JP4132919B2 - Imaging device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus configured to update settings related to a predetermined function and to capture and record a subject.
[0002]
[Prior art and problems to be solved by the invention]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a camera, a video camera, a digital camera, or the like using a silver-lead film has been proposed as an imaging device configured to update settings related to a predetermined function and to capture and record a subject.
[0003]
As a conventional imaging device, when a camera body is activated by a power switch, a subject is photographed as an image by operating a shutter switch and is stored as a file in a memory built in the body, and an image stored by photographing There has been proposed a digital camera that can be switched to any one of a playback mode that can be played back by display means such as a liquid crystal display and that can communicate with an external device.
[0004]
This type of digital camera is equipped with a number of functions related to playback, file management, etc., as well as functions related to shooting such as shutter speed and shooting size, and the user can update these settings. It can be used as a digital camera that suits the purpose of use.
[0005]
When updating the settings of these functions, the user usually operates the buttons and keys corresponding to the function whose settings are to be updated, but the user does not use all the functions installed. However, some of the functions are selected and updated, and the operation is complicated and troublesome.
[0006]
In view of this point, paying attention to the fact that there are variations in which functions to use, such as the technique described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-187669, the functions used are not reduced but used by the user. There has also been proposed a technique for improving user operability by learning functions and customizing them by collecting frequently used functions.
[0007]
On the other hand, as more functions are installed in the digital camera body, the number of buttons and keys for selecting these functions increases, and as a result, multiple ports for polling buttons and keys are prepared. There was a problem that it became complicated and cost increased.
[0008]
However, as described above, the functions that users use vary from user to user, and the frequency of button and key usage varies from user to user.Therefore, simply reduce the number of specific buttons and keys. I can't.
[0009]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus capable of reducing the cost without deteriorating the function.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, the invention described in claim 1 is an imaging apparatus configured to update settings related to a predetermined function and to capture and record a subject, and performs a predetermined function. Operating means operated at the time, receiving means for receiving a predetermined instruction signal transmitted from an external device, and setting of the predetermined function executed when the operating means is operated in response to the instruction signal Setting update means for updating the settings relating to the function including:Time measuring means for measuring elapsed time, and setting updated by the setting updating means when the elapsed time measured by the time measuring means from the time when the setting is updated by the setting updating means reaches a predetermined time Setting return means for returning to the setting before update,It is characterized by having.
[0011]
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to receive a predetermined instruction signal from the external device by the receiving means, and it is possible to operate the imaging apparatus of the present invention by the external device. In addition, settings relating to predetermined functions can be updated based on the instruction signal. For this reason, it is possible to update settings related to a predetermined function by an instruction signal from an external apparatus having buttons and keys without providing a large number of buttons and keys in the imaging apparatus body. Therefore, even if the number of buttons and keys is reduced to the minimum necessary, settings relating to a predetermined function can be updated, and an imaging apparatus that can be reduced in cost without deteriorating the function can be provided.
  Here, in the first aspect of the present invention, an operation unit is provided, and the setting related to a function that can be updated by an external apparatus includes a setting of a function that is executed by operating the operation unit. As the operation means, any device capable of detecting the operation, such as a button operated by pressing, a slide switch operated by sliding, a touch panel operated by touching a fingertip, etc. can be applied. .
  Therefore, it is possible to set so that a function that the user wants to execute frequently is executed by operating any operation means. Therefore, functions that are not used at all times, such as shutter speed, captured image size, compression rate, and file management, are set by an external device, and functions that the user wants to execute frequently can be executed by operating the operation means, such as buttons. It is possible to realize a usage pattern according to the user's request while reducing the number of devices.
In addition, according to the present invention, since the setting before the update is automatically restored after a lapse of a predetermined time, when a special function that is temporarily used is set, it is possible to save the trouble of returning the function to the original state. Can improve usability. As the time measuring means, a timer capable of measuring time, a counter capable of generating a pulse signal corresponding to the time, or the like can be applied.
[0012]
The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that, in the invention according to claim 1, the setting relating to the function is at least one of setting of a parameter of the function and setting of instructing execution of the function.
