JP2010166607A - Image capturing apparatus and starting method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To strike a balance between the improvement in starting properties and the power saving in an image capturing apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: An image capturing apparatus includes: a first control means 4a for performing control associated to imaging processing; a second control means 4b which monitors and processes signal from an operating means 2 including a switch and from a detection means 3 for detecting a change into a photographing attitude and in which power consumption is smaller than that of the first control means 4a; and a power supply unit 6 for supplying power to the first control means, the second control means and other constitutive sections. When the second control means 4b receives from the detection means 3 a signal indicating a change into a photographing attitude in a power saving state where power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 to the second control means 4b, power supply is performed to respective sections including the first control means 4a to shift to a power feeding state where a photographing operation is enabled. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for improving the startability so that an intended subject or the like is not missed in an imaging apparatus and for preventing wasteful power consumption in a standby state before entering a shooting position. .

  In a camera device or the like, a configuration is known for shortening the startup time required from when the power is turned on until the device is actually turned on and can be used as the device (for example, a patent) Reference 1).

  When the power switch is operated, a chattering phenomenon occurs in which the contacts are intermittently opened and closed repeatedly, which may cause malfunctions. Processing (so-called chattering prevention processing) is performed. When it is determined that power-on has been instructed, after the system initialization process is performed after the system power supply unit stabilizes the power supply, operations such as imaging processing are possible It becomes. That is, when the time required for chattering prevention processing is denoted as “T1”, the time required for the power supply unit to stabilize the power supply as “T2”, and the time required for the system initialization processing as “T3”, If the time “T1 + T2 + T3” has not elapsed since the time point, the user cannot perform the intended operation or action.

  Therefore, by performing the chattering prevention process after the power switch is turned on and the system initialization process in parallel, it is possible to shorten the start-up time from the time when the power is turned on until the start of the operation or operation intended by the user. In other words, by adopting a sequence for initializing the system as a background process for the chattering prevention process, the initialization can be performed after supplying power to the system without waiting for the chattering prevention process to end. When T1 <T3, the startup time can be shortened to the time of “T2 + T3” or a time obtained by adding some time to this.

JP 2003-274640 A

  By the way, the conventional imaging apparatus has the following problems with respect to its startability and power saving.

  For example, as a case where the user misses a photo opportunity, if the camera is turned off when the subject to be shot is found, the user can hold the camera and operate the power switch and then take a picture For example, it may take a long time to reach a certain state, and the subject may be missed. In other words, the time required for activation after the power switch is pressed is at most about 1 second at the fastest. Therefore, it is not possible to capture a subject or the like passing by in an instant. This is because it is difficult to make the start-up time zero with the current device. To prevent the user from missing a photo opportunity, the system is always turned on or suspended. It is necessary to make them equal. The suspended state at this time means a state in which the operation of the control unit such as the CPU is stopped, but the power of each part of the system is turned on.

  Thus, in order to bring the start-up time closer to zero, an increase in power consumption is indispensable as a trade-off. Therefore, in a battery-powered portable device, the user either carries many charged batteries or has a large capacity. The need to use a battery arises. In a digital camera or the like, the power saving function of the apparatus is important for taking more images. Therefore, there is a contradictory relationship between shortening the startup time and the demand for power saving.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to achieve both improvement in startability and power saving in an imaging apparatus.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the imaging apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration.

  More than the first control means that monitors and processes the signals from the first control means for performing control related to the imaging process, the operation means including the switch, and the detection means for detecting a change to the photographing state. A second control unit with low power consumption, and a power supply unit for supplying power to the first control unit, the second control unit, and other components are provided.

  The power supply unit when the second control unit receives a signal indicating a change from the detection unit to the photographing state in the power saving state where the power supply unit supplies power to the second control unit. To the power supply state in which power is supplied to each part including the first control means so that the photographing operation can be performed.

  The activation method according to the present invention includes a power state control function including a first power control state in which an imaging operation can be performed and a second power control state in which power consumption is lower than that in the first power control state. In the configuration mode, the switch operation and the change to the photographing state are monitored in the second power control state, and the first power control state is detected when the change to the photographing state is detected in the second power control state. To move to.

  Therefore, in the present invention, when the second control means receives the detection signal indicating the change to the photographing state (start of transition), the power supply control for enabling the photographing operation is performed, and the first power control is performed. Immediately after the transition to the state, shooting can be started. In the second power control state, only power is supplied to the second control means, and it is not necessary to always supply power to the first and second control means, and standby before photographing is performed. This contributes to reduction of power consumption in the state.

  According to the present invention, the startability can be improved by starting the shooting preparation process at the time when it is detected that the camera is ready for shooting. And it is not necessary to always be in a power supply state in which photographing can be performed, and when photographing is not performed, a standby state with low power consumption can be achieved to achieve a power saving effect. In other words, considering that it is difficult to make the activation time itself zero, it is possible to improve the activation performance and save power by making the transition to the first power control state starting from the detection point of the transition to the photographing state. It is possible to achieve compatibility with the system.

  For example, if the power-on operation is not performed after the transition to the power supply state in which the photographing operation can be performed or a signal indicating a change to the photographing state is not detected, the power to the first control unit is By blocking the supply and shifting to the power saving state, the power consumption in the standby state can be reduced. That is, if the power-on operation is not performed after the transition to the first power control state or a signal indicating a change to the photographing state is not detected, there is no intention of photographing or the probability thereof. It is preferable to shift to the second power control state (power saving state) by determining that the power is high.

  In addition, according to the configuration in which a sensor for detecting contact with the apparatus is provided as a detecting means for detecting a change to the shooting posture, it is detected that the user has touched the imaging device as a preliminary stage of shooting. In this case, it is possible to shift to the first power control state. Alternatively, according to the configuration in which the sensor for detecting the posture change of the apparatus main body is provided as the detection unit, the first power is detected when it is detected that the user holds or moves the imaging apparatus as a preliminary stage of shooting. It is possible to shift to the control state. Furthermore, it is possible to sufficiently increase the detection accuracy by adopting a detection form in which these sensors are combined.

  In order to sufficiently exhibit the power saving effect in the standby state in which the photographing is not performed, when the second control unit receives a signal indicating the change from the detection unit to the photographing state, the second control unit is in the sleep state. It is preferable that the power supply instruction signal is sent from the means to the power supply unit.

  In the present invention, when it is detected that a photographing posture is entered by a detection means such as an electrostatic sensor or an angular velocity sensor, power supply control is performed immediately, and photographing can be started after necessary processing such as initialization. It is a thing. For example, when the user holds the camera, the power on each part of the system and the system initialization process are started, and there is almost no waiting time until the shutter button is operated after the power on switch is operated. However, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a situation such as missing a photo opportunity. The present invention can be widely applied to a still camera, a video camera, or various imaging devices capable of capturing still images and moving images.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a basic configuration example of an imaging apparatus according to the present invention.

