JP2010136158A - Imaging apparatus equipped with external display device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus that enables a photographer to look at a display which is easy to view display, even in a bright surrounding environment, or the like, without having to perform special operations. <P>SOLUTION: The imaging device includes a photometric unit 170 for measuring the brightness of a luminous flux through a photographic lens 102, an optical member 111 for guiding the luminous flux at least to the side of optical finder units 105, 109 and 112, an imaging element 106, and an external display means 107. While the external display means 107 displays information, a shielding state in which guiding of the luminous flux to the photometric unit 170 can be shielded substantially shielded. In the shielded state, the photometric unit 170 measures the brightness of outdoor daylight that is made incident through a finder lens 109 of the optical finder units, and the brightness of the external displaying means 107 that currently displays the information can be controlled, on the basis of the obtained photometric value. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to an imaging device including an external display device.

In recent years, digital imaging devices equipped with a display such as a TFT on the photographer side of the main body have been widely used so that the photographed image can be checked on the spot, and the subject light that has passed through the photographing optical system is photographed while being viewed on the display. The photographing method to do is widely spread. In addition, a configuration in which the photographer can arbitrarily set the brightness of the display within a predetermined range is widely used as a known technique.

By the way, when the photographed image is confirmed on the display in the fine weather outdoors, there is a problem that it is difficult to see the displayed image when the display is brightly illuminated. If the photographer himself sets the brightness of the display to be brighter, this problem can be improved, but there is an inconvenience that must be set by himself. In addition, if the reference brightness is set brightly, a large amount of current is required and the number of images that can be shot is reduced. Therefore, in general, the maximum displayable brightness is not set as the default brightness.

If a dedicated sensor for detecting the brightness on the photographer side of the imaging apparatus is arranged near the display, the brightness on the photographer side can be detected, but there is a problem that the cost increases.

In such a technical situation, in the single-lens reflex camera disclosed in Patent Document 1, as a technique for detecting the brightness on the photographer side of the imaging device, when the mirror is raised by a release operation, the finder back-incident light is measured and the photographing conditions are set. Something to be set (corrected) has been proposed.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-188641

However, the technique described in Patent Document 1 sets (corrects) shooting conditions based on the relationship between the photometric value when the mirror is down and the photometric value when the mirror is up when the release operation is performed. ) Does not adjust the brightness of the image display device. In addition, the technique described in Patent Document 1 is proposed for control when capturing an image, and is not related to control when reproducing and displaying a captured image.

In view of the above problems, the imaging apparatus of the present invention has the following characteristics. In other words, the imaging apparatus electrically measures the light metering unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographing lens, the optical member such as a mirror for guiding the light beam incident from the photographing lens to at least the optical viewfinder unit side, and the light beam incident from the photographing lens. An image sensor for converting into a signal and external display means for displaying information are provided. In a state where the external display means displays information, a light-shielding state in which the light beam is guided to the photometric unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographing lens is substantially realized. Further, in the light shielding state, the external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit is measured by the photometric unit, and the brightness of the external display means during information display is measured based on the obtained photometric value. It is configured to be controllable.

According to the image pickup apparatus of the present invention, since the brightness of the display device (external display means) is automatically set so as to be suitable in the surrounding environment, the photographer can display with easy-to-see display without performing any special operation. It is possible to see the device.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
What is important in the imaging apparatus of the present invention is the following point. In a state where the external display means for displaying information displays information, a light-shielding state in which the light beam is guided to the photometric unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographing lens can be realized. When necessary, in the light-shielded state, external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit is measured by the photometric unit, and the brightness of the external display means that is displaying information based on the obtained photometric value It can be controlled. The “when necessary” may be determined as appropriate according to the specification, type, and user request of the imaging apparatus. Typical examples include “in electronic finder mode” and “during photographic image reproduction display” as described in the embodiments and examples described later. As long as the light-shielding state is allowed and the display is being performed by the external display unit, the brightness of the external display unit may be controlled at any time. It can be decided according to the design.

Based on the above concept, the basic embodiment of the imaging apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration. The imaging apparatus includes a photometric unit that measures a light beam that passes through the photographing lens, an optical member that guides the light beam that passes through the photographing lens to at least the optical finder unit side, an imaging element that converts the light beam that passes through the photographing lens into an electric signal, and an external display unit . In a state in which the external display means displays information, a light-shielding state in which the light beam is guided to the photometric unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographing lens can be realized. Further, in the light shielding state, the external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit is measured by the photometric unit, and the brightness of the external display means during information display is measured based on the obtained photometric value. It is configured to be controllable.

In the basic embodiment, more specific embodiments as described below are possible.
In one embodiment, it has an electronic finder mode for sequentially displaying an image based on an electrical signal obtained by an image sensor on an external display means. In the electronic finder mode, when the external light incident through the finder lens (such as a finder lens) of the optical finder unit in the light-shielded state is measured by the photometric unit, the brightness of the external display means is determined based on the obtained photometric value. (See the first embodiment).

In one embodiment, the captured image can be reproduced and displayed. Then, when the external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit is measured by the photometric unit in the light-shielded state during the captured image reproduction display, the brightness of the external display means is controlled based on the obtained photometric value. (See second embodiment).

In one embodiment, the optical member is a movable mirror unit for separating a light beam incident from a photographing lens into an optical finder unit and a focus detection unit. The movable mirror unit is movably provided between a first position for separating the light flux and a second position for realizing a light shielding state (see the first embodiment and the like).

In one embodiment, the photometric value obtained by performing photometry with the photometric unit in the state in which the movable mirror unit is driven to the second position in the electronic finder mode or when the captured image reproduction display operation is performed. Is used to control the brightness of the external display means (see the first embodiment, etc.).

