JP2017167518A - Imaging apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus capable of generating a still picture from a piece of moving image data while reducing processing time for carrying out a pick-up of an image.SOLUTION: The imaging apparatus includes: an optical system including a focus lens; an imaging unit that generates an image signal by picking up an image of a subject which is input via an optical system; an image processing part that carries out a series of predetermined processing on the image signal to generate a piece of image data; an operation part that receives operation made by a user; and a control unit that controls the image processing part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present disclosure relates to an imaging apparatus capable of recording an image focused on an image region designated by a user.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an imaging device that generates a user-desired still image from a plurality of frame images constituting recorded moving image data. The image pickup apparatus of Patent Literature 1 obtains a focus position for each divided region of an image while moving the focus lens within a movable range of the focus lens before moving image recording. Thereafter, a moving image is recorded in the same range while moving the focus lens. The imaging device generates a still image by extracting one image designated by the user from the frame images constituting the moving image data. Thereby, the user can obtain an image taken at a decisive moment without being aware of the shutter chance.

Japanese Patent No. 5866674

  The present disclosure provides an imaging apparatus that can reduce processing time when shooting in an imaging apparatus that generates a still image from moving image data.

  In one aspect of the present disclosure, an imaging device is provided. The imaging device includes an optical system including a focus lens, an imaging unit that captures a subject image input via the optical system, generates an image signal, and performs predetermined processing on the image signal to generate image data. A processing unit, an operation unit that receives a user operation, and a control unit that controls the image processing unit are provided. The control unit executes a search process for obtaining a focus distance for each predetermined area of the image indicated by the image data while moving the focus lens within a predetermined drive range, and after the search process, moving the focus lens while moving the focus lens , And a frame image focused on an area designated by the user via the operation unit is extracted as a still image from among a plurality of frame images constituting the recorded moving image data. The control unit sets a predetermined drive range based on the range designated by the user via the operation unit before the search process.

  The imaging apparatus according to the present disclosure sets a focus lens driving range in search processing or the like based on a range designated by the user via the operation unit. As a result, the driving of the focus lens over the entire range is reduced, and the processing time in the search process or the like can be shortened.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a digital camera according to a first embodiment. Rear view of the digital camera of Embodiment 1 FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating movement of a focus lens in the focus select function of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram for describing designation of a focus area by a user in the image of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. The figure explaining the image which focused on the to-be-photographed object (area | region) designated by the user in the image of the digital camera of Embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining clipping of a still image from moving image data in the focus select function of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an AF area set as an image area of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. The figure explaining the change of the contrast value in one AF area FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a focusing information table in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a focus lens drive range at the time of focus search in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates a focus lens driving range during moving image recording in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing a focus selection operation in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. The figure which shows the example of the screen (focusing area designation | designated screen) displayed immediately after completion | finish of moving image data recording in the digital camera of Embodiment 1. The figure explaining operation which designates the desired focus area | region by the user in the digital camera of Embodiment 1. FIG. The figure explaining the focusing area | region designated by the user in the digital camera of Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an image in which a subject designated by a user is in focus in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating setting of a focus lens drive range based on a user's touch operation in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10A is a diagram for explaining a partial area of a subject. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a focus lens drive range in the digital camera of Embodiment 1; 8 is a flowchart showing setting processing of a focus lens drive range in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. 8 is a flowchart showing setting processing of a focus lens drive range in the digital camera according to the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, more detailed description than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of already well-known matters and repeated descriptions for substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid the following description from becoming unnecessarily redundant and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The inventor provides the accompanying drawings and the following description in order for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and is not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims. Absent.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of an imaging device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment 1)
[1. Constitution]
The electrical configuration of the digital camera according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. The digital camera 100 is an imaging device that captures a subject image formed by an optical system 110 including one or a plurality of lenses with a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 140. The image data generated by the CCD 140 is subjected to various processes by the image processing unit 160 and stored in the memory card 200. Hereinafter, the configuration of the digital camera 100 will be described in detail.

