JP4190094B2 - Electronic imaging device - Google Patents

Description

そして、次のステップＳ３７において、システムコントローラ２７は、この時点において設定されている倍率カウンタのカウント値、即ち上述のステップＳ３３又はステップＳ３４において確認されたカウント値に基づいて、上述のステップＳ３６でＥＥＰＲＯＭ２６から読み込んだ情報（表１）を参照して所定の座標データを設定し、この座標データに基づく表示領域をＤＳＰ２０に対して指示する。
【００９３】
例えば、この時点において、倍率カウンタのカウント値＝［２］である場合には、座標データ（Ｐｓｔ２，Ｐｅｎｄ２）の情報がＤＳＰ２０へ送られることになる。これを受けてＤＳＰ２０では、座標データ（Ｐｓｔ２，Ｐｅｎｄ２）により示される表示領域の画像信号を表示装置２２の表示画素数に一致させるための信号圧縮処理を実行する。
【００９４】
そして、ステップＳ３８において、システムコントローラ２７は、ＤＳＰ２０を介して表示回路２１を制御して上述のステップＳ３７の処理により生成された画像信号に基づいて表わされる画像を表示装置２２へ表示するための指示を行なう。これを受けて、同画像信号がＤＳＰ２０から表示回路２１を介して表示装置２２へと出力され、表示装置２２の表示画面の全表示領域に対して拡大画像の表示を行なう。例えば、上述したように倍率カウンタのカウント値＝［２］であって、座標データ（Ｐｓｔ２，Ｐｅｎｄ２）が指示されている場合には、図７に示す表示領域６５の範囲の画像が拡大されて表示されることになる。
【００９５】
この場合において、使用者は、表示装置２２に表示される拡大画像を観察し、この拡大率が適当なものではないと判断すれば、所定の操作、即ち倍率変更ボタン４４を操作すればよい（ステップＳ３１）。この操作によって倍率変更ＳＷ３４からは所定の信号が発生するので、これを受けてシステムコントローラ２７は倍率カウンタのカウンタ値を変更し（ステップＳ３３・Ｓ３４）、よって表示装置２２の表示画面上には、所望の拡大画像が表示されるようになる（ステップＳ３５〜Ｓ３８）。
【００９６】
このようにしてステップＳ３８の処理が終了すると、ＡＦ／ＭＦ切換ＳＷ３３の状態を検出するための処理、即ち上述のステップＳ２の処理（図３参照）に戻り、以降の処理が繰り返される。
【００９７】
なお、本実施形態の電子的撮像装置１においては、拡大すべき表示領域を示す座標データを、ＥＥＰＲＯＭ２６へ予め記憶しておくようにしているので、これらの情報は、必要に応じて任意に変更することは、容易に可能である。
【００９８】
ところで、所定の領域を拡大表示するための表示領域を小さく設定する程、その拡大率は大きくなるが、この場合において、設定する表示領域をあまりに小さくしても、その設定値に基づいて拡大された画像が適切に表示されなければ無意味なものとなってしまう。したがって、拡大表示のための表示領域の設定は、表示装置２２の表示解像度（画素数）に応じて所定の上限値があるのは当然のことである。
【００９９】
例えば本電子的撮像装置１においては、倍率カウンタのカウント値＝［３］を設定した場合に最も大きな拡大率となるようにしているが、このときの座標データ（Ｐｓｔ３，Ｐｅｎｄ３）により示される領域の画素数が、表示装置２２自体の全表示画素数よりも少なくなるような設定をした場合には、これにより拡大される画像は、より大きな画像として観察することができるようにはなるが、解像力の劣化が必ず生じることになるので、その拡大表示画像によって焦点状態の確認等を行なうには不適であり、無意味なものであると考えられる。
【０１００】
したがって、上述の例では、倍率カウンタのカウント値＝［３］に設定した場合、即ち最大の拡大率となる場合の座標データ（Ｐｓｔ３，Ｐｅｎｄ３）により示される領域の画素数が、表示装置２２の全表示画素数以上となるようにすれば、解像力が劣化することなく望ましい表示を得られることになる。
【０１０１】
一方、上述のステップＳ３１において、システムコントローラ２７により倍率変更ＳＷ３４の信号状態がオフ状態であることが確認されて、ステップＳ３９の処理へ移行すると、このステップＳ３９において、システムコントローラ２７は、レンズＵＰＳＷ３５の信号状態を検出する。ここで、同レンズＵＰＳＷ３５の指示信号がオン状態であることが確認されると、ステップＳ４０の処理へ移行し、オフ状態であることが確認された場合には、ステップＳ４２の処理へと移行する。
【０１０２】
ステップＳ４０においては、システムコントローラ２７は、レンズ制御回路１４を介してレンズ駆動機構１３を駆動制御して、撮影光学系１２のうちの所定のフォーカスレンズを所定量だけ繰り出させる動作を実行する。そして、表示装置２２に表示される画像を更新するために上述のステップＳ３５の処理へと移行し、以降の処理を実行する。
【０１０３】
また、ステップＳ４２においては、システムコントローラ２７は、レンズＤＷＮＳＷ３６の信号状態を検出する。ここで、同レンズＤＯＷＮＳＷ３６の指示信号がオン状態であることが確認されると、ステップＳ４１の処理へ移行し、オフ状態であることが確認された場合には、ステップＳ４３の処理へと移行する。
【０１０４】
ステップＳ４１においては、システムコントローラ２７は、レンズ制御回路１４を介してレンズ駆動機構１３を駆動制御して、撮影光学系１２のうちの所定のフォーカスレンズを所定量だけ繰り込む動作を実行する。そして、表示装置２２に表示される画像を更新するために上述のステップＳ３５の処理へと移行し、以降の処理を実行する。
【０１０５】
したがって、上述のステップＳ３９〜Ｓ４１の処理によって、使用者は、撮影光学系１２のうちのフォーカスレンズの位置を任意に設定することができるのである。そして、このときフォーカスレンズの位置調整の都度、撮像動作を実行して表示装置２２に表示される拡大画像の更新を行なうようにしている。これによって使用者は、表示装置２２に表示される拡大画像を観察しつつ、レンズＵＰＳＷ３５又はレンズＤＯＷＮＳＷ３６に連動する各操作部材（レンズＵＰボタン４５・レンズＤＯＷＮボタン４６）を操作して、所望の被写体の焦点状態を観察しながら手動による焦点調節操作を行なうことができるのである。
【０１０６】
そして、ステップＳ４３において、システムコントローラ２７は、１ｓｔ．レリーズＳＷ３２ａの指示信号の状態を検出する。ここで、同ＳＷ３２ａがオン状態であることが確認されると、ステップＳ４４の処理へと移行し、オフ状態であることが確認されると上述のステップＳ２の処理（図３参照）に戻って、以降の処理を繰り返す。
【０１０７】
ステップＳ４４〜Ｓ４６の処理については、上述のステップＳ３〜Ｓ５と全く同様の処理が行なわれる。この処理によって、撮像素子１８により撮影し得る全範囲の画像が表示装置２２の表示画面の全領域を用いて表示されることになる。
【０１０８】
なお、上述のステップＳ３９〜Ｓ４１の処理において、撮影光学系１２のフォーカスレンズの位置を、レンズＵＰＳＷ３５又はレンズＤＯＷＮＳＷ３６に連動する各操作部材（レンズＵＰボタン４５・レンズＤＯＷＮボタン４６）によって調節しているときには、表示装置２２の表示画面上に拡大画像が表示されていることになる。したがって表示装置２２では、撮影し得る全範囲の画像の一部の領域を確認し得るのみの状態となっている。
【０１０９】
通常の場合、手動による焦点調節操作を完了した後には、実際の露光動作を実行するのに先立って撮影すべき画像の範囲を確認し、構図を設定するという作業が行なわれる。そのために、本電子的撮像装置１では、上述のステップＳ４３〜Ｓ４６の処理を設けているのである。
【０１１０】
つまり、表示装置２２の表示画面に拡大画像を表示させている状態においては、レリーズＳＷ３２を半押しする操作によって１ｓｔ．レリーズＳＷ３２ａからの指示信号を生じさせるのみで、使用者は、表示装置２２に表示されている拡大画像の表示を解除すると共に、同表示装置２２に撮影し得る全範囲の画像を表示させ、これを観察することができるのである。
【０１１１】
そして、このようにして構図を設定した後には、レリーズＳＷ３２をさらに押し込む操作によって、２ｎｄ．レリーズＳＷ３２ｂからの指示信号を生じさせて、実際の露光動作を開始させれば良い。
【０１１２】
即ち、ステップＳ４７において、システムコントローラ２７が、２ｎｄ．レリーズＳＷ３２ｂの指示信号の状態を検出し、同ＳＷ３２ｂがオン状態になったときには、上述のステップＳ２２の処理へと移行して所望の画像信号を取得するための実際の露光動作を開始する。
【０１１３】
なお、ステップＳ４７において、レリーズＳＷ３２ｂの指示信号がオフ状態である場合には、上述のステップＳ２の処理へと移行して、以降の処理が繰り返されることになる。
【０１１４】
以上説明したように上記一実施形態によれば、撮影動作時において、焦点調節モードをＡＦモードに設定した場合には、撮影動作に連動して、自動的にＡＦエリア近傍の所定の表示領域に対応する画像が表示装置２２の表示画面に拡大された形態で所定の時間だけ表示されるように制御されている。したがって、本電子的撮像装置１の使用者は、表示装置２２の拡大画像を観察して所望の被写体の焦点状態を実際の露光動作を実行する前に容易に確認することができる。
【０１１５】
また、撮影動作時において、焦点調節モードをＭＦモードに設定した場合には、手動による焦点調節動作を行なう際に、表示装置２２の表示画面に表示される拡大画像の倍率を任意に選択し、所望の被写体の焦点状態を容易に確認することができる。
