. Even when the power is turned off, the CPU 22 receives a small amount of power, and can perform control such as starting power supply by the power supply unit 44 by operating the power button 7.

  In FIG. 5, the PC 3 controls the PC-side communication unit 20 as the instruction-side communication means by the control unit 45 configured by the CPU or the like executing a predetermined program. The memory unit 46 serves as identification information holding means, and identification information of each digital camera 2 that is a target of the demo mode, in this example, a serial number is registered in advance.

  The serial numbers to be targeted for the demo mode are each input to the PC 3 by the operation of the operation unit 19 and registered in the memory unit 46, but the registration method is not limited to this. For example, the serial number acquired through the PC-side communication unit 20 may be selected and registered by operating the operation unit 19.

  The control unit 45 performs, for example, a demo mode transition signal transmission process shown in FIG. 6 at a predetermined interval, and whether or not a digital camera 2 that is wirelessly connected is newly added via the PC-side communication unit 20. Check out. Note that it may be performed every time an instruction is given from the operation unit 19.

  When the new digital camera 2 is added, the control unit 45 acquires the serial number, and determines whether the acquired serial number matches any of the serial numbers registered in the memory unit 46. If they match, it is determined that the digital camera 2 with the serial number is the target of the demo mode.

  When the new digital camera 2 is the target of the demo mode, the demo mode transition signal is transmitted with the digital camera 2 having the serial number as the transmission destination. In this example, the transmission destination is specified by including the serial number in the demo mode transition signal. However, various transmission destinations can be used depending on the communication method as described above. .

  Whether or not a wirelessly connected digital camera 2 has been newly added is determined by, for example, broadcasting a serial number transmission request signal from the PC 3, and in response to this, the serial number transmitted from the digital camera 2 is serialized in the connected list. It can be judged by comparing with the number. That is, it may be determined that a digital camera 2 having a serial number that is not in the connected list is newly added, and the connected list may be updated by adding the serial number of the newly added digital camera 2. You may delete the connection that could not be confirmed from the connected list.

  It should be noted that other information such as a MAC address may be used to determine whether or not a wireless digital camera 2 is newly added, but whether or not a wireless digital camera 2 is newly added. The processing can be simplified if the information to be determined is matched with the identification information, that is, the information for determining whether or not to be the target of the demo mode.

  In this example, when a wireless digital camera 2 is newly added, a demo mode transition signal is transmitted to the digital camera 2. The digital camera 2 may be designated as a transmission destination, and a demo mode transition signal may be transmitted to them. Of course, among the digital cameras 2 of the serial numbers that are the targets of the demo mode, the connected digital camera 2 may be designated as a transmission destination, and a demo mode transition signal may be transmitted to them.

  Any communication system, connection form, etc. between the PC 3 and the digital camera 2 may be used. For example, it is preferable to perform communication by confirming the status of the other party or confirming delivery, but a non-procedure method may be used. In addition, it is preferable that communication settings can be made easily or without setting.

  In the connection mode, for example, a demo mode transition signal from the PC 3 is transmitted to the digital camera 2 via an access point in a wireless LAN, or the PC-side communication unit 20 functions as an access point, and a plurality of digital cameras 2 are simultaneously used. May be connected to one PC 3. Alternatively, as in the ad hoc mode, one digital camera 2 and one digital camera 2 may be connected to each other, and the digital camera 2 connected to the PC 3 may be sequentially switched.

  Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. When the power button 7 is operated to turn on the power, the power supply unit 44 starts supplying power to each unit under the control of the CPU 22 so that each unit is operable, and the digital camera 2 is turned on.

  While the power is on, an interrupt process is performed to check whether the communication unit 23 has received the serial number request signal and to check whether the communication unit 23 has received a valid demo mode transition signal. Etc.

  For example, when the communication unit 23 has not received a valid demo mode transition signal, the digital camera 2 is set to the normal mode. In the normal mode, the shooting mode and the playback mode can be selected by operating the operation unit 6 as in the case of the conventional digital camera. Under the shooting mode, settings relating to shooting can be performed by operating the operation unit 6, and shooting can be performed by pressing the release button 8. Then, image data obtained by photographing is recorded in the memory card 15 or the internal memory 40.