  The optical system 110 includes a zoom lens and a focus lens 111. The subject image can be enlarged or reduced by moving the zoom lens along the optical axis. Further, the focus (in-focus state) of the subject image can be adjusted by moving the focus lens 111 along the optical axis.

  The lens driving unit 120 drives various lenses included in the optical system 110. The lens driving unit 120 includes, for example, a zoom motor that drives the zoom lens and a focus motor that drives the focus lens 111.

  The diaphragm 300 adjusts the amount of light transmitted through the opening by adjusting the size of the opening according to the user's setting or automatically.

  The shutter unit 130 blocks light transmitted through the CCD 140. The shutter unit 130, together with the optical system 110 and the diaphragm unit 300, constitutes an optical system unit that controls optical information indicating a subject image. The optical system 110 and the diaphragm unit 300 are housed in a lens barrel (not shown).

  The CCD 140 captures the subject image formed by the optical system 110 and generates image data. The CCD 140 includes a color filter, a light receiving element, and an AGC (Auto Gain Controller). The light receiving element converts the optical signal collected by the optical system 110 into an electrical signal, and generates image information. The AGC amplifies the electric signal output from the light receiving element.

  An ADC (analog-to-digital converter) 150 converts analog image data generated by the CCD 140 into digital image data.

  The image processing unit 160 performs various processes on the digital image data generated by the CCD 140 and converted by the ADC 150 under the control of the controller 180. The image processing unit 160 generates image data to be displayed on the display monitor 220 or generates image data to be stored in the memory card 200. For example, the image processing unit 160 performs various processes such as gamma correction, white balance correction, and flaw correction on the image data generated by the CCD 140. The image processing unit 160 converts the image data generated by the CCD 140 into H.264. It compresses by the compression format etc. based on H.264 standard or MPEG2 (Moving Picture Experts Group 2) standard. The image processing unit 160 can generate moving image data (also referred to as 4K moving image data) having about 4000 × 2000 pixels based on the image data generated by the CCD 140. The image processing unit 160 can perform various processes described later on the generated 4K moving image data.

  The controller 180 is a control unit that controls the entire digital camera 100. The controller 180 can be realized by a semiconductor element or the like. The controller 180 may be configured only by hardware, or may be realized by combining hardware and software. The image processing unit 160 and the controller 180 are a microcomputer, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro-processing unit (MPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated (ASIC) integrated circuit (ASIC), and an integrated circuit integrated circuit (ASIC). Can be realized.

  The buffer 170 functions as a work memory for the image processing unit 160 and the controller 180. The buffer 170 can be realized by, for example, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), a ferroelectric memory, or the like.

  The card slot 190 is a slot for attaching the memory card 200 to the digital camera 100. The card slot 190 can connect the memory card 200 and the digital camera 100 mechanically and electrically.

  The memory card 200 includes a flash memory or a ferroelectric memory, and can store data such as an image file generated by the image processing unit 160.

  The built-in memory 240 is configured by a flash memory or a ferroelectric memory. The built-in memory 240 stores a control program and data for controlling the entire digital camera 100.

  The operation member 210 is a generic name for a user interface that receives an operation from a user. The operation member 210 includes a button, a lever, a dial, a touch panel, a switch, and the like that receive an operation from the user. The operation member 210 includes a focus ring provided on the outer periphery of the lens barrel. The focus ring is a member that is rotated by the user to move the focus lens 111.

  The display monitor 220 can display an image (through image) indicated by image data generated by the CCD 140 or an image indicated by image data read from the memory card 200. The display monitor 220 can also display various menu screens for performing various settings of the digital camera 100. The display monitor 220 includes a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device.

  FIG. 2 is a rear view of the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 2, as an example of the operation member 210, a release button 211, a selection button 213, a determination button 214, and a touch panel 222 are shown. When the operation member 210 receives an operation by the user, the operation member 210 transmits various instruction signals to the controller 180.