[0013]
According to the second aspect of the present invention, at least one of the setting of the function parameter and the setting for instructing execution of the function can be updated by the external device as the setting related to the function of the first aspect of the invention. . The functions for which parameters are set include an image size setting function, an image quality setting function, an image compression function, and the like. Functions for which execution instruction is set include white balance adjustment function, automatic exposure control function Etc. are included.
[0014]
Therefore, even if the number of buttons or the like is reduced, the settings related to these functions can be updated, and the cost can be reduced without causing a decrease in the functions.
[0015]
The invention according to claim 3 further comprises operation means operated when executing a predetermined function in the invention according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the operation means is operated for setting related to the function. The setting of the predetermined function to be executed at the time is included.
[0016]
According to the invention of claim 3, in contrast to the invention of claim 1 or 2, the operation means is provided, and the operation means is executed by operating the operation means as a setting relating to a function that can be updated by an external device. Function settings are included. As the operation means, any device capable of detecting the operation, such as a button operated by pressing, a slide switch operated by sliding, a touch panel operated by touching a fingertip, etc. can be applied. .
[0017]
Therefore, it is possible to set so that a function that the user wants to execute frequently is executed by operating any operation means. Therefore, functions that are not used at all times, such as shutter speed, captured image size, compression rate, and file management, are set by an external device, and functions that the user wants to execute frequently can be executed by operating the operation means, such as buttons. It is possible to realize a usage pattern according to the user's request while reducing the number of devices.
[0018]
  Claim 3The invention described inClaim 2In the invention described in (1), a plurality of the operation means are provided, and the setting related to the function is a setting of a combination of the operation means operated when the predetermined function is executed.
[0019]
  Claim 3According to the invention ofClaim 2In the invention of the present invention, since a plurality of operation means are provided and the setting related to the function can be updated so that the predetermined function is executed by a combination of the plurality of operation means, it is possible to execute many functions with a small number of operation means. It becomes.
[0020]
  Claim 4The invention described in claim 1 to claim 1Claim 3The invention described in any one of the above is characterized by further comprising display means for performing display related to the update of the setting related to the function in response to the instruction signal when the instruction signal is received from the external device.
[0021]
  Claim 4According to the present invention, claims 1 toClaim 3In any one of the inventions, when an instruction signal from an external device is received, display related to setting update related to the function corresponding to the received instruction signal (for example, display of a message, a menu screen, etc.) is performed by the display means. .
[0022]
Therefore, the setting related to the function can be updated while referring to the display related to the update, and the update can be easily and reliably performed. As the display means, any display such as a liquid crystal display and an organic EL display can be applied.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows the back of the digital camera 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0027]
As shown in the figure, on the back of the digital camera 10, a finder 46 for determining the composition of a subject when shooting is performed, and a subject image obtained by shooting, various menus, messages, and the like are displayed. An image monitor 40 composed of a liquid crystal display, a display switch 42 that is pressed when performing display on the image monitor 40, and an operation mode of the digital camera 10 are OFF mode (OFF) for turning off the power of the main body, There is provided a changeover switch 50 that can be selectively switched to one of a photographing mode (REC) for photographing with the digital camera 10 and a reproduction mode (PLAY) for reproducing the photographed image.
[0028]
Further, a shutter switch (so-called release switch) 44 that is pressed by a user when shooting is provided on the upper surface of the digital camera 10, and an external device is connected to the side surface of the digital camera 10. Then, a digital interface (hereinafter referred to as “digital I / F”) 34 for controlling communication with a predetermined interface standard (USB (Universal Serial Bus) in the present embodiment) with the apparatus, and photographing. When a portable recording medium (in this embodiment, a memory card) that stores the image data obtained as described above is inserted into the digital camera 10, a recording medium interface (hereinafter referred to as “the recording medium”) is inserted. 38) ”is provided.
[0029]
In front of the digital camera 10, a lens 12 for forming a subject image and a strobe 30 that emits light when the subject has low illuminance at which an appropriate amount of exposure light cannot be obtained during exposure (both see FIG. 2). 1 is omitted).
