JP4042398B2 - Digital camera - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Technical field to which the invention belongs]
The present invention relates to a digital camera that generates image data.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Some digital cameras have a function of transmitting and receiving image data by connecting to other digital cameras wirelessly or by wire. A digital camera having a transmission / reception function can receive and record image data from other digital cameras.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the received image data has an image size and resolution generated by another digital camera, and is different from the image size and resolution of image data captured by the digital camera itself. Therefore, inconvenience arises when trying to manage the image data in the same manner as the image data taken by itself.
[0004]
The present invention provides a digital camera that can manage received image data in the same manner as image data taken by itself.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to the first aspect of the present invention, when the digital camera is a digital camera capable of reading out the shooting setting by detecting whether the shooting setting can be read out from the other digital camera, the shooting setting of the other digital camera. Acquiring means for generating image data, generating means for generating image data to be transmitted to the other digital camera based on the photographing settings acquired by the acquiring means, and transmitting the image data generated by the generating means to a predetermined location And a transmission means.
[0006]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the digital camera according to the first aspect, the transmission unit transmits image data to the other digital camera as the predetermined location.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the digital camera according to the first aspect, the generation unit generates image data with an image size, a resolution, and a compression rate based on the shooting setting.
[0007]
In the invention according to claim 4, the communication means for communicating with another digital camera camera, and a digital camera capable of reading out the shooting setting by detecting whether the shooting setting can be read out from the other digital camera In addition, an acquisition unit that acquires shooting settings of the other digital camera via the communication unit and a generation unit that generates image data based on the shooting settings acquired by the acquisition unit are provided.
[0008]
According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in the digital camera, a communication unit that communicates with another digital camera, and a digital camera that can detect whether the shooting setting can be read from the other digital camera and can read the shooting setting. The acquisition means for acquiring the information of the other digital camera via the communication means, the generation means for generating image data based on the information acquired by the acquisition means, and the generated image data And a transmission means for transmitting to the other digital camera.
[0009]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the digital camera according to the fifth aspect, the generating unit generates image data of raw data that is substantially the same as the output from the image sensor, and the transmitting unit is configured to generate an image of the raw data. The configuration is such that data is transmitted.
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the digital camera according to the fifth aspect has a control means for controlling to hold in a folder that is set to be transferred at the time of photographing with the other digital camera.
[0010]
In the invention described in claim 8, in the digital camera described in claim 5, the image data is held in the camera.
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the digital camera according to the fifth aspect includes a monitor that displays image data, and the monitor displays the transferred image data.
[0011]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of an image data management system according to the present invention will be described below. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the system configuration of the image data management system.
The system of the present invention includes a digital camera 1, a digital camera 3, a server computer 2, and a server computer 4. The digital camera 1 and the server computer 2 are communicably connected via a network such as the Internet. Similarly, the digital camera 3 and the server computer 4 are communicably connected via a network such as the Internet. In order to enable communication between the digital cameras 1 and 3 and the server computers 2 and 4 via the Internet, an Internet provider or the like is required. However, the description is omitted here because it is not directly related to the present invention. Although FIG. 1 illustrates a system using the Internet, it can also be realized by a system using a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or an extranet.
[0012]
Further, the digital camera 1 and the digital camera 3 are connected to be communicable with each other via a wireless communication line such as a wireless LAN, Bluetooth or infrared communication.
The digital camera 1 images a subject and generates image data that is digital data. The digital camera 1 is connected to the Internet wirelessly or by wire, communicates with the server computer 2, and transmits the generated image data to the server computer 2. The digital camera 1 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. Since the digital camera 3 is the same as the digital camera 1, the description thereof is omitted.
[0013]
The server computer 2 is a server including an image storage unit that can store image data transmitted from the digital camera 1. The server computer 2 also includes a database of highlight information such as sightseeing spots and theme parks, and a map information database, and provides a web site that provides a guide information providing service for distributing such information. The server computer 4 is the same as the server computer 2 and will not be described.
[0014]
The configuration inside the digital camera 1 will be described below. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the internal configuration of the digital camera 1.