In one embodiment, the optical member is a fixed mirror that separates a light beam incident from a photographing lens into an optical finder unit and an image sensor, and is used for photographing information display disposed in an optical path to the optical finder unit. An internal display means is provided. The internal display means is configured to be drivable so as to realize a light shielding state (see the third embodiment).

Further, in one embodiment, when an electronic viewfinder mode or when a captured image reproduction display operation is performed, the internal display unit is driven so as to realize a light shielding state, and the photometry unit is used to perform photometry. The brightness of the external display means is controlled based on the photometric value (see the third embodiment).

In one embodiment, a self-photographing mode is provided, and a plurality of self-time periods from a photographing instruction operation to photographing can be set. Then, when a self time longer than a predetermined time is selected during the electronic finder mode, the photometry unit measures the light until the predetermined time, and controls the brightness of the external display means based on the obtained photometric value . On the other hand, no photometry is performed by the photometry unit after the predetermined time until photographing, and the brightness of the external display means is lowered (see the fifth embodiment).

In one embodiment, the external display means is movable and configured to detect the orientation of the external display means. When it is detected during the electronic finder mode that the external display means is directed toward the subject, photometry by the photometry unit is not performed (see the sixth embodiment).

As a method for realizing the light shielding state, in addition to the method using the movable mirror unit and the internal display means, a method using a diaphragm (described later) is also possible. However, when this method is used, it is necessary to pay attention to photometric control.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the dimensions, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like of the components exemplified in the examples should be changed as appropriate according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. It is not limited to.

Hereinafter, as an example of the imaging system of the present invention, the configuration of a first embodiment of a digital single-lens reflex camera system will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are schematic cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment, and show a camera body (imaging device) 101 and a lens device 102 that is detachably attached to the camera body 101. FIG. 1A shows a state of the camera system when an object is observed with an optical viewfinder (OVF). The state shown in FIG. 1A is hereinafter referred to as “optical viewfinder mode (OVF mode)”. FIG. 1B shows that the subject can be observed by using an electronic viewfinder (EVF) function for sequentially displaying the subject image on the display unit 107 (external display means) attached to the back surface of the camera body 101. Shows the state of the camera system. The state shown in FIG. 1B is hereinafter referred to as “electronic finder mode (EVF mode)”.

In the lens device 102, an imaging optical system 103 (imaging lens) including a focus lens (not shown) and an aperture 104 for adjusting the exposure amount are provided. The lens device 102 is electrically and mechanically connected to the camera body 101 via a known mount mechanism. By attaching the lens apparatus 102 having different focal lengths to the camera body 101, it is possible to obtain shooting screens having various angles of view. Further, the lens apparatus 102 performs focus adjustment of the photographing optical system 103 by moving a focus lens, which is a part of the photographing optical system 103, in the optical axis direction via a driving mechanism (not shown).

The camera body 101 is a single-plate digital color camera using an image sensor 106 such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor. The image signal representing a moving image or a still image by driving the image sensor 106 continuously or once. Get. Here, the image sensor is an area sensor of a type that converts the exposed light into an electrical signal for each pixel, accumulates charges according to the amount of received light, and reads the accumulated charges. The image sensor 106 is housed in a package 110. In the optical path from the photographic optical system 103 to the image sensor 106, the cutoff frequency of the photographic optical system 103 is limited so that a spatial frequency component higher than necessary for the subject image (optical image) is not transmitted onto the image sensor 106. An optical low-pass filter 156 is provided.

As the image sensor 106, for example, an image sensor having a total of about 10 million square pixels can be used. In addition, a so-called Bayer array is formed in which R (red), G (green), and B (blue) color filters are alternately arranged for each pixel to form a set of four pixels. In the Bayer array, the overall image performance is improved by arranging more G pixels that are easily felt when an observer views the image than the R and B pixels. In general, in image processing using this type of image sensor, a luminance signal is generated mainly from G, and a color signal is generated from R, G, and B. Needless to say, the number of pixels and the type of color filter are not limited to the above, and known ones can be used as appropriate.

When the image sensor 106 is constituted by a CMOS process compatible sensor (hereinafter abbreviated as “CMOS sensor”) which is one of the amplification type solid-state image sensors, the following characteristics can be obtained. That is, since the MOS transistors of the area sensor section and peripheral circuits such as the image sensor driving circuit, A / D conversion circuit, and image processing circuit can be formed in the same process, the number of masks and process processes can be greatly reduced compared to the CCD. There are advantages. In addition, it has a feature that random access to an arbitrary pixel is possible, and readout that is thinned out for display is easy. Real-time display can be performed on the display unit 107 at a high display rate.

The signal read from the image sensor 106 is displayed on the display unit 107 as image data after being subjected to predetermined processing as will be described later. The display unit 107 is attached to the rear surface of the camera body 101 so that the user can directly observe the display on the display unit 107.

The image sensor 106 uses the above-described features, and performs a display image output operation (reading from a part of the light receiving area of the image sensor 106 that is thinned) and a high-definition image output operation (reading from the entire light receiving area). Both operations can be performed. In addition, focus adjustment by a contrast detection method using the output of the image sensor 106 can be performed.

Reference numeral 111 denotes a movable half mirror that reflects a part of the light beam from the photographing optical system 103 and transmits the remaining light, and divides one optical path into two optical paths. Reference numeral 105 denotes a focusing screen disposed on a planned image formation surface of a subject image formed by the photographing optical system 103, and 112 denotes a pentaprism. Reference numeral 109 denotes a finder lens for observing a subject image formed on the focusing screen 105, and generally includes a plurality of lenses. The focusing screen 105, the pentaprism 112, and the finder lens 109 constitute a finder optical system. Reference numeral 170 denotes a photometric unit comprising a photometric sensor for measuring the brightness of the light beam guided to the finder optical system, and 180 denotes an information display unit in the optical finder for displaying specific information on the focusing screen 105. .

