JP2011019093A - Digital camera, digital camera system and method for updating program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a digital camera and a camera system for preventing a user from forgetting to upgrade a program in camera accessories.SOLUTION: When detecting that accessories such as a lens-barrel 50, a power battery holder 200, a stroboscopic device 300 or the like are mounted on a camera body 100 (S5 to S9), fundamental information is acquired from the accessories, and the acquired fundamental information of the accessories is stored in a flash memory 90 (S15). When the digital camera is connected to the program for updating the accessories and a network server 500 storing information related to the program for the updating (S17), the fundamental information of the accessories is transmitted (S49, S53 and S231). Whether to update the program is decided on the basis of information from the network server 500 (S75), and the accessories to be updated are notified and displayed on the basis of the result of the decision (S77).

Description

  The present invention relates to a digital camera, a camera system, and a program update method. More specifically, in a digital camera or digital camera system used in combination with an accessory, the digital camera, camera system, and program suitable for updating an accessory program Regarding the update method.

  Various accessories such as lenses and strobes used in combination with a digital camera have a built-in CPU, communicate with the digital camera body, and control each element in the accessory. As for the program for controlling the CPU in the accessory, it may be necessary to upgrade the version of the program whose defect has been corrected or the program whose function has been improved. In this case, the user starts an application for upgrading installed in a personal computer (PC), downloads it from the manufacturer's website via the Internet, etc., and downloads the downloaded program for upgrading to a USB memory or the like. Is installed in the main body of the digital camera and accessories.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that a digital camera program is upgraded using a facsimile apparatus. Further, Patent Document 2 discloses that a digital camera and a PC are connected via a network and a program upgrade process is performed in addition to a captured image data transfer process.

JP 2001-169044 A JP 2003-274272 A

  As described above, there are various proposals for upgrading the programs stored in the digital camera body and accessories. However, in order to upgrade the program in the accessory, the information of the accessory connected to the camera is transmitted to the PC through the camera. Therefore, for the accessory that is not connected to the camera, the program is upgraded. Could be forgotten.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a digital camera and a camera system that prevent a program upgrade in a camera accessory from being forgotten.

  In order to achieve the above object, a digital camera according to a first aspect of the present invention is a digital camera in which at least one accessory can be mounted from an available accessory group, and the accessory group can be operated by a corresponding program. The camera communicates with the external device storing the update program corresponding to the accessory group and the first auxiliary information related to the program, acquires the update program corresponding to the attached accessory from the external device, and acquires the update program. The program stored in the accessory can be updated, and the digital camera can acquire second supplementary information related to the accessory program in accordance with attachment of the accessory and the second supplementary information for each accessory. Storage means for storing the history information and the external device is connected. And means for acquiring first auxiliary information corresponding to the second auxiliary information stored in the history information from the external device, first auxiliary information acquired from the external device, and second auxiliary information stored in the history information A determination unit that determines whether the accessory program needs to be updated by comparing the information; and a display unit that displays a notification according to the determination result of the determination unit.

In a digital according to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, the first and second auxiliary information includes accessory identification data and program version data.
In the digital according to the third invention, in the second invention, the identification data of the accessory includes a serial number assigned to each accessory.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first to third aspects, the accessory includes at least one of an interchangeable lens, a strobe, and a battery holder.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the digital camera according to the first aspect, the transmission request for the update program is sent to the external device according to the accessory mounted in accordance with the notification display, and the received digital camera is received. Update program transmission means for transferring the update program to the accessory is provided.

  A digital camera system according to a sixth invention is a digital camera system comprising a digital camera capable of mounting at least one accessory from an available accessory group, and an external device connectable to the digital camera via a network. The external device has first information storage means for storing an update program corresponding to the accessory group and first auxiliary information related to the update program, and the digital camera is equipped with an accessory. The first acquisition means for acquiring the second auxiliary information related to the accessory program according to the above, the second storage means for storing the second auxiliary information as history information for each accessory, and the external device are connected. The first auxiliary information corresponding to the second auxiliary information stored in the history information is received from the external device. A second acquisition unit that determines whether the accessory program needs to be updated by comparing the first auxiliary information acquired from the external device with the second auxiliary information stored in the history information, and the determination Display means for performing notification display according to the determination result of the means.

  A digital camera according to a seventh invention is the digital camera according to the sixth invention, wherein the digital camera acquires an update program corresponding to the accessory mounted in accordance with the notification display from the external device and stores the update program in the accessory. Updating means for updating the programmed program.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program update method for acquiring basic information from an accessory when detecting that the accessory is mounted on a camera body, storing the acquired basic information of the accessory, and updating the accessory. And when connecting directly or indirectly to an external device that stores information related to this update program, the basic information of the accessory is transmitted, and the necessity of updating the program based on the information from the external device Based on the result of the determination, notification display of accessories that need to be updated is performed.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program updating method for acquiring basic accessory information from a camera body when connected to a camera body, and connecting the accessory updating program and an external device for storing information relating to the updating program. The latest version information about the update program is acquired based on the basic information of the accessory and the information about the update program, the latest version information is transmitted to the camera body, and the received accessory information is received from the camera body. Based on this, the update program is requested from the external device, and the acquired update program is transmitted to the camera body.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the digital camera, the digital camera system, and the program update method which prevented preventing forgetting the version upgrade of the program in a camera accessory can be provided.

It is a block diagram which shows the electric circuit of the digital camera concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electric circuit of the strobe concerning one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a camera system including a digital camera, a personal computer, and a server according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows the power-on reset operation | movement of the digital camera in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the connection process with PC of the digital camera in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the connection process with PC of the digital camera in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the accessory in one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of PC in one Embodiment of this invention. The information stored in the digital camera and accessory in one embodiment of the present invention is shown, (a) the contents stored in the first storage area of the camera, (b) the contents stored in the information storage area of the camera, (c) ) Indicates the storage contents of the storage area of the accessory, and (d) indicates the latest version information sent from the PC.