【０１１６】
また、焦点調節動作が完了し、表示装置２２の表示によって焦点状態が確認された後は、表示装置２２の表示を通常形態の画像となるように自動的に切り換えるようにしたので、焦点調節動作後に続けて行なわれる動作、例えば構図の設定等を支障なく行なうことができる。したがって、極めて操作性の良好な電子的撮像装置を提供することができる。
【０１１７】
［付記］
上記発明の実施形態により、以下のような構成の発明を得ることができる。
【０１１８】
（１） 撮影光学系と、
この撮影光学系により結像される被写体像に基づいて被写体の画像データを生成する撮像手段と、
上記画像データを画像表示する表示手段と、
上記画像データを拡大表示するように上記表示手段を制御する制御手段と、
上記撮影光学系を駆動して焦点調節動作を行なう焦点調節手段と、
この焦点調節手段を起動させるための手動操作部材と、
を具備し、
上記制御手段は、上記焦点調節手段の起動に先立って作動を開始する電子的撮像装置。
【０１１９】
（２） 付記１に記載の電子的撮像装置において、
上記手動操作部材は、レリーズボタンを含む電子的撮像装置。
【０１２０】
（３） 付記１に記載の電子的撮像装置において、
上記手動操作部材は、撮影光学系の焦点調節動作を行なうための操作ボタンを含む電子的撮像装置。
【０１２１】
【発明の効果】
以上述べたように本発明によれば、表示手段を備えた電子的撮像装置において、撮影動作を実行する場合にも、より簡単な操作を行なうのみで、表示装置に表示される画像によって所望の被写体の焦点状態を容易に確認し得る電子的撮像装置を提供することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の一実施形態の電子的撮像装置における内部構成を示すブロック構成図。
【図２】図１の電子的撮像装置を背面側から見た場合の外観斜視図であって、複数の操作スイッチの状態を変化させるための操作部材の配置を示す図。
【図３】図１の電子的撮像装置における撮影動作時のシステムコントローラの作用を示すフローチャート。
【図４】図１の電子的撮像装置における撮影動作時のシステムコントローラの作用を示すフローチャート。
【図５】図１の電子的撮像装置における撮像素子により取得される画像信号によって表示される画像の範囲とＡＦ表示領域との関係を示す図。
【図６】図１の電子的撮像装置における撮像素子により取得される画像信号によって表示される画像の範囲とＡＦ表示領域との関係を示す図であって、三つの測距エリアを有する測距センサに対応するように設定したＡＦ表示領域の例を示す図。
【図７】図１の電子的撮像装置をＭＦモードで撮影する際に設定し得る拡大表示を行なう場合の表示領域（撮像素子の受光面の座標データに基づいて示される表示領域）を示す図。
【符号の説明】
１……電子的撮像装置
２……レンズ鏡筒
３……光学ファインダー接眼部
１１……測距センサ
１２……撮影光学系
１３……レンズ駆動機構（レンズ駆動手段、焦点調節手段）
１４……レンズ制御回路（レンズ駆動手段、焦点調節手段）
１５……測距センサ
１５ａ……セパレータレンズ
１５ｂ……ラインセンサ
１６……測距回路
１７……フイルター
１８……撮像素子（撮像手段）
１９……Ａ／Ｄコンバーター
２０……画像信号コントローラ（ＤＳＰ；画像処理手段、焦点検出手段）
２１……表示回路（表示手段）
２２……表示装置（表示手段）
２３……画像圧伸回路
２４……記録媒体
２５……ＤＲＡＭ（記憶手段）
２６……ＥＥＰＲＯＭ
２７……システムコントローラ（制御手段）
２８……タイミングパルス発生回路
３１……パワーＳＷ
３２……レリーズＳＷ
３２ａ……１ｓｔ．レリーズＳＷ
３２ｂ……２ｎｄ．レリーズＳＷ
３３……ＡＦ／ＭＦ切換スイッチ
３４……倍率変更スイッチ
３５…レンズＵＰＳＷ
３６……レンズＤＯＷＮＳＷ
４１……パワーボタン（手動操作部材）
４２……レリーズボタン（手動操作部材）
４３……ＡＦ／ＭＦ切換ボタン（手動操作部材）
４４……倍率変更ボタン（手動操作部材）
４５……レンズアップボタン(レンズＵＰボタン；手動操作部材）
４６……レンズダウンボタン（レンズＤＯＷＮボタン；手動操作部材）[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention acquires and records an object image formed by a photographing optical system as an electronic image signal using an electronic image pickup device, more specifically an image sensor, and displays an image based on the acquired image signal. The present invention relates to an electronic imaging apparatus provided with display means that can perform the above.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, a subject image formed by a photographing optical system is photoelectrically converted into an electrical signal using an image sensor such as a CCD, and the image signal obtained thereby is recorded on a recording medium or the like in a predetermined form. An electronic imaging device such as an electronic still camera configured as described above has been put into practical use and is generally popular.
[0003]
In such an electronic image pickup device, predetermined signal processing is performed on the acquired image signal, whereby an image based on the image signal and various image information associated with the image signal are visually recognized. In general, a display unit such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) that is displayed in a form that can be identified in an integrated manner is generally put into practical use.
[0004]
In such a conventional electronic imaging apparatus, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like generally applied as a display means needs to be small, and its display capability, that is, display resolution is low resolution. It is normal.
[0005]
Therefore, in the image displayed by such display means, the shooting range, composition, etc. can be confirmed, but the focus adjustment operation performed at the time of shooting, that is, the focus on the desired position of the subject to be shot. It is difficult to confirm the focus state (the focus state) as to whether or not the images match with the image displayed on the display means.
[0006]
On the other hand, as a result of the photographing operation, the display means can usually reproduce and display an image based on the acquired image data and various kinds of information associated therewith after photographing.
[0007]