A movable sub mirror 122 is provided behind the half mirror 111 (on the image plane side), and reflects the light beam close to the optical axis among the light beams transmitted through the half mirror 111 to the focus detection unit (focus detection means) 121. Guided. The sub mirror 122 can move forward and backward with respect to the photographing optical path in conjunction with the half mirror 111 by a drive mechanism (not shown). That is, the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122, which are movable mirrors, take the position (first position) shown in FIG. 1 in the OVF mode, and take the position (second position) shown in FIG. 2 in the EVF mode. In this way, one of two positions can be selectively taken.

The focus detection unit 121 receives the light beam from the sub-mirror 122 and performs focus detection by the phase difference detection method.

Reference numeral 108 denotes a movable flash light emitting unit, which is movable between a storage position stored in the camera main body 101 and a light emission position protruding from the camera main body 101. Reference numeral 113 denotes a focal plane shutter that adjusts the amount of light incident on the image plane, and has a front curtain and a rear curtain composed of a plurality of light shielding blades.

Reference numeral 119 denotes a main switch for activating the camera body 101. Reference numeral 120 denotes a release button that is pressed in two stages, and a shooting preparation operation (photometry operation, focus adjustment operation, etc.) is started by a half-press operation (ON of the switch SW1). Furthermore, a recording medium for image data obtained by performing a photographing operation (running of the focal plane shutter 113, exposure of the image sensor 106, reading of a charge signal, and processing of the charge signal) by a full press operation (ON of the switch SW2). Recording) is started.

A finder mode changeover switch 123 can be switched between the OVF mode and the EVF mode as a subject image observation mode each time the switch 123 is pressed. Reference numeral 124 denotes a menu display switch, which can be switched between a menu display and a display state before the menu display every time the switch is pressed. It is also possible to switch between the OVF mode and the EVF mode from the menu screen.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic functional configuration of the digital color camera shown in FIG. In addition, the same reference number is attached | subjected to the same structure as FIG. 1, and description is abbreviate | omitted. First, a description will be given from the part related to the imaging and recording of the subject image.

The camera system of the present embodiment has an imaging system, an image processing system, a recording / reproducing system, and a control system. The imaging system includes a photographic optical system 103 and an imaging element 106, and the image processing system includes an A / D converter 130, an RGB image processing circuit 131, and a YC processing circuit 132. The recording / reproducing system includes a recording processing circuit 133 and a reproducing processing circuit 134, and the control system includes a camera system control circuit 135, an operation detection circuit 136, an image sensor driving circuit 137, an AF control circuit 140, and a lens system control circuit. 141.

Reference numeral 138 denotes a connection terminal that is connected to an external computer, a storage medium, or the like and is standardized to transmit and receive data. The electric circuit described above is driven by receiving power from a small battery (not shown).

The imaging system is an optical processing system that forms an image of light from a subject on the imaging surface of the imaging element 106 via the imaging optical system 103. By controlling the driving of the diaphragm 104 provided in the lens device 102 and controlling the driving of the focal plane shutter 113 as necessary, the image sensor 106 can receive an appropriate amount of subject light.

A signal read from the image sensor 106 is supplied to an image processing system including an A / D converter 130. Image data is generated by image processing in this image processing system. The A / D converter 130 converts, for example, an output signal of the image sensor 106 into, for example, a 10-bit digital signal according to the amplitude of the signal read from each pixel of the image sensor 106 and outputs the signal. The subsequent image processing is executed by digital processing. The image processing system is a signal processing circuit that obtains an image signal in a desired format from R, G, and B digital signals. The R, G, and B color signals are converted into a luminance signal Y and a color difference signal (R−Y), ( B-Y) and the like are converted into a YC signal.

The RGB image processing circuit 131 is a signal processing circuit that processes the output signal of the A / D converter 130, and includes a white balance circuit, a gamma correction circuit, and an interpolation calculation circuit that performs high resolution by interpolation calculation. The YC processing circuit 132 is a signal processing circuit that generates a luminance signal Y and color difference signals (R−Y) and (B−Y). The YC processing circuit 132 includes a high-frequency luminance signal generation circuit that generates a high-frequency luminance signal YH, a low-frequency luminance signal generation circuit that generates a low-frequency luminance signal YL, and color difference signals (RY) and (BY). ) For generating a color difference signal generation circuit. The luminance signal Y is formed by combining the high frequency luminance signal YH and the low frequency luminance signal YL. The luminance signal Y and the color difference signals (R−Y) and (B−Y) (chroma signal) output from the YC processing circuit 132 are collectively referred to as “YC signal” hereinafter.

The recording / reproducing system is a processing system that outputs an image signal to a memory (not shown), an external computer, or an external storage medium, and outputs an image signal to the display unit 107. The recording processing circuit 133 performs writing processing and reading processing of image signals to a memory, an external computer, and an external storage medium. The reproduction processing circuit 134 reproduces an image signal read from a memory, an external computer, or an external recording medium, and outputs it to the display unit 107. The image signal read from the memory may be not only a captured image but also an image for a display screen prepared in advance for the user to make various camera settings.

The recording processing circuit 133 includes a compression / expansion circuit that compresses the YC signal representing still image data and moving image data output from the YC processing circuit 132 in a predetermined compression format and expands the compressed data. Have. The compression / decompression circuit has a frame memory or the like for signal processing. The YC signal from the YC processing circuit 132 is stored in this frame memory for each frame, and the YC signal for each frame is read for each of a plurality of blocks. To compress and encode.

The reproduction processing circuit 134 is a circuit that converts the YC signal into a matrix suitable for the display unit 107 such as an RGB signal. The signal converted by the reproduction processing circuit 134 is output to the display unit 107 and displayed (reproduced) as a visible image.