  A preferred embodiment will be described below using a camera body, a lens barrel, a strobe device to which the present invention is applied, and a digital camera system including these, according to the drawings. First, the configuration of a digital camera including the camera body 100, the lens barrel 50, and the power battery holder (PBH) 200 will be described with reference to a block diagram centered on the electrical system shown in FIG.

  Inside the lens barrel 50, a photographing lens 51 for adjusting the focal point and the focal length, and a diaphragm 52 for adjusting the aperture amount are arranged. The photographing lens 51 is driven by a lens driving mechanism 53, and the diaphragm 52 is driven by a diaphragm driving mechanism 54.

  The lens driving mechanism 53 and the aperture driving mechanism 54 are each connected to a lens control microcomputer (Lμcom) 55, and this Lμcom 55 is connected to the camera body 100 via a communication connector 60. Lμcom 55 controls the lens barrel 50, controls the lens driving mechanism 53 according to a program stored in the flash memory 56, performs focusing and zoom driving, and controls the aperture driving mechanism 54. Then, aperture value control is performed. Further, the Lμcom 55 can detect the amount of extension of the photographing lens 50 and transmit subject distance information based on the detected amount.

  A flash memory 56 is connected to the Lμcom 55, and a program for operating the Lμcom 55 and various information of the lens barrel 50 are stored in the flash memory 56. As various types of information, lens-specific information such as the focal length of the lens barrel 50, the maximum aperture value, and the optical characteristics of the lens is stored. Further, as shown in FIG. 9C, the flash memory 56 stores a product identification code indicating the type (model) of the lens barrel 50, a serial number, and program version information. Here, the product identification code is a code for identifying the product model, and the serial number is a number assigned to identify each product. The version information of the program is information for distinguishing from the previous program when the function of the program is improved or a defect is corrected.

  Within the camera main body 100, a position inclined by 45 degrees with respect to the optical axis of the photographing lens 51 in order to reflect the subject image to the observation optical system and a position jumped up to guide the subject image to the image sensor 74. A movable reflecting mirror 61 that can be rotated is provided. Above the movable reflecting mirror 61, a focusing screen 63 for forming a subject image is disposed, and above this focusing screen 63, a pentaprism 64 for reversing the subject image left and right is disposed. .

  An eyepiece 65 for observing the subject image is disposed on the exit side (right side in FIG. 1) of the pentaprism 64, and a photometric sensor 66 is disposed on the side of the pentaprism 64 so as not to interfere with the observation of the subject image. . The photometric sensor 66 is connected to a photometric circuit 87 that reads out and outputs a photometric signal.

  In the vicinity of the center of the movable reflecting mirror 61 described above, a half mirror is used. On the back surface of the movable reflecting mirror 61, the subject light transmitted through the half mirror portion is reflected to the lower part in the mirror box of the camera body 100. Submirror 62 is provided. The sub mirror 62 is rotatable with respect to the movable reflection mirror 61. When the movable reflection mirror 61 is raised, the sub mirror 62 is rotated to a position covering the half mirror portion, and the movable reflection mirror 61 is at the subject image observation position. Sometimes, it is in an open position with respect to the movable reflecting mirror 61 as shown. The movable reflecting mirror 61 is driven by a mirror driving mechanism 93.

  An AF sensor unit 67 including a distance measuring sensor is disposed below the sub mirror 62. The AF sensor unit 67 is an AF unit for performing distance measurement by a known TTL phase difference method. Is provided with an AF sensor. The AF sensor unit 67 is connected to an AF sensor drive circuit 94. The AF sensor drive circuit 94 drives the circuit system of the AF sensor unit 67 and reads signals from the AF sensor. Based on this signal output, the amount of defocus of the subject image formed by the photographing lens 51 is measured.

  A focal plane type shutter 71 for controlling the exposure time is disposed behind the movable reflecting mirror 61. The shutter 71 is shutter-charged by a shutter charge mechanism 92. The shutter 71 is connected to a shutter control circuit 91 and controls the shutter front curtain and rear curtain. An image sensor 74 is disposed behind the shutter 71 and photoelectrically converts a subject image formed by the photographing lens 51 into an electric signal. Needless to say, as the image pickup element 74, a two-dimensional solid-state image pickup element such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) can be used.

  Between the shutter 71 and the image sensor 74 described above, a dust removal mechanism is disposed that includes a dust filter 72 that constitutes a dust removal mechanism and a piezoelectric element 73 that is fixed to the periphery of the dust filter 72. The piezoelectric element 73 is driven by a dust filter driving circuit 88. The dustproof filter 72, the piezoelectric element 73, and the image sensor 74 are airtightly integrated as an image sensor unit 75, and are configured to prevent entry of dust and the like.

  The imaging element 74 is connected to an imaging interface circuit 81, and analog / digital conversion (AD conversion) is performed by the imaging interface circuit 81. The imaging interface circuit 81 is connected to the image processing controller 82. The image processing controller 82 performs various types of image processing such as color correction, gamma (γ) correction, contrast correction, black and white / color mode processing, and live view image processing on the AD-converted image data. Further, the image data is compressed by JPEG or TIFF, and the compressed image data is expanded. Note that image compression is not limited to JPEG or TIFF, and other compression methods can be applied.

A buffer memory 84, a flash memory 85, a recording medium 86, and a liquid crystal monitor 83 are connected to the image processing controller 82. The buffer memory 84 is an SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access).
Memory), and temporarily stores image data that has undergone image processing. The flash memory is an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory and stores parameters relating to image processing.

  The recording medium 86 can be loaded with any of rewritable recording media such as an xD picture card (registered trademark), a compact flash (registered trademark), an SD memory card (registered trademark), or a memory stick (registered trademark). And is detachable from the camera body 100. In addition, the hard disk may be configured to be connectable via a communication contact. The liquid crystal monitor 83 is arranged on the back surface of the camera body 100 and performs live view display, captured image display, playback image display, and shooting information display. Other display devices such as an organic EL monitor are not limited to the liquid crystal monitor.