The digital camera 1 includes a CPU 101, a communication circuit 102, a monitor 103, a switch circuit 104, a built-in memory 105, a memory card slot 106, an image processing circuit 107, and a GPS circuit 108. Of course, various other circuits such as an image sensor are provided, but the description is omitted because they are not related to the invention.
[0015]
The CPU 101 controls a circuit built in the digital camera 1 and controls all of the digital camera 1. The communication circuit 102 is a circuit for wirelessly or wiredly connecting to a network such as the Internet and transmitting / receiving signals via the network such as the Internet. The digital camera 1 communicates with the server computer 2 and other digital cameras using the communication circuit 102. The monitor 103 is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like and displays a captured image, a menu screen, a warning screen, and the like. The switch circuit 104 is electrically connected to various buttons and switches provided in the digital camera 1 and is a circuit that detects operations of the various buttons and switches.
[0016]
The built-in memory 105 is a memory that holds program data such as firmware for controlling the digital camera 1. The built-in memory 105 holds various data such as site information in addition to the program data. The memory card slot 106 writes image data taken on a memory card inserted. The image processing circuit 107 performs image processing on the imaging data output from the imaging element. The image processing circuit 107 also performs image processing on image data transmitted from another digital camera. The GPS circuit 108 is a circuit for detecting position information.
[0017]
Next, operation members and the like provided in the digital camera 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the digital camera 1.
The digital camera 1 includes a monitor 103, a release button 111, a communication button 110, and a dial 112. Of course, many other members are provided, but the description thereof is omitted here.
[0018]
The release button 111 is a button operated when shooting. The release button 111 functions as a two-state switch that is half-pressed and fully pressed when pressed. The communication button 110 is a button operated to start communication with another digital camera. The dial 112 is a dial operated when selecting a parameter when performing various settings.
[0019]
Various settings can be performed by operating buttons and dials provided on the digital camera 1.
The digital camera 3 has the same functions and members as the digital camera 1.
Next, the operation of the digital camera of the present invention will be described.
[0020]
For example, if you want a photo (image data) that will be a subject with a friend when you go out with a friend, you may ask a third party to take a picture. At this time, if the digital cameras brought by each person are transferred to a third party and photographed by the respective digital cameras, they are recorded in a memory in each digital camera. In addition, when the captured image data is set to be transferred to the server computer 2, it is transferred to a predetermined folder in the memory in the server computer 2. However, when all of several groups want image data that is a subject, it is necessary to have each digital camera take a picture with each digital camera, which places a burden on the third party.
[0021]
In addition, if you have taken image data for multiple people with one digital camera, you can transfer the image data using a terminal such as a camera or personal computer at home or at a hotel, etc. By downloading the image data, a plurality of people can acquire the image data. However, in order to transfer and download each other, it is necessary to perform various operations, which causes troubles such as being troublesome and incomprehensible.
[0022]
In such a case, the digital camera according to the embodiment of the present invention automatically transfers image data to another digital camera when the image is taken by one digital camera.
Hereinafter, control for transferring image data to another digital camera will be described. An embodiment in which image data is transferred from the digital camera 1 to the digital camera 3 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of transfer control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow shown in FIG. 4 is started by connecting to the digital camera 3 as a transmission destination so as to be able to communicate wirelessly. In the present embodiment, communication between the digital cameras is started by operating buttons corresponding to the communication buttons 110 of the digital camera 1 to each other.
[0023]
First, in step S101, information such as the manufacturer and model of the digital camera 3 is detected by communicating with the digital camera 3 as the transmission destination. In step S102, it is detected whether the digital camera 3 is the same model as the digital camera 1 itself. If it is the same model, the process proceeds to step S103, and if it is not the same model, the process proceeds to step S104.
[0024]
In step S103, the RAW data is set to be transmitted in the case of the same model. Here, the RAW data is an image recording format in which imaging data output from the imaging device is recorded as almost intact image data. RAW data has no versatility because the format differs for each manufacturer. For this reason, the RAW data cannot be reproduced unless the manufacturer and model are the same, and the image data cannot be subjected to processing such as size change or compression.
[0025]
The reason for transmitting the RAW data is that if the RAW data is transmitted, the processing can be performed on the image data having no image quality deterioration if the digital camera is of the same model.