On the other hand, the operation detection circuit 136 in the control system detects operations of the main switch 119, the release button 120, the finder mode switching switch 123, the menu display switch 124, and the like (other switches are not shown). Then, this detection result is output to the camera system control circuit 135. The camera system control circuit 135 receives the detection signal from the operation detection circuit 136 and controls the imaging system, the image processing system, and the recording / reproducing system in accordance with the detection result. For example, when the switch SW2 is turned on by operating the release button 120, the driving of the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 and the driving of the focal plane shutter 113 are controlled. Furthermore, in addition to the operation of the AF control circuit 140 that processes the detection signal in the focus detection area obtained by the focus detection unit 121, the photometry unit 170, the image sensor 106, the RGB image processing circuit 131, and the recording The compression processing of the processing circuit 133 is controlled.

The camera system control circuit 135 generates a timing signal for performing an imaging operation and outputs the timing signal to the imaging element driving circuit 137. The image sensor drive circuit 137 receives the control signal from the camera system control circuit 135 and generates a drive signal for driving the image sensor 106. The information display circuit 139 receives the control signal from the camera system control circuit 135 and controls the driving of the information display unit 180 in the optical viewfinder.

Next, the configuration within the lens device 102 will be described. The lens system control circuit 141 performs control for moving the focus lens, which is a part of the photographing optical system 103, to the in-focus position via the lens driving circuit 142. In addition, the lens system control circuit 141 controls the driving of the diaphragm 104 via the diaphragm driving circuit 143 according to the subject brightness during the photographing operation. The lens system control circuit 141 can communicate with the camera system control circuit 135 in the camera body 101 via the communication contact 102a on the lens device 102 side and the communication contact 101a on the camera body 101 side. The lens system control circuit 141 notifies the camera system control circuit 135 of the type and focal length of the lens device 102.

When the camera body 101 is in the OVF mode (the state shown in FIG. 1A), the diaphragm 104 of the lens device 102 is controlled to the open state. The half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are in the first position on the photographing optical path, and the front curtain and the rear curtain of the focal plane shutter 113 are charged by a shutter charge mechanism including an electromagnetic motor and a gear train (not shown). . By charging, the leading curtain is closed and the trailing curtain is opened. Therefore, the image sensor 106 is not exposed. The subject light beam incident from the photographing optical system 103 is reflected by the half mirror 111 and guided to the finder optical system, and the light beam transmitted through the half mirror 111 is reflected by the sub mirror 122 and guided to the focus detection unit 121. Therefore, the subject image formed by the light beam can be observed through the finder lens 109, and the focus detection unit 121 can perform focus detection (shooting standby in the OVF mode). Normally, the OVF mode is set when the main switch is turned off and immediately after the main switch is turned on.

In the EVF mode shown in FIG. 1B, the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are in the second position retracted from the photographing optical path. The front and rear curtains of the focal plane shutter 113 are charged by a shutter charge mechanism including an electromagnetic motor and a gear train (not shown). By charging, both the first and second curtains are opened. Accordingly, the light beam from the photographing optical system 103 is directly guided to the image sensor 106. In this state, the imaging device 106 continuously performs imaging of a subject image, reads out the obtained charge from the imaging device 106 for display, and sequentially displays it on the display unit 107, thereby displaying in real time. To do. Thus, the photographer can determine the composition while confirming the subject image displayed on the display unit 107. In this EVF mode, focus detection by the contrast detection method using the output of the image sensor 106 can be performed without using the focus detection unit 121 (shooting standby in the EVF mode).

Next, the operation of this embodiment of the camera system having the above configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, the operation flow of the present embodiment after the EVF mode is selected will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The start is a state in which a pressing operation of the finder mode switching switch 123 is detected and a switching operation from the OVF mode to the EVF mode is started.

In step S101, a motor (not shown) is driven under the control of the camera system control circuit 135, and the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are rotationally driven to move to the upper part (second position) of the mirror box. Evacuate. In a state where the mirror is held at the second position, in step S102, only the front curtain of the focal plane shutter 113 is caused to travel to the valve state. As a result, the subject light that has passed through the photographing optical system 103 continuously reaches the image sensor 106, and imaging for displaying an image on the display unit 107 is enabled.

In step S <b> 103, the imaging operation by the imaging element 106 is continuously performed on the subject image formed by the imaging optical system 103. In step S104, the image data read from the image sensor 106 is subjected to image processing, and data for displaying an image on the display unit 107 is created.

In step S105, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value. At this time, the subject image by the photographing optical system 103 is not incident on the focusing screen 105, and the light metering unit 170 measures light incident from the finder lens 109. From the photometric value obtained in step S105, the brightness of the back of the camera on which the display unit 107 is arranged can be measured.

Here, a phenomenon when the light incident from the finder lens 109 is measured will be described. The light incident from the finder lens 109 is reflected by the pentaprism 112 and reaches the focusing screen 105, and a predetermined ratio becomes diffusely reflected light on the diffusion surface, and part of it reaches the photometric unit 170. Further, the finder incident light that has passed through the focusing screen 105 is reflected by the half mirror 111 being arranged at the second position, and is incident on the focusing screen 105 again. Then, a predetermined ratio again becomes diffused light on the diffusing surface, and part of it reaches the photometric unit 170. It is possible to improve the photometric accuracy by measuring the diffused light twice by the photometric unit 170.

In step S106, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S105 whether the luminance (brightness) of the display unit 107 needs to be changed from the reference luminance. If it is determined in step S106 that the luminance change is unnecessary, the display luminance setting of the display unit 107 is not changed in step S106-1. If it is determined in step S106 that the luminance needs to be changed, the predetermined luminance described below is set as the display luminance of the display unit 107 in step S107.

When the display brightness of the display unit 107 is set, in step S108, image data obtained from the image sensor 106 is displayed in real time on the display unit 107, and a shooting standby state is set.