Therefore, an electronic imaging device having a function capable of displaying an enlarged image in a form in which a part of the image is enlarged by performing predetermined signal processing on the acquired image data during the reproduction operation. Has been put to practical use. According to this, it is possible to easily confirm the focus state of the image based on the captured image data immediately after shooting.
[0008]
On the other hand, when the focus adjustment operation is manually performed during the photographing operation, it is convenient if the focus state of the desired subject image can be grasped in advance. Therefore, for example, in the means disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-244471, a part of the display image is enlarged and displayed even when the display means is used as a viewfinder during the photographing operation. Before the exposure operation is performed, the focus state of a desired subject image can be confirmed in advance.
[0009]
In the electronic imaging device disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-244471, when an operation member for focus adjustment is operated, a part of an image displayed on the display means (LCD monitor) is enlarged and displayed. Thus, the user performs an operation for focus adjustment with the enlarged image. That is, in this case, the display form of the display means (LCD monitor) can be arbitrarily changed by operating the focus adjustment operation member.
[0010]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, since the means disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-244471 is configured to perform focus adjustment by the user performing manual operation, operations and display for performing manual operation are performed. In addition to the operation for displaying the image magnified by the means, it is necessary to manually perform various operations for executing the actual exposure operation, resulting in complicated operability.
[0011]
In this case, the operation for enlarging the screen and the focus adjustment operation for moving the photographing optical system or the like by a predetermined operation are completely independent operations. Therefore, it is an effective method in that the display of the image enlarged for the focus adjustment operation can be confirmed in advance by the display means. However, the user of the electronic imaging apparatus can use the newly added operation member. Since it must be operated, there is a problem that the operation of the electronic imaging apparatus itself is complicated.
[0012]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described points, and an object of the present invention is to perform a simpler operation even when a photographing operation is performed in an electronic imaging apparatus including a display unit. Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an electronic imaging apparatus that can easily confirm the focus state of a desired subject from an image displayed on a display device.
[0013]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  To achieve the above objective,The first of the present inventionThe electronic imaging device displays an imaging optical system, an imaging element that converts a subject image formed by the imaging optical system into an image signal, and an image corresponding to the entire area that can be imaged from the image signal acquired by the imaging element. Display means for performing display in a normal display form or an enlarged display form in which a part of the entire area is enlarged, a release button composed of a 1st release SW and a 2nd release SW, and the release button is operated to operate the 1st Control means for driving the photographic optical system when the release SW is turned on to focus the object image on the image sensor after the release SW is turned on, and for executing a photographing operation when the 2nd release SW is turned on. Before the focus lock, the display means displays the normal display form, and after the focus lock, the display means for a predetermined time. Characterized in that to perform enlarged display mode.