  Further, under the playback mode, the image data recorded in the memory card 15 or the internal memory 40 is read out by the operation of the operation unit 6 and sent to the VRAM 35, whereby the captured image is reproduced and displayed on the LCD 13. Alternatively, specific image data can be deleted from the memory card 15 or the internal memory 40.

  While in the normal mode as described above, whether or not a valid demo mode transition signal is received, whether or not there is an instruction to turn off the power by operating the power button 7, and whether or not to perform auto-off by the auto-off function The determination is made by the CPU 22. For example, when there is an instruction to turn off the power by operating the power button 7, or when auto-off is performed by the auto-off function, power supply by the power supply unit 44 is stopped after each unit is shifted to an off state corresponding to power off. As a result, the power of the digital camera 2 is turned off.

  On the other hand, in the PC 3, a serial number transmission request signal is broadcast at a predetermined interval from the PC side communication unit 20 under the control of the control unit 45. When the communication unit 23 receives this serial number transmission request signal, the serial number stored in the setting memory 42 of the digital camera 2 is transmitted from the communication unit 23. The serial number is transmitted by each digital camera 2 that has received the serial number transmission request signal, which is received by the PC-side communication unit 20.

  When the serial number is received by the PC 3 as described above, the control unit 45 compares the received serial number with that in the connected list. If it is determined in this comparison that the serial number is registered in the connected list, a demo mode transition signal including the serial number as information is transmitted from the PC-side communication unit 20. The serial number is added to the connected list.

  When the demo mode transition signal is transmitted as described above, the demo mode transition signal is received by the communication unit 23 of each receivable digital camera 2. However, in the digital camera 2 other than the serial number included in the demo mode transition signal, since it is determined that the device is not designated as the transmission destination, it is discarded as an invalid demo mode transition signal.

  On the other hand, since the digital camera 2 whose serial number matches that included in the demo mode transition signal is determined to be a valid demo mode transition signal, the digital camera 2 is shifted from the normal mode to the demo mode by the CPU 22.

  When shifting to the demo mode as described above, for example, the display data for demonstration read out from the internal memory 40 is written in the VRAM 35, whereby the demonstration display is performed on the LCD 13, or the CPU 22 operates in accordance with the program for demonstration. By controlling the above, a shooting operation for demonstration is performed while changing various function settings of the digital camera 2.

  While in the demo mode, it is confirmed whether there is an instruction to turn off the power by operating the power button 7 or an instruction to shift to the normal mode by operating the operation unit 6. When there is an instruction to turn off the power, the power of the digital camera 2 is turned off in the same way as described above. With this, it is possible to shoot and reproduce images.

  If a digital camera that can be wirelessly connected is newly added and the serial number of the digital camera 2 is registered as a demo mode target, the digital camera 2 enters the demo mode in the same procedure as described above. The digital camera 2 whose serial number is not the target of the demo mode does not enter the demo mode.

  As described above, since the instruction is wireless, the digital camera 2 can be easily shifted to the demo mode, and only the digital camera 2 whose serial number is registered as the target of the demo mode can be set to the demo mode. Therefore, for example, even if the digital camera 2 purchased by the user is brought into the store, the demo mode can be prevented from shifting.

  If the digital camera 2 that is the target of the demo mode is designated as the transmission destination and the demo mode transition signal is transmitted at an appropriate timing, interval, or for each instruction to the PC 3, the digital camera 2 is in the normal mode. Even if you move to, you can easily return to demo mode. In this case, for example, in order to prevent the digital camera 2 that is temporarily used in the normal mode for trial shooting or the like from receiving the demo mode shift signal and not to shift to the demo mode, for example, after the normal mode, It is preferable to control the digital camera 2 so as not to shift to the demo mode even if a demo mode shift signal is received until a certain period of time has elapsed since the last operation in the normal mode or the normal mode. It is also preferable that the digital camera 2 in the normal mode or the demo mode can be turned off by an instruction from the PC 3 with a radio signal.