  The release button 211 is a two-stage push button. When the release button 211 is pressed halfway by the user, the controller 180 performs autofocus control (AF (Autofocus) control), auto exposure control (AE (Automatic Exposure) control), and the like. When the release button 211 is fully pressed by the user, the controller 180 records the image data captured at the timing of the pressing operation on the memory card 200 or the like as a recorded image.

  The selection button 213 is a push button provided in the up / down / left / right directions. The user can move the cursor or select various condition items displayed on the display monitor 220 by pressing one of the selection buttons 213 in the up / down / left / right directions.

  The decision button 214 is a push button. When the determination button 214 is pressed by the user while the digital camera 100 is in the shooting mode or the playback mode, the controller 180 displays a menu screen on the display monitor 220. The menu screen is a screen for setting various conditions for shooting / playback. When the determination button 214 is pressed while setting items for various conditions are displayed, the controller 180 determines the setting of the selected item.

  The touch panel 222 is arranged so as to overlap with the display screen of the display monitor 220, and detects a touch operation on the display screen by the user's finger. As a result, the user can perform operations such as designation of an area for the image displayed on the display monitor 220.

[2. Operation]
[2.1 Focus select function]
The digital camera 100 according to the present embodiment has a focus select function for recording one frame selected by the user from images of a plurality of frames simultaneously photographed at different in-focus positions (focus lens positions). Have. With this function, the user can select the in-focus position after shooting. The focus select function ON (valid) / OFF (invalid) is set on the menu by a user operation.

  In the focus select function, one frame selected by the user is recorded from a plurality of frames constituting a moving image shot while changing the in-focus position. In the focus select function, a high-resolution 4K moving image having about 4000 × 2000 pixels is recorded. One frame image selected based on the user's designation is cut out from the 4K moving image, and a still image is obtained. Since the still image obtained in this way is cut out from the 4K moving image, it has high image quality.

  FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating movement of the focus lens in the focus selection function of the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3B is a diagram for describing designation of a focus area by the user in the image of the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3C is a diagram for explaining an image focused on the subject (area) 52 designated by the user in the image of the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment.

  Specifically, in the focus select function, as shown in FIG. 3A, the focus lens 111 is moved from the closest end to the infinite end (or vice versa), that is, the focus position is changed. While shooting the movie. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 3B, the user 50 designates a subject 52 (that is, a region) to be focused in the captured image by a touch operation. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining how to extract a still image from moving image data in the focus select function of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the digital camera 100 selects one focused frame image in a region designated by the user from a plurality of frame images constituting a moving image, and cuts out and records as a still image. To do. Thus, a high-quality still image focused on the subject (area) 52 designated by the user as shown in FIG. 3C can be obtained.

  FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an AF area set as an image area of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5B is a diagram for explaining a change in contrast value in one AF area.

  In the digital camera 100 of the present embodiment, a plurality (49) of AF areas as shown in FIG. 5A are set in the image area 400 for the autofocus operation. For each AF area, a frame focused on the area (hereinafter referred to as “focus frame”) is obtained from a plurality of frames constituting the moving image, and information on the obtained focus frame is stored in the focus information table. Record. In the focus selection operation, the digital camera 100 performs a focus search operation before recording (photographing) a moving image, and generates a part of information in the focusing information table. The remaining information in the focus information table is generated in the moving image recording operation after the focus search operation.

  FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating an example of the focusing information table 60 in the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. The focusing information table 60 includes information indicating the driving range of the focus lens 111 in the focus search operation and the moving image recording operation. Specifically, the focus information table 60 includes information indicating the closest focus lens position (Pnear) (most recently focused lens position) and the most infinite end side as information indicating the focus lens drive range. And the information indicating the focus lens position (Pfar) (the farthest focusing lens position) are stored (see a in FIG. 6A). The driving range of the focus lens 111 is set by the user (details will be described later). Further, the focus information table 60 includes, for each AF area, a focus position for each AF area (the position of the focus lens 111 when focusing in each AF area, see b in FIG. 6A), and each AF area. A frame number (see c in FIG. 6A) of a frame that has an in-focus state in the area is associated and managed.