[0014]
The second electronic imaging apparatus of the present invention is the first electronic imaging apparatus according to the first electronic imaging apparatus, wherein the control means displays the display of the display means from the enlarged display form after a predetermined time has elapsed after the focus lock. It is characterized by changing to a form.
[0015]
A third electronic imaging apparatus of the present invention includes a photographing optical system, an imaging element that converts a subject image formed by the imaging optical system into an image signal, and an entire area that can be photographed from the image signal acquired by the imaging element. Display means for displaying in a normal display form for displaying an image corresponding to the above or an enlarged display form for enlarging and displaying a part of the entire area, detection means for detecting camera shake, 1st release SW, and 2nd release SW When the first release SW is turned on when the release button is operated and the first release SW is turned on, the photographing optical system is driven to focus the subject image on the image sensor and then the focus is locked. When the second release SW is turned on, the photographing operation is performed. And control means for executing the normal display form on the display means before the focus lock, and the control means After the cas lock, the display means displays the enlarged display form, and when the composition change operation after the focus lock is detected from the output of the detecting means, the display of the display means is changed from the enlarged display form to the normal display form. It is made to change to.
[0016]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of an electronic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0017]
The electronic imaging apparatus 1 is a control unit that controls the entire apparatus, and includes a system controller 27 that includes, for example, a CPU. Various electrical circuits and the like are electrically connected to the system controller 27, and the system controller 27 is configured to appropriately control the operation of each component of the electronic imaging apparatus 1.
[0018]
On the front side of the electronic imaging apparatus 1, there is provided a photographing optical system 12 that transmits a light beam from a subject (hereinafter referred to as a subject light beam) to form an optical subject image. The photographing optical system 12 is arranged so as to be movable in a direction along the optical axis O by a lens driving mechanism 13 that is controlled via a lens control circuit 14 in response to a predetermined command signal from the system controller 27. The lens driving mechanism 13 is configured by a motor that serves as a driving source, a sensor that detects the amount of movement of a predetermined lens of the photographing optical system, and the like. The lens driving mechanism 13 and the lens control circuit 14 are lens driving means for driving the photographing optical system 12 and serve as focus adjusting means.
[0019]
Although not shown in FIG. 1, the photographing optical system 12 is a focus lens that contributes to a focus adjustment operation for forming a subject image at a predetermined position by moving it in a direction along the optical axis O, for example. Etc., and a plurality of lenses.
[0020]
Behind the photographic optical system 12, it functions as an infrared cut filter that transmits only the visible light component without transmitting the infrared light component of the subject light flux that has passed through the photographic optical system 12, and has a high frequency component. Imaging that receives a filter 17 that serves as an optical low-pass filter to prevent transmission and an optical subject image formed by a light beam that has passed through the filter 17 and performs photoelectric conversion processing to generate an electrical image signal Means, for example, an image sensor 18 composed of a CCD or the like is provided.
[0021]
An A / D converter 19 and a timing pulse generation circuit 28 are electrically connected to the image sensor 18. The timing pulse generation circuit 28 outputs a predetermined pulse signal necessary for driving the image sensor 18 and also outputs the pulse signal to the A / D converter 19. The / D converter 19 serves to convert an image signal (analog signal) output from the image sensor 18 into a digital signal based on the pulse signal from the timing pulse generation circuit 28.
[0022]
An image signal controller 20 is electrically connected to the A / D converter 19. The image signal controller 20 is configured by a DSP or the like and controls the image sensor 18 via the timing pulse generation circuit 28. The image signal controller 20 receives the image signal generated by the image sensor 18 and digitized by the A / D converter 19. An image processing unit that performs image processing such as predetermined correction processing and processing processing, is a focus detection unit that can detect a high-frequency component of an image signal and the like, and can detect a focus state of an image to be displayed. It serves to perform a data conversion process. The image signal controller (hereinafter simply referred to as DSP) 20 is electrically connected to the system controller 27, receives various command signals from the system controller 27, and controls the drive of the image sensor 18 and the like. It is like that.
[0023]
Further, the DSP 20 temporarily stores a digital image signal before being subjected to predetermined image processing or the like by the DSP 20, that is, an image signal generated by the image sensor 18 and digitized by the A / D converter 19. For this purpose, a DRAM 25 serving as temporary storage means is electrically connected.
[0024]
Further, an image companding circuit 23 is electrically connected to the DSP 20. The image companding circuit 23 receives a digital image signal output from the A / D converter 19 or an image signal stored in the DRAM 25 and records the image on the recording medium 24 in response to the digital image signal. Compression processing for converting to data, specifically, for example, JPEG compression processing is performed to generate filed image data, or image data recorded on the recording medium 24 is read out, and the image is displayed on the display device 22 described later. Are subjected to decompression processing or the like for conversion into an image signal in a form optimal for display as a video signal.
[0025]
The image companding circuit 23 is electrically connected to a recording medium 24 that can record image data acquired by the electronic imaging apparatus 1 in the form of, for example, a JPEG file. As this recording medium 24, various recording media, such as various magnetic recording media, such as a hard disk medium and a floppy disk medium, and semiconductor memories, such as flash memory, can be utilized.
[0026]
The DSP 20 is electrically connected to a display circuit 21 that controls the display device 22 and outputs an image signal to be displayed thereon. The display circuit 21 receives a predetermined form of image signal obtained by using the image sensor 18 as described above, and can visually display an image represented by the image signal, for example, a liquid crystal display. A display device 22 such as (LCD) is electrically connected. That is, the display circuit 21 and the display device 22 serve as display means for displaying an image based on the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18.
[0027]
On the other hand, on the front side of the electronic imaging apparatus 1, a distance measuring sensor 15 for detecting the distance to the subject is provided in the vicinity of the photographing optical system 12 described above. The distance measuring sensor 11 includes a pair of separator lenses 15a and a pair of line sensors 15b disposed behind the separator lenses 15a so as to face the lens 15a. The distance measuring sensor 15 is electrically connected to a distance measuring circuit 16 that receives a command from the system controller 27 and controls the distance measuring sensor 15.