  The imaging apparatus 1 includes an operation unit 2 including a power switch, a shooting switch, and the like, and a detection unit 3 using an electrostatic sensor, an angular velocity sensor, and the like, and signals from these are sent to the system control unit 4 for processing. Is done.

  The operation means (or operation input means) 2 includes various operation buttons and switches provided on the apparatus main body, and only the power switches 2a and 2a are shown in the figure. The operation signal of the power switch (or power switch) is a trigger signal for turning on the power. For example, in application to a digital still camera or the like, depending on the configuration, the number of power switches is not limited to one, but includes a system including a plurality of power switches. In this example, two switches are shown. Yes.

  The detecting means 3 is provided for detecting a change to the photographing posture, and examples thereof include the following configuration forms.

(I) Form using a sensor for detecting contact with the apparatus (II) Form using a sensor for detecting an attitude change of the apparatus main body (III) Form using both (I) and (II) above

  First, in (I) above, for example, a contact detection sensor 3a such as an electrostatic sensor is used to detect that the user has touched the apparatus main body, and send the detection signal to the system control unit 4. . In addition, if the detection sensitivity is too sensitive, power supply processing for startup will be performed just by touching the device body slightly, causing problems such as increasing the frequency of false detections. Thus, it is preferable that contact can be reliably detected.

  In the above (II), an attitude detection sensor 3b such as an angular velocity sensor or a gyro sensor is used to detect a change in apparatus attitude when the user grips or moves the apparatus main body, and the detection signal is used as a system signal. It is sent to the control unit 4. In the application of the present invention, not only the angular velocity sensor but also, for example, a form in which an acceleration sensor is used as a sensor capable of measuring a change in speed, or a vibration sensor is provided to increase detection accuracy. The form which raises is mentioned. Alternatively, in a camera device equipped with a camera shake prevention function, it detects without increasing the number of parts and costs by detecting changes in the device posture using the angular velocity sensor and acceleration sensor installed for camera shake detection. Means can be implemented.

  Improvement of detection accuracy includes a method of using a plurality of sensors of the same type in (I) or (II) above, and a method of detecting by combining different types of sensors as in (III) above. The latter is effective when performing multifaceted.

  For convenience of illustration, FIG. 1 shows an example in which the detection unit 3 includes a plurality of types of sensors, assuming the form (III). As for the transmission form from the detection means 3 to the system control unit 4, an analog method and a digital method (including a binarization method and a serial communication method) can be mentioned (the details will be described later).

  The system control unit 4 includes a first control unit 4a and a second control unit 4b, and examples thereof include the following configuration forms.

A form in which each control means is formed as a separate circuit to constitute the system control unit 4. A form in which a circuit part having the function of each control means is formed in the system control part 4 made into one chip.

  In any form, the first control unit 4a performs control related to the image capturing process or the recording process and the reproduction process of the captured image data, and the second control unit 4b operates the operation input from the operation unit 2. The signal and the detection signal from the detection means 3 are monitored and processed. For example, a microcomputer or the like can be used for the first control means 4a. Further, the second control unit 4b includes, for example, an integrated circuit for a specific application such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a microcomputer (as a sub computer with respect to the main computer used for the first control unit 4a). Etc.).

  As the system configuration unit 5 placed under the control of the first control unit 4a, various devices are used depending on the specifications of the imaging device 1 and the system configuration. In this example, the imaging processing and image recording are performed. The image signal processing unit 5a for performing the reproduction processing (including the imaging means and camera signal processing unit and the recording and reproduction system signal processing unit), and the image display unit 5b using a liquid crystal display panel (LCD) or the like are representative. It is shown as an example.

  The power supply unit 6 supplies power to the first control unit 4 a, the second control unit 4 b, and each unit of the system configuration unit 5. In the application of the present invention, regardless of the circuit configuration of the power supply unit 6, for example, a power source 6a using a battery (primary battery or secondary battery), a fuel cell, etc., and a power source voltage required for the circuit are provided. A power supply voltage generation unit 6b for generation is provided, and power is supplied from the generation unit to each circuit via a power supply line.

  In this example, when power is supplied from the power supply 6a to the power supply voltage generation unit (DC-DC converter or the like) 6b in a state where the battery pack or the like is mounted on the apparatus main body of the imaging device 1, the generation unit outputs the second The power supply to the control means 4b is performed immediately.

  The second control means 4b consumes less power than the first control means 4a, but this control means is in charge of monitoring and processing of the operation signal and detection signal, and is not effective in a standby state before photographing. This is to prevent necessary power from being consumed (for example, in a form using a microcomputer, the current consumption is set to 100 microamperes or less).

  On the other hand, as the first control means 4a, an arithmetic means with a fixed operating frequency or an arithmetic means capable of power control by variable control of the operating frequency is used, but priority is given to speeding up the processing. In some cases, the power consumption is larger than that of the second control means 4b. In other words, if the user performs a power-on operation to supply power to the first and second control means and the system configuration unit so that the user can always take a picture, a situation where a photo opportunity is missed can be avoided. In this case, the power consumed is increased, and the battery driving time is shortened. Therefore, in a standby state before photographing, a power saving effect can be obtained by configuring so that power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 only to the second control unit 4b with low power consumption.

  In the present invention, in the power saving state in which power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 to the second control unit 4b, the second control unit 4b receives a signal indicating a change from the detection unit 3 to the photographing state. In addition, power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 to each part of the first control unit 4a and the system configuration unit 5 to shift to a power supply state in which a photographing operation can be performed. That is, the power control state in the imaging apparatus 1 includes at least the following states.

First power control state in which imaging operation is possible (hereinafter referred to as “S1”)
A second power control state that consumes less power than S1 (hereinafter referred to as “S2”).

  First, in the control state of S1, power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 to the system control unit 4 and the system configuration unit 5, and power consumption is large in comparison with S2.

  In the control state of S2, power is supplied from the power supply unit 6 to the second control unit 4b, and power is not supplied to the first control unit 4a or the system configuration unit 5. That is, S2 is a power saving state in which the switch operation by the operation unit 2 and the change to the photographing state by the detection unit 3 are monitored, and when the change to the photographing state is detected in this control state, that is, the detection unit 3 When the detection signal by is sent to the second control means 4b as a trigger signal, transition control from S2 to S1 is performed.

  As a result, power supply and initialization processing to the first control unit 4a, power supply to the system configuration unit 5 and the like are performed, and the state shifts to a power supply state in which a photographing operation can be performed. In this state, if the user turns on the power switch and presses the shutter button, shooting can be started instantly. Further, in the control state of S1, when the power-on operation by the power switch 2a is not performed or when the signal indicating the change from the detection means 3 to the photographing state is not detected, the control state of S2 is automatically performed. Transition to. That is, the power supply to each part of the first control unit 4a and the system configuration unit 5 is interrupted, thereby shifting to the power saving state (S2).

  For convenience of explanation, the control state in which the imaging operation can be performed is only S1. However, a configuration in which the power saving effect can be set stepwise or continuously by controlling the operating frequency or controlling the power supply to the device. In application, it is possible to classify the power control state according to how much power is consumed (dividing S1 into two or more classes).