The relationship between the photometric value for setting the luminance of the display unit 107 and the luminance will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 4, the horizontal axis represents the brightness of the back of the camera where the display unit 107 obtained from the photometric value is arranged, and the vertical axis represents the display luminance of the display unit 107.

V-def is a standard luminance, and is set as an optimal brightness under the standard brightness EV-def environment. If the brightness on the back side of the camera is between EV-def and EV-b based on the photometric value obtained in step S105, the brightness of the display unit 107 is set corresponding to the measured value. If it is brighter than EV-b, set it to V-max. V-max is the maximum luminance setting of the display unit 107, and is a luminance determined by the color balance, the contrast balance, and the employed illumination element.

If the brightness on the rear side of the camera is between EV-def and EV-a according to the photometric value obtained in step S105, the brightness of the display unit 107 is set to be lowered corresponding to the measured value. If it is darker than EV-a, set to V-min. V-min is the minimum luminance setting of the display unit 107, and is a luminance determined by the color balance, the contrast balance, and the employed illumination element.

In FIG. 4 of the present embodiment, the description has been given of the case where the luminance of the display unit 107 is linearly changed in accordance with the brightness on the rear side of the camera. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and, for example, control that changes the luminance of the display unit 107 step by step for each predetermined brightness range may be used.

After image data is displayed on the display unit 107 in step S108, it is determined in step S110 whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S112-1, and if it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S111, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value.

In step S112, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S111 whether the luminance of the display unit 107 needs to be changed. If it is necessary to change, the luminance of the display unit 107 is changed and displayed in step S113, and if the luminance is not required to be changed, it is displayed while maintaining the luminance in step S112-1.

In step S114, it is determined whether the operation member has been operated. If it is determined that the operation member has not been operated, the process returns to step S110. If it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the camera is controlled in accordance with the operated operation member (STOP).

According to the present embodiment, the brightness around the display unit 107 is measured without using a dedicated sensor by using the photometric unit 170 used for normal photographing for measuring the finder incident light when photographing in the EVF mode. It becomes possible. Then, an appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result.

Thus, at least in the EVF mode, the brightness of the display device (external display means) is automatically set so as to be optimal for the surrounding environment. Therefore, the photographer can display the display device with an easy-to-see display without performing any special operation. It becomes possible to see.

(Second embodiment)
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5, the flow of operation of the present embodiment will be described. The form of the camera of the present embodiment may be the same as that in FIGS. 1 and 2 described in the first embodiment, so that the description thereof will be omitted, and the same function units will be described using the same numbers.

The start is a state in which the photographer has instructed the reproduction of the photographed image. In step S301, it is determined whether the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are in the first position (mirror down position) or the second position (mirror up position). That is, it is determined whether the mode is the OVF mode or the EVF mode. If it is determined that it is in the first position, a motor (not shown) is driven under the control of the camera system control circuit 135 to rotate and drive the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122, and the position (first position) shown in FIG. 2). When the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are rotationally driven, it is desirable to drive a motor (not shown) at a lower rotational speed than that during normal photographing by duty control to reduce the mirror up operation sound. It may be the same as the motor driving method at the time.

If it is determined in step S301 that the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are in the second position, the reproduction processing circuit 134 is driven by the camera system control circuit 135 in step S302. First, a memory medium which is an information recording medium (not shown) is accessed, and in step S303, a captured image stored from the memory medium is taken into a memory provided inside a camera (not shown).

In step S304, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value. At this time, the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are held at the second position retracted from the photographing optical path, and the photometric value is the amount of light incident from the finder lens 109. From the photometric value obtained in step S304, the brightness of the back of the camera on which the display unit 107 is arranged can be estimated.

In step S305, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S304 whether it is necessary to change the luminance of the display unit 107 from the reference luminance. If it is determined in step S305 that it is not necessary to change the brightness, the display brightness setting of the display unit 107 is not changed in step S305-1. If it is determined in step S305 that the luminance needs to be changed, in step S306, the predetermined luminance based on the graph of FIG. 4 described in the first embodiment is set as the display luminance of the display unit 107.

When the display brightness of the display unit 107 is set, the captured image data is displayed on the display unit 107 in step S307. In step S307, after the captured image data is displayed on the display unit 107, it is determined in step S309 whether a predetermined time has elapsed, and if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, step S311-1 is performed. Move on. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S310, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value.

In step S311, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S310 whether the luminance of the display unit 107 needs to be changed. If it is necessary to change, the brightness of the display unit 107 is changed and displayed in step S312. If it is not necessary to change the brightness, display is performed while maintaining the brightness in step S311-1.

In step S313, it is determined whether the operation member has been operated. If it is determined that the operation member has not been operated, the process returns to step S309. If it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the camera is controlled in accordance with the operated operation member (STOP).

According to the present embodiment, not only when photographing in the EVF mode but also when confirming a photographed image, the photometric unit 170 used for normal photographing can be used for measuring the finder incident light. This makes it possible to measure the brightness around the display unit 107 without requiring a dedicated sensor. An appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result.

(Third embodiment)
FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of the camera of the third embodiment. The same components as those in FIG. In the present embodiment, the fixed half mirror 201 is fixed, and is configured to remain in the photographing optical path even during photographing. This eliminates the finder disappearance time during which the subject cannot be observed with the finder during shooting. Further, an internal display device 200 is disposed between the focusing screen 105 and the fixed half mirror 201 so as to cover the field of view seen from the viewfinder. The internal display device 200 is composed of a transmissive liquid crystal, and can display the in-focus position and display photographing information.

In this embodiment, the internal display device 200 is a transmissive liquid crystal device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and any display device that can switch between transmission and non-transmission is applicable. The single sub-mirror 202 is configured to be driven independently of the half mirror 201, and moves toward the camera bottom as shown in FIG. 6B and retracts from the photographing optical path during photographing.