  The image processing controller 82 is connected to a body control microcomputer (Bμcom) 101 which is a controller for controlling the camera body 100. The Bμcom 101 is connected to the dustproof filter driving circuit 88, the shutter control circuit 91, the shutter charge mechanism 92, the mirror driving mechanism 93, the AF sensor driving circuit 94, the communication connector 60, and the photometric circuit 87 described above. Control. The Bμcom 101 includes a flash memory 90, a communication connector 102, an operation display LCD 103, a camera operation switch 104, a LAN I / F (run interface: local area network interface) 107, a serial I / F 108, and a communication connector, which will be described later. 109.

  The flash memory 90 is an electrically rewritable nonvolatile memory, and includes a program for operating a body control microcomputer 101 (to be described later), accessories such as the lens barrel 50, program version information regarding the camera body 100, and the like. It is remembered. That is, as will be described later, in the flash memory 90, as shown in FIG. 9B, a product identification code, a serial number, and program version information of the camera body 100 are recorded. Each time an accessory such as the lens barrel 50 is attached to the camera body 100, the product identification code, serial number, and program version information of each accessory are recorded as shown in FIG.

  The communication connector 102 is configured to be connectable to a communication connector 301 (see FIG. 2) provided on the shoe of the external strobe device 300, and is a connector for communicating with a strobe macro computer (Sμcom) 333 described later. . The communication connector 109 is configured to be connectable to the communication connector of the power battery holder (PBH) 200, and communicates with a power battery holder control microcomputer (Pμcom) 205 described later.

  The LAN I / F 107 is an interface for directly connecting to the Bμcom 101 and a network outside the camera body 100 and communicating with a predetermined network server 500 via the network 600. The serial I / F 108 is an interface for connecting the Bμcom 101 and an external device with a serial signal. It can be connected to a personal computer (PC) 400 (see FIG. 3) for communication, or can be connected to a memory such as a USB memory.

  The operation display LCD 103 is a small liquid crystal display monitor disposed on the upper surface of the camera body 100 in order to display an operation state. A power supply battery 105 loaded in a battery chamber in the camera body 100 is connected to a power supply circuit 106. The power supply circuit 106 makes a constant voltage at a predetermined voltage and supplies power to each circuit unit and the like.

  The camera operation switch 104 is a switch for detecting the first and second strokes of the shutter release button, a switch for instructing a reproduction mode, a switch for instructing an ISO setting mode, a switch for instructing white balance setting, and a screen of the liquid crystal monitor 83 , A switch for instructing the movement of the cursor, a photographing mode dial for instructing a photographing mode, an OK switch for determining each selected mode, and a switch for instructing display switching. Note that various shooting modes such as a program mode and a macro mode can be selected as the shooting mode.

  The power battery holder (PBH) 200 can be mounted on the bottom of the camera body 100 and the like, can store a power battery therein, and is a large-capacity power source configured integrally with the camera body 100 when performing large-capacity shooting. It is. In the PBH 200, a power battery 203, a power battery holder (PBH) control microcomputer (Pμcom) 205, a flash memory 206, and an operation switch (SW) 207 are provided.

  The power supply battery 203 is a power supply for operating the camera body 100 and is connected in parallel to the power supply battery 105 in the camera body 100 via a circuit (not shown). In addition, the connection part of PBH200 may be stored in the battery compartment of camera body 100. The Pμcom 205 is connected to the flash memory 206 and the operation switch (SW) 207, and controls circuits and mechanisms in the PBH 200.

  The flash memory 206 stores a program for controlling the Pμcom 205, and controls the PBH 200 according to the program of the Pμcom 205. The flash memory 206 also stores various information such as the product identification code, serial number, and control program version information of the PBH 200, similar to the flash memory 56 of the lens barrel 50. The operation SW 207 includes various operation switches such as a shutter release button, and the shutter release button is wired in parallel with the release button provided in the camera body 100.

  Next, the configuration of the strobe device 300 will be described using a block diagram of an electric circuit in the strobe device shown in FIG. The strobe device 300 is an external strobe for the camera main body 100, and is composed of three parts: a pedestal 302, a strobe main body 303, and a light emitting unit 304. The base 302 and the strobe main body 303 can be rotated, and the strobe main body 303 and the light emitting unit 304 can also be rotated.

  Between the pedestal 302 and the light emitting unit 304, a rotating member having a first rotating shaft along the horizontal direction is provided at the upper end of the strobe body unit 303 in order to rotate the light emitting unit 304. . In addition, a rotation member having a second rotation axis in parallel with the first rotation axis is provided at the lower end of the strobe body section 303 in order to rotate the strobe body section 303.

  The pedestal 302 is provided with a shoe for mounting on the camera main body 100. The shoe is fitted to the communication connector 102 of the camera main body 100 and communicates with the Bμcom 101 via this. A connector 301 is provided.

  A strobe control microcomputer (Sμcom) 333 connected to the communication connector 301 is provided in the strobe main body 303. The Sμcom 333 is connected to the driver circuit 332, the forward end detection sensor 334, the normal position end detection sensor 335, the power supply circuit 336, and the flash memory 338 in the strobe body 303. Further, the Sμcom 333 performs electrical control in the strobe device 300 in accordance with a program stored in the flash memory 338. In addition to the execution program of Sμcom 333, the flash memory 338 stores various information such as the product identification code of the strobe device 300, the serial number, and version information of the control program, as with the flash memory 56 of the lens barrel 50. ing.

  The power supply circuit 336 is connected to the power supply battery 337, converts the battery voltage to a constant voltage, and supplies power to each circuit in the strobe device 300. The driver circuit 332 is connected to the motor 331 and drives the motor 331. The motor 331 is a DC motor that drives the strobe main body 303 to either the normal position or the forward tilt position with respect to the pedestal 302.

  The forward tilt end detection sensor 334 is a sensor that detects that the strobe main body 303 has moved to the forward tilt position, and is a photo interrupter (PI) that includes a light emitting diode and a photo sensor. The normal position end detection sensor 335 is a sensor that detects that the strobe body 303 has moved to the normal position, and is a photo interrupter (PI) that includes a light emitting diode and a photo sensor.