  In this example, the operation signal of the power switch 2a is sent to the second control means 4b and processed. However, the operation signal of the power switch 2a is sent to the first control means 4a and processed. The present invention can be implemented in various forms such as a configuration to be performed.

  Next, a sequence example of the power supply control process of the imaging apparatus 1 will be described separately for the following three cases.

(A) When it is detected that the user has entered the shooting posture and the user intends to start shooting by operating the power switch. (B) Although it has been detected that the shooting posture has been entered, When the power switch is not operated (C) When the detection that the camera is ready for shooting and the operation of the power switch by the user are performed almost simultaneously

  First, the case of (A) will be described according to the following procedures (1) to (7). In FIG. 1, the numbers shown in “◯” correspond to the numbers 1 to 7 in parentheses below, respectively, and indicate the order of processing along the passage of time.

  (1) When a battery is inserted in the power supply unit 6, the power supply is generated in the power supply voltage generation unit 6b.

  (2) Power is supplied from the power supply voltage generator 6b to the second control means 4b, so that the second control means 4b can accept the operation signal of the power switch 2a at any time.

  (3) The detection means 3 notifies the second control means 4b that the photographing posture has been entered. For example, in the above form (I), an electrostatic sensor or the like is used to detect contact with the apparatus. That is, when it is detected that the device is touched using the sensor, the system is activated (for example, the system activation process is performed as a background process). Further, in the above-described form (II), an angular velocity sensor or the like is used to detect a change in the posture of the device, and when it is detected that the user has entered a posture to lift the device and take a picture using the sensor, System startup is performed (for example, system startup processing is performed as background processing).

  (4) The second control means 4b, which has received a signal from the detection means 3 that informs that the camera is ready to shoot, supplies power to the first control means 4a and the system component 5 so as to supply power. Sends a signal to the generation unit 6b to instruct it.

  (5) Receiving the instruction, the power supply voltage generator 6b starts to supply power to the entire system. That is, power is supplied to each part of the first control unit 4 a and the system configuration unit 5.

  (6) When power is distributed throughout the system, the respective devices become operable, and signal transmission between the first control means 4a and the second control means 4b, and the first control means 4a Signal transmission between the image signal processing unit 5a and the image display unit 5b of the system configuration unit 5 can be performed.

  (7) When the user operates the power switch 2a, the operation signal is transmitted to the second control means 4b. A signal is transmitted from the second control means 4b to the first control means 4a, and a state in which photographing can be started instantaneously is established. That is, since the system has already been activated, the photographing process can be performed in a short time.

  In this example, when it is detected by the detection means 3 that the camera is ready to shoot, a command from the second control means 4b to the power supply voltage generator 6b is sent to each part including the first control means 4a. Although power supply is performed, the present invention is not limited to this, and a method of suspending the system before photographing, a method of suppressing the operating speed of the first control unit 4a, and the like can be mentioned. In this case, when the detection unit 3 detects that the photographing state has been entered, the system returns to an operational state in which photographing can be performed, or the operation speed of the first control unit 4a increases to perform photographing processing and the like. It will be in a state where it can be performed without hindrance. Therefore, although the time required to start up the system is shortened, the power consumption increases in the standby state in which it is not detected that the camera is ready to take a picture as compared with the above example.

  Next, in the case of (B), for example, when the user touches the device but does not press the power switch, the processing shown in (1) to (6) is performed. If it is activated, it consumes more power than necessary. Therefore, when the power-on operation is not performed or when the signal indicating the change from the detecting unit 3 to the photographing state is not detected, the process proceeds to S2 (power saving state). For example, in the above-described form (I), when a detection signal notifying that the user has touched the device for a certain time is not sent to the second control unit 4b, an explicit operation instruction by the user is not required. Next, the power supply to the first control unit 4a and the system component 5 is cut off (for example, the power supply to each part of the system except the second control unit 4b is stopped by background processing without the user's knowledge) ). In this state, the operation mode and the detection signal are monitored by the second control unit 4b, and the power consumption is set to the minimum level necessary for the processing of the second control unit 4b. Thereafter, when it is detected that the user has entered a photographing posture such as touching the apparatus, the process proceeds from (3) to (4).

  In the case of (C) above, for example, when the state where the user touches the device and the state where the power switch is pressed occur at the same time or almost at the same time, the system startup processing is performed as in the conventional case, and there is no problem You can enter shooting mode. In other words, in the configuration in which the operation signal and the detection signal are constantly monitored by the second control unit 4b, even if the start of the transition to the photographing state is detected by the detection unit 3 and the power switch 2a is pressed at the same time, the second control unit 4b 2 in the control means 4b. Therefore, after changing “7” in the circle in FIG. 1 to “3”, the processing after the above (4) is performed.

  If no start of the transition to the shooting position is detected, for example, in the above-described form (I), when the user does not touch the device, the detection signal indicating that the shooting position has been entered in the above (3). 2 is not sent to the control means 4b of the second system, that is, the system is not activated, that is, the power supply or initialization process to the first control means 4a or the power supply to each part of the system component 5 is not performed (the most power consumption). Becomes a low power control state.)

  In addition to this, various states depending on the usage status of the apparatus are assumed, but the system can be operated without any problems in any state by setting the power management and power control sequences in the second control means 4b. It is possible to start and shift to a state where photography is possible.

  2 to 16 show an embodiment when the present invention is applied to a digital camera or the like.

  FIG. 2 shows a configuration example using an electrostatic sensor or the like as an example of the form (I). FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the camera 7, and FIG. It is the perspective view which looked at the front part 8a from the back side.

  In this example, the contact detection sensor 3a such as an electrostatic sensor is attached to the apparatus on the back surface side of the front surface portion 8a provided with the image capturing section 9 and touched by the user's finger during photographing.

  In this case, it is important to grasp that the user's finger has touched the camera without erroneous detection. That is, if the sensitivity of the sensor IC or the like is too high, the approach of a human body other than a finger is erroneously detected, so that it is necessary to prevent a sensitive reaction from occurring.

  Therefore, it is preferable to reduce the sensitivity of the sensor and widen the detection range of the sensor, that is, a place where the sensor senses when touched. For example, the detection amount (electrostatic amount) when the user's finger touches is accumulated, and when it exceeds a predetermined threshold, the start of the transition to the shooting posture is determined, Below the threshold, it can be determined that there is an unexpected contact or approach that is not intended for shooting.

  In this example, for example, there is no problem when the outer casing is formed of a synthetic resin such as plastic, but depending on the device configuration, an electrostatic shield may be provided. Contact detection becomes impossible.

  In such a case, as in the camera 7A shown in FIG. 3, the surface of the camera housing 8 where the user's finger touches, for example, the sensor 3a on the front surface 8a as shown in FIG. The sensor 3a is embedded in the rear surface 8b provided with the display unit 10 and the operation unit 11 as shown in FIG. For example, a film element having conductivity may be used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a detection element formed of various materials having conductivity can be used.