[0030]
Next, the configuration of the electrical system of the digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0031]
As shown in the figure, the digital camera 10 includes a mechanical shutter and an aperture (hereinafter referred to as “shutter / aperture”) 14 for limiting the amount of incident light that indicates a subject that has passed through the lens 12 during imaging. An imaging device 18 constituted by a CCD that images a subject based on the incident light and outputs an analog image signal indicating the subject image; an analog signal processing unit 20 that performs predetermined analog signal processing on the input signal; An analog / digital converter (hereinafter referred to as “A / D converter”) 22 for converting an input analog signal into a digital signal, and a digital signal for performing predetermined digital signal processing on the input digital signal An SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Mem) that stores information indicated by the processing unit 24 and the input digital signal. ory) and the input digital data are compressed in a predetermined compression format (in this embodiment, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format), while the input compressed digital data is A compression / expansion unit 28 that expands in an expansion format corresponding to the compression format; and a drive circuit 32 that generates a drive signal for driving each of the lens 12, the shutter / aperture 14, the imaging device 18, and the strobe 30. It consists of
[0032]
The digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 52, and various functions such as an automatic exposure control (so-called AE) function, a focus control (so-called AF) function, and a white balance adjustment function. Firmware for executing the program, programs for performing various processes, data indicating various menus and messages, and the like are stored.
[0033]
The output end of the imaging device 18 is the input end of the analog signal processing unit 20, the output end of the analog signal processing unit 20 is the input end of the A / D converter 22, and the output end of the A / D converter 22 is the digital signal processing. The output end of the digital signal processing unit 24 is connected to the input end of the memory 26 to the input end of the unit 24, and an analog image signal obtained by imaging by the imaging device 18 is predetermined by the analog signal processing unit 20. Are then converted into digital signals by the A / D converter 22 and then subjected to predetermined digital signal processing by the digital signal processing unit 24 and temporarily stored in the memory 26 as digital image data. .
[0034]
An output terminal for outputting various drive signals of the drive circuit 32 is connected to the lens 12, the shutter / aperture 14, the imaging device 18, and the strobe 30. These units are driven by drive signals input from the drive circuit 32. Is done. 2 shows a state in which one line is branched and connected from the drive circuit 32 to the lens 12, the shutter / stop 14 and the strobe 30 in order to avoid complications. The drive circuit 32 is connected to each part by different wirings, and each part is driven by a different drive signal.
[0035]
On the other hand, the digital camera 10 further includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 36 that controls the operation of the entire digital camera 10 and a timer 70 for timing.
[0036]
Analog signal processing unit 20, A / D converter 22, digital signal processing unit 24, memory 26, ROM 52, compression / decompression unit 28, drive circuit 32, digital I / F 34, CPU 36, timer 70, display switch 42, shutter switch 44 The changeover switch 50 is connected to the main bus MB, and the CPU 36 includes an analog signal processing unit 20, an A / D converter 22, a digital signal processing unit 24, a compression / decompression unit 28, a drive circuit 32, and a timer 70. Control of operation, access to the memory 26 and ROM 52, transmission / reception of signals to / from an external device connected to the digital I / F 34, detection of operation states by the user of the display switch 42, shutter switch 44 and changeover switch 50 It can be carried out.
[0037]
Here, the output terminal of the memory 26 is connected to a memory card inserted and attached to the recording medium I / F 38 via the compression / decompression unit 28, and when the digital camera 10 is in the shooting mode, The digital image data stored in 26 is compressed in a predetermined compression format by the compression / decompression unit 28 and then stored in the memory card as an image file. When the digital camera 10 is in the playback mode, the CPU 36 can decompress the compressed digital image data stored in the memory card by the compression / decompression unit 28 and read it through the memory 26. it can. Further, the other output terminal of the memory 26 is connected to the image monitor 40, and the CPU 36 can control display of the subject image indicated by the digital image data stored in the memory 26 on the image monitor 40.
[0038]
In the present embodiment, the CPU 36 recognizes an external device connected to the digital I / F 34, identifies a signal received from the device, and displays data indicating a menu stored in the ROM 52 according to the received signal. After the processing, the menu and other messages can be displayed on the image monitor 40 via the memory 26.
[0039]
On the other hand, the drive circuit 32 generates a drive signal to be supplied to each of the lens 12, the shutter / aperture 14, the imaging device 18, and the strobe 30 based on the control signal corresponding to the photographing condition input from the CPU 36. Supply to each part. That is, the drive circuit 32 includes a clock generation unit and a timing signal generation unit (not shown), and is based on a control signal input from the CPU 36 and various signals from the clock generation unit and the timing signal generation unit. Drive signals to be supplied to each unit.