On the other hand, in step S104, it is detected whether or not the digital camera 3 is a model that can read shooting setting information. If the model can read the shooting setting information, the process proceeds to step S105. If the model cannot read the shooting setting information, the process proceeds to step S107. The model for reading shooting setting information is a digital camera designed so that shooting settings can be read in advance. In step S105, the shooting settings of the digital camera 3 are acquired, and image data is transmitted according to the acquired shooting settings.
[0026]
On the other hand, in step S106, it is set to transmit image data having a predetermined image size and compression rate. In step S107, it is detected whether shooting control has been performed. When shooting control is performed, the process proceeds to step S108, and when shooting control is not performed, detection is continued. In step S108, image data is generated with the set shooting settings. In step S109, the image data is transmitted to the digital camera 3. In step S110, image data is generated according to the shooting settings of the digital camera 1 itself. In step S111, the generated image data is recorded in a memory according to the setting.
[0027]
In this way, the received image data is compressed according to the shooting settings and recorded on the memory card or transferred to the server computer 2. Further, when the connected digital camera 3 is the same model, it is not necessary to perform image processing such as compression by the digital camera 1 by transmitting RAW data, so that the processing burden on the digital camera 1 can be reduced. . Further, it can be set so that image data generated for its own digital camera 1 is transmitted to the server computer 2 without being recorded in the digital camera 1.
[0028]
In the control in the above embodiment, the image data to be recorded in its own digital camera is generated after transmitting the image data. However, after the image data to be recorded in its own digital camera is generated, the image data is You may make it transmit.
[0029]
Next, control for recording image data transferred from another digital camera such as the digital camera 3 in the memory of the digital camera 1 or automatically transferring it to the server computer 2 will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing image data recording control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow shown in FIG. 5 starts when the digital camera 1 detects transfer of image data from the digital camera 3.
[0030]
First, in step S201, image data is received. The received image data is temporarily stored in the built-in memory 105. In step S202, it is detected whether reception of image data is completed. When the reception of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to step S203, and when the reception of the image data is not completed, the process returns to step S201.
[0031]
In step S203, image size change and compression are performed on the received image data. The image size change and compression are performed according to the image size and compression rate specified in the shooting settings of the digital camera 1 itself. Also, a thumbnail image of the received image data is created and stored in the built-in memory 105.
[0032]
In step S <b> 204, the title name added to the received image data and the file name of the image data are changed according to the settings of the digital camera 1. In step S205, the received image data is displayed on the monitor 103. In step S206, it is detected whether transfer settings for transferring image data to the outside are set. If transfer is set, the process proceeds to step S207. If transfer is not set, the process proceeds to step S209. In step S207, the image data is transferred to the server computer 2. In step S208, it is detected whether transfer of the image data is completed. If it has been completed, the process proceeds to step S210. If it has not been completed, the process returns to step S207 to continue the transfer of the image data.
[0033]
On the other hand, in step S209, image data is recorded on the memory card inserted in the memory card slot 106. In step S210, the image display on the monitor 103 is erased to notify the completion of recording. Further, it may be displayed that recording is completed for each recording destination.
[0034]
By recording the image data according to the recording settings at the time of shooting of the digital camera 1 in this way, even the transferred image data can be recorded with the same image size and compression rate as the image data shot by the digital camera 1.
If the digital camera 3 transmits to the server computer 2, connection destination information, authentication information, etc. for connecting to the server computer 2 and recording image data must be set. However, by performing control to transmit via the digital camera 1 as described above, the connection destination information and authentication information registered in the digital camera 1 can be easily transferred to the server computer 2. In addition, since authentication information or the like is not set in the digital camera 3, leakage of the authentication information or the like in the digital camera 1 can be prevented.
[0035]
Further, by storing thumbnail images of image data transmitted to the server computer 2 in the built-in memory 105 in the digital camera 1, an outline of the image data transmitted to the server computer 2 without accessing the server computer 2. Can be confirmed.