  For example, in the focus search operation, the contrast value is obtained for each AF area while moving the focus lens 111. At this time, for example, in the AF area 41 shown in FIG. 5A, when the peak of the contrast value is detected at the focus lens position P as shown in FIG. 5B, the focus lens position P is recorded in the focusing information table ( (See c in FIG. 6A). Thereafter, in the moving image recording operation, the focus information table 60 is obtained by associating the frame number (50 in this example) of the frame shot at the focus lens position P with the position (P in this example) of the focus lens 111. (B in FIG. 6A). The focusing information table 60 is stored in the header portion of moving image data obtained by moving image shooting, for example.

  The focus selection operation of the digital camera 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a focus selection operation in the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment.

  In the digital camera 100, when the release button 211 is half-pressed by the user in a state where the focus select function is set to be valid in advance (YES in step S11), the controller 180 causes the AF position of each of the AF areas of the image to be focused. And a focus search for completing the focusing information table 60 is performed (step S12).

  In the focus search, the controller 180 detects the contrast value for each AF area while moving the focus lens 111 from the closest end to the infinite end (or vice versa) within a predetermined driving range of the focus lens (see FIG. 5A, see FIG. 5B). The predetermined drive range of the focus lens 111 is set based on a user operation in advance before the focus search, and is recorded as the closest focus lens position (Pnear) and the farthest focus lens position (Pfar) in the focus information table 60. ing. The controller 180 can recognize a predetermined drive range by referring to the focusing information table 60. FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a driving range of the focus lens at the time of focus search in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. That is, in the focus search, as shown in FIG. 6B, the focus lens 111 moves in a range between the closest focus lens position (Pnear) and the farthest focus lens position (Pfar). As described above, in the focus search, by limiting the drive range of the focus lens 111 to a predetermined drive range, the time required for the focus search can be shortened compared to the case where the drive range of the focus lens 111 is the entire range. .

  When the focus lens 111 is moved from the closest end to the infinite end within a predetermined driving range of the focus lens, the controller 180 has the maximum contrast value in a plurality of images for each AF area (see FIG. 5B) The position of the focus lens 111 is recorded in the focusing information table 60 (see c in FIG. 6A). If the contrast value of any image is lower than a predetermined threshold value for one area, the in-focus position is not determined for the area, and the in-focus position is unknown in the in-focus information table 60. A predetermined value is recorded. Thus, the focus search ends. In this state, the focusing information table 60 does not yet include frame number information.

  When release button 211 is fully pressed by the user (YES in step S13), an image capturing operation is started.

  FIG. 6C is a diagram illustrating a drive range of the focus lens 111 during moving image recording in the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6C, the controller 180 returns the focus lens 111 to the closest focusing lens position Pnear and records a moving image while moving it to the farthest focusing lens position Pfar (step S14). By limiting the drive range of the focus lens 111 to a predetermined range, the time required for moving image recording can be shortened as compared with the case where the focus lens 111 is moved in the entire drive range. In the moving image recording, a moving image is recorded according to a predetermined format for moving image data. For example, a moving image is recorded in accordance with the MP4 standard (H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC (Moving Picture Experts Group-4 Advanced Video Coding) system). During execution of moving image recording, for example, an icon or a message indicating that moving image recording is in progress may be displayed on the display monitor 220.

  During moving image recording, the controller 180 associates the position of the focus lens 111 with the frame number of each frame constituting the moving image for each AF area. That is, for each AF area, the number of the frame shot at the focus lens position indicated by the focus lens position (see c in FIG. 6A) of the focus information table 60 is obtained, and is associated with the focus lens position. It records in the focusing information table 60 (see b of FIG. 6A). Thus, the frame number is associated with each AF area in the focusing information table 60 (see b in FIG. 6A).