[0040]
FIG. 3A shows a menu screen for performing settings related to the functions of the digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment. On this menu screen, there are `` function settings '' for updating settings related to functions installed in the main body and `` button function changes '' for changing the functions to be given to buttons such as switches provided on the main body. Two items are displayed, and the item indicated by the movable selection cursor 72 can be selected.
[0041]
When “Function setting” or “Change button function” is selected on the menu screen, the functions that can be set for each item are displayed in a heading, and submenus for each item for displaying setting candidates for each function are displayed. Is displayed.
[0042]
For example, when the item “function setting” is selected, a function setting menu is displayed as the submenu as shown in FIG. In the function setting menu heading, functions preinstalled in the main body are displayed, setting candidates are displayed for each function, and the setting candidates can be indicated by a movable selection cursor 72. When the function setting menu cannot be displayed on the image monitor 40 at a time, the display corresponding to the desired function can be performed by scrolling the display on the image monitor 40 up and down.
[0043]
When the “button function change” item is selected, the names of the switches (display switch 42, shutter switch 44, changeover switch 50) provided in the digital camera 10 are displayed as headings and are given to each switch. A button function change menu (not shown) in which possible functions are displayed as selection candidates is displayed on the image monitor 40 as the submenu.
[0044]
As shown in FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, a headphone 54 with a remote control is connected to a digital I / F 34 provided in the digital camera 10.
[0045]
Here, the headphone 54 with a remote control is normally connected to a digital I / F provided in a playback device such as an MD (mini disc) or a CD (compact disc) via the USB cable 53. A stop button 58 for instructing to stop reproduction, a reproduction button 60 for instructing reproduction, a fast-forward button 62 for instructing fast-forward or cue, a rewind button 64 for instructing rewind or cue-up, and other volume adjustments A remote control 56 provided with various buttons 66 for performing the above and the like is provided.
[0046]
When the headphone 54 with remote control is connected to the digital I / F 34 of the digital camera 10, the headphone 54 with remote control is recognized by the CPU 36 of the digital camera 10. When any of the buttons 58, 60, 62, 64, 66 provided on the remote control 56 of the headphone 54 with the remote control is operated, a signal capable of identifying the operated button is transmitted to the digital camera 10, and the CPU 36 Identified.
[0047]
In the present embodiment, the CPU 36 displays the above-described menu screen on the monitor screen 40 by operating the stop button 58, and moves the selection cursor 72 in the forward direction (rightward or downward) by operating the fast-forward button 62. The selection cursor 72 is moved in the reverse direction (leftward or upward) by the operation of the rewind button 64, and is confirmed by the operation of the playback button 60. When the other various buttons 66 are operated, they are processed as invalid signals. It has become.
[0048]
The operation of the present embodiment will be described below.
[0049]
The digital camera 10 of the present embodiment is activated by operating the changeover switch 50.
[0050]
When shooting the subject, the user moves the changeover switch 50 to the REC position, determines the composition of the subject while looking through the viewfinder 46, and operates the shutter switch 44 to take the shot.
[0051]
Further, when it is desired to view an image that has already been taken, the image can be displayed on the image monitor 40 by moving the changeover switch 50 to the PLAY position.
[0052]
On the other hand, when the headphone with remote control 54 is connected to the digital I / F 34 via the USB cable, the CPU 36 recognizes the headphone with remote control 54 and executes a function setting process.
[0053]
The function setting process according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a function setting processing program executed by the CPU 36 when executing the function setting processing, and the program is stored in the ROM 52 in advance.
[0054]
First, in step 100, reception of a button pressing signal from the remote control 56 of the headphone 54 with remote control (hereinafter referred to as an external button) is waited for. When an external button pressing signal is received, the process proceeds to step 102, where it is determined whether or not the received signal is a pressing signal for a button (stop button 58) indicating that a menu screen is to be displayed. Then, the data of the menu screen (see FIG. 3A) stored in the ROM 52 is read out and displayed on the image monitor 40 together with the selection cursor 72. Then, the process proceeds to step 106.