[0036]
As described above, by simultaneously operating a predetermined button similar to the communication button 110 of the digital camera 1 on each digital camera, the shooting setting information of the other digital camera is read and at the same time image data is transmitted to the other party. The transmission mode is automatically set. Further, it is not necessary to set which digital camera is used for shooting and transmission and which camera is used for reception. Control is performed so that image data is transmitted from a digital camera that has taken a picture to a digital camera that has not been taken.
[0037]
A digital camera that transmits image data and a digital camera that receives image data can also be set. It is also possible to set so that image data shot with one digital camera is stored in both digital cameras, and image data shot with the other digital camera is stored only in its own digital camera.
[0038]
When shooting, it is recommended to shoot with a digital camera that can obtain high-quality image data. This is because the image data taken by a camera with good performance that can obtain a high-quality image can be as much as image data taken by a camera with poor performance, but the reverse is not possible.
[0039]
Further, when the transmission mode is set, the transmission mode can be canceled by performing again the operation performed for setting the transmission mode.
The control in the transfer mode will be specifically described below. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow shown in FIG. 6 starts when a button for performing communication provided in the digital camera 1 is operated. The digital camera 1 will be described as communicating with the digital camera 3.
[0040]
First, in step S301, it is detected whether or not communication with the digital camera 3 has been established. If established, the process proceeds to step S302, and if not established, step S301 is continued. In step S302, the shooting settings set in the digital camera 3 are acquired. Next, in step S303, settings are made to generate image data with the acquired shooting settings, and further, the generated image data is set to be transferred to the digital camera 3 with which communication has been established.
[0041]
In step S304, it is determined which of the digital camera 3 with which communication has been established and the digital camera 1 of its own has high performance. If the device itself has high performance, this flow is terminated. If the other device has high performance, the process proceeds to step S305. For example, whether or not the performance is high is determined based on the number of pixels of the image sensor. In step S305, the monitor 103 is set to display that high-quality image data can be obtained by photographing with the digital camera of the communication partner when the photographing mode is set.
[0042]
As described above, it can be set to automatically transfer to the digital camera 3 when shooting is performed under the control.
In the digital camera of the above-described embodiment, transfer is automatically performed to another digital camera only with a simple operation. The digital camera according to the embodiment described below can be set to record image data obtained by one shooting in two or more different recording destination memories. Furthermore, the digital camera can set the image size and resolution of image data to be recorded for each recording destination.
[0043]
Next, the recording setting control provided in the digital camera 1 will be described.
The setting method will be specifically described below. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for performing settings for recording image data after shooting in a plurality of recording destinations. The setting screen shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the monitor 103 of the digital camera 1.
[0044]
In “Recording destination” in FIG. 7, a recording destination for recording photographed image data, such as a memory card inserted into the digital camera, another camera, or a server computer, is displayed. The recordable recording destination is displayed. In “recording presence / absence”, it is possible to set which recording destination among the recordable recording destinations. In the figure, image data is recorded at a recording destination marked with “◯”, and no image data is recorded at a recording destination marked with “x”.
[0045]
“Format” can set the file format of the image data for each recording destination. A file format for recording image data, such as JPEG format, uncompressed, RAW data, etc., is selected and set. “Size” can set the image size of image data to be recorded for each recording destination. “Compression rate” sets the compression rate of compression applied to image data to be recorded for each recording destination.
[0046]
These settings are made by operating buttons and dials provided on the digital camera 1.
The digital camera 1 generates image data according to the setting contents set for each recording destination set on the setting screen of FIG. 7 when shooting is performed once, and transmits the image data so that it can be recorded in a plurality of recording destinations. Etc. are controlled.
[0047]
Hereinafter, control executed by the digital camera 1 to record image data in a plurality of recording destinations will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing recording control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow shown in FIG. 8 starts when it is detected that the shutter button 111 of the digital camera 1 is fully pressed.
[0048]
First, in step S 401, image data obtained by shooting is stored in the built-in memory 105. In step S402, the set recording destination setting information is acquired. In step S403, it is determined whether or not an external memory is set as the recording destination. If the external memory is set as the recording destination, the process proceeds to step S404, and no external memory is set as the recording destination. In that case, the process proceeds to step S408.