  FIG. 4 shows a configuration example using a triaxial acceleration sensor as an example of the above-described form (II).

  In the camera 7B shown in this example, the posture change around each of the X, Y, and Z axes shown in the drawing is detected by the posture detection sensor 3b attached to the front surface or the back surface of the front surface portion 8a. That is, the fact that the user is about to enter the shooting posture by lifting the camera 7B is detected as a change in speed associated with the change in posture, that is, an acceleration.

  In addition, not only a 3 axis | shaft structure but a 2 axis | shaft angular velocity sensor etc. may be used, and the angular velocity sensor and acceleration sensor for camera shake detection may be diverted. As the number of axes that can be detected increases, the detection accuracy can be increased. However, it is necessary to consider installation space and cost increase.

  Next, setting examples related to system activation will be described with reference to screen examples shown in FIGS. In the application of the present invention, the system startup setting method, the place where the setting is performed, and the like are not considered. In the following example, a new item (hereinafter referred to as a new item) is displayed on the setting screen presented on the image display means. , Referred to as “instantaneous activation”) will be described.

  (A) The figure shows the display screen at the time of transition to the setup screen, and the range shown in the rectangular broken line frame shows the item currently selected by the operator.

  When the user performs a “downward” direction operation using an operation means such as a cross operation key (for example, see the operation unit 11 in FIG. 3), the selection position of the indicator (icon) on the left toolbar is moved downward. Move to the (B) diagram. The item “Momentary activation” is displayed on the selection screen located on the right side of the indicator.

  When the user performs a “rightward” direction operation using an operation means such as a cross operation key with the intention of selecting “momentary activation”, “icon expansion” in the upper part of the main screen in FIG. Selected. However, it is not the item that the user wants to select. Therefore, the “downward” direction operation is performed using a cross operation key or the like, and the cursor is moved to the “instant start” item as shown in FIG. (D) (in this example, “normal” is set). Yes.)

  When the user performs a “right-facing” direction operation while the cursor is on the “instant start” item, the “instant start” setting is enabled (“ON” in the figure) as shown in FIG. ")" Or disabled (see "OFF" in the figure).

  In this example, since the setting so far is “OFF”, the user performs the “downward” direction operation with the cross operation key or the like. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 8F, the setting can be validated, that is, the cursor can be set to “ON”.

  When the user presses a center key (decision button) such as a cross operation key in order to confirm the selection item, that is, to set the “instant start” item to “ON”, the screen shown in FIG. This completes the setting work.

  With this series of operations, the item “instantaneous activation” can be set to be valid (“ON”).

  In this example, in the selection of “instant start”, the activation or invalidation is displayed with the name “ON” or “OFF”, but the name and setting method etc. can be changed freely according to the design of the application Of course you can. In addition, the setting of items is not limited to the form on the setup screen, but a toggle-type dedicated button is provided, or touch detection means such as a touch panel is provided on the display surface so that the user can select a desired item on the screen. Implementation in various configurations is possible.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of system startup processing.

  First, in step S1, it is determined whether or not an operation signal of the power switch or a detection signal from the contact detection sensor or the posture detection sensor is notified to the system (see the second control unit 4b in FIG. 1). If the operation signal or the detection signal is notified, the process proceeds to step S2 or S4. If not, the operation signal or the detection signal is continuously monitored (this state corresponds to the control state of S2 above). And in power saving mode.)

  If the detection signal is predicted to shift to the shooting state, the process proceeds to step S2, and power supply and initialization processing to the system control unit and components are started as background processing. Then, in a predetermined time (for example, within 1 second), the apparatus is ready for photographing (this state corresponds to the control state of S1), and the process proceeds to the next step S3.

  If a power-on instruction is issued by operating the power switch, the process proceeds to step S4, the system startup process is performed as usual (the process here is the same as the conventional process), and the process proceeds to step S5. move on.

  In step S3, it is determined whether or not the power switch has been operated within a predetermined time. Then, if an instruction to turn on the power is issued before the predetermined set time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S5. If the power-on instruction is not issued after the set time has elapsed (during timeout), the process returns to step S1. The determination process regarding the presence / absence of the operation signal of the power switch is performed until the set time elapses.

  In step S5, the operation of the system configuration unit, for example, the above-described image signal processing unit 5a is completed, and the backlight or the like configuring the image display unit 5b is turned on to perform screen display.

  It takes almost no time from the operation of the power switch in step S3 to the transition to step S5. That is, the preparation for photographing is completed instantly after the user operates the power switch.

  Then, the process proceeds to step S6, where it is determined whether or not the shutter button is operated and a shooting instruction signal is issued. When a signal indicating the shooting instruction is notified to the system, the process proceeds to the next step S7, where the shooting process is performed. Be started.

  In step S1, if the power switch operation signal and the sensor detection signal are received almost simultaneously, for example, the power switch operation signal is prioritized and the process proceeds to step S4.

  The characteristic part in this example is the processing path that proceeds from step S1 to “S2 → S3 → S5”. In the conventional configuration, in step S1, the power switch is operated so as not to miss the subject. However, the process cannot proceed to S5 unless the waiting time in S4 elapses. In the meantime, a situation occurs where a photo opportunity is missed.

  Next, a configuration example in the case of notifying the system control unit 4 of a signal detected using an electrostatic sensor, an angular velocity sensor, or the like regarding the transition to the photographing posture will be described.

  For example, as a transmission form for notifying the system using an angular velocity sensor or the like that the user is ready to start taking a picture by lifting the camera, there are the following forms.

(1) Analog system (2) Digital system (2-1) Binarization system (2-2) Serial communication system

In addition, in the comparison of power between each method, "(1) Analog method> (2-2) Serial communication method ≥ (2-1) Binary method" Then there is little power consumption. This is due to the increase in power due to the necessity of operating the A / D converter in the analog system.
In addition, the binarization method uses two signal levels, High and Low, so that the detection in the system is simple, and the system can always be put into a sleep mode when no image is taken. There is.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a main part of the configuration example 12 of the above (1), and shows the detection unit 13 and the second control means 4 b in the system control unit 4.

  For the detection unit 13, for example, an electrostatic sensor as the contact detection sensor 3a or an angular velocity sensor as the posture detection sensor 3b is used, and the sensor output is an analog signal or an IC constituting the second control unit 4b. Sent to the computer.

  The second control unit 4b includes an A / D converter 14, a comparator 15, a data storage unit 16, and an arithmetic processing unit 17 (a CPU (Central Processing Unit) core, an ASIC, etc.) in its circuit configuration.

  The A / D converter 14 receives the analog signal from the detection unit 13, converts it into a digital signal, and sends it to the comparator 15.