[Second Embodiment]
The second embodiment detects whether or not a battery mounted on a digital camera as a power source is mounted, and shifts to the demo mode when a valid demo mode shift signal is received only when the battery is not mounted. It is a thing. In addition, except being demonstrated below, it is the same as that of 1st Embodiment, The same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the substantially same structural member, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this example, the power supply unit 44 detects whether or not the battery 15 is mounted in the battery slot by a sensor 44a as a battery detection unit, and sends the detection result to the CPU 22. The CPU 22 shifts the digital camera 2 to the demo mode when receiving a valid demo mode shift signal only when it is determined that the battery is not mounted based on the detection result of the sensor 44a.

  When the power of the digital camera 2 is turned on by operating the power button 7 with the battery 15 attached or with an external power supply connected to the power supply terminal 18, as shown in FIG. 8, it is detected by the sensor 44a. Whether or not the battery 15 is mounted is sent from the power supply unit 44 to the CPU 22, and the CPU 22 confirms whether or not the battery 15 is mounted.

  For example, when the battery 15 is attached, processing for shifting to the normal mode is subsequently performed, and the digital camera 2 enters the normal mode. In this case, a process for confirming the attachment of the battery 15 is performed along with a process for determining whether or not to turn off the power and whether or not to turn off automatically. And while the battery 15 is mounted, the process for shifting to the demo mode is not performed. Therefore, even if a valid demo mode transition signal is received, the demo mode is not entered, and the normal mode is maintained.

  On the other hand, if the battery 15 is not mounted and the power supply is turned on by receiving power from an external power supply, it is confirmed whether or not a valid demo mode transition signal has been received. When a valid demo mode transition signal is received, the demo mode is entered. After the transition to the demo mode, a process for determining whether or not there is an instruction to shift to the normal mode and whether or not there is an instruction to turn off the power is performed. If the state in which the battery 15 is not attached continues after the transition to the normal mode, the demo mode can be restored by receiving a valid demo mode transition signal again.

  In a normal store display, the battery 15 is removed to prevent theft, but the battery 15 is attached to the digital camera 2 used by the user. Therefore, if the control based on whether or not the battery 15 is mounted as described above is performed, the digital camera 2 purchased by the user is brought into the store, and the serial number of the digital camera 2 is registered as the target of the demo mode. However, only the digital camera 2 for store display can be set to the demo mode without shifting to the demo mode.

  In this example, the presence / absence of the battery is not detected in the demo mode, so even if the battery is installed, the normal mode is not entered, but the presence / absence of the battery is detected in the demo mode. When the battery is attached, the mode may be shifted to the normal mode. Further, when the battery is attached and the external power source is connected, control may be performed so as to shift to the demo mode.

[Third Embodiment]
In the third embodiment, even when the power of the digital camera is off, the demo mode transition signal from the communication unit of the digital camera can be received. When a valid demo mode transition signal is received, the power is turned on and It is what you do. In addition, except being demonstrated below, it is the same as that of 1st Embodiment, The same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the substantially same structural member, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this example, when the power is turned off by the operation of the power button 7 or auto-off, a minute power supply is continued from the power supply unit 44 to the communication unit 23 and the demo mode transition signal can be received. Put it in a state. Further, the CPU 22 functions as a power control unit, and in response to receiving a valid demo mode transition signal from the communication unit 23, operates the power supply unit 44 to supply power to each unit, and turns on the digital camera 2. .

  As shown in FIG. 9, in addition to the case where the power-on instruction is given by operating the power button 7, the digital signal is controlled by the CPU 22 even when the communication unit 23 receives a valid demo mode transition signal while the power is off. The camera 2 is turned on. When the power is turned on in response to receiving a valid demo mode transition signal, the demo mode is entered.

  Thereafter, the operation is the same as in the first embodiment, and when a power-off instruction is given or when the power is turned off, a minute power supply is maintained in the communication unit 23 and a demo mode transition signal can be received. The digital camera 2 is turned off. Therefore, after the power is turned off, if a valid demo mode transition signal is transmitted from the PC 3 to the digital camera 2 and received by the communication unit 23, the power is turned on as described above. Become.

  As described above, in response to receiving a valid demo mode transition signal, the power is turned on to enter the demo mode. For example, when the customer switches the digital camera 2 from the demo mode to the normal mode and turns off the power, Even when the mode is left as it is and auto-off is performed, the digital camera 2 can be operated in the demo mode with a valid demo mode transition signal from the PC 3.