[0028]
As a result, the subject luminous flux that has passed through the separator lens 15a forms an optical subject image on the light receiving surface of the line sensor 15b, and the line sensor 15b photoelectrically converts the subject image to generate a predetermined form of electrical signal. Is supposed to generate. The electrical signal generated in this way is output to the distance measuring circuit 16, and the distance to the subject is calculated by the distance measuring circuit 16. The calculation result is transmitted from the distance measuring circuit 16 to the system controller 27, and the system controller 27 receives the data regarding the subject distance so as to drive and control the lens driving mechanism 13 via the lens control circuit 14. It has become. In this way, the photographing optical system 12 is moved in an appropriate direction and amount of movement based on the calculation result of the distance measuring circuit 16 (data on the subject distance), and is in a focused state on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 18. The subject image is formed.
[0029]
The system controller 27 is electrically connected to an EEPROM 26 formed of a nonvolatile memory or the like in which various control parameters necessary for controlling the entire system and the like are stored in advance.
[0030]
Furthermore, the system controller 27 is electrically connected to a plurality of operation switches and the like that are linked to a plurality of manual operation members for generating command signals for performing various operations. Among the plurality of operation switches, there are the following as main ones. For example,
A command signal (power-on signal) connected to a power supply unit (not shown) for supplying power to various electric circuits and the like of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 to start power supply or power supply Power SW31 for generating a command signal (power-off signal) to be stopped,
Release switch 32 for generating an instruction signal for starting execution of the photographing operation, that is, 1st. For instructing the start of the distance measurement operation and / or the photometry operation performed prior to the actual exposure operation. The release SW 32a and the actual exposure operation, that is, 2nd to instruct the start of execution of a predetermined operation for acquiring the image signal by driving the image sensor 18 and the like. Release SW 32 constituted by a two-stage switch comprising a release SW 32b,
A plurality of operation modes related to the focus adjustment operation, for example, 1st. An automatic focus adjustment mode (auto focus mode; hereinafter referred to as AF mode) that automatically executes a focus adjustment operation in response to an instruction signal for starting a distance measuring operation from the release SW, and a user performs a focus by a predetermined manual operation. An AF / MF switching SW 33 for instructing switching between a manual focus adjustment mode (manual focus mode; hereinafter referred to as MF mode) capable of executing an adjustment operation;
A magnification change SW 34 for giving an instruction to change the setting of the enlargement ratio of the image displayed on the display screen of the display device 22;
A switch for instructing the start of the manual focus adjustment operation by driving and moving a focus lens (not shown) constituting a part of the photographing optical system 12 in the direction along the optical axis O. , A lens up switch (hereinafter referred to as a lens UPSW) 35 that generates an instruction signal for moving the focus lens in a direction for extending, and a lens down switch (hereinafter referred to as a lens UP switch) for generating an instruction signal for moving the focus lens in a direction for retracting. Lens DOWNSW) 36,
Etc.
[0031]
FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the electronic imaging device of the present invention as seen from the back side, and shows the arrangement of various manual operation members for changing the states of the plurality of operation switches described above. .
[0032]
As shown in FIG. 2, at a predetermined position near one end portion on the upper surface side of the electronic imaging apparatus 1, there is an operation member for instructing the start of the shooting operation, and to the release SW 32 that issues a start signal for the shooting operation. An interlocking release button 42 is arranged.
Further, in the vicinity of the display section of the display device 22 provided on the back side of the electronic imaging apparatus 1, a power button 41 interlocked with the power SW31, an AF / MF switch button 43 interlocked with the AF / MF switch SW33, and a magnification. A magnification change button 44 linked to the change SW 34, a lens up button (hereinafter referred to as a lens UP button) 45 linked to the lens UPSW 35, a lens down button (hereinafter referred to as a lens DOWN button) 46 linked to the lens DOWNSW 36, etc. It is arranged at the position.
[0033]
The user of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 can perform a predetermined operation by operating the various manual operation members described above as necessary to generate a predetermined instruction signal. Yes. And when performing these operations, it is arranged mainly in the vicinity of the display screen of the display device 22 so that various operations can be executed while observing the subject image displayed on the display screen of the display device 22. It is.
[0034]
A lens barrel 2 having a photographing optical system 12 disposed therein is provided on the front side of the electronic imaging apparatus 1. Further, an eyepiece 3 of an optical finder as an observation optical system is disposed at the upper edge of the display device 22. By using this optical finder, an optical subject image can be observed, and the screen range including the subject image that can be observed by this optical finder is based on an image signal that can be acquired by the image sensor 18. It is set so as to substantially match the range of the displayed image.
[0035]
The operation of the system controller during the photographing operation in the electronic imaging apparatus 1 of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described below based on the flowcharts of FIGS.
First, when the power button 41 is operated by the user, the power SW 31 is turned on, and the supply of power to each electric circuit of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is started, whereby the system controller 27 starts operating. To do.
[0036]
In this case, the system controller 27 performs an initial setting operation in step S1 shown in FIG. The initial setting operation is an operation of initializing various electric circuits connected to the memory, the I / O port, and the system controller 27, starting the DSP 20, and the like.
[0037]
Note that, as the operation mode in the electronic imaging apparatus 1, an imaging mode in which an imaging signal can be obtained and recorded by performing an imaging operation, and an image based on the imaged and recorded image signal is reproduced using the display device 22 or the like. There are playback modes that can be displayed, and these operation modes are alternately switched by an operation mode switching button (not shown) linked to a predetermined operation mode switching switch. When the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is activated by an instruction signal from the power SW 31, the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is activated in an operation mode according to an instruction by an instruction signal from the operation mode changeover switch.
[0038]
In the example described below, the operation mode immediately after power-on of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is activated in the shooting mode. If the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is not used by power-off, Accordingly, after the state of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is initialized, the power is not supplied and the electronic imaging device 1 is turned off. .
[0039]
When the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is activated in the photographing mode and the initial setting operation is completed in the above-described step S1, the system controller 27 detects the state of the signal of the AF / MF switching SW 33 in step S2. Here, if it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the AF / MF switching SW 33 is in the ON state, it is determined that the AF mode is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S3.
[0040]
When it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the AF / MF switching SW 33 is in the OFF state, it is determined that the MF mode is instructed, and the process proceeds to step S31 in FIG.
[0041]
In step S3, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform an imaging operation. This imaging operation is an operation in which the imaging device 18 is continuously and repeatedly driven to display an image for observation on the display device 22 as a moving image.