  When the moving image recording is completed, the moving image data in which the focusing information table 60 is recorded in the header portion is recorded in the memory card 200 (step S15). Thereby, the image photographing operation is completed.

  After the image shooting operation is completed, a process for generating a still image is executed in accordance with a user instruction (step S16). Specifically, a still image focused on a subject or image area designated by the user is generated (cut out) from the moving image recorded in the image shooting operation. Hereinafter, this still image generation operation will be described in detail.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen (focusing area designation screen) displayed immediately after the end of moving image data recording in the digital camera 100 of the first embodiment. After the image photographing operation is finished, the controller 180 displays one frame image among a plurality of frame images constituting the recorded moving image on the display monitor 220 as shown in FIG. At this time, for example, the first or last recorded frame image (still image) is displayed in a plurality of frame images constituting the recorded moving image.

  The user operates a touch panel 222 provided on the back side of the camera to designate a subject (that is, an area) to be focused on the displayed image. FIG. 9A is a diagram for describing an operation of designating a desired in-focus area by the user in the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9A, the user 50 touches the area of the subject 52 to specify the subject 52 as a target (area) to be focused.

  When the subject area is designated by the user, the controller 180 identifies the AF area corresponding to the subject area designated by the user, refers to the focusing information table 60, and focuses on the identified AF area. Identify the frame. FIG. 9B is a diagram for explaining a focus area designated by the user in the digital camera 100 according to the first embodiment. For example, when the subject 52 is designated by the user as shown in FIG. 9A, the controller 180 specifies the AF area 42 corresponding to the subject 52 as shown in FIG. 9B. The controller 180 refers to the focus information table 60 and identifies the frame number of the focus frame related to the AF area 42.

  The controller 180 displays the frame image of the specified frame number on the display monitor 220. For example, in the image shown in FIG. 9A, when the subject 52 is designated by the user 50, an image focused on the designated subject 52 (or AF area 42) is displayed as shown in FIG. 9C. FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating an image in which the subject 52 (or AF area 42) designated by the user is in focus in the digital camera of the first embodiment.

  When the image displayed on the display monitor 220 is a desired image, the user can determine the image as a still image to be recorded by pressing the enter button 214. On the other hand, when the image displayed on the display monitor 220 is not desired, the user can switch the image displayed on the display monitor 220 by operating the selection button 213 or the focus ring.

  When the user presses the enter button 214, the displayed image (frame image) is cut out as a still image and recorded in the memory card 200. Still image data may be recorded in the built-in memory 240 or another recording medium instead of the memory card 200 or in addition to the memory card 200.

  The moving image data is recorded by a moving image codec (H.264, H.265, etc.), and inter-frame compression is performed. Therefore, when a frame of moving image data is cut out and cut out as a still image, the controller 180 converts the frame image data into a still image format (for example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group)) and records it.

  With the focus selection function as described above, the user can obtain a still image focused on a desired subject or region after image shooting. In other words, the user can select a focus position after shooting.

[2.2 Setting the focus lens drive range]
As described above, in the digital camera 100 of the present embodiment, the user can set the drive range of the focus lens 111 during focus search and moving image recording in the focus selection operation. Hereinafter, the setting by the user of the drive range of the focus lens 111 during focus search and moving image recording will be described.

  In the digital camera 100 of the present embodiment, the driving range of the focus lens 111 during focus search and moving image recording is set based on a two-point touch operation on the touch panel 222 by the user.

  FIG. 10A is a diagram illustrating setting of a focus lens drive range based on a user's touch operation in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. For example, in a situation where three subjects 55a, 55b, and 55c are within the angle of view of the digital camera 100 as shown in FIG. The driving range of the focus lens 111 is set so as to focus on the subject in the range.