With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 7, the flow of operation of the present embodiment after the EVF mode is selected will be described. The start is a state in which pressing of the finder mode changeover switch 123 is detected, and a switching operation from the OVF mode (the state of FIG. 6A) to the EVF mode (the state of FIG. 6B) is started.

In step S501, the camera system control circuit 135 drives a motor (not shown), and the single sub mirror 202 is driven to the retracted position shown in FIG. After the single submirror 202 is driven to the retracted position, in step S502, the information display circuit is driven under the control of the camera system control circuit 135, and the internal display device 200 is set so that the display area covering the field of view is almost completely opaque. To control. The internal display device 200 is in a light shielding state in which the subject light incident from the fixed half mirror 201 is substantially shielded.

Steps S102 to S114 and steps S114 to STOP are the same flow as the flowchart of FIG. 3 used in the first embodiment, and the flow numbers are the same.

After the shading drive of the internal display device 200, in step S102, only the front curtain of the focal plane shutter 113 is caused to travel to the valve state. As a result, the subject light that has passed through the photographing optical system 103 continuously reaches the image sensor 106, and imaging for displaying an image on the display unit 107 is enabled.

In step S <b> 103, the imaging operation by the imaging element 106 is continuously performed on the subject image formed by the imaging optical system 103. In step S104, the image data read from the image sensor 106 is subjected to image processing, and data for displaying an image on the display unit 107 is created.

In step S105, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value. At this time, the subject image by the photographing optical system 103 is not incident on the focusing screen 105, and the light metering unit 170 measures light incident from the finder lens 109. From the photometric value obtained in step S105, the brightness of the back of the camera on which the display unit 107 is arranged can be measured.

Here, a phenomenon when the light incident from the finder lens 109 is measured will be described. The light incident from the finder lens 109 is reflected by the pentaprism 112 and reaches the focusing screen 105, and a predetermined ratio becomes diffusely reflected light on the diffusion surface, and part of it reaches the photometric unit 170. Further, the incident light that has passed through the focusing screen 105 is reflected by the surface of the internal display device 200 that is in a light-shielded state, is incident on the screen 105 again, and again becomes a diffused light at a predetermined ratio on the diffusing surface, part of which is a photometric unit. 170 is reached. It is possible to improve the photometric accuracy by measuring the diffused light twice by the photometric unit 170.

If the internal display device 200 is not in a light shielding state, it is a normal OVF mode in which subject light from the photographing optical system 103 is incident, and it is difficult to accurately measure the brightness on the back side of the camera.

In step S106, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S105 whether it is necessary to change the luminance of the display unit 107 from the reference luminance. If it is determined in step S106 that the luminance change is unnecessary, the display luminance setting of the display unit 107 is not changed in step S106-1. If it is determined in step S106 that the luminance needs to be changed, in step S107, the predetermined luminance based on FIG. 4 described in the first embodiment is set as the display luminance of the display unit 107.

When the display brightness of the display unit 107 is set, in step S108, image data obtained from the image sensor 106 is displayed in real time on the display unit 107, and a shooting standby state is set.

In step S108, after the image data is displayed on the display unit 107, it is determined in step S110 whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S112-1. . If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed, the photometric unit 170 is driven to measure the light incident from the finder lens 109 in step S111.

In step S112, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S111 whether the luminance of the display unit 107 needs to be changed. If it is necessary to change, the brightness of the display unit 107 is changed and displayed in step S113. If it is not necessary to change the brightness, display is performed while maintaining the brightness in step S112-1.

In step S114, it is determined whether the operating member has been operated. If it is determined that the operating member has not been operated, the process returns to step S110. If it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the camera is controlled in accordance with the operated operation member (STOP).

In the present embodiment, the sub mirror 122 has a camera configuration capable of being independently driven, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a camera having a configuration that does not include the sub mirror 122 and the focus detection unit 121 and that performs focusing control using an image obtained from the image sensor 106 may be used.

According to the present embodiment, even in an imaging apparatus having a configuration in which the half mirror is not retracted, the photometric unit 170 used for normal imaging can be used for measuring the finder incident light during imaging in the EVF mode. This makes it possible to measure the brightness around the display unit 107 without requiring a dedicated sensor. Then, an appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result.

Thus, in this embodiment as well, at least in the EVF mode, the brightness of the display device (external display means) is automatically set so as to be optimal for the surrounding environment, so that the photographer can easily view without performing any special operation. The display device can be seen on the display.

(Fourth embodiment)
The operation flow of the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The form of the camera of the present embodiment may be the same as that of FIGS. 2 and 6 described in the third embodiment, so that the description thereof will be omitted and the same functional parts will be described using the same numbers.

The start is a state in which the photographer has instructed the reproduction of the photographed image. When an operation for displaying a photographed image is performed, in step S401, the information display circuit is driven under the control of the camera system control circuit 135, and the internal display is performed so that the display area covering the visual field becomes almost entirely opaque. The apparatus 200 is controlled. The internal display device 200 is in a light shielding state in which the subject light incident from the fixed half mirror 201 is substantially shielded.

Steps S302 to S313 and steps S313 to STOP are the same flow as the flowchart of FIG. 5 used in the second embodiment, and the flow numbers are the same.

In step S <b> 302, the reproduction processing circuit 134 is driven by the camera system control circuit 135. First, a memory medium which is an information recording medium (not shown) is accessed, and in step S303, a captured image stored from the memory medium is taken into a memory provided inside a camera (not shown).

In step S304, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value. At this time, the internal display device 200 is in a light shielding state. From the photometric value obtained in step S304, the brightness of the back of the camera on which the display unit 107 is arranged can be measured.