[0042]
That is, the DSP 20 controls the image sensor 18 to photoelectrically convert a subject image formed through the photographing optical system 12 and formed on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 18 to generate an image signal. This image signal is transmitted to the DSP 20 via the A / D converter 19, subjected to predetermined signal processing, and then sent to the display device 22 via the display circuit 21 to be displayed as an image. . By continuously repeating this series of operations, a moving image is displayed on the display screen of the display device 22.
[0043]
Next, in step S4, the system controller 27 instructs the display area (imaging range) to the DSP 20. At this time, the system controller 27 automatically sets the display area so that the entire range of the image represented by the image signal that can be acquired by the image sensor 18 is displayed on the display screen of the display device 22.
[0044]
That is, in step S5, the system controller 27 generates a predetermined instruction signal so that an image based on the image signal of the display area instructed to the DSP 20 is displayed on the display device 22.
[0045]
As described above, a liquid crystal display (LCD) is used as the display device 22 mounted on the electronic imaging device 1, and the number of display pixels is much smaller than the number of pixels of the imaging element 18. It has become a thing. Therefore, in order to display the entire range of images based on the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18 on the display device 22, it is necessary to generate an image signal with reduced resolution (number of pixels).
[0046]
Therefore, the DSP 20 performs a predetermined signal compression process on the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18 so as to generate an image signal optimal for display on the display device 22.
[0047]
That is, the DSP 20 receives a display area instruction in step S <b> 4, compresses the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18, and generates an optimal image signal to be displayed on the display device 22. Next, upon receiving the instruction in step S5, the DSP 20 outputs the image signal generated in the process in step S4 to the display device 22 via the display circuit 21.
[0048]
Next, in step S6, the system controller 27 executes 1st. The state of the release SW 32a is detected. Here, the 1st. If it is confirmed that the release SW 32a is in the off state, the process returns to step S2, and the subsequent processes are repeated.
[0049]
In addition, when the user operates the release button 42, the 1st. When the release SW 32a is turned on and this on signal is confirmed by the system controller 27, the process proceeds to the next step S7.
[0050]
In step S <b> 7, the system controller 27 controls the distance measuring circuit 16 and acquires data related to the subject distance. Based on the acquired subject distance data, the required driving amount of the photographing optical system 12 is calculated.
[0051]
In step S8, the system controller 27 receives the driving amount data calculated in step S7 described above and drives and controls the lens driving mechanism 13 via the lens control circuit 14 to set the photographing optical system 12. Move with.
[0052]
In step S9, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform an imaging operation. Here, the DSP 20 drives and controls the image sensor 18 to capture an image signal.
[0053]
In step S10, the system controller 27 displays display area information for an automatic focus adjustment operation (hereinafter referred to as AF operation) preset in the EEPROM 26, that is, a display area in the vicinity of the distance measurement area (hereinafter referred to as AF display). In the next step S11, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform predetermined image processing based on the AF display area information read in step S10.
[0054]
Here, the relationship between the range of the image displayed based on the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18 and the AF display area is shown in FIG.
The AF display area 61 is set so as to include the distance measuring area 51 of the distance measuring sensor 15. The smaller the AF display area 61 is set, the larger the subject image displayed on the display device 22 is. Therefore, the display enables the focus state of the subject image to be observed more reliably.
[0055]
However, when performing a shooting operation, the electronic imaging device 1 itself is normally held by both hands of the user. If this occurs, the position of the subject image displayed on the display screen of the display device 22 may move greatly. If it becomes such a state, it will become difficult to observe the display image of the display apparatus 22. FIG.
[0056]
In addition, in the same electronic image pickup device, the fact that the image pickup elements 18 having different numbers of pixels are arranged to manufacture and develop a plurality of types of electronic image pickup devices is a conventional means for improving development efficiency. It is common. In this case, as a matter of course, it is necessary to set an optimum AF display area corresponding to the number of pixels of the image pickup element applied to each electronic image pickup apparatus.
[0057]
In consideration of the above, it is necessary to assume a plurality of types of information indicating the AF display area for each type of electronic imaging apparatus and in consideration of the situation at the time of shooting. Therefore, since the amount of information becomes large, it is convenient to store information such as setting values corresponding to each electronic imaging device in advance in an EEPROM or the like provided in each electronic imaging device. is there. In view of this, in the electronic imaging apparatus 1, these pieces of information are stored in advance in the EEPROM 26 formed of a nonvolatile memory.
[0058]
As information specifically indicating the AF display area, for example, a temporary coordinate axis is set on the light receiving surface 18a of the image sensor 18 as shown in FIG. What is necessary is just to represent by the coordinate which shows a point (Pst, Pend). Further, the position information of the pixel signal corresponding to the coordinates set in this way, for example, the address information of the DRAM 25 in which the image signal acquired by the image sensor 18 is temporarily stored may be used.
[0059]
By the way, in an electronic imaging device or the like that has been generally put into practical use in recent years, there is one in which a distance measuring unit configured by providing a plurality of distance measuring areas in a distance measuring sensor is applied.
[0060]
For example, the example shown in FIG. 6 shows an AF display area set so as to correspond to a distance measuring sensor having three distance measuring areas. In this case, for example, when the distance measuring sensor selects a subject corresponding to the first distance measuring area 52 and executes the distance measuring operation, the AF display area 62 set by the coordinates (Pst1, Pend1) is set, May be displayed on the display device.
[0061]
Similarly, when the second ranging area 53 is selected, the AF display area 63 set by the coordinates (Pst2, Pend2) is changed to the coordinates (Pst2, Pend2) when the third ranging area 54 is selected. The AF display area 64 set by Pst3, Pend3) is set.
[0062]
As described above, in step S11, when the DSP 20 receives an instruction for the AF display area from the system controller 27, the DSP 20 matches the number of pixels of the display device 22 based on the image signal corresponding to the designated AF display area. Perform signal compression processing.
[0063]
In the next step S12, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to display an image based on the image signal in the designated AF display area. In response to this, the DSP 20 sends an image signal optimized for display by compression processing to the display device 22 via the display circuit 21. As a result, a predetermined image is displayed on the display screen of the display device 22.