  FIG. 10B is a diagram for explaining a partial region of the subject in FIG. 10A. FIG. 10C is a diagram for explaining a drive range R1 of the focus lens 111 in the digital camera of the first embodiment. That is, when the user touches a partial area 45 of the subject 55a and a partial area 46 of the subject 55b as shown in FIG. 10B, the peak of the contrast value in the area 45 as shown in FIG. 10C. The driving range R1 of the focus lens 111 is set so that in-focus is obtained in the range between the position of the focus lens that has obtained the peak and the position of the focus lens that has obtained the peak of the contrast value in the region 46. In this case, the drive range of the focus lens 111 can be limited to a range R1 that is shorter than the entire drive range R0 of the focus lens 111. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the time required for processing during focus search and moving image recording. In addition, the user can specify a shooting range at the time of image shooting by a simple touch operation. Therefore, usability is improved.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating processing for setting the drive range of the focus lens 111 in the digital camera according to the first embodiment. The process for setting the drive range of the focus lens 111 is performed when the focus select function is set to ON.

  The controller 180 determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation based on the detection signal from the touch panel 222 (step S21). When a touch operation is detected (Y in step S21), the controller 180 performs an autofocus operation on the captured image area corresponding to the touched area on the touch panel 222, and obtains a focus position of the focus lens 111 ( Step S22). At this time, the obtained in-focus position is stored in the built-in memory 240.

  Based on the detection signal from the touch panel 222, the controller 180 determines whether or not the next touch operation by the user has been performed (step S23). When the controller 180 detects the second touch operation (Y in step S23), the controller 180 obtains the focus position of the focus lens 111 with respect to the area of the captured image corresponding to the area touched for the second time. (Step S24). At this time, the obtained focus position of the focus lens 111 is stored in the built-in memory 240.

  The controller 180 sets the drive range of the focus lens 111 using the in-focus position of the focus lens 111 obtained when detecting the first and second touch operations (step S25). Specifically, the controller 180 sets the focus position closer to the closest end among the focus positions of the focus lens 111 obtained by the first and second touch operations as the latest focus lens position (Pnear). The focusing information table 60 is updated with the focusing position closer to the infinite end as the farthest focusing lens position (Pfar).

  As described above, the closest focusing lens position (Pnear) and the farthest focusing lens position (Pfar) in the focusing information table 60 are updated based on the user's touch operation. Thereby, the drive range of the focus lens 111 at the time of focus search and moving image recording is set.

[3. Effect]
An imaging apparatus corresponding to the digital camera 100 of the present embodiment captures an optical system 110 including a focus lens 111 and an image corresponding to a CCD 140 that captures a subject image input via the optical system 110 and generates an image signal. An image processing unit 160 that performs predetermined processing on the image signal and generates image data, an operation unit that corresponds to the touch panel 222 that receives user operations, and a control unit that corresponds to the controller 180 that controls the image processing unit 160 And comprising. The control unit executes a search process for obtaining a focus distance for each predetermined area of the image indicated by the image data while moving the focus lens 111 within a predetermined drive range, and moves the focus lens 111 after the search process. Then, a moving image is recorded, and a frame image focused on an area designated by the user via the operation unit is extracted as a still image from a plurality of frame images constituting the recorded moving image data. The control unit sets a predetermined drive range based on the range designated by the user via the operation unit before the search process.

  The operation unit may be a touch panel that receives a user's touch operation using an area on the displayed image as an input area. The control unit may set a predetermined drive range based on two points designated by the user on the touch panel.

  As described above, the digital camera 100 (an example of an imaging device) according to the present embodiment is based on a user operation on the touch panel 222 (an example of an operation unit), and the driving range of the focus lens 111 during focus search and moving image recording. Is set. As a result, the driving of the focus lens 111 in the entire range is reduced, and the processing time in the focus search process or the like can be shortened. In addition, since the range can be specified by a user operation, the focus drive range can be set with a simple operation. Therefore, convenience for the user is improved.

  The control unit may record the moving image while moving the focus lens within a predetermined driving range.

  In the search process, the control unit generates a table for managing each predetermined area and information indicating the frame image focused on each predetermined area, and extracts a still image by referring to the table. May be.