  In the third embodiment, when the power is turned on in response to reception of a valid demo mode transition signal, the demo mode is automatically set. However, after the power is turned on, the valid demo mode transition signal is again entered. May be shifted to the demo mode. Also, remember that a valid demo mode transition signal was received when the power was turned off, and when the power is turned on the next time the power button is operated, the demo mode will be set according to the memory. Good.

[Fourth Embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment, when the mode is changed to the normal mode after the transition to the demo mode and the power is turned off in the normal mode, the power is automatically turned on when a predetermined return waiting time elapses. is there. In addition, except being demonstrated below, it is the same as that of 1st Embodiment, The same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the substantially same structural member, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the power is turned on by operating the power button 7, the DEMO_Flag indicating whether or not to enter the demo mode during the power-on period is set to “0” by the CPU 22. Is done. “0” of DEMO_Flag indicates that the demo mode is not entered after the power is turned on. Thereafter, as in the first embodiment, the operation is performed in the demo mode by receiving the normal mode or an effective demo mode transition signal.

  When a valid demo mode transition signal is received and the demo mode is entered, the CPU 22 sets DEMO_Flag to “1”. The DEMO_Flag “1” indicates that the demo mode has been entered after the power is turned on. Thereafter, even when the mode is changed from the demo mode to the normal mode, DEMO_Flag remains “1” without changing.

  When the power is turned off from the normal mode, the CPU 22 functioning as the power control means checks the value of DEMO_Flag. When DEMO_Flag is “1”, the CPU 22 activates a timer incorporated therein, and when the content of the timer reaches a predetermined return waiting time, the CPU 22 turns on the power of the digital camera 2 and DEMO_Flag. Is set to “0” and the normal mode is set.

  Thereby, for example, even when the digital camera 2 is displayed in the demo mode while being displayed, even if the customer enters the normal mode, turns off the power by operating the power button 7, or automatically turns off, After the elapse of time, the digital camera 2 is turned on. Therefore, the demo mode transition signal can be received from the PC 3, and the digital camera 2 can be operated in the demo mode by receiving an effective demo mode transition signal. And compared with the said 3rd Embodiment, there also exists an effect which reduces the power consumption at the time of a power-off. Note that the power is not automatically turned on as long as the normal mode is used without shifting to the demo mode.

  In the demo mode, it is preferable to prevent the customer from turning off the power by operating the operation unit 6. For example, a power-off signal for turning off the power is transmitted from the PC 3, and the power is turned on in response to the reception of the power-off signal. Is preferably turned off. In the demo mode, when the power is turned off by operating the operation unit 6, the power is automatically turned on after the return waiting time has elapsed, and when the power is turned off in response to the power-off signal, The power supply may not be turned on. Furthermore, when the power is turned on after the return waiting time has elapsed, the demo mode may be set regardless of whether or not a valid demo mode transition signal is received.

[Fifth Embodiment]
The fifth embodiment automatically shifts from the demo mode to the normal mode when the valid demo mode transition signal is received by the receiving means and the valid demo mode transition signal is not received again within a predetermined timeout period. This is an example. In addition, except being demonstrated below, it is the same as that of 1st Embodiment, The same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the substantially same structural member, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  When the CPU 22 as the mode transition control means shifts to the demo mode, the elapsed time from the transition point to the demo mode is measured by a timer incorporated therein. The CPU 22 resets the timer every time the communication unit 23 receives a valid demo mode transition signal, sets the elapsed time to “0”, and restarts the time measurement. Therefore, the elapsed time after receiving a valid demo mode transition signal is counted by the timer of the CPU 22.

  The CPU 22 compares the elapsed time measured as described above with a preset timeout time. When the elapsed time has reached the timeout time, the CPU 22 shifts from the demo mode to the normal mode, and when not reached. Keep demo mode.

  On the other hand, the control unit 45 causes the PC 3 to transmit a demo mode transition signal that is effective at a predetermined transmission interval, that is, a demo mode transition signal that designates them as a transmission destination to the digital camera 2 that is the target of the demo mode. Controls the PC-side communication unit 20. The transmission interval of this effective demo mode transition signal is set to be shorter than the above timeout time, and when the digital camera 2 is within the reception range of the demo mode transition signal, the demo mode is not shifted to the normal mode. It has become.