In step S305, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S304 whether it is necessary to change the luminance of the display unit 107 from the reference luminance. If it is determined in step S305 that it is not necessary to change the brightness, the display brightness setting of the display unit 107 is not changed in step S305-1. If it is determined in step S305 that the luminance needs to be changed, in step S306, the predetermined luminance based on the graph of FIG. 4 described in the first embodiment is set as the display luminance of the display unit 107.

When the display brightness of the display unit 107 is set, the captured image data is displayed on the display unit 107 in step S307. In step S307, after the captured image data is displayed on the display unit 107, it is determined in step S309 whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S311-1. Move. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, in step S310, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value.

In step S311, it is determined from the photometric value obtained in step S310 whether the luminance of the display unit 107 needs to be changed. If it is necessary to change, the brightness of the display unit 107 is changed and displayed in step S312. If it is not necessary to change the brightness, display is performed while maintaining the brightness in step S311-1.

In step S313, it is determined whether the operation member has been operated. If it is determined that the operation member has not been operated, the process returns to step S309. If it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the camera is controlled in accordance with the operated operation member (STOP).

According to the present embodiment, even in an imaging device having a configuration in which the half mirror is not retracted, the photometric unit 170 used for normal shooting is not only displayed when shooting in the EVF mode but also when checking the shot image. It can be used for light measurement. This makes it possible to measure the brightness around the display unit 107 without requiring a dedicated sensor. An appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result.

(Fifth embodiment)
With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 9, the flow of operation of the fifth embodiment will be described. The form of the camera of the present embodiment may be the same as that of FIGS. 1 and 2 described in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted, and the same function units will be described using the same numbers.

The start is a state in which self-photographing is executed in the EVF mode. That is, the photographer selects the self time using an operation member (not shown) and operates the release button 120. In the EVF mode, as described in the first embodiment, the half mirror 111 and the sub mirror 122 are arranged at the second position shown in FIG. Then, the brightness of the back of the camera is measured by the photometry unit 170, and the brightness of the display unit 107 is automatically adjusted to an appropriate brightness for display by the camera.

In step S201, a counter for measuring the time after the release button 120 is operated is started. In step S202, it is determined whether a predetermined time for obtaining the photometric value has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S204-1. If it is determined that the time has elapsed, in step S203, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value.

In step S204, it is determined whether it is necessary to change the luminance of the display unit 107 from the photometric value obtained in step S203. If it is determined in step S204 that the luminance change is unnecessary, the display is performed while maintaining the luminance in step S204-1. If it is determined in step S204 that the luminance needs to be changed, in step S205, the predetermined luminance based on the graph of FIG. 4 described in the first embodiment is set and displayed as the display luminance of the display unit 107.

In step S206, it is determined whether the selected self time has elapsed, and if it is determined that it has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S210. If it is determined that the selected self time has not elapsed, it is determined in step S207 whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the release button 120 was operated. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the release button 120 was operated, the process returns to step S202. If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the release button 120 was operated, the display brightness of the display unit 107 is set to the minimum brightness V-min in step S208 (see FIG. 4).

The predetermined time from the operation of the release button 120 is a time that allows the photographer to check the subject composition after operating the release button 120 during self-photographing, and is preferably about 5 seconds, but is not limited thereto. It is not something.

In the known product specifications, “2 seconds”, “10 seconds”, etc. can be selected as the self-photographing time. “2 seconds” is often selected when used for camera shake prevention, and “10 seconds” is often selected when taking a commemorative photo as a subject. In the case of camera shake prevention shooting with “2 seconds” selected, there are many shots while checking the displayed subject. For commemorative shooting with “10 seconds” selected, the display is checked after checking the composition. Often not. Therefore, it is desirable to adjust the brightness so that it is easy to see up to about 5 seconds with a high probability of looking at the display unit 107. After 5 seconds with a high probability of not looking at the display unit 107, the brightness should be adjusted to suppress current consumption. It is desirable to lower.

After the luminance of the display unit 107 is set to the minimum luminance, it is determined in step S209 whether the selected self time has elapsed. If it is determined that the time has elapsed, shooting is performed in step S210, and a shooting standby state is entered (STOP).

According to the present embodiment, during the self-photographing in the EVF mode, the brightness of the periphery of the display unit 107 is measured without using a dedicated sensor by using the photometric unit 170 used for normal photographing for measuring the finder incident light. It becomes possible to do. An appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result. In addition, an increase in unnecessary current consumption can be suppressed.

In this way, the display device (external display means) can be viewed with an easy-to-view display even during self-photographing, and an increase in current consumption can be suppressed.

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a schematic external view of the camera of the sixth embodiment. The camera body 101 is provided with a photographing lens 102 and a penta portion 301 in which a finder for confirming subject light that has passed through the photographing lens 102 is housed. A release button 120 and a mode dial 302 for setting a shooting mode are arranged on the upper surface of the camera body 101, and a remote control light receiving unit 303 is arranged on the subject side.

In this embodiment, the display unit 107 is configured to be movable with respect to the camera body 101. The display unit 107 and the camera body 101 are connected by a hinge part 304 using a hinge mechanism which is a known technique. A bendable conductive member (not shown) that electrically connects the display device arranged inside the display unit 107 and the camera body 101 is arranged inside the hinge unit 304, and the display unit 107 is rotated. In some cases, it can be displayed.

The display unit 107 is configured such that the orientation of the display surface can be detected by a detection switch (not shown) disposed in the vicinity of the hinge unit 304.

The state of FIG. 10 is a state in which the display surface of the display unit 107 faces the subject side. In this state, a photographer who is also a subject determines the composition while checking the display surface of the display unit 107, and issues a shooting instruction using a remote controller (not shown), so-called self-portrait is possible.

With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, the flow of operation of the present embodiment will be described. The start is a shooting standby state in the EVF mode, in which the display brightness of the display unit 107 is automatically adjusted.