[0064]
In this way, by performing the above-described series of operations from step S7 to step S12, only a predetermined area near the distance measurement area is enlarged and displayed in conjunction with the AF operation.
[0065]
Next, in step S13, the system controller 27 operates a timer counter (not shown) provided therein and starts a counting operation. The counting operation of the timer counter performed here is for defining the display time of the enlarged display image displayed on the display device 22, and the enlarged image is displayed only during a predetermined time. To do.
[0066]
Next, in step S14, the system controller 27 sets 1st. The state of the release SW 32a is detected. Here, the 1st. If it is confirmed that the release SW 32a is in the OFF state, the process returns to step S2, and the subsequent operations are repeated. The 1st. If it is confirmed that the release SW 32a is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S15.
[0067]
In step S15, the system controller 27 executes 2nd. The state of the release SW 32b is detected. Here, 2nd. If it is confirmed that the release SW 32b is in the OFF state, the process proceeds to step S16. In addition, the 2nd. If it is confirmed that the release SW 32b is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S22.
[0068]
In step S16, the system controller 27 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed, that is, whether or not the count value of the timer counter has exceeded a predetermined time. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the enlarged display is canceled and the process proceeds to the next step S17 to display in the normal display form. If it is determined that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed, the process returns to the above-described step S14 while maintaining the enlarged display, and the subsequent processes are repeated to detect the state of the release SW 32 again. Made.
[0069]
That is, in the processing of steps S14 to S16 described above, the release SW 32 is half-pressed, that is, 1st. When only the release SW 32a is in the on state, the user can observe the enlarged image of the predetermined AF display area on the display device 22 only for a predetermined time.
[0070]
Then, the release SW 32 is further pushed in for shooting, and 2nd. By turning on the release SW 32b, when this on signal is detected (step S16), the process proceeds to step S22 and an actual exposure operation described later is started.
[0071]
Note that the processes in steps S17 to S19 are exactly the same as the processes in steps S3 to S5 described above.
That is, as described above, in the processing of steps S14 to S16, the 1st. Only the release SW 32a remains on. If the predetermined time has passed with the release SW 32b turned off, the enlarged display is canceled and the process proceeds to step S17. Then, in the processing of steps S17 to S19, an imaging operation for continuously displaying the entire range of images on the display screen of the display device 22 based on the image signal acquired by the imaging element 18 is executed.
[0072]
Next, in step S20, the system controller 27 sets 1st. The state of the release SW 32a is detected. If the SW 32a is off, the process returns to step S2, and the subsequent processes are repeated. If the SW 32a is on, the process proceeds to the next step S21.
[0073]
In step S21, the system controller 27 executes 2nd. The state of the release SW 32b is detected. If the SW 32b is off, the process returns to step S17 and the subsequent processes are repeated. If it is confirmed that the SW 32b is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S22 in order to execute the actual exposure operation.
[0074]
Note that the series of processes in steps S17 to S21 described above is a series of processes for generating a so-called focus lock state for changing the composition while maintaining the focal position after the AF operation, for example.
[0075]
That is, the focus adjustment operation for a predetermined subject in the AF area is automatically performed by executing the AF operation in steps S7 to S8 described above. And 1st. As long as the release SW 32a is kept pressed, that is, until the SW 32a is once turned off and turned on again, the state in which the next AF operation is not performed while the state is maintained, that is, the focus lock state is maintained. It is done.
[0076]
When in the focus lock state as described above, 1st. As long as the release SW 32a is kept on, the composition can be changed while maintaining the set focus state. Therefore, the user can use 1st. While the release SW 32a is kept on, the processing of the above-described steps S14 to S16, that is, the display processing of the enlarged image of the AF display area on the display device 22, is completed, and the subsequent processing of steps S17 to S19 is performed. The composition can be determined while observing the image displayed on the display screen of the display device 22 while the display device 22 is displaying the entire range that can be photographed.
[0077]
In the processing of steps S17 to S19, 1st. This is repeated as long as the release SW 32a is in the on state, and a moving image is displayed by displaying a continuous image on the display screen of the display device 22. Therefore, the user determines the composition while observing the moving image display, and when the desired composition is determined, the user presses the release SW 32 at that time, and 2nd. If the ON signal of the release SW 32b is generated, the actual exposure operation can be started.
[0078]
By the way, in this embodiment, 1st. When the release SW 32a is kept on and a predetermined time has elapsed, the enlarged display on the display device 22 is displayed in the normal display form, that is, the display of the entire range that can be represented by the image signal that can be acquired by the image sensor 18. ing.
[0079]
In this case, the following may be considered for setting the predetermined time for maintaining the enlarged display. For example, when the predetermined time is set short, the user may feel dissatisfied because the focus state by the AF operation cannot be accurately grasped by the enlarged display image. Also, if the predetermined time is set long, while the enlarged image is being displayed, the entire image cannot be grasped even if it is desired to change the composition, and the composition change operation cannot be immediately started. It also makes me feel dissatisfied.
[0080]
In the former case, the problem can be solved by taking a longer setting time. In the latter case, however, the enlarged image display operation is switched to the normal display mode in conjunction with the operation of changing the composition. A means to do this is conceivable. Examples of means for realizing this are as follows.
[0081]
Some conventional cameras and the like are provided with an anti-vibration optical system for preventing image deterioration due to camera shake or camera shake. Some of these apparatuses use a small gyroscope to detect camera shake, camera shake, and the like.
[0082]
Therefore, if a small gyroscope similar to these devices is used to detect the displacement of the camera caused by changing the composition, it is determined that the user has performed the operation of changing the composition. Will be able to. Therefore, it is only necessary to switch the display of the display device from the enlarged display form to the normal display form in response to the detection result.
[0083]
Returning to FIG. 3, in step S22, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform an imaging operation for performing an actual exposure operation. Subsequently, in step S23, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform an imaging device. The predetermined image processing is instructed so that the image signal acquired by 18 can be recorded in a predetermined form. In response to this, the DSP 20 controls the image companding circuit 23 to execute a compression conversion process so that the image signal becomes an image file in a predetermined image format, for example, a JPEG format.