  As shown in FIG. 11, after the power is turned on, when the digital camera 2 receives a valid demo mode transition signal transmitted from the PC 3 and shifts to the demo mode, the CPU 22 starts after the timer is reset. Thus, the elapsed time is started.

  After the transition to the demo mode, every time a valid demo mode transition signal is received by the communication unit 23, the timer of the CPU 22 is reset and restarted to receive the valid demo mode transition signal. The elapsed time is counted. The CPU 22 compares the elapsed time measured by the timer with the timeout time.

  For this reason, for example, when the PC 3 transmits a valid demo mode transition signal at a predetermined transmission interval and the digital camera 2 is placed within the reception range of the demo mode transition signal, the elapsed time that has been timed out is timed out. Since the next valid demo mode transition signal is received before the time is reached, the elapsed time being timed does not reach the timeout time and the demo mode is maintained.

  In addition, when the transmission of the effective demo mode transition signal of the PC 3 is stopped or the digital camera 2 is taken out of the reception range of the demo mode transition signal, the effective demo mode transition signal is not received, so the elapsed time is The timing is continued without being reset. When the state in which such a valid demo mode shift signal cannot be received continues and the elapsed time reaches the timeout time, the digital camera 2 shifts from the demo mode to the normal mode under the control of the CPU 22. If a valid demo mode transition signal is received again after the transition to the normal mode, the mode is shifted to the demo mode.

  As described above, when the time during which a valid demo mode shift signal cannot be received reaches the timeout time, the digital camera 2 shifts from the demo mode to the normal mode. Even if the camera is brought to the store and receives a demo mode transition signal that is valid and transitions to the demo mode, the time-out period after taking the digital camera 2 outside the store outside the reception area of the demo mode transition signal After the elapse of time, the mode automatically returns to the normal mode, and it is not necessary for the user to cancel the demo mode with a special operation.

  In this example, an effective demo mode transition signal received in the demo mode is a signal for continuing the demo mode. However, a continuation request signal for requesting the continuation of the demo mode is used separately from the demo mode transition signal. The demo mode may be continued by a continuation request signal. Also for such a continuation request signal, it is preferable to designate the digital camera 2 as a transmission destination, and it is preferable to determine whether or not the digital camera 2 is a valid continuation request signal.

  In the fifth embodiment, when the time when a valid demo mode transition signal or continuation request signal is not received reaches the timeout time, the mode is automatically shifted to the normal mode. Instead, the power may be turned off. In this case, it is preferable to set the normal mode when the power is turned on next time.

[Sixth Embodiment]
In the sixth embodiment, a control command from an external device is received and an operation corresponding to the control command is performed. In addition, except being demonstrated below, it is the same as that of 1st Embodiment, The same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the substantially same structural member, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this example, under the control of the control unit 45, the PC 3 transmits an all setting initialization command, an image deletion command, a face detection on command, and a face detection off command as control commands for the digital camera 2 from the PC side communication unit 20. To do. These control commands are transmitted, for example, as specified by the operation of the operation unit 19, but may be automatically transmitted by the control unit 45 at appropriate timing and intervals. Also for these control commands, it is preferable to specify a transmission destination in the same manner as the demo mode transition signal.

  In the digital camera 2, the communication unit 23 receives the control command, and controls each unit so that the operation according to the control command received by the CPU 22 as the operation control unit is performed. When the all setting initialization command is received, all the setting information stored in the setting memory 42 is returned to the initial value set at the time of manufacture.

  The image deletion command, face detection on command, and face detection off command are control commands for instructing specific function setting changes and operations, and are also commands for initializing face detection on command and specific function settings. ing. When receiving the image deletion command, the CPU 22 controls the built-in memory 40 to delete the image data. When a face detection on command is received, the face detection function is turned on as an initial value, and when a face detection off command is received, the face detection function is turned off. The control command for instructing the setting change or operation of the specific function is an example, and may be related to other functions and operations. In addition, when various data such as audio data is acquired in addition to the image data in the normal mode, the data may be deleted.

  As shown in FIG. 12, under the demo mode, the CPU 22 monitors whether or not the communication unit 43 has received an all setting initialization command, an image deletion command, a face detection on command, and a face detection off command. For example, when an image deletion command is received, the image data is deleted from the built-in memory 40. As a result, the mode is changed from the demo mode to the normal mode, and the image data stored in the built-in memory 40 is erased by trial shooting.