  The data storage unit 16 stores threshold data to be sent to the comparator 15 by using the data writing device 18 at the time of shipment. For example, non-volatile memory devices such as EEPROM (Electrical Erasable and Programmable Read Only Memory) are used, and threshold data is written for each device at the time of product shipment, resulting in variations in sensor characteristics and manufacturing variations inherent in the device. It is possible to prevent the problem of detection error or malfunction, etc. (reliability is increased compared to the case where the same threshold data is always used). In addition, it is necessary to change the mounting parts after the product is completed, which increases the part cost and time and increases the manufacturing cost. However, the CPU is used by writing data to the nonvolatile storage device. The ability to change setting values and the like by software processing that has been performed has the advantage that adjustments and setting changes can be freely made even after the hardware is completed. In addition, it is possible to flexibly cope with ambient environmental conditions such as the outside air temperature by describing conditional branch processing by software in the program.

  The threshold data read from the data storage unit 16 is sent to the comparator 15 and compared with the data (sensor detection data) digitized by the A / D converter 14. Then, when the detection data satisfies the condition indicated by the threshold data, for example, it is recognized that the user has touched a predetermined range of the camera or lifted the camera and started the transition to the shooting posture, and the arithmetic processing unit An interrupt signal to 17 is issued. If the detection data does not satisfy the condition indicated by the threshold data, it is determined that the camera is not in a shooting state, or is caused by disturbance such as temporary or accidental contact, posture change, noise, or the like.

  In response to the interrupt signal from the comparator 15, the sleep state of the CPU core or the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 is released (wake up), and the system operation is performed with performance that can be demonstrated originally.

  It should be noted that the detection data sampling process may be performed in a state where the CPU core or the like is not kept in the sleep state but is always awakened, but power consumption at that time becomes a problem. In other words, if the power consumed when the CPU core, ASIC, etc. continue to operate is a problem, either reduce their operating frequency sufficiently or put them into sleep or hibernation as described above to reduce power consumption. It is preferable to set the state almost to zero. However, since the power supply to the A / D converter 14, the comparator 15, and the data storage unit 16 cannot be cut off, the data converted by the A / D converter 14 and the threshold data read from the data storage unit 16 The minimum power that guarantees the comparison operation is always consumed (that is, the second control means 4b consumes only the necessary minimum power in the standby state and outputs a signal indicating a change to the photographing state). When receiving from the detection means, the hibernation state is canceled and a power supply instruction signal is sent to the power supply unit, and power consumption can be reduced by performing intermittent operation to such an extent that detection does not fail. It is possible.)

  FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are flowcharts showing an example of system startup processing related to the method (1).

  First, in step ST1 of FIG. 8, the analog signal from the detection unit 13 is sent to the A / D converter 14, the digital signal converted here is sent to the comparator 15, and the threshold value from the data storage unit 16 is sent. Data is sent to the comparator 15 where they are compared. If the detection data satisfies the condition defined by the threshold data, the process proceeds to the next step ST2, but if not, the detection data is continuously monitored.

  In step ST2, an interrupt signal is generated from the comparator 15 to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is canceled in the next step. In other words, the process proceeds to step ST3 and returns to a state where the arithmetic processing unit 17 can perform processing at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  In step ST4, it is determined whether or not an operation signal of the power switch is notified to the second control means 4b. If the operation signal is not notified, the process proceeds to step ST5. If the operation signal is notified, the process proceeds to step ST9.

  In step ST5, the power supply to the system control unit and the components, the initialization process, and the like are started in a form not noticed by the user (background process). Then, the apparatus becomes ready for photographing within a predetermined time, and the process proceeds to the next step ST6.

  In step ST6, it is determined whether or not the power switch has been operated within a predetermined time. If an instruction to turn on the power is issued before the predetermined set time elapses, the process proceeds to step ST10. If the power-on instruction is not issued even after the set time has elapsed (timeout), the process proceeds to step ST7. The determination process related to the operation signal of the power switch is performed until the set time elapses.

  In step ST7, after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state, the process returns to step ST1 in FIG.

  As shown in ST8, assuming that an external interrupt signal is generated when the power switch is operated and the arithmetic processing unit 17 has returned to a state where processing can be performed at a predetermined operating speed, After the system startup process is performed normally according to the input instruction (the process here is the same as the conventional process), the process proceeds to step ST10.

  In step ST10, the operation of the system configuration unit, for example, the above-described image signal processing unit 5a is completed, and the backlight or the like configuring the image display unit 5b is turned on to perform screen display.

  It takes almost no time from the operation of the power switch in step ST6 to the transition to step ST10. That is, the preparation for photographing is completed instantly after the user operates the power switch.

  Then, the process proceeds to step ST11, where it is determined whether or not the shutter button is operated and a shooting instruction signal is issued. When the signal indicating the shooting instruction is notified to the system, the process proceeds to the next step ST12 and the shooting process is performed. Be started.

  In the analog method of (1) above, flexible decision processing by software can be performed by providing threshold data in the system control unit. Therefore, the detection value by the detection unit 13 can be used for other purposes (for example, camera shake correction processing). Further, the detection unit 13 does not require a comparison circuit, a communication circuit with the system control unit, and the like, which is advantageous in terms of downsizing the detection unit, reducing the number of parts, and reducing the installation area and space.

  Next, the digital method (2) will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a main part of the configuration example 12A of (2-1).

  In addition to the sensors, the detection unit 13A includes a data storage unit 16 and a comparator 15. An electrostatic sensor as the contact detection sensor 3 a or an angular velocity sensor as the posture detection sensor 3 b is used, and the output signal of the sensor is sent to the comparator 15.

  The data storage unit 16 stores threshold data written using the data writing device 18 at the time of shipment. The threshold data is read and sent to the comparator 15.

  The comparator 15 performs a comparison operation between the detection signal from the sensor and the signal indicating the threshold data. As a result, when the sensor detection value satisfies the condition indicated by the threshold data, for example, the user It is recognized that a predetermined range of the camera has been touched or the camera has been lifted to start the transition to the shooting posture. Then, a binarized signal (for example, an H level signal) indicating the recognition result is output to the second control unit 4b. Further, when the sensor detection value does not satisfy the condition indicated by the threshold data, it is determined that the camera is not in a photographing state or is caused by a disturbance such as temporary or accidental contact, posture change, noise, or the like. . Then, a binarized signal (for example, an L level signal) indicating the result is output to the second control unit 4b.

  In addition to the configuration using the data storage unit 16 for storing threshold data, for example, there is a configuration in which a constant value by the external circuit 19 for the comparator 15 is adjusted at the time of shipment to set the threshold. These two forms are shown together for convenience.

  The second control means 4b is configured by using an interrupt generator 20 and an arithmetic processing unit 17 (CPU core, ASIC, etc.), and an output signal of the comparator 15, that is, a binarized signal is generated by an interrupt. Is sent to the container 20. Then, when the interrupt generator 20 receives a signal indicating the start of the transition to the shooting state, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is interrupted, the sleep state is released, and the CPU core or the like processes with a predetermined operating speed. It will be in a state that can be performed.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a main part of a system activation process example related to the method (2-1), and shows only the differences from the process example described for the method (1).

  First, in step ST20, the comparator 15 compares a detection signal from the sensor with a signal indicating threshold data. If the detected value satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST21. If not, the sensor continues to monitor the detected value.