In step S601, it is determined whether the display surface of the display unit 107 faces the back side of the camera. If it is determined that the display surface of the display unit 107 does not face the back of the camera, the brightness that illuminates the display surface of the display unit 107 cannot be measured even if the incident light from the viewfinder is measured. It is displayed (step S604-1).

If it is determined that the display surface of the display unit 107 faces the back of the camera, it is determined in step S602 whether a predetermined time for obtaining a photometric value has elapsed, and if it is determined that it has not elapsed. The process moves to step S604-1. If it is determined that the time has elapsed, in step S603, the photometric unit 170 is driven to obtain a photometric value.

In step S604, it is determined whether it is necessary to change the luminance of the display unit 107 from the reference luminance from the photometric value obtained in step S603. If it is determined in step S604 that it is not necessary to change the luminance, in step S604-1, the display unit 107 is displayed while maintaining the display luminance. If it is determined in step S604 that the luminance needs to be changed, in step S605, the display luminance of the display unit 107 is set to a predetermined luminance based on the graph of FIG. 4 described in the first embodiment and displayed.

In step S606, it is determined whether the operation member has been operated. If it is determined that the operation member has not been operated, the process returns to step S601. If it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the camera is controlled in accordance with the operated operation member (STOP).

According to the present embodiment, the brightness around the display unit 107 is measured without using a dedicated sensor by using the photometric unit 170 used for normal photographing for measuring the finder incident light when photographing in the EVF mode. It becomes possible. Then, an appropriate display brightness can be set using the measurement result. Further, when the display surface of the display unit 107 does not face the back side of the camera, an increase in unnecessary current consumption can be suppressed.

Thus, when the display surface of the display unit 107 faces the back of the camera, it becomes possible to see the display device (external display means) with an easy-to-see display. When the display surface does not face the back of the camera, the current consumption increases. It becomes possible to suppress.

(A) is a schematic sectional drawing of the half mirror up state of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on 1st Example etc. which applied this invention, (b) is a schematic sectional drawing of a half mirror down state similarly. The block diagram of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 1st Example etc. to which this invention is applied. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 1st Example to which this invention is applied. The brightness | luminance setting graph of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on 1st Example etc. to which this invention is applied. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 2nd Example to which this invention is applied. (A) is a schematic sectional drawing of the sub mirror up state of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on 3rd Example etc. to which this invention is applied, (b) is a schematic sectional drawing of a sub mirror down state similarly. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 3rd Example to which this invention is applied. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 4th Example to which this invention is applied. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 5th Example to which this invention is applied. The front schematic of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 6th Example to which this invention is applied. The flowchart of the digital single-lens reflex camera which concerns on the 6th Example to which this invention is applied.

Explanation of symbols

101 Camera body (imaging device)
102 Photography lens (lens device)
103 Imaging Optical System 104 Aperture 105 Focusing Screen (Optical Finder Unit)
106 Image sensor 107 External display means (external display device)
109 Viewfinder lens (optical viewfinder unit)
111 half mirror (optical member, movable mirror unit)
112 Penta prism (optical viewfinder unit)
121 Focus detection unit 122 Sub mirror (movable mirror unit)
170 Photometric unit 200 Internal display means (internal display device)
201 Fixed mirror (fixed half mirror)

Claims (9)

A photometric unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographic lens, an optical member for guiding the light beam incident from the photographic lens to at least the optical finder unit side, an image sensor for converting the light beam incident from the photographic lens into an electrical signal, and information An imaging apparatus comprising external display means for displaying,
In a state where the external display means displays information, a light-shielding state in which the light beam is guided to the photometric unit for measuring the light beam incident from the photographing lens is configured to be realizable,
In the light-shielded state, external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit can be measured by the photometric unit, and the brightness of the external display means during information display can be controlled based on the obtained photometric value An imaging device comprising: An electronic finder mode for sequentially displaying an image based on an electrical signal obtained by the image sensor on the external display means;
During the electronic viewfinder mode, when the external light incident through the viewfinder lens of the optical viewfinder unit is measured by the photometric unit in the light-shielded state, the brightness of the external display means is adjusted based on the obtained photometric value. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus is controlled. It is configured to be able to play back and display captured images
The brightness of the external display means is measured based on the obtained photometric value when external light incident through the finder lens of the optical finder unit in the light-shielded state is measured by the photometric unit during the captured image reproduction display. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging apparatus is controlled. The optical member is a movable mirror unit for separating a light beam incident from a photographing lens into the optical finder unit and a focus detection unit,
4. The movable mirror unit according to claim 1, wherein the movable mirror unit is movably provided between a first position for separating the light beam and a second position for realizing the light shielding state. The imaging device according to item. When the captured image reproduction display operation is performed during the electronic viewfinder mode, the photometric unit performs photometry with the movable mirror unit driven to the second position, and the photometric value is obtained based on the obtained photometric value. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the brightness of the external display unit is controlled. The optical member is a fixed mirror that separates a light beam incident from a photographic lens into the optical finder unit and the imaging element,
An internal display means for displaying photographing information arranged in an optical path to the optical finder unit;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the internal display unit is configured to be drivable so as to realize the light shielding state. During the electronic viewfinder mode or when a captured image playback / display operation is performed, the photometry unit performs photometry while driving the internal display means so as to realize the light-shielding state, and based on the obtained photometric value The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein brightness of the external display means is controlled. It is equipped with a self-shooting mode that can set multiple self-times from shooting instruction operation to shooting,
When a self-time longer than a predetermined time is selected during the electronic finder mode, the photometry unit measures light until the predetermined time, and controls the brightness of the external display means based on the obtained photometric value. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, 5, or 7, wherein the brightness of the external display means is lowered without performing photometry by the photometry unit after the predetermined time until photographing. The external display means is movable and configured to detect the orientation of the external display means.
8. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the external display means is detected to face the subject during the electronic viewfinder mode, photometry by the photometry unit is not performed. .

Images