[0049]
In step S404, it is detected whether or not recording is possible in the external memory. If recording is possible, the process proceeds to step S405, and if recording is not possible, the process proceeds to step S407. In step S405, image data matching the recording setting of the external transmission destination is generated. In step S406, the generated image data is transmitted. In addition, a message indicating that transmission is in progress is displayed. In step S407, a message indicating that the transmission destination cannot be transmitted to the monitor 103 and that the image data cannot be transmitted is displayed.
[0050]
On the other hand, in step S408, it is detected whether or not a memory card is set as the recording destination. If it is set, the process proceeds to 409, and if it is not set, this flow ends.
In step S409, image data matching the recording setting to the memory card is generated. In step S410, the generated image data is recorded on the memory card. The monitor 103 displays that the data is recorded on the memory card.
[0051]
In the above control, whether or not recording is possible with respect to the external transmission destination is confirmed after shooting, but may be checked before shooting.
As described above, since it is possible to perform recording settings for a plurality of recording destinations, it is possible to set the size and compression rate of image data required for each recording destination. Image data can be recorded in the recording destination. In addition, since the image data once compressed is not expanded and the image size is changed, the image data is not recompressed again, thereby preventing the image data from being deteriorated unnecessarily.
[0052]
Next, the guide information browsing function of the digital camera 1 will be described.
The digital camera 1 has a browsing function for displaying guide information on the monitor 103. The guide information provides an introduction of a sightseeing spot or a highlight in the theme park, a map, etc., is stored in the server computer 2, and is distributed to the digital camera 1 via the Internet. Instead of providing the guide information via the Internet, for example, it may be stored in advance in a memory card inserted into the memory card slot 106 and provided manually. The memory card storing the guide information may be sold for a fee, or may be distributed free of charge by travel agencies to travel participants. Further, instead of providing a memory card storing guide information, guide information may be downloaded for a fee. This makes it possible to use guide information even with a digital camera that does not have an Internet connection function.
[0053]
The digital camera 1 has a shooting mode in which shooting can be performed, a playback mode for playing back captured image data, and a guide mode for browsing guide information.
The digital camera 1 displays guide information on the monitor 103 when the guide mode is set. The guide information is information described in HTML format, and the digital camera 1 stores software to be viewed. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a display example of guide information. In the text column 901 in FIG. 9, highlight information and the like are posted in text, and in the image column 902 image information such as photographs and illustrations are posted.
[0054]
Further, when the digital camera 1 is set to the guide mode, when the release button 111 is pressed halfway, the digital camera 1 automatically switches from the guide mode to the shooting mode. Thereby, a photo opportunity is not missed. The server computer 2 stores tourist guide information used by the customer while traveling, provides guide information, and provides a service for storing image data taken by the customer with a digital camera.
[0055]
The digital camera owned by the customer can browse the guide information obtained from the server computer 2. The customer goes sightseeing with reference to the guide information. The server computer 2 receives GPS information output from the GPS built in the digital camera 1, and automatically distributes guide information suitable for the received GPS information to the digital camera 1. Further, instead of being automatically distributed, the necessary guide information can be designated and distributed.
[0056]
In addition, the digital camera 1 can store image data captured in association with guide information. Thus, even if the file name and title of the image data are not created one by one, it can be understood by looking at the guide information associated with where the image data was taken.
[0057]
Hereinafter, the operation of the digital camera 1 will be described.
For example, when viewing the guide information of Tokyo Tower and pressing the release button 111 halfway, the monitor 103 switches from the guide information to the image captured by the image sensor. When shooting is performed, page data is created such that image data is pasted in the guide information that was browsed immediately before. Alternatively, a file name of image data related to the title name of the guide information is created.
[0058]
For example, in the guide information described in the HTML format, the image data stretched on the guide information page in the HTML format is replaced with the captured image data. And the data of the HTML format produced in the folder of the customer who owns the digital camera 1 are recorded.
[0059]
Tour tour operators will correct any changes in the travel schedule. Corrections are made in minutes. Thus, an album can be created by comparing the date and time information on which image data is recorded after shooting with the travel schedule.
Hereinafter, the control related to the guide information will be specifically described.
[0060]
First, control executed by the digital camera 1 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow in FIG. 10 is executed when the guide mode is set.