[0055]
On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 102, it is determined that the received signal is an invalid signal, the process returns to step 100, and the reception of the external button pressing signal is awaited again.
[0056]
When the menu screen is displayed on the image monitor 40, the user selects a desired item by operating a button provided on the headphone 56 with a remote control, and then presses a button (play button 60) indicating confirmation. To do.
[0057]
Therefore, in step 106, reception of the external button press signal is waited again.
[0058]
In the next step 108, it is determined whether or not the received external button pressing signal is a pressing signal for a button (fast forward button 62 or rewind button 64) indicating that the selection cursor 72 is to be moved. After moving to step 110 and updating the menu screen so that the selection cursor 72 displayed on the image monitor 40 moves in the direction corresponding to the received external button pressing signal on the menu screen, the process returns to step 106 and again. Wait for reception of next external button press signal.
[0059]
If a negative determination is made in step 108, the process proceeds to step 112, and it is determined whether or not the external button pressing signal received in step 106 is a pressing signal for a button (play button 60) indicating that it is confirmed. . If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 114, the item indicated by the selection cursor 72 on the menu screen is determined as a selection item, and then the process proceeds to step 116.
[0060]
On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 112, it is assumed that the received signal is an invalid signal, the process returns to step 106, and the reception of the external button press signal is awaited again.
[0061]
In step 116, a function setting execution process to be described later is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step 118, the display on the image monitor 40 is cleared, and then the process returns to step 100 to wait for reception of the external button press signal again.
[0062]
The function setting process program ends when the headphone 54 with a remote control is removed from the digital I / F 34 and cannot be recognized by the CPU 36.
[0063]
Next, function setting execution processing (step 116 in FIG. 5) executed in the function setting processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing relating to the function setting execution process in the function setting process program described above.
[0064]
First, in step 120, it is determined whether or not the selection item determined in step 114 is “function setting”. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 122 and the function setting menu (see FIG. 3B). ) Is displayed on the image monitor 40, and the process proceeds to step 126. On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 120, the process proceeds to step 124, and it is assumed that “button function change” has been selected as a selection item, and the above-described button function change menu (not shown) is displayed on the image monitor 40. Control goes to step 126.
[0065]
When the function setting menu is displayed on the image monitor 40, the user operates a button (fast forward button 62 or rewind button 64) indicating that the selection cursor 72 provided on the headphone 56 with remote control is moved to set the function. A desired function is found from the menu heading, one setting candidate is selected, and then a button (playback button 60) indicating that it is confirmed is pressed. When the button function change menu is displayed on the image monitor 40, the user operates a button (fast forward button 62 or rewind button 64) indicating that the selection cursor 72 is to be moved, and starts from the button function change menu heading. After searching for the name of the switch for which a desired function is to be set and selecting the desired function from the selection candidates, a button (playback button 60) indicating that it is to be confirmed is pressed.
[0066]
In step 126, the reception of the external button pressing signal is again waited. When the external button pressing signal is received, the process proceeds to step 128, and a button (fast forward button 62 or rewind button) indicating that the received signal moves the selection cursor 72 is displayed. 64), if the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 130, where the selection cursor 72 displayed on the image monitor 40 corresponds to the received external button press signal on the menu screen. After the menu screen is updated so as to move in the selected direction, the process returns to step 126 to wait for reception of the next external button press signal again.
[0067]
If a negative determination is made in step 128, the process proceeds to step 132, and it is determined whether or not the external button pressing signal received in step 126 is a pressing signal for a button (play button 60) indicating that it is confirmed. . If the determination is negative, the received signal is considered to be an invalid signal, and the process returns to step 126 to wait for reception of the external button press signal again.
[0068]
In step 134, after reflecting the state set by the user in the function setting menu or the button function change menu, the function setting execution process is terminated.
[0069]
The setting state in step 134 is reflected as follows.
[0070]
For example, if “function setting” in FIG. 3A is selected and “white balance” is set to “ON” by the user, white balance adjustment processing is executed for each related unit. If the “image quality” is set to “Fine”, the setting is updated so as to obtain the highest image quality for the related units.