  The photographing apparatus may further include a release button 211 that allows the user to instruct the start of the photographing operation. The control unit may start the search process when the release button is half-pressed and start the moving image recording process when the release button is fully pressed.

(Embodiment 2)
Hereinafter, another example of the setting process of the driving range of the focus lens 111 will be described. In the first embodiment, the focus position of the focus lens 111 is obtained for each touch operation, but in this embodiment, the focus position of the focus lens 111 is not obtained for each touch operation.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating processing for setting the driving range of the focus lens 111 in the digital camera 100 according to the second embodiment. This process is performed when the focus select function is set to ON.

  Based on the detection signal from the touch panel 222, the controller 180 determines whether or not the user has performed a touch operation (step S31). When a touch operation is detected (Y in step S31), the controller 180 determines an AF area (referred to as “AF area 1”) corresponding to the touched area on the touch panel 222 (step S32).

  Based on the detection signal from the touch panel 222, the controller 180 determines whether or not the user has performed the next touch operation (step S33). When the second touch operation is detected, the controller 180 determines an AF area (referred to as “AF area 2”) corresponding to the area touched for the second time (step S34). In the present embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the in-focus position is not obtained at the touched stage.

  The controller 180 starts focus search (step S35). The controller 180 performs a focus search until the AF area 1 and the AF area 2 are detected as an in-focus area of the image. The focus search may be started when the user half-presses the release button 211 as described in the flowchart of FIG.

  When AF area 1 and AF area 2 are detected as in-focus areas (Y in step S36), controller 180 stops focus search (step S37), and uses the in-focus positions of AF area 1 and AF area 2, respectively. Then, the drive range of the focus lens 111 is set (step S38). Specifically, the controller 180 obtains the in-focus position closer to the closest end among the in-focus positions of the focus lens 111 obtained for the AF area 1 and the AF area 2, respectively. The focusing information table 60 is updated with the focusing position closer to the infinite end as the farthest focusing lens position (Pfar).

  By the above method, the closest focusing lens position (Pnear) and the farthest focusing lens position (Pfar) in the focusing information table 60 can be set, thereby reducing the processing time required for the focus search operation. .

(Other embodiments)
As described above, Embodiments 1 and 2 have been described as examples of the technology disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can also be applied to an embodiment in which changes, replacements, additions, omissions, and the like are appropriately performed. Moreover, it is also possible to combine the components described in the first and second embodiments to form a new embodiment. Hereinafter, other embodiments will be exemplified.

  (1) The method for setting the focus lens drive range shown in the above embodiment can also be applied when realizing a function other than the focus select function. That is, the focus lens drive range setting method described above can be applied to the focus lens drive range setting when a moving image or a continuous still image is recorded while moving the focus lens. For example, in the depth synthesis (focus synthesis) function, the range of the image used for synthesis (the range of the subject to be focused) may be set based on designation by the touch panel operation. The depth synthesis (focus synthesis) process is a process for synthesizing images recorded at a plurality of in-focus positions to generate a still image having a pseudo deep depth of field.

  In the above embodiment, the focus drive range is specified based on two touch operations. The operation for specifying the focus drive range is not limited to the touch operation. Any operation can be used as long as the start point and end point of the focus drive range can be designated. For example, touch the start point (or end point) of the focus drive range, then move the finger while touching the touch panel, and then release the finger from the touch panel at the end point (or start point) of the focus drive range to specify the focus drive range May be.

  In the above embodiment, the setting of the focus drive range when two touch operations are performed has been described, but the number of touch operations is not limited to two. When there is a third touch operation, the second touch operation may be disabled and the third touch operation may be enabled. Alternatively, of the two in-focus positions (Pnear, Pfar) already registered in the in-focus information table, the closer to the in-focus position based on the third touch operation, the in-focus position based on the third touch operation. May be replaced. The same applies when there is a touch operation after the fourth time.