First, in step S501, it is detected whether or not the position information detected by the GPS has changed. If a change is detected, the process proceeds to step S502. If no change is detected, the detection is continued.
[0061]
In step S502, the GPS information is transmitted to the server computer 2. In step S503, guide information is received from the server computer 2. In step S504, the received guide information is displayed on the monitor 103. In step S505, it is detected whether the release button 111 is half-pressed. If half-press is detected, the process proceeds to step S506. If half-press is not detected, the process returns to step S501.
[0062]
In step S506, the display on the monitor 103 is switched from the guide information to image information output by the image sensor. Next, in step S507, it is detected whether or not the release button 111 has been fully pressed. If full press is detected, the process proceeds to step S509, and if not detected, the process proceeds to step S508. In step S508, it is detected whether or not the half-press of the release button 111 is released. If detected, the process returns to step S501. If not detected, the process returns to step S507.
[0063]
In step S509, shooting processing is executed according to the shooting settings. In step S510, the image data generated by the shooting process is transferred to the server computer 2.
Next, processing executed by the server computer 2 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2. The flow of FIG. 11 starts when it detects that GPS information is transmitted from the digital camera 1.
[0064]
First, in step S601, GPS information is received. In step S602, the guide information corresponding to the received GPS information is searched. In step S603, the corresponding guide information is transmitted to the digital camera 1.
In step S604, it is detected whether image data has been received. When it detects, it progresses to step S605, and when it does not detect, it returns to step S601.
[0065]
In step S605, the received image data is stored. In step S606, the image data in the HTML format page provided as the guide information is replaced with the image data received from the digital camera 1. Specifically, the text information posted in the text column 901 of the guide information page shown in FIG. 9 is left as it is, and the image information posted in the image column 902 is replaced with image data obtained by photographing. . FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a display example of an album page. In the text column 1201 in FIG. 12, the text posted in the text column 901 in FIG. 9 is posted as it is, and in the image column 1202, the image information posted in the image column 902 in FIG. Replace with the image data.
[0066]
Further, when a plurality of images are taken at a place where only one piece of image data is present in the guide information, the layout is changed from the layout provided by the guide information shown in FIG. 9, but editing is performed so that a plurality of pieces of image data are displayed. May be. Further, as shown in FIG. 13, it is possible to set the individual image data to be displayed in the image field 1302 so as not to change the layout by reducing the image data according to the number of captured images.
[0067]
Further, the server computer 2 can determine the guide information according to the travel schedule of the customer having the digital camera 1 instead of determining the guide information to be transmitted to the digital camera 1 based on the GPS information.
The server computer 2 holds travel schedule information and distributes guide information from the travel schedule information and time information. That is, guide information is distributed at a time when a customer who is acting according to a travel schedule needs a guide. For example, if it is a travel schedule that ends the tour of the Imperial Palace at 3 pm and visits Tokyo Tower from 3:30 pm, Tokyo Tower guide information is distributed at 3:30 pm. Also, since preparations cannot be made if delivered at 3:30 pm, Tokyo Tower guide information may be delivered 10 minutes before or at 3 pm when the tour of the Imperial Palace ends. When a deviation or change occurs in the travel schedule, it can be dealt with by correcting the schedule from a terminal such as a passenger.
[0068]
The control for transmitting the guide information according to the travel schedule will be specifically described below. The travel schedule information is stored in advance in the memory of the server computer 2 in association with the guide information. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2.
[0069]
First, in step S701, the travel schedule is monitored to detect whether or not it is time to transmit guide information. When it is time to transmit guide information, the process proceeds to step S702, and when it is not time, monitoring is continued.
In step S702, the camera information of the customer's digital camera registered corresponding to the travel schedule is read. A digital camera registered corresponding to a travel schedule is a digital camera owned by a customer participating in the travel schedule. In step S <b> 703, guide information suitable for the travel schedule is read and transmitted to the digital camera 1. In step S704, it is detected whether image data has been received. If reception is detected, the process proceeds to step S705. If reception is not detected, the process returns to step S701. In step S705, the image data of the guide information provided immediately before is replaced with the received image data.