[0071]
In addition, when “button function change” in FIG. 3A is selected and the user sets the “shutter switch” to “forward playback during playback”, the shutter switch 44 is operated in the playback mode. If the setting of the function is updated so that the playback images are sequentially fed one by one, and the “shutter switch and display switch” is set to be “self-timer”, the shutter switch 44 and the display are displayed for each related part. When the switches 42 are operated simultaneously, the function setting is updated so that the self-timer function is executed.
[0072]
On the other hand, in the digital camera 10 according to the present embodiment, the time management process is executed simultaneously with the end of the function setting process.
[0073]
Hereinafter, the time management process according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 shows a flow of processing of a time management program executed by the CPU 36 when executing the time management processing, and the program is also stored in the ROM 52 in advance.
[0074]
First, at step 140, the time value t of the timer 70 is set to 0, thereby resetting the timer 70 and starting the time measurement. Next, the routine proceeds to step 142 and waits until the measured value t of the timer 70 becomes X (2 hours in the present embodiment) or more, and then the routine proceeds to step 144.
[0075]
In step 144, the setting of the function performed by the function setting execution process described above is returned to the setting before the update, and the setting related to the function is reset to a predetermined default, and the time management process ends.
[0076]
The headphone 54 with a remote control is the external device of the present invention, the digital I / F 34 is the receiving means of the present invention, the CPU 36 is the setting update means and the setting return means, the display switch 42, the shutter switch 44, and the changeover switch 50 of the present invention. As the operation means, the image monitor 40 corresponds to the display means of the present invention, and the timer 70 corresponds to the time measuring means of the present invention.
[0077]
As described above, according to the digital camera 10 of the present embodiment, the instruction signal from the headphone 54 with the remote control is received via the digital I / F 34, and the setting related to the function determined in advance according to the instruction signal. Can be updated. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the number of buttons and reduce the cost of the digital camera 10 without deteriorating the function.
[0078]
In addition, since the menu screen related to the update of the function setting is displayed on the image monitor 40, the update can be performed easily and reliably with reference to the image monitor 40.
[0079]
Furthermore, the elapsed time from when the setting is updated by the timer 70 is counted, and the setting of the function is restored to the setting before the updating when the predetermined time has elapsed, so a special function to be used temporarily is set. In some cases, it is possible to save the trouble of returning the function, and the usability can be improved.
[0080]
Functions that are executed by operating means can be updated, and settings related to functions can be updated so that predetermined functions are executed by a combination of multiple operating means, so many functions can be executed with few operating means It becomes possible to make it.
[0081]
In the present embodiment, the case where the headphone 54 with a remote control normally used in a playback device is applied as it is as an external device of the present invention has been described. However, even a device equipped with a button dedicated to the digital camera 10 may be used. Alternatively, headphones with a remote control for the digital camera 10 may be used.
[0082]
When using a headphone with a remote control dedicated to the digital camera 10, a photometric sensor is provided in the headphone with the dedicated remote control, and an automatic exposure control (AE) that automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture of the digital camera 10 based on the detection result of the photometric sensor. ) May be performed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8, when an AE function is provided as a function of the main body in advance and the AE function is turned on using headphones with a dedicated remote controller, the shutter speed and aperture are set based on the photometric sensor data at the time of setting. Is set, and the set content is maintained for a predetermined time after the setting. Since it is considered that there is no change in the weather etc. for a while, it is effective to set it immediately before the start of shooting.
[0083]
In the present embodiment, the buttons and keys as the operation means of the present invention provided in the digital camera 10 are the shutter switch 44, the display switch 42, and the changeover switch 50, but are not limited thereto. .
[0084]
In the first embodiment, the setting contents are maintained for 2 hours after the setting. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a time with many needs can be applied. In addition, if a function that allows the user to select a time for maintaining the setting is installed in the digital camera 10 main body in advance, the setting contents can be maintained in accordance with the convenience of the user.
[0085]
Further, in the present embodiment, the timer 70 separate from the CPU 36 is used as the time measuring means, but a timer or counter built in the CPU 36 may be used.
[0086]
(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the embodiment in which the headphone 54 with a remote control is used as an external device connected to the digital I / F 34 in order to update the function of the digital camera 10 has been described. In the embodiment, an example in which the function of the digital camera 10 is updated by a cradle for connecting an external device such as a personal computer and the main body of the digital camera 10 will be described.