  In addition, the Sμcom 333 is connected to a light emitting circuit 313, a charging circuit 314, a charging voltage detection circuit 315, a driver circuit 317, a close terminal detection sensor (PI) 318, and It is connected to an infinite end detection sensor (PI) 319.

  The charging circuit 314 boosts the voltage supplied from the power supply circuit 336 and charges the main capacitor. The charging voltage detection circuit 315 is a circuit that detects this charging voltage, and transmits charging voltage information in response to a request from the Bμcom 101 in the camera body 100. The light emitting circuit 313 applies the high voltage charged by the charging circuit 314 to the xenon tube 312 to start flash emission. A parabolic reflector 311 is arranged behind the xenon tube 312 for stroboscopic light irradiation.

  The driver circuit 317 is connected to the stepping motor 316 and adjusts the angle of the light emitting unit 304 with respect to the strobe body unit 303. Since it is a stepping motor, fine angle adjustment is possible according to the number of input pulses. The maximum downward direction of the light emitting unit 304 corresponds to the closest end of the subject distance, while the maximum upward direction corresponds to infinity of the subject distance. The number of input pulses is calculated by Sμcom 333 from the subject distance information.

  The close end detection sensor 318 is a sensor that detects that the light emitting unit 304 has moved to the close end position, and is a photo interrupter (PI) that includes a light emitting diode and a photo sensor. The infinity position end detection sensor 319 is a sensor that detects that the light emitting unit 304 has moved to the infinity position, and is a photointerrupter (PI) that includes a light emitting diode and a photosensor.

  The detection rib 338 is a light shielding member fixed around a rotation shaft provided on the top of the strobe main body 303. The detection rib 338 enters between the light-emitting diode and the photosensor of the closest end detection sensor 318 and detects that the closest position has been reached in the closest position (maximum downward state of the light emitting unit 4). On the other hand, in the state of the infinity side position (maximum upward state of the light emitting unit 304), the detection rib 338 enters between the light emitting diode of the infinity end detection sensor 319 and the photo sensor, and detects that the position has reached the infinity position. .

  Next, a camera system including a camera, a personal computer, and a server in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The camera 1 includes the above-described camera body 100, lens barrel 50, PBH 200, and strobe device 300. The camera 1 can be connected to a personal computer (PC) 400 via the serial I / F 108 and the connection line 11, and the PC 400 can be connected to the network 600 via the connection line 410. The camera 1 can also be connected to the network 600 via the LAN I / F 107 of the camera body 100 and not via the PC 400.

  A network server 500 is connected to the network 600 via a connection line 510. The network server 500 includes information such as an update program for each optimum version and version information for each product according to the product identification codes of the camera body 100 and its accessories (for example, the lens barrel 50, the PBH 200, and the strobe device 300). Is remembered. In response to a request from the PC 400 or the camera 1, the network server 500 transmits a stored update program, version information, and the like. In the present embodiment, the network server 500 is a server operated by the manufacturer of the camera system including the camera body 100, and stores the program version information and the like of the camera body 100 and its accessories constituting the camera system.

  Next, the operation of the camera system in this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the present embodiment, the camera body 100, the PC 400, and the network server 500 operate in a communicable state.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a program executed by the Bμcom 101 in the camera main body 100, which is sequentially read from the flash memory 90 and executed. When the power supply battery 105 is loaded, the power-on reset is performed, and the process by the Bμcom 101 is started. When the power-on reset is performed, initial setting is first performed (S1). Here, mechanical initial setting and electrical initial setting in the camera body 100 are performed. Subsequently, it is determined whether a power switch which is one of the camera operation switches 104 is on or off (S3). If the result of this determination is that it is off, it enters a standby state waiting for it to be turned on.

  If the result of determination in step S3 is that the power switch is on, communication with the lens barrel 50 is next carried out (S5). Here, communication is performed with the Lμcom 56 in the lens barrel 50 via the communication connector 60, and it is determined whether or not the lens barrel 50 is attached to the camera body 100. If the result of this determination is that the lens barrel 50 is attached, various information stored in the flash memory 56 is acquired. Here, the various types of information include the focal length of the lens barrel 50, aperture value information, currently set distance information, and the like, and a product identification code, serial number, program as shown in FIG. 9C. Basic information such as version information is also included.

  Once communication with the lens is performed, communication with the PBH 200 is performed (S7). Here, communication with the Pμcom 205 in the PBH 200 is performed via the communication connector 109 to determine whether or not the PBH 200 is attached to the camera body 100. If the result of this determination is that the PBH 200 is mounted, various information such as the product identification code, serial number, and program version information of the PBH 200 stored in the flash memory 206 is acquired.

  Once communication with the PBH 200 is performed, communication with the strobe device 300 is performed (S9). Here, communication is performed with the Sμcom 333 in the flash device 300 via the communication connectors 102 and 201 to determine whether or not the flash device 300 is attached to the camera body 100. As a result of this determination, when the strobe device 300 is mounted, various information stored in the flash memory 338 is acquired. Here, the various information includes a strobe device guide number, currently set distance information, and the like, and also includes basic information such as a product identification code, serial number, and program version information.

  Once communication with the strobe is performed, next, switch detection is performed (S11). Here, an operation state / setting state of the camera switch 104 such as a shutter release button or a shooting mode dial is detected. Subsequently, a mode change process is performed (S13). Here, based on the operation state or setting state of the shooting mode dial or the like detected in step S11, the shooting mode or the like is changed.

  Subsequently, the basic information of the attached accessory is stored (S15). Here, the basic information of the accessory acquired by communication with the accessory in steps S5 to S9 is stored in the flash memory 90 as shown in FIG. As basic information, for example, when the accessory is the lens barrel 50, as shown in FIG. 9C, there are a product identification code, a serial number, program version information, and the like. Once the accessory is attached to the camera main body 100, the basic information of the accessory acquired at that time is stored in the flash memory 90, and the storage of the basic information of the accessory is retained even after the accessory is detached. Therefore, basic information of all accessories that have been attached to the camera body 100 in the past is stored in the storage area of the flash memory 90 shown in FIG.