  In step ST21, the interrupt generator 20 receives the binarized signal from the comparator 15, generates an interrupt signal to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is released. As a result, in the next step ST22, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST20 in FIG. In the sleep state, since only the interrupt generator 20 is operating in the second control means 4b, the power consumption is low.

  FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a main part of the configuration example 12B of (2-2).

  Differences from the configuration shown in FIG. 10 are as follows.

The detection unit 13B is provided with a serial communication unit 21 subsequent to the comparator 15. The second control unit 4b includes a serial communication and interrupt generation unit that exchanges information with the serial communication unit 21. 22 is provided.

  In the configuration in which the arithmetic processing unit 17 compares the detection data sent from the detection unit 13B as serial data with the threshold data stored in the data storage unit 16, the data is stored in the second control unit 4b. Unit 16 is provided, and at the time of shipment, writing processing of threshold data and the like is performed in the data storage unit 16 using the data writing device 18 (for example, the comparator 15 of the detection unit 13B is unnecessary, and sensor detection is performed). The signal is sent to the second control means 4b via the serial communication unit 21).

In this example, the data storage unit 16 for storing threshold data may be provided in the detection unit 12B as in FIG.
In FIG. 12, the threshold value is set by adjusting the configuration form in which the data storage unit 16 for storing threshold data is provided in the second control means 4b and the constant value by the external circuit 19 for the comparator 15 at the time of shipment. The configuration form is also shown for convenience. In addition, in the form in which the comparison process using the comparator 15 of the detection unit 13B and the comparison process performed by the calculation processing unit 17 by providing the data storage unit 16 in the second control unit 4b are used in combination, the determination is made twice. This can increase the certainty, or is useful for verifying the determination result and for backing up the comparison process (for example, when the comparison circuit 15 fails).

In the comparator 15 or the arithmetic processing unit 17, a comparison operation is performed between the detection value by the sensor and the threshold value. As a result, when the sensor detection value satisfies the condition indicated by the threshold value, for example, it is recognized that the user has touched a predetermined range of the camera or has lifted the camera to start shifting to the shooting posture. Data indicating the recognition result or sensor detection data is transmitted from the serial communication unit 21 to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22. Further, when the sensor detection value does not satisfy the condition indicated by the threshold, it is determined that the camera is not in a shooting state or is caused by a disturbance such as temporary or accidental contact, posture change, noise, or the like. Data indicating the result or sensor detection data is transmitted from the serial communication unit 21 to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22. Various methods (SIO, UART, I ² C, etc.) can be used for the serial communication format.

  In the form in which the detection unit 13B includes the comparator 15, for example, when the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22 receives a signal indicating the start of the transition to the shooting state, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is interrupted and the sleep state is set. The CPU core and the like can be processed at a predetermined operating speed after being released.

  In the form in which the second control means 4b has the data storage unit 16, an interrupt is generated when the sensor detection data is received by the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22, and the arithmetic processing unit 17 detects the sensor detection value. And the threshold value from the data storage unit 16 are compared. As a result, when it is determined that the transition to the photographing state is started, the CPU core or the like is in a state where the processing can be performed at a predetermined operation speed.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the main part of the system activation process example related to the method (2-2), and shows only the difference from the process example described for the method (1).

  First, in step ST30, for example, the value detected by the sensor and the threshold value are compared by the comparator 15. If the detected value satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST31. If not, the sensor continues to monitor the detected value.

In step ST31, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is interrupted from the comparator 15 via the serial communication unit 21, and the sleep state is released.
As a result, in the next step ST32, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST30 in FIG.

  In this method, since information transmission between the detection unit 13B and the second control means 4b is performed by serial data communication, there is an advantage that a large amount of information can be transmitted and received compared to the method (2-1). is there. For this reason, since the data can be compared again on the side of the arithmetic processing unit using a CPU or the like, it is possible to flexibly deal with sensor recognition. Further, since the detection data from the detection unit 13B is sent to the second control unit 4b by serial communication, an interrupt is generated, so that the control unit 4b is operated in a low power consumption state (power saving mode). be able to.

  As described above, in the method (1), the configuration of the detection unit is simplified in the comparison between the detection unit and the second control unit 4b. In the method (2), the second control unit is used. The configuration of 4b is simplified.

  Next, a configuration example for improving the detection accuracy by combining the form (III), that is, detection of contact with the apparatus and detection of change in the attitude of the apparatus will be described.

  For example, when a contact state of a finger or the like to the camera body is detected by an electrostatic sensor and a change in posture when the camera is held is detected as a change in speed by an angular velocity sensor, it is determined that a shooting posture has been entered. Thus, system startup processing is performed.

  FIG. 14 exemplifies a setting method related to system activation, and examples of screens are shown in FIGS. In this example, three types of modes, “normal”, “high speed”, and “highest speed”, can be selected as setting items related to “instantaneous activation”.

  FIGS. (A) to (C) are the same as those in FIG. 5. In FIGS. (C) and (D), it is assumed that the “normal” mode is set in the item of “instantaneous activation”.

  (D) As shown in the figure, when the user performs a “rightward” direction operation while the cursor is on the “instant start” item, as shown in (E), “instant start” With regard to the setting, it is possible to select which of the three modes is set.

  In this example, since the setting state so far is the “normal” mode, when the user performs the “downward” direction operation with the cross operation key or the like, as shown in FIG. You can move the cursor to "Fast" mode. Further, by operating the “downward” direction, the cursor can be set to the “highest speed” mode as shown in FIG.

  When the selected item is confirmed, that is, when the user presses a center key (decision button) such as a cross operation key, the screen shown in FIG.

  With this series of operations, “instantaneous activation” can be set to a desired mode.

  Next, a configuration example in which the above methods (1) and (2) are applied in the above-described form (III) will be described.

  First, the configuration of the above (1) will be described. In FIG. 7, for example, the detection unit 13 includes an electrostatic sensor and an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor, and analog signals output by the sensors (see broken line arrows). ) Is sent to the A / D converter 14. Note that threshold data written using the data writing device 18 at the time of shipment is stored in the data storage unit 16 for each sensor, and each threshold data is read out and sent to the comparator 15.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the main part of the system activation process example when the “high speed” mode is set, and shows only the difference from the process example described in FIG.

  First, when the detection signal of each sensor is sent to the second control means 4b, in step ST40, detection data (data after A / D conversion) by the electrostatic sensor and threshold data from the data storage unit 16 are obtained. The result is sent to the comparator 15 where both are compared. If the detection data satisfies the condition defined by the threshold data, the process proceeds to the next step ST41. If not, the detection value is continuously monitored by the sensor.

  In step ST41, the detection data (data after A / D conversion) by the angular velocity sensor (or acceleration sensor) and the threshold data from the data storage unit 16 are sent to the comparator 15, where they are compared. If the detection data satisfies the condition defined by the threshold data, the process proceeds to the next step ST42. If not, the process returns to step ST40 and continues to monitor the detection value by the sensor.