[0087]
The configuration of the digital camera 10 in this embodiment is the same as that of the digital camera 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) shown in the first embodiment, and is omitted here.
[0088]
FIG. 9 shows a state example in which the cradle 80 is connected to the digital camera 10 as the second embodiment. The cradle 80 is configured such that when the digital camera 10 is attached to the attachment portion 81, a connector (not shown) in the attachment portion 81 is connected to the digital I / F 34 of the digital camera 10.
[0089]
In addition, a connector (not shown) provided at the tip of the cable 82 provided in the cradle 80 is connected to a corresponding connector of a device such as a personal computer, and communication is possible between the digital camera 10 and the personal computer.
[0090]
In the cradle 80, when the power of the digital camera 10 is turned on, the power lamp 88A is turned on, and the communication state between the digital camera 10 and a device such as a personal computer connected via the cradle 80 is an access lamp. Displayed by turning on 88B.
[0091]
In the cradle 80 of the second embodiment, the menu button 84 for instructing the image monitor 40 of the digital camera 10 to display the menu screen and the movement of the selection cursor 72 displayed on the menu screen are instructed. An operation key 86 is provided.
[0092]
According to the second embodiment, when recognizing the connection of the cradle 80, the CPU 36 of the digital camera 10 executes the function setting processing program (see FIGS. 5 and 6) described in the first embodiment. To do. When the CPU 36 receives a press signal of the menu button 84 when the menu screen is not displayed on the image monitor 40, the CPU 36 displays the menu screen read from the ROM 52 and the selection cursor 72 on the image monitor 40 (see FIG. 3A). When the pressing signal of the operation key 86 is received, the selection cursor 72 is moved in the moving direction according to the pressing signal of the operation key 86. The operation key 86 operates similarly when a menu specified by the user (function setting menu (FIG. 3B) or button function change menu (not shown)) is displayed on the image monitor 40.
[0093]
Further, when a press signal of the menu key 84 is received while the menu screen, the function setting menu, and the button function change menu are displayed, the function corresponding to the display position of the selection cursor 72 is set in each menu.
[0094]
When the CPU 36 does not recognize the connection of the cradle 80, the function setting processing program is terminated and the time management processing program (see FIG. 7) described in the first embodiment is executed to count the time. Then, when the counting time has passed 2 hours, the setting is restored to the setting contents before the update, the setting of the digital camera 10 is returned to the preset default, and the time management program ends.
[0095]
Thus, even if the digital camera 10 is not provided with an operation means, the settings related to the functions of the digital camera 10 can be updated with the cradle 80 that is relatively easy to carry, so that it can easily function even in a mobile environment such as outdoors. Settings related to can be updated.
[0096]
(Third embodiment)
In the second embodiment, the cradle 80 for connecting an external device such as a personal computer and the main body of the digital camera 10 is used as an external device connected to the digital I / F 34 in order to make settings related to the functions of the digital camera 10. Although the form example to be used has been described, in the third embodiment, a form example in which settings relating to the function of the digital camera 10 are performed using the operation unit provided in the vending machine 90 will be described.
[0097]
The configuration of the digital camera 10 in this embodiment is the same as that of the digital camera 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) shown in the first embodiment, and is omitted here.
[0098]
FIG. 10 shows a vending machine 90 connected to the digital camera 10 via the digital I / F 34 in the third embodiment. The vending machine 90 updates or displays settings related to the functions of the digital camera 10, a slot 92 for inserting coins, a liquid crystal screen 94 on which operation methods, messages, advertisements, and the like are displayed. A digital camera setting unit 99 configured to include an input unit 97 for answering the received message, a connector 96 connectable to the digital I / F 34 of the camera, and a table 98 for mounting the camera. A sample product such as juice is displayed, and includes a display 91 having a button for designating a desired product and a product outlet 93.
[0099]
The digital camera 10 is placed on the table 98, and the connector 96 and the digital I / F 34 are connected.