  Once the accessory basic information is stored, it is next determined whether or not the PC 400 is connected (S17). Since it is connected to the PC 400 via the serial I / F 108, it is determined by detecting whether or not it is electrically connected via this line. If the result of this determination is that there is a connection to the PC, connection processing with the PC is then performed (S19). Here, when the program version of the attached accessory is old and inappropriate, the program is upgraded. If the accessory is not attached and the accessory program version is not appropriate, the accessory is attached and a display for prompting the program to be upgraded is displayed. Detailed processing of the connection processing with the PC will be described later with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

  If the connection process with the PC in step S19 is performed or if the result of determination in step S17 is that the PC is not connected, it is next determined whether the 1R switch is on or off (S21). Here, it is determined whether or not the shutter release button of the camera SW 104 is half pressed. If the result of this determination is that the shutter release button has not been half-pressed, processing returns to step S3.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S21 is that it has been half-pressed and the 1R switch is on, a shooting operation is carried out (S23). Here, automatic focus adjustment (AF), automatic exposure control (AE), and the like are performed. When the shutter release button is fully pressed and the 2R switch is turned on, the movable mirror 61 is retracted from the photographing optical path, the shutter 71 is opened, and the image data output from the image sensor 74 is recorded on the recording medium 86. Further, when the subject has a low luminance, illumination by the strobe device 300 is performed during shooting. When the photographing operation ends, the process returns to step S3.

  Next, the connection process with the PC in step S19 will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. In the flow of connection processing with the PC, first, a connection request is made to the PC 400 (S31). In the present embodiment, the Bμcom 101 of the camera body 100 and the PC 400 communicate with each other by a so-called handshake. In step S31, in order to perform communication by handshaking, a connection request command is transmitted to the PC 400 side.

  Subsequently, the basic information of the camera is transferred (S33). Here, the camera product identification code, serial number, and program version information as shown in FIG. 9B are transmitted as basic information of the camera. Subsequently, a command is received from the PC (S35), and a PC command is waited (S37). That is, transmission is performed from the camera body 100 to the PC 400 in steps S31 and S33, and a reply from the PC 400 is awaited in steps S35 and S37. If the result of determination in step S37 is that no command has been received from the PC 400, processing returns to step S35.

  If the result of determination in step S37 is that a command has been received from the PC 400, it is next determined whether or not to end (S39). When connection processing with the PC 400 is performed, a display for connection processing is displayed on the monitor screen of the PC 400. On this monitor screen, an icon for selecting “end” and for selecting “storage mode” are displayed. The icon for selecting "Upgrade" is displayed. In this step S39, it is determined whether or not the command received from the PC 400 is an “end” selection icon. If “end” is selected as a result of the determination in step S39, the process returns to the original flow.

  On the other hand, if “end” is not selected as a result of the determination in step S39, it is next determined whether or not “storage mode” is selected (S41). In the storage mode, image data is received from the PC 400, and the image data is recorded in a memory such as the recording medium 86 in the camera body 100, or the image data recorded in the memory such as the recording medium 86 is read, and the PC 400 This is a mode for outputting image data. Here, it is determined whether or not the storage mode is set based on the command received from the PC 400.

  If the result of determination in step S41 is that storage mode has been selected, media information is then transmitted (S61). Here, media information such as the storage capacity of the recording medium 86 and FAT (File Allocation Table) is transmitted. Subsequently, a command is received from the PC 400 (S63), and it is determined whether the command transmits data from the PC to the camera or from the camera to the PC (S65).

  If the result of determination in step S65 is that data is to be transmitted from the camera to the PC, then image data recorded on the recording medium 86 in the camera body 100 is read and transmitted to the PC 400 (S67). On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S65 is that data is to be transmitted from the PC to the camera, then the camera body 100 receives the image data recorded in the PC 400 (S69). Here, the received image data is recorded on the recording medium 86 or the like. When the process in step S67 or S69 ends, the process returns to step S35.

  If the result of determination in step S41 is not storage mode, it is next determined whether or not version upgrade is in effect (S43). Here, it is determined whether or not a Bμcom 101 program in the camera main body 100 or a program for upgrading a program for executing a microcomputer in an accessory such as the lens barrel 50 attached to the camera main body 100 is received. . If the result of this determination is that the version has not been upgraded, processing returns to step S35.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S43 is that the version has been upgraded, next, camera information is transmitted to the PC (S45). Here, the product identification code, serial number, and version information of the camera body 100 as shown in FIG. 9B are transmitted. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the accessory is attached (S47). In steps S5 to S9, since communication is performed with the lens barrel 50, the PBH 200, and the strobe device 300, it is determined whether or not these accessories are mounted based on the communication result at this time.

  If the result of determination in step S47 is that an accessory is attached, then information on the attached accessory is sent to the PC 400 (S49). If at least one of the lens barrel 50, the PBH 200, and the strobe device 300 is attached, the product identification code, serial number, and version information stored in step S15 are transmitted to the PC 400 for the attached accessory. To do.

  If accessory information is transmitted in step S49, or if the accessory is not attached as a result of the determination in step S47, it is next determined whether or not the accessory information is present (S51). Here, it is determined whether or not there is accessory information other than the accessory that has been attached to the camera body 100 and is determined to be attached in step S47.

  If the result of determination in step S51 is that there is an unattached accessory, then information on that accessory is transmitted to the PC 400 (S53). As described above, in the flash memory 90 of the camera 100, when an accessory such as a lens barrel is attached to the camera body 100, the product identification code, serial number, and serial number of the accessory as shown in FIG. Program version information is recorded. This stored accessory transmits basic information other than the basic information transmitted to the PC 400 in step S49. Of course, all the stored basic information may be transmitted to the PC 400 and identified on the PC 400 side.

  If the accessory basic information is transmitted to the PC 400 in step S53, it is next determined whether or not all the information has been transferred (S55). Here, it is determined whether basic information of all accessories recorded in the flash memory 90 has been transmitted to the PC 400. If all the information has not been transferred as a result of this determination, the process returns to step S53 to continue the transfer.