  In digital cameras on display at stores, it is normal that a memory card is not installed for security purposes. Therefore, the image data taken by the customer in the normal mode in the trial mode is sequentially stored in the built-in memory 40. However, when the built-in memory 40 is full, it is impossible to take a further trial shot. End up. However, since the image data recorded in the built-in memory 40 can be erased by the image erase command as described above, such inconvenience can be easily eliminated.

  When the all setting initialization command is received under the demo mode, the CPU 22 initializes all the setting information of the digital camera 2. As a result, even if the setting information is changed by the customer in the previous normal mode, it is possible to operate with the initial setting information in the next normal mode. be able to.

  When the face detection ON command is received, the CPU 22 initializes the face detection function setting information on the setting memory 42 and changes it to ON so that the face detection function by the face detection unit 39 operates in the demo mode or the normal mode. To be. Thereby, for example, when a customer tries to take a trial shot in the normal mode, the face detection function can be operated to appeal the face detection function. When the face detection off command is received, the face detection function setting information is changed to off so that the face detection function does not operate.

  The control command is not particularly limited. For example, a power-off signal for turning off the power of the digital camera 2 as described above, a normal mode shift command for shifting to the normal mode, and the like are set. May be.

[Seventh Embodiment]
In the seventh embodiment, when shifting to the demo mode, the device settings are initialized, and data acquired in the normal mode is erased from the storage means such as the built-in memory. In this example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the CPU 22 shifts to the demo mode upon receiving a valid demo mode shift signal, the image data recorded in the built-in memory 40 in the normal mode is erased. Further, the face detection function by the face detection unit 39 and the white balance correction are initialized in the image signal processing circuit 33, the face detection function is turned on, and automatic white balance correction is set.

  Instead of initializing only a part of the device settings as described above, all the settings may be initialized as shown in FIG. Further, when shifting to the demo mode, initialization and image data deletion may be performed by transmitting a control command from the PC 3 as in the sixth embodiment.

[Eighth Embodiment]
In the eighth embodiment, display data for demonstration is received from an external device, and display for demonstration is performed using the data. For example, display data for demonstration is stored in the memory unit 46 of the PC 3. As shown in FIG. 15, when the control unit 45 shifts to the demo mode, the control unit 45 transmits a demo mode shift signal to the digital camera 2 to be shifted to the demo mode, and then transmits the demo mode shift signal to the digital camera 2 from the memory unit 46. The read display data for demonstration is transmitted.

  On the other hand, in the digital camera 2, as shown in FIG. 16, when the demo mode is shifted in response to the valid demo mode shift signal, the demo display data from the PC 3 is received by the communication unit 23, and this is received. Store in the built-in memory 40. The demonstration display data is displayed on the LCD 13 using the demonstration display data.

  The display data is not limited to demo data, and may be data related to the demo mode, for example, an operation program for performing a demo operation. The means for storing data related to the demo mode is not limited to the built-in memory, and other storage means may be used.

  Although each embodiment has been shown and described above, each content described in each embodiment can be used in combination within a consistent range. Further, a demo mode transition signal, a control command, or the like may be transmitted from one of the plurality of digital cameras 2. Further, in each of the above embodiments, a serial number as identification information is acquired in response to a signal from the PC 3, but the digital camera 2 sends out the serial number at an appropriate timing or interval, for example. The PC 3 may receive it.

  In the above description, a digital camera has been described as an example of an electronic device to be demonstrated. However, any electronic device can be used as long as it performs the demonstration. Different types of electronic devices may be mixed in the demo mode.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the demo system outline which implemented this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a digital camera. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which transmits a serial number. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure which determines whether the demo mode transition signal is effective. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of PC. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure at the time of transmitting a demo mode transition signal. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of 1st Embodiment which was made to transfer to demo mode in response to reception of a demo mode transfer signal. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of 2nd Embodiment which was made to transfer to demo mode in response to a demo mode transfer signal only at the time of mounting | wearing of a battery. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of 3rd Embodiment which enabled reception of the demo mode transition signal even when the power supply was turned off. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of 4th Embodiment which turns on a power supply automatically, when it is turned off from a normal mode after shifting to demo mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of operation | movement of 5th Embodiment which transfers to a normal mode, when not receiving a demo mode transfer signal more than fixed time in demo mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of operation | movement of 6th Embodiment which transmits the various control commands from PC to a digital camera, and is operated in demo mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of 7th Embodiment which erases the data of a built-in memory, and initializes a setting in transition to demo mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the operation | movement of the example which erases the data of an internal memory and initializes all the settings at the time of transfer to demo mode. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of operation | movement of PC of 8th Embodiment which transmits the display data for demonstration from PC to a digital camera. It is a flowchart which shows the outline of the operation | movement of the digital camera of 8th Embodiment which transmits the display data for demonstration from PC to a digital camera.