  (2) In the above embodiment, the focus information table 60 stores the focus position (Pnear) closest to the closest end and the focus position (Pfar) closest to the infinite end. However, these in-focus positions (Pnear, Pfar) are not necessarily stored in the in-focus information table 60, and may be held independently of the in-focus information table 60.

  (3) In the above embodiment, the focus information table 60 stores information (frame number) indicating a frame (focus frame) focused on the AF area for each AF area. However, the configuration of the focusing information table 60 is not limited to this. The focus information table may store the position of the focus lens 111 when each AF area is in focus for each AF area. In this case, a second table indicating the relationship between the focus lens position and each frame may be created at the time of moving image recording. When a still image is cut out, a frame image cut out from the moving image can be specified by referring to the focusing information table and the second table.

  (4) In the above embodiment, the image sensor is constituted by a CCD, but the image sensor is not limited to this. The imaging device may be configured by an NMOS (n-Channel Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor.

  (5) The focus select function disclosed in the above embodiment can be applied to both types of digital cameras, that is, interchangeable lens cameras and lens-integrated cameras.

  (6) Although the above embodiment has been described using a digital camera as an example of an imaging apparatus, the imaging apparatus is not limited to this. The idea of the present disclosure can be applied to various imaging devices capable of shooting moving images, such as a digital video camera, a smartphone, and a wearable camera.

  As described above, the embodiments have been described as examples of the technology in the present disclosure. For this purpose, the accompanying drawings and detailed description are provided. Accordingly, among the components described in the attached drawings and detailed description, not only the components essential for solving the problem, but also the components not essential for solving the problem in order to exemplify the above technique. May also be included. Therefore, it should not be immediately recognized that these non-essential components are essential as those non-essential components are described in the accompanying drawings or the detailed description. Moreover, since the above-mentioned embodiment is for demonstrating the technique in this indication, a various change, replacement, addition, abbreviation, etc. can be performed in a claim or its equivalent range.

  The present disclosure is applicable to an imaging apparatus that can capture a moving image. Specifically, the present invention can be applied to various imaging devices that can shoot moving images, such as digital video cameras, smartphones, and wearable cameras.

41 AF area 42 AF area 45 Part of subject 55a 46 Part of subject 55b 50 User 52 Subject 55a Subject 55b Subject 55c Subject 60 Focus information table 100 Digital camera 110 Optical system 111 Focus lens 120 Lens drive unit 130 Shutter unit 140 CCD
150 ADC
160 Image Processing Unit 170 Buffer 180 Controller 190 Card Slot 200 Memory Card 210 Operation Member 211 Release Button 213 Selection Button 214 Decision Button 220 Display Monitor 222 Touch Panel 400 Image Area

Claims (5)

An optical system including a focus lens;
An imaging unit that captures a subject image input through the optical system and generates an image signal;
An image processing unit that performs predetermined processing on the image signal to generate image data;
An operation unit for accepting user operations;
A control unit for controlling the image processing unit;
With
The controller is
While moving the focus lens within a predetermined driving range, a search process is performed for obtaining a focusing distance for each predetermined area of the image indicated by the image data,
After the search process, a moving image is recorded while moving the focus lens,
Out of a plurality of frame images constituting the recorded moving image data, a frame image focused on an area designated by the user via the operation unit is extracted as a still image,
The control unit sets the predetermined drive range based on a range designated by the user via the operation unit before the search process.
Imaging device. The operation unit is a touch panel that accepts the user's touch operation using an area on the displayed image as an input area,
The control unit sets the predetermined driving range based on two points designated by the user on the touch panel.
The imaging device according to claim 1. The control unit records a moving image while moving the focus lens within the predetermined driving range;
The imaging device according to claim 1. The controller is
In the search process, a table for managing each of the predetermined areas in association with information indicating a frame image focused on each of the predetermined areas is generated.
A still image is extracted with reference to the table;
The imaging device according to claim 1. A release button for instructing the user to start a shooting operation;
The control unit starts the search process when the release button is half-pressed, and starts the moving image recording process when the release button is fully pressed.
The imaging device according to claim 1.