  As a result of the determination in step S55, if all the information has been transferred, or if the result of determination in step S51 is that there is no accessory information, then the information transfer completion is transmitted to the PC 400 (S57). .

  Subsequently, the latest version information of the camera and accessories is received from the PC 400 (S71). As shown in FIG. 9D, the latest program version information for each product identification code received from the network server 500 is stored in the PC 400. In step S71, these pieces of information are stored in the camera body. 100 is transferred.

  When the latest version information is received, the memory version information is compared with the latest version information, and the old version information is displayed (S73). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the version needs to be upgraded (S75). The latest version of the program acquired from the PC 400 in step S71 (see FIG. 9D) is compared with the accessory program version stored in the flash memory 90 (see FIG. 9A), and it is necessary to upgrade the version. Determine.

  Comparison of program versions will be described with reference to the example shown in FIG. The serial number of the lens 1 is “000110100”, and the program version is 1.2. On the other hand, the optimum program version transmitted from the PC 400 is 1.3. For this reason, it is determined that the version of the program stored in the lens 1 is old and inappropriate. Similarly, it is determined that the versions of the lens 2, lens 3, and PBH1 programs are old and need to be upgraded.

  If the result of determination in step S75 is that there is no need for version upgrade, next, completion display is performed (S97). Since both the accessory currently mounted on the camera body 100 and the accessory that has been mounted in the past have the latest version of the program installed, a completion display is displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 83 of the camera body 100. When the completion display is performed, a version upgrade completion is transmitted to the PC 400 (S99), and the process returns to step S35.

  If the result of determination in step S75 is that there is a need for version upgrade, the user is notified of the need for version upgrade (S77). Here, an accessory that needs to be upgraded is shown on the liquid crystal monitor 83 of the camera body 100, and the necessity is notified. Subsequently, it is determined whether the power switch is on or off (S79). When there is no accessory that needs to be upgraded, or when the user does not want to upgrade, the upgrade process can be terminated. If the result of this determination is that the power switch is off, processing advances to step S97 and the version upgrade process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S79 is that the power switch is on, information on the mounting accessory is then transmitted to the PC 400 (S81). Information on the attached accessory is transmitted to the PC 400.

  Next, the latest corresponding program is received from the PC 400 and stored in the flash memory 90 (S83). When the product identification code and the latest version information are transmitted in step S81, the upgrade program is transmitted in step S83, and the upgrade program is temporarily stored.

  When the upgrade program transmitted from the PC is stored, the corresponding accessory is instructed to rewrite the program (S85). Here, an instruction is given to rewrite the temporarily stored program with the program stored in each flash memory of the accessory such as the lens barrel 50.

  Once the rewrite instruction has been issued, the contents of the memory are then transferred to the accessory (S87). Here, the temporarily stored upgrade program is transferred to each accessory. After transferring to the accessory in step S87, it is next determined whether or not the transfer is completed (S89). If the result of this determination is that it has not been completed, the flow returns to step S87 to continue transfer and wait for completion.

  If the result of determination in step S89 is complete, then the old version information is updated (S91). Here, the basic information as shown in FIG. 9A stored in the flash memory 90 is updated to the latest information. For example, in the example of FIG. 9, when the program of the lens 1 is upgraded, the program version information of the lens 1 shown in FIG. 9A is 1.3.

  Once the version information has been updated, it is next determined whether the power switch is on or off, as in step S75 (S93). If the result of this determination is that the power switch is off, processing advances to step S97 and the version upgrade process is terminated. On the other hand, if the power switch is on, it is next determined whether or not the accessory has been replaced (S95).

  If the result of determination in step S95 is that the accessory has not been replaced, processing returns to step S93. If the accessory is replaced and the program is not upgraded, or if the user does not want to upgrade, the upgrade process can be terminated by turning off the power switch. On the other hand, if the accessory has been replaced, the process returns to step S73, and if the replaced accessory needs to be upgraded, version upgrade processing is executed in step S77 and subsequent steps.

  Next, operations of accessories such as the lens barrel 50, the PBH 200, and the strobe device 300 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. Each accessory performs a specific function, but in this flowchart, only the operation for upgrading the program is described.

  When the accessory battery is loaded, the processing of the flow shown in FIG. 7 is started. First, initial setting is performed (S101). Here, mechanical initialization and electrical initialization are performed. Subsequently, communication is performed with the Bμcom 101 in the camera body 100 (S103). In steps S5 to S9 described above, communication is performed also on the camera body 100 side, and communication processing is also performed on the accessory side.

  Once communication with the camera has been carried out, it is next determined whether or not there is a request for basic information (S105). Here, in step S103, communication is established, and it is determined whether or not a basic information transmission request has been received from the camera side. If the basic information request is met as a result of the determination, the basic information is then transmitted to the camera (S107). Basic information includes a product identification code, serial number, and version information. In the case of the lens barrel 50, the basic information is information as shown in FIG.

  If the basic information is transmitted in step S107 or if the basic information is not requested as a result of the determination in step S105, it is next determined whether or not the version is upgraded (S109). As described above, when it is necessary to rewrite the program, in step S85, an instruction to rewrite the program is issued from the camera side to the accessory side. Therefore, in step S109, it is determined whether or not a program rewrite instruction is issued from the camera side.

  If the result of determination in step S109 is that the version has been upgraded, then data is received from the camera (S111). As described above, since the upgrade program is transferred from the camera side to the accessory side in step S87, the upgrade program from the camera side is received in step S111.

  When data is received from the camera, the received data is then stored in the memory (S113). As a result, the control programs stored in the flash memories 56, 206, and 338 in each accessory are upgraded. When the received data is stored in step S113 or if the result of determination in step S109 is that the version has not been upgraded, the process returns to step S103.

  Next, the operation of the PC 400 will be described using an application flowchart. When the application of the PC 400 is activated, initialization is first performed (S201), and subsequently, a user login process, that is, an ID and password (PW) input process is performed (S203). Here, an input screen of ID and PW is displayed on the monitor screen of PC 400, and it is determined whether or not the input ID and PW match information registered in advance.