Explanation of symbols

2 Digital camera 3 PC
6 Operation unit 20 PC side communication unit 22 CPU
23 Communication unit 45 Control unit

Claims (16)

In an electronic device having a normal mode for normal operation and a demo mode for demonstration,
A device-side communication means for communicating with an external device;
In response to receiving the effective demo mode transition signal in the normal mode, the communication means sets the demo mode transition signal instructing the transition to the demonstration receiving the device as a transmission destination as an effective demo mode transition signal. And a mode transition control means for transitioning from the normal mode to the demo mode.   Battery detection means for detecting whether or not a battery attached to the device main body is attached as a power source, and the mode transition control means is effective only in the case where battery attachment is not detected by the battery detection means. 2. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the electronic apparatus is shifted to a demo mode in response to reception of the shift signal.   The device-side communication means is activated to receive a demo mode transition signal when the power of the device body is off, and the mode transition control means is a demo in which the device-side communication means is effective when the power is off. 3. The electronic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the mode transition signal is received, the apparatus is shifted to the demo mode when the power of the apparatus main body is turned on after the reception.   4. The electronic apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising power control means for turning on the power of the device main body in response to the device-side communication means receiving a valid demo mode transition signal when the power is off. machine.   Provided with power control means for turning on the power after a predetermined return waiting time from the time when the power is turned off in the normal mode after the demo mode is shifted to the normal mode by the operation of the device body. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that:   6. The electronic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the mode shift control unit shifts to the demo mode when the power supply control unit turns on the power after a predetermined return waiting time has elapsed.   The mode transition control means receives an effective demo mode transition signal or a continuation request signal for requesting continuation of the demo mode received by the device side communication means and is valid within a predetermined timeout period or a continuation request. 7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein when the device-side communication unit does not receive a signal, the mode is switched from the demo mode to the normal mode, or the power is turned off.   The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the mode transition control unit initializes device settings when transitioning to the demo mode.   9. The mode shift control unit erases the acquired data stored in the storage unit that stores the acquired data acquired in the normal mode when shifting to the demo mode. The electronic device according to any one of the above.   10. The device-side communication unit is configured to receive a control command from an external device, and includes an operation control unit that performs an operation according to the received control command. The electronic device according to any one of the above.   11. The device-side communication means is configured to receive demo data from an external device, and operates in a demo mode using the received demo data. The electronic device of Claim 1.   12. An identification information storage unit that stores preset identification information, wherein the communication unit transmits identification information stored in advance in the identification information storage unit. Item 1. An electronic device according to item 1. Identification information holding means for holding unique identification information set in advance in an electronic device that should transmit a demo mode transition signal for shifting from a normal mode for performing a normal operation to a demonstration;
An instruction side communication means for performing wireless communication with the electronic device;
Control means for transmitting a demo mode transition signal for designating the electronic device registered in the identification information holding means as a transmission destination and shifting from the normal mode to the demo mode from the instruction side communication means. A demonstration instruction device characterized by.   The control means acquires the identification information of the electronic device from the electronic device in a communicable state via the instruction side communication means, and the acquired identification information is stored in the identification information holding means. 14. The demonstration instruction device according to claim 13, wherein a demo mode transition signal is transmitted from the instruction side communication means to an electronic device that matches any one of them.   15. The instruction side communication unit transmits an effective demo mode transition signal or a continuation request signal for requesting continuation of the demo mode to an external electronic device at a predetermined interval. Demo instruction device.   14. A demonstration system comprising the electronic device according to claim 1 and the demonstration instruction device according to claim 13.

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