[0070]
Note that the server computer not only processes one digital camera, but also performs a plurality of processes in order to support a plurality of digital cameras. Further, instead of automatically transmitting guide information to the digital camera according to the GPS information and the travel schedule, the guide information can be manually transferred to each digital camera by a passenger or the like.
[0071]
Next, a process for automatically creating a file name and a title of image data obtained by photographing with reference to guide information browsed with the digital camera 1 will be described. For example, if the digital camera 1 was browsing the Tokyo Tower guide information just before shooting to see the Tokyo Tower, the file name of the shot image data could be tokyotower001 or the like, and the title of the image data should be Tokyo Or a tower.
[0072]
The process for creating the file name and title of the captured image data will be specifically described below. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1. This flow starts when the photographing process ends.
First, in step S801, the title portion of the guide information browsed immediately before shooting is extracted. In step S802, a guide information title is generated as a title of captured image data. In step S803, the file name of the image data is generated as a name obtained by adding a serial number to the title of the guide information. The reason for assigning the serial number is to prevent the same file name from being obtained when a plurality of images are taken at the same place. In step S804, the image data is recorded with a title and a file name on the memory card.
[0073]
Next, a process for creating a file name and a title when the captured image data is recorded in the server computer 2 will be described.
The process for creating the file name and title of the image data will be described below.
[0074]
First, control in the server computer 2 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining file name and title creation processing performed in the server computer 2.
First, in step S901, guide information is transmitted to the digital camera 1. The server computer 2 always transmits to the digital camera 1 guide information relating to a sightseeing spot that is currently required. In step S902, it is detected whether image data is received from the digital camera 1. If image data has been received, the process proceeds to step S903. If not, the process returns to step S901.
[0075]
In step S903, it is detected whether reception of image data is completed. If completion is detected, the process proceeds to step S904. If completion is not detected, detection is continued.
In step S904, the file name and title of the transmitted image data are analyzed. In step S905, it is detected whether the file name and title are created from guide information. If it is created from guide information, the process proceeds to step S906, and if it is not created based on guide information, the process proceeds to step S907. In step S906, the title is not changed, and the number / number part of the file name is changed so as not to be the same as the file name of the other image data.
[0076]
In step S907, guide information transmitted to the digital camera 1 that is the transmission source of the image data before photographing is detected. In step S908, a file name and a title are generated based on the detected guide information. In step S909, the image data is recorded in a predetermined folder registered by the owner of the digital camera 1.
[0077]
Further, as described above, the guide information of the sightseeing spot provided by the server computer 2 is any of the information according to the request from the digital camera 1, the information according to the travel schedule, and the information manually transmitted by the driver or the like. Good.
Next, control in the digital camera 1 will be described. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1. The flow shown in FIG. 17 starts when it is detected that the release button 111 provided on the digital camera 1 is fully pressed.
[0078]
First, in step S1001, shooting control is executed to generate image data. Next, in step S 1002, specific information for specifying the guide information received from the server computer 2 immediately before shooting is extracted. In step S1003, the image data and guide information specific information are transmitted to the server computer 2. In step S1004, it is detected whether information for accessing transmitted image data such as a file name and storage destination address information has been received. If detected, the process proceeds to step S1005, and if not detected, the detection is continued. In step S1005, the access information is stored in the built-in memory 105.
[0079]
Thus, by receiving information for accessing the transmitted image data and storing it in the digital camera 1, the image data transmitted from the digital camera 1 can be easily accessed.
The information distributed from the server computer 2 includes not only guide information such as sightseeing spots but also entrance ticket information, ticket information, hotel key information, various discount coupons, and the like. It is possible to enter by simply carrying the digital camera 1 or mobile phone to which the ticket information is distributed, or by displaying or reading the monitor screen displaying the distributed information. To do. The ticket information is not distributed from the server computer 2, but necessary ticket information may be recorded in advance on a memory card or the like and distributed.
[0080]
Hereinafter, ticket distribution control will be described.
Ticket information and ticket information are distributed according to travel dates and GPS information. Therefore, even if the digital camera 1 is lost, the digital camera 1 is not distributed if it does not go to the place for that time, and it is not easily abused. It can be prevented from being used by taking measures to cancel delivery when lost.