  In step ST42, processing necessary for awakening the arithmetic processing unit 17 from the sleep state is performed. That is, an interrupt signal is generated from the comparator 15 to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is released. As a result, in the next step ST43, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST40 in FIG.

  In this example, detection by an electrostatic sensor, that is, contact detection is preceded. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in step ST40, detection data by an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor is used. The threshold data may be compared, and the detection data by the electrostatic sensor may be compared with the threshold data in step ST41.

  In any case, it is reliably determined that the photographing posture has been entered by contact detection and posture detection, and system activation processing is performed.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the main part of the system startup processing example when the “highest speed” mode is set, and shows only the difference from the processing example described in FIG. .

  First, when the detection signal of each sensor is sent to the second control means 4b, in step ST50, detection data (data after A / D conversion) by the electrostatic sensor and threshold data from the data storage unit 16 are obtained. The result is sent to the comparator 15 where both are compared. If the detection data satisfies the condition defined by the threshold data, the process proceeds to the next step ST51. If not, the process proceeds to step ST53.

  In step ST51, processing necessary for waking the arithmetic processing unit 17 from the sleep state is performed. That is, an interrupt signal is generated from the comparator 15 to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is released. As a result, in the next step ST52, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  In step ST53, detection data (data after A / D conversion) by the angular velocity sensor or acceleration sensor and threshold data from the data storage unit 16 are sent to the comparator 15, and both are compared. If the detection data satisfies the condition defined by the threshold data, the process proceeds to the next step ST54. If not, the process returns to step ST50 to continue monitoring the detection value by the sensor.

  In step ST54, processing necessary for waking the arithmetic processing unit 17 from the sleep state is performed. That is, an interrupt signal is generated from the comparator 15 to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is released. Thereby, in the next step ST55, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST50 in FIG.

  In the figure, for easy understanding, contact detection and posture detection are shown separately. However, ST51 and ST54 and ST52 and ST55 are substantially the same processing. Therefore, for example, in ST50, contact is detected. If the detected value satisfies the threshold condition, the process proceeds to step ST54 (in this case, ST51 and ST52 are not necessary).

  In this example, detection by the electrostatic sensor, that is, contact detection is preceded. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the posture detection of the apparatus is preceded. For example, in step ST50, the threshold value with the detection data by the angular velocity sensor or acceleration sensor The data may be compared, and the detection data by the electrostatic sensor may be compared with the threshold data in step ST53.

  In any case, when it is determined that the photographing state has been entered by contact detection or posture detection, system startup processing is immediately performed.

  Next, the form (2-1) will be described.

  In FIG. 10, for example, the detection unit 13 </ b> A includes an electrostatic sensor and an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor, and an output signal of each sensor is sent to the comparator 15. In the data storage unit 16, threshold data written using the data writing device 18 at the time of shipment is stored for each sensor, and each threshold data is read and sent to the comparator 15. The threshold value is set by adjusting the constant value for each sensor at the time of shipment by an external circuit 19 for the comparator 15.

  The output of the comparator 15, that is, the binarized signal is sent to the interrupt generator 20, and the arithmetic processing unit 17 is interrupted.

  When the “high-speed” mode is set, the main part of an example of the system startup process will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, when the detection signal of each sensor is sent to the second control means 4b, in step ST40, the detection signal from the electrostatic sensor and the signal indicating the threshold value are compared by the comparator 15. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST41. If not, the monitoring of the detection value of the sensor is continued.

  In step ST41, a detection signal from the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor and a signal indicating a threshold value are sent to the comparator 15, and both are compared. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST42. If not, the process returns to step ST40 and the monitoring of the detection value by the sensor is continued.

  In step ST42, the binarized signal is sent from the comparator 15 to the interrupt generator 20, the interrupt signal generated here is sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17, and the sleep state is released. As a result, in the next step ST43, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST40 in FIG.

  In the form in which the posture detection of the apparatus precedes, for example, the detection value by the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor is compared with the threshold value in step ST40, and the detection value by the electrostatic sensor is compared in step ST41. good.

  In any case, the determination that the photographing posture is entered by the contact detection and the posture detection is surely performed based on the binarized signal, and the system activation process is performed.

  As an example of system activation processing when the “highest speed” mode is set, in FIG. 16, first, detection signals from the sensors are sent to the second control means 4 b.

  In step ST50, the comparator 15 compares the detection signal from the electrostatic sensor with a signal indicating the threshold value. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST51. If not, the process proceeds to step ST53.

  In step ST51, the interrupt generator 20 receives the binarized signal from the comparator 15. As a result, an interrupt signal is generated for the arithmetic processing unit 17, the sleep state is canceled, and in the next step ST52, the arithmetic processing unit 17 enters a state where processing can be performed at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  In step ST53, the detection signal from the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor and the signal indicating the threshold value from the data storage unit 16 are sent to the comparator 15, and are compared. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST74. If not, the process returns to step ST50, and the monitoring of the detection value by the sensor is continued.

  In step ST54, the interrupt generator 20 receives the binarized signal from the comparator 15. As a result, an interrupt signal is generated for the arithmetic processing unit 17, the sleep state is canceled, and in the next step ST55, the arithmetic processing unit 17 enters a state where processing can be performed at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST50 in FIG.

  In the form in which the posture detection of the apparatus is preceded, for example, in step ST50, the detection value by the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor and the threshold value are compared, and in step ST53, the detection value by the electrostatic sensor and the threshold value are compared. good.

  In any case, if it is determined based on the binarized signal that the camera is ready for photographing by contact detection or posture detection, system startup processing is immediately performed.

  Next, the form (2-2) will be described.

  In FIG. 12, for example, the detection unit 13B includes an electrostatic sensor and an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor, and an output signal of each sensor is sent to the comparator 15 or sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17 by serial communication. The Note that threshold data written using the data writing device 18 at the time of shipment is stored in the data storage unit 16 for each sensor, and each threshold data is read out and sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17. Alternatively, the threshold value is set by adjusting the constant value for each sensor at the time of shipment by the external circuit 19 for the comparator 15.

  The output signal of the comparator 15 is sent to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22 constituting the second control means 4b via the serial communication unit 21, and the interrupt signal generated here is sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17. It is done. Alternatively, the detection data from the detection unit 13B is transmitted to the arithmetic processing unit 17, where the detection value is compared with the threshold value from the data storage unit 16.

  As an example of system activation processing when the “high speed” mode is set, in FIG. 15, first, detection signals from the sensors are sent to the second control means 4b.

  In step ST40, for example, a detection signal from the electrostatic sensor and a signal indicating the threshold value are sent to the comparator 15, and both are compared. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST41. If not, the monitoring of the detection value of the sensor is continued.

  In step ST41, the comparator 15 compares the detection signal from the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor with the signal indicating the threshold value. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST42. If not, the process returns to step ST40 and the monitoring of the detection value by the sensor is continued.

  In step ST42, a signal is sent from the comparator 15 to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22 via the serial communication unit 21, and an interrupt signal generated here is sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17 to release the sleep state. The As a result, in the next step ST43, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where it can perform processing at a predetermined operating speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST40 in FIG.