[0100]
The vending machine 90 recognizes the digital camera 10 and displays a message prompting the user to insert coins on the liquid crystal screen 94. At this time, even if the input unit 97 is operated, it is invalid, and a button press signal is not transmitted from the vending machine 90 to the digital camera 10. When a coin (for example, 10 yen) is inserted into the insertion port 92, the connection between the vending machine 90 and the digital camera 10 becomes valid, and an operation method is displayed on the liquid crystal screen 94 of the vending machine 90.
[0101]
On the other hand, when the digital camera 10 recognizes that the vending machine 90 is connected via the digital I / F 34, the function setting processing program described in the first and second embodiments (FIG. 5 and FIG. 5). (See FIG. 6).
[0102]
When the button of the input unit 97 is operated in this state, a button press signal is transmitted to the digital camera 10 from the vending machine 90 in which the connection is valid, and setting related to the function is performed as in the first and second embodiments. Is updated.
[0103]
When the setting update is completed, the digital camera 10 is pulled out from the connector 96, and the connection of the vending machine 90 is not recognized by the CPU 36 of the digital camera 10, the function setting processing program is terminated, and the first and first functions are completed. The time management process program (see FIG. 7) described in the second embodiment is executed to start timing, and when 2 hours have elapsed, the setting contents before the update are restored and the settings of the digital camera 10 are set in advance. Return to the set default state and end the timed management program.
[0104]
In this way, even if the digital camera 10 is not provided with an operating means, settings related to the function of the digital camera 10 can be updated by the vending machine 90 installed in various places. Even when going out, it is not necessary to carry a dedicated device, and settings can be updated easily.
[0105]
In the third embodiment, the vending machine 90 is provided with the liquid crystal screen 94 to display the operation method, advertisement, etc. However, the explanation of the operation method and the like is not provided without the liquid crystal screen 94. It may be described directly on the machine 90, or a sticker on which an operation method or the like is described may be attached to the vending machine 90.
[0106]
Further, the buttons constituting the input unit 97 of the vending machine 90 may be buttons such as a numeric keypad or a menu key 84 or an operation key 86 provided in the cradle 80 of the second embodiment.
[0107]
In the first to third embodiments, the external device and the digital camera 10 main body are connected by wire to perform communication, but wireless communication means such as Blue Tooth may be used.
[0108]
Further, the external device for performing the setting related to the function is not limited to the first to third embodiments, and a device attached with a key such as a mobile phone or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) can be used.
[0109]
Furthermore, the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 are examples, and it is needless to say that changes can be made as appropriate without departing from the gist of the present invention.
[0110]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, there is an excellent effect that it is possible to provide an imaging apparatus capable of reducing the cost without causing a decrease in function.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view showing a back surface of a digital camera according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electric system of the digital camera according to the embodiment of the present invention.
3A and 3B are diagrams showing a display example of the image monitor according to the embodiment of the present invention, where FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a display example of a menu screen, and FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a display example of a function setting menu screen; It is.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which headphones with a remote control are connected to the digital camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a function setting processing program according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a function setting execution processing program according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing flow of a timed management processing program according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a function setting menu screen according to another embodiment of the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a cradle is attached to a digital camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a vending machine capable of operating a digital camera according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 Digital camera (imaging device)
34 Digital I / F (Receiving means)
36 CPU (setting update means, setting return means)
40 Image monitor (display means)
42 Display switch (operating means)
44 Shutter switch (operating means)
50 selector switch (operating means)
70 Timer (clocking means)

Claims (4)

An image pickup apparatus configured to update settings related to a predetermined function and picking up and recording a subject,
An operation means operated when executing a predetermined function;
Receiving means for receiving a predetermined instruction signal transmitted from an external device;
Setting update means for updating the setting related to the function including the setting of the predetermined function executed when the operation means is operated in response to the instruction signal;
A timing means for timing the elapsed time;
Setting return means for returning the setting updated by the setting updating means to the setting before updating when the elapsed time counted by the time measuring means from the time when the setting is updated by the setting updating means becomes a predetermined time. When,
An imaging apparatus comprising: The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting related to the function is at least one of a setting of a parameter of the function and an instruction to execute the function. A plurality of the operating means;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting related to the function is a setting of a combination of the operation means that is operated when the predetermined function is executed. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a display unit configured to perform display related to update of the setting related to the function according to the instruction signal when the instruction signal is received from the external device. .

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