  If the login process is completed, it is next determined whether or not the camera is connected (S205). As described above, it is determined by detecting whether or not the camera body 100 is electrically connected via the connection line 11. If the result of this determination is that there is a connection, a connection request is made to the camera (S207), and it is determined whether or not connection OK has been received from the camera (S209). If the result of this determination is that it is not OK, it waits for connection OK. In the present embodiment, as described above, communication is established by handshaking.

  If the result of determination in step S209 is that connection is OK, then basic camera information is received (S211). As described above, since the camera body 100 transfers the basic information of the camera as shown in FIG. 9B in step S33, the basic information from the camera is received in step S211.

  When the basic information is received from the camera, next, the key input from the user is detected (S213). In the present embodiment, an “end” selection icon, a “storage mode” selection icon, and a “version upgrade” selection icon are displayed on the monitor screen of the PC 400. In this step, Detect whether the icon is clicked. In the present embodiment, the flow when the storage mode is selected is omitted.

  Once key input has been performed, it is next determined whether or not it is an end key (S215). Here, it is determined whether or not the end icon has been clicked. If the end icon is clicked as a result of this determination, the flow ends. On the other hand, if it is not the end key, it is next determined whether or not the version has been upgraded (S217). Here, it is determined whether or not the version upgrade icon has been clicked. If the result of this determination is that the version has not been upgraded, processing returns to step S213.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S217 is version upgrade, a connection request is made to the network server 500 (S219). Since information and programs necessary for upgrading are stored in the network server 500, those information and programs are acquired in step S219 and the subsequent steps.

  If a connection request is made to the network server, it is next determined whether or not the connection is OK (S221). Here, it is determined whether or not the connection OK has been received from the network server 500, and when the connection is not OK, it waits for the connection to be OK. In the present embodiment, as described above, communication is established by handshaking.

  If the result of determination in step S221 is that connection is OK, user login processing is next performed as in step S203 (S223). Here, the ID and PW are transmitted to the network server 500, and the network server 500 determines whether or not the received ID and PW match the information registered in advance.

  When the user login process ends, next, camera information is received from the camera body 100 (S225). Since the camera information is transmitted to the PC 400 in step S45 described above, the camera information at this time is received. As described above, the product identification code, serial number, and version information of the camera body 100 as shown in FIG. 9B are transmitted as the camera information.

  Subsequently, the accessory information attached to the camera is received (S227). Since the information on the attached accessory is transmitted to the PC 400 in step S49, the accessory information at this time is received. Subsequently, all accessory information that has been attached from the camera is received (S229). In step S53 described above, information on the accessory that has been attached is transmitted to the PC 400, so the accessory information at this time is received. As described above, the accessory information includes the product identification code, serial number, and version information of the accessory.

  Next, information is transmitted to the network server (S231). Here, the basic information of the cameras and accessories received in steps S225 to S229 is transmitted to the network server 500. Next, the latest program version information is requested (S233). When the network server 500 receives the basic information of the camera and accessories and the latest version information request, the network server 500 determines whether the upgrade is necessary, and transmits the latest program version information when the upgrade is necessary. . In this determination, the network server 500 stores a database of latest version information for each product identification code, and transmits the latest version information based on this database. This latest version information is the same as that shown in FIG.

  When the latest version information is requested in step S233, next, the latest version information is received from the network server 500 (S235), and the received latest version information is transmitted to the camera (S237). When the latest version information is transmitted to the camera, the camera body 100 receives this information in step S71 described above.

  In step S235, the latest version of the program is transmitted from the network server 500. However, the optimum version may change depending on the version of the camera body 100 and the accessories to be combined. Therefore, the latest program version in this embodiment is determined in consideration of these factors.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the upgrade is completed (S239). Here, it is determined whether or not there is no camera body or accessory that needs to be upgraded, or whether or not the upgrade completion icon has been selected on the monitor screen of the PC 400. If the result of this determination is that the upgrade has not been completed, then information on the accessory to be upgraded is received from the camera (S241). In step S81 described above, information on the attached accessory is transmitted from the camera side to the PC side, so that information is received here.

  Subsequently, the network server is requested for the program of the selected camera or accessory (S243). Here, the network server 500 is requested to transmit a program for upgrading the accessory program received in step S241. Upon receiving this request, the network server 500 transmits a version upgrade program in response to the request.

  When a request is made to the network server 500, next, a program is received from the network server (S245), and the received program is transmitted to the camera (S247). As described above, in step S83, the camera receives the program, and in steps S85 to S87, the accessory rewrites the program.

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the upgrade has been completed (S249). Here, it is determined whether or not the upgrade process has been completed for the accessory that needs to be upgraded received in step S235. If the result of this determination is that it has not been completed, processing returns to step S239 and the version upgrade process is continued.

  If the version upgrade process is completed as a result of the determination in step S249, or if the version upgrade is completed as a result of the determination in step S239, a disconnection request is sent to the network server 500 (S251), and it is determined whether disconnection is OK ( S253). If the result of this determination is that it is not OK, it waits for disconnection OK, and if disconnection is OK, it returns to step S213.

  As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the external device such as the network server 500 includes the update program corresponding to the accessory, and the first supplementary information such as version information and product identification code related to the update program. Information (for example, see FIG. 9D) is stored, and the camera body 100 stores second auxiliary information (for example, see FIG. 9A) such as accessory version information, product identification code, and serial number. I remember it. Then, when the camera body 100 is directly or indirectly connected to the external device such as the server, the first auxiliary information is compared with the second auxiliary information to determine the necessity of updating the accessory program, I am trying to announce. For this reason, it is possible to prevent forgetting to upgrade the program in the accessory.

  In addition, when an accessory that requires a program update is attached, the program can be updated by transmitting the update program to the accessory. For this reason, by installing accessories according to the display, the program is updated, and the programs of all the accessories can be easily updated. In addition, the update program for accessories attached to the camera can be received and rewritten without storing all the update programs from the server or the like in the camera body, so that a large-capacity memory is not required.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the camera body 100 and the network server 500 are connected via the PC 400 in between. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the latest update program may be received by directly connecting to the network server 500 via the LAN I / F 107 of the camera body 100. In this case, the camera body 100 is provided with the function of the PC 400 shown in FIG.

  Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the function sharing is performed between the camera body 100 and the PC 400, but the processing may be changed as appropriate. For example, the selection of the storage mode or version upgrade is performed by the PC 400, but may be performed by the camera 100, or may be selected by the user so as to be performed by both.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the digital camera is used as the photographing device. However, the camera may be a digital single-lens reflex camera, a compact digital camera, or a digital camera with interchangeable lenses. It may be a moving image camera such as a camera, or may be a camera built in a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a game machine, or the like.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the embodiment. For example, you may delete some components of all the components shown by embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Camera, 11 ... Connection line, 13 ... Connection line, 50 ... Lens barrel, 51 ... Shooting lens, 52 ... Aperture, 53 ... Lens drive mechanism, 54 ... Aperture drive mechanism, 55 ... Lens control microcomputer (L [mu] com), 56 ... Flash memory, 60 ... Communication connector, 61 ... Moving reflective mirror, 62 ... Sub mirror, 63 ... Focusing screen, 64... Pentaprism, 65. Eyepiece, 66 .. photometric sensor, 67... AF sensor unit, 71... Shutter, 72. Piezoelectric element, 74 ... image sensor, 75 ... image unit, 81 ... imaging interface circuit, 82 ... image processing controller, 83 ... liquid crystal monitor, 84 ... battery Memory (SDRAM), 85 ... Flash memory, 86 ... Recording medium, 87 ... Photometry circuit, 88 ... Dust filter driving circuit, 90 ... Non-volatile memory (EEPROM), 91 ... Shutter control circuit, 92 ... Shutter charge mechanism, 93 ... Mirror drive mechanism, 94 ... AF sensor drive circuit, 100 ... Camera body, 101 ... Body control microcomputer (Bμcom), 102 ... Communication connector, 103 ... LCD for operation display, 104 ... Camera operation SW, 105 ... Power supply battery, 106 ... Power supply circuit, 107 ... LAN I / F, 108 ... Serial I / F, 109 ... communication connector, 200 ... power battery holder (PBH), 203 ... power battery, 205 ... power battery Re-control microcomputer (Pμcom), 206 ... Flash memory, 207 ... Operation switch (SW), 300 ... Strobe device, 301 ... Communication connector, 302 ... Base, 303 ... Strobe Main body 304, light emitting unit, 311 ... reflector, 312 ... xenon tube, 313 ... light emitting circuit, 314 ... charging circuit, 315 ... charging voltage detection circuit, 316 ... Stepping motor, 317 ... driver circuit, 318 ... close end detection sensor (PI), 319 ... infinite end detection sensor (PI), 331 ... motor, 332 ... driver circuit, 333 ..Strobe control microcomputer (Sμcom), 334... Forward tilt end detection sensor, 335... Normal position end detection sensor, 336. Source circuit, 337... Power supply battery, 338... Flash memory, 400... Personal computer (PC), 410 .. connection line, 500 .. network server, 510. ··network

Claims (9)

In digital cameras that can be equipped with at least one accessory from the available accessories group,
The accessory group can be operated by the corresponding program,
The digital camera communicates with an external device storing an update program corresponding to the accessory group and first auxiliary information related to the program, and acquires an update program corresponding to the attached accessory from the external device. You can update the program stored in the accessory,
The above digital camera
Means for acquiring second auxiliary information related to the accessory program in accordance with the attachment of the accessory;
Storage means for storing the second auxiliary information as history information for each accessory;
Means for acquiring, from the external device, first auxiliary information corresponding to the second auxiliary information stored in the history information when the external device is connected;
Determining means for comparing the first auxiliary information acquired from the external device with the second auxiliary information stored in the history information to determine the necessity of updating the accessory program;
Display means for performing notification display according to the determination result of the determination means;
A digital camera comprising:   The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the first and second auxiliary information includes accessory identification data and program version data.   The digital camera according to claim 2, wherein the accessory identification data includes a serial number assigned to each accessory.   4. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the accessory includes at least one of an interchangeable lens, a strobe, and a battery holder.   In accordance with the accessory mounted in accordance with the notification display, an update program transmission means is provided for transmitting the update program to the external device and transferring the received update program to the accessory. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the digital camera is a digital camera. In a digital camera system comprising a digital camera capable of mounting at least one accessory from a group of available accessories and an external device connectable to the digital camera via a network,
The external device has first information storage means for storing an update program corresponding to the accessory group and first auxiliary information related to the update program,
The above digital camera
First acquisition means for acquiring second auxiliary information related to the accessory program in accordance with the attachment of the accessory;
Second storage means for storing the second auxiliary information as history information for each accessory;
Second acquisition means for acquiring, from the external device, first auxiliary information corresponding to the second auxiliary information stored in the history information when the external device is connected;
Determining means for comparing the first auxiliary information acquired from the external device with the second auxiliary information stored in the history information to determine the necessity of updating the accessory program;
Display means for performing notification display according to the determination result of the determination means;
A digital camera system comprising:   The digital camera includes an update unit that acquires an update program corresponding to an accessory mounted in accordance with the notification display from the external device and updates the program stored in the accessory. Item 7. The digital camera system according to Item 6. When it is detected that an accessory is attached to the camera body, basic information is acquired from the accessory.
Store the basic information of the accessories acquired above,
When connecting directly or indirectly to an accessory update program and an external device that stores information related to this update program, the basic information of the accessory is sent,
Determine the necessity of program update based on the information from the external device,
A program update method, comprising: displaying an announcement of an accessory that needs to be updated based on the result of the determination. When connecting to the camera body, get the basic information of accessories from the camera body,
Connect to an accessory update program and an external device that stores information about the update program.
Based on the basic information on the accessory and information on the update program, obtain the latest version information on the update program, send the latest version information to the camera body,
Based on the mounting accessory information received from the camera body, request the update program to the external device, and transmit the acquired update program to the camera body.
The program update method characterized by the above-mentioned.