  In this example, detection by an electrostatic sensor, that is, contact detection is preceded. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in step ST40, detection values obtained by an angular velocity sensor or an acceleration sensor are used. The threshold value may be compared, and the detected value by the electrostatic sensor may be compared with the threshold value in step ST41.

  In any case, the determination that the photographing state is entered by the contact detection and the posture detection is surely performed through the serial communication, and the system activation process is performed.

  In the form of not using the comparator 15 of the detection unit 13B, in steps ST40 and ST41, detection data of each sensor is sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17 by serial communication, and an interrupt is generated. It is compared with the threshold value from the data storage unit 16. As a result, if it is determined that the camera is ready for shooting, the process proceeds directly from step ST41 to ST43, where the CPU core or the like can perform processing at a predetermined operating speed.

  As an example of system activation processing when the “highest speed” mode is set, in FIG. 16, first, detection signals from the sensors are sent to the second control means 4 b.

  In step ST50, for example, the comparator 15 compares a detection signal from the electrostatic sensor with a signal indicating a threshold value. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST51. If not, the process proceeds to step ST53.

  In step ST51, a signal is sent from the comparator 15 to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22 via the serial communication unit 21, thereby generating an interrupt signal to the arithmetic processing unit 17 and releasing the sleep state. . In the next step ST52, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where processing can be performed at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  In step ST53, the detection signal from the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor and the signal indicating the threshold value from the data storage unit 16 are sent to the comparator 15, and are compared. If the detection value of the sensor satisfies the condition defined by the threshold value, the process proceeds to the next step ST54. If not, the process returns to step ST50 and the monitoring of the detection value by the sensor is continued.

  In step ST54, a signal is sent from the comparator 15 to the serial communication and interrupt generation unit 22 via the serial communication unit 21. As a result, an interrupt signal is generated for the arithmetic processing unit 17 and the sleep state is released. In next step ST55, the arithmetic processing unit 17 is in a state where processing can be performed at a predetermined operation speed. Then, the process proceeds to step ST4 in FIG.

  The subsequent processing is as described with reference to FIG. 9, but after the CPU core and the like constituting the arithmetic processing unit 17 are defined in the sleep state in step ST7, the process returns to step ST50 in FIG.

  In the form in which the posture detection of the apparatus is preceded, for example, in step ST50, the detection value by the angular velocity sensor or the acceleration sensor and the threshold value are compared, and in step ST53, the detection value by the electrostatic sensor and the threshold value are compared. good.

  In any case, when it is determined via contact communication or posture detection that the camera is ready for photographing, the system activation process is immediately performed.

  If the comparator 15 of the detection unit 13B is not used, the detection data of each sensor is sent to the arithmetic processing unit 17 by serial communication in steps ST50 and ST53, and each detection value is sent from the data storage unit 16 here. Compared to the threshold value. As a result, when it is determined that the transition to the shooting state is started, the process proceeds to step S52 or ST55, and the CPU core or the like is ready to perform processing at a predetermined operation speed.

  According to the configuration described above, for example, the following advantages can be obtained.

System startup performance With conventional devices, it takes about 1 second to complete startup after the power switch is pressed. For this reason, even if there is a moment when it is desired to take a subject or the like that passes by in an instant, there may be cases where the shooting is missed. On the other hand, as described above, the transition to the shooting position and its preliminary operation are detected using an electrostatic sensor, an angular velocity sensor, etc., and the system is started in the background without being noticed by the user, It is possible to guarantee a state in which the photographing process can be started immediately. As a result, the probability of missing a photo opportunity is reduced.

-It is difficult to make the system start-up time zero with respect to system power consumption.For example, in the method of always supplying power to the system to ensure the shooting enabled state, the power consumption increases as a result. Driving time is shortened. In this case, there is a problem in terms of convenience, and it is necessary to always carry a charged battery or the like. On the other hand, as described above, in order to monitor contact detection, device posture detection, switch operation, etc., the device is placed in a standby state with the minimum necessary power consumption and enters a shooting state. If it turns out that the power supply to the system is started, a full-scale power supply to the system is started to shift to a state where photography is possible. In other words, the system is not always turned on, and wasteful power is not consumed in a standby state in which the user does not intend to shoot, so that the power saving effect can be sufficiently exerted, such as a portable device. The battery drive time can be extended in the application.

It is a figure showing an example of basic composition of an imaging device concerning the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of implementation of this invention by contact detection. It is a figure which shows another example of implementation of this invention by contact detection. It is a figure which shows an example of implementation of this invention by attitude | position detection. It is explanatory drawing of the example of starting setting. It is the flowchart figure which illustrated starting processing. It is the block diagram which showed the principal part of the structural example. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the startup process together with FIG. 9, and this figure shows the beginning of the process. It is a flowchart figure which shows the flow of the process following FIG. It is the block diagram which showed the principal part about another structural example. It is a flowchart figure which shows the principal part of the example of starting processing regarding the structure of FIG. It is the block diagram which showed the principal part of another structural example. It is a flowchart figure which shows the principal part of the example of starting processing regarding the structure of FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the example of starting setting. It is a flowchart figure which shows the principal part of the example of a starting process at the time of the setting of high speed mode. It is a flowchart figure which shows the principal part of the example of a starting process at the time of the setting of the highest speed mode.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Imaging device, 2 ... Operation means, 3 ... Detection means, 3a, 3b ... Sensor, 4a ... 1st control means, 4b ... 2nd control means, 6 ... Power supply part

Claims (6)

More than the first control means that monitors and processes the signals from the first control means for performing control related to the imaging process, the operation means including the switch, and the detection means for detecting the change to the photographing state. An image pickup apparatus comprising: a second control unit that consumes less power; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the first control unit, the second control unit, and other components.
When the second control unit receives a signal indicating a change from the detection unit to the photographing state in a power saving state in which power is supplied from the power supply unit to the second control unit, An imaging apparatus, wherein power is supplied from the power supply unit to each unit including the first control unit to shift to a power supply state in which a photographing operation is possible. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
When the power supply operation is not performed after the transition to the power supply state in which the photographing operation is possible, or the signal indicating the change from the detection means to the photographing state is not detected, the transition to the power saving state is performed. An imaging apparatus characterized by: The imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
An imaging apparatus comprising a sensor for detecting contact with the apparatus as the detection means. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
An image pickup apparatus comprising a sensor for detecting a change in posture of the apparatus main body as the detection means. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1,
When the second control unit receives a signal indicating a change from the detection unit to the photographing state, the suspension state of the second control unit is canceled and the control unit supplies power to the power supply unit. An imaging apparatus, wherein a supply instruction signal is transmitted. A method for starting an imaging apparatus having a power supply state control function including a first power control state in which an imaging operation is possible and a second power control state in which power consumption is lower than the first power control state. And
In the second power control state, the switch operation and the change to the photographing posture are monitored, and when the change to the photographing posture is detected in the second power control state, the first power control state is entered. And a method of starting the imaging apparatus.

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