[0081]
Further, by distributing each time, the memory capacity is not wasted by the ticket information in the main body.
In addition, the ticket information to be distributed is determined to be used, and has already been purchased or purchased. Tickets recommended for purchase and ticket information necessary on the spot may be distributed.
[0082]
The distribution control of ticket information and the like will be specifically described below. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2.
First, in step S1101, GPS information and travel schedule information are analyzed. In step S1102, it is determined from the analysis result whether ticket information should be distributed. If ticket information should be distributed, the process proceeds to step S1103. If ticket information should not be distributed, the process returns to step S1101. In step S1103, necessary ticket information is extracted from the analysis result. In step S1104, the extracted ticket information is transmitted to the digital camera 1.
[0083]
Although the distribution of ticket information has been described in the above control, the distribution of ticket information and the distribution of guide information may be performed simultaneously. In this case, a page in which ticket information is embedded in the guide information page may be distributed, or different pages may be distributed simultaneously. In such a case, it is sufficient to analyze the distribution time of the guide information by having no special control for distributing the ticket information and distributing the ticket information together with the predetermined guide information.
[0084]
In the above embodiment, the ticket is distributed based on two pieces of information, that is, GPS information and travel schedule information. However, the ticket information may be distributed based on only GPS information or only travel schedule information. In addition, the ticket information distribution time may be determined and transmitted from other information instead of GPS information and travel schedule information.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system configuration of an image data management system.
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing an internal configuration of the digital camera 1;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of the digital camera 1;
FIG. 4 is a flowchart of transfer control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing image data recording control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for performing settings for recording captured image data in a plurality of recording destinations.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing recording control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a display example of guide information.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2;
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a display example of an album page.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a display example of an album page.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2;
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining file name and title creation processing performed in the server computer 2;
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the digital camera 1;
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the control executed by the server computer 2;
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,3 ... Digital camera 2,4 ... Server computer 101 ... CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 102 ... Communication circuit 103 ... Monitor 104 ... Switch circuit 105 ... Built-in memory 106 ... Memory card slot 107 ... Image processing circuit 108 ... GPS circuit

Claims (9)

An acquisition means for acquiring the shooting settings of the other digital camera in the case of a digital camera capable of detecting whether the shooting settings can be read from the other digital camera and reading the shooting settings;
An instruction member operated to instruct the start of shooting;
Generating means for generating image data to be transmitted to the other digital camera based on the photographing setting acquired by the acquiring means in response to the operation of the instruction member;
A digital camera comprising: transmission means for transmitting the image data generated by the generation means to a predetermined location. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein
The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the transmission means transmits image data to the other digital camera as the predetermined location. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein
The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates image data based on an image size, a resolution, and a compression rate based on the shooting setting. Communication means for communicating with other digital cameras;
An acquisition unit that acquires the shooting setting of the other digital camera via the communication unit when the shooting setting can be read by detecting whether the shooting setting can be read from the other digital camera; ,
An instruction member operated to instruct the start of shooting;
A digital camera comprising: generation means for generating image data based on the photographing setting acquired by the acquisition means in response to an operation of the instruction member. Communication means for communicating with other digital cameras;
An acquisition unit that acquires information of the other digital camera via the communication unit when the digital camera is capable of reading out the shooting setting by detecting whether the shooting setting can be read from the other digital camera;
An instruction member operated to instruct the start of shooting;
Generating means for generating image data based on the information acquired by the acquiring means in response to the operation of the indicating member;
A digital camera comprising: transmission means for transmitting the generated image data to the other digital camera. The digital camera according to claim 5, wherein
The generating means generates image data of raw data that is substantially the same as the output from the image sensor,
The digital camera characterized in that the transmitting means transmits the image data of the raw data. The digital camera according to claim 5, wherein
A digital camera comprising control means for controlling to hold in a folder that is set to be transferred at the time of shooting with the other digital camera. The digital camera according to claim 5, wherein
A digital camera characterized by holding image data in the camera. The digital camera according to claim 5, wherein
Having a monitor for displaying image data;
The digital camera characterized in that the monitor displays the transferred image data.

Images