[0084]
Subsequently, in step S24, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform a recording operation for recording the image file generated in the above-described step S23. Upon receiving this instruction, the DSP 20 transfers the image file to the recording medium 24. And record.
[0085]
On the other hand, as described above, in step S2 (see FIG. 3), as a result of confirmation of the instruction signal of the AF / MF switching SW 33 by the system controller 27, it is determined that the MF mode is instructed, and step S31 in FIG. In step S31, the system controller 27 detects the signal state of the magnification change SW 34. Here, when it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the same magnification change SW 34 is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S32. If it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the magnification change SW 34 is in the off state, the process proceeds to step S39.
[0086]
Next, in step S32, the system controller 27 determines whether or not the count value of a magnification counter (not shown) provided therein is [3]. If it is confirmed that the count value of the same magnification counter = [3], the process proceeds to step S34, where the system controller 27 initializes the count value of the magnification counter. Yes (reset). By this initialization process, the counter value is set to [0].
[0087]
On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S32 described above that the count value of the magnification counter is not [3], then the process proceeds to step S33, and only one count value of the same magnification counter is added. (Count up).
[0088]
As described above, by repeating the processes of steps S31 to S34 described above, every time the user manually operates the magnification change button 44 interlocked with the magnification change SW 34, the count value of the magnification counter is, for example, [0] → [1] → [2] → [3] → [0] →...
[0089]
Next, in step S35, the system controller 27 instructs the DSP 20 to perform a predetermined imaging operation. In response to this, the DSP 20 controls the image sensor 18 to capture an image signal.
[0090]
Next, in step S36, the system controller 27 reads information (see Table 1) relating to a predetermined display area stored in advance in the EEPROM 26.
[0091]
7 shows a display area in the case of performing an enlarged display that can be set when the electronic imaging apparatus 1 is photographed in the MF mode, that is, a display area shown based on the coordinate data of the light receiving surface 18a of the imaging element 18. (See Table 1).
[0092]
[Table 1]

In the next step S37, the system controller 27 sets the EEPROM 26 in the above-described step S36 based on the count value of the magnification counter set at this time, that is, the count value confirmed in the above-described step S33 or step S34. The predetermined coordinate data is set with reference to the information read from (Table 1), and a display area based on the coordinate data is instructed to the DSP 20.
[0093]
For example, when the count value of the magnification counter = [2] at this time, information on the coordinate data (Pst2, Pend2) is sent to the DSP 20. In response to this, the DSP 20 executes signal compression processing for matching the image signal of the display area indicated by the coordinate data (Pst2, Pend2) with the number of display pixels of the display device 22.
[0094]
In step S38, the system controller 27 controls the display circuit 21 via the DSP 20 to display an image represented on the display device 22 based on the image signal generated by the processing in step S37 described above. To do. In response, the image signal is output from the DSP 20 to the display device 22 via the display circuit 21, and an enlarged image is displayed on the entire display area of the display screen of the display device 22. For example, as described above, when the count value of the magnification counter = [2] and coordinate data (Pst2, Pend2) is instructed, the image in the range of the display area 65 shown in FIG. 7 is enlarged. Will be displayed.
[0095]
In this case, the user observes the enlarged image displayed on the display device 22 and, if it is determined that the enlargement rate is not appropriate, the user may operate a predetermined operation, that is, the magnification change button 44 ( Step S31). As a result of this operation, a predetermined signal is generated from the magnification change SW 34. In response to this, the system controller 27 changes the counter value of the magnification counter (steps S33 and S34), and accordingly, on the display screen of the display device 22, A desired enlarged image is displayed (steps S35 to S38).
[0096]
When the process of step S38 is completed in this way, the process returns to the process for detecting the state of the AF / MF switching SW 33, that is, the process of step S2 described above (see FIG. 3), and the subsequent processes are repeated.
[0097]
In the electronic imaging device 1 according to the present embodiment, coordinate data indicating a display area to be enlarged is stored in the EEPROM 26 in advance, and these information can be arbitrarily changed as necessary. It is easy to do.
[0098]
By the way, the smaller the display area for enlarging and displaying the predetermined area, the larger the enlargement ratio. In this case, even if the set display area is too small, the display area is enlarged based on the set value. If the displayed image is not displayed properly, it becomes meaningless. Therefore, it is natural that the setting of the display area for the enlarged display has a predetermined upper limit value according to the display resolution (number of pixels) of the display device 22.
[0099]
For example, in the electronic imaging apparatus 1, the maximum enlargement ratio is set when the count value of the magnification counter = [3] is set, but the region indicated by the coordinate data (Pst3, Pend3) at this time Is set to be smaller than the total number of display pixels of the display device 22 itself, the enlarged image can be observed as a larger image. Degradation of the resolution will inevitably occur, so it is not suitable for confirming the focus state by the enlarged display image, and is considered meaningless.
[0100]
Therefore, in the above-described example, when the count value of the magnification counter is set to [3], that is, when the maximum enlargement ratio is obtained, the number of pixels in the region indicated by the coordinate data (Pst3, Pend3) is If the total number of display pixels is set, the desired display can be obtained without degrading the resolution.
[0101]
On the other hand, in step S31 described above, when the system controller 27 confirms that the signal state of the magnification change SW 34 is OFF, and proceeds to the processing in step S39, in this step S39, the system controller 27 moves the lens UPSW 35. Detect signal condition. Here, if it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the lens UPSW 35 is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S40. If it is confirmed that the instruction signal is in the off state, the process proceeds to step S42. .
[0102]
In step S <b> 40, the system controller 27 controls the lens driving mechanism 13 via the lens control circuit 14 and performs an operation of extending a predetermined focus lens of the photographing optical system 12 by a predetermined amount. And in order to update the image displayed on the display apparatus 22, it transfers to the process of the above-mentioned step S35, and subsequent processes are performed.
[0103]
In step S42, the system controller 27 detects the signal state of the lens DWNSW 36. Here, when it is confirmed that the instruction signal of the lens DOWNSW 36 is on, the process proceeds to step S41. When it is confirmed that the instruction signal is off, the process proceeds to step S43. .
[0104]
In step S41, the system controller 27 drives and controls the lens driving mechanism 13 via the lens control circuit 14, and executes an operation of retracting a predetermined focus lens in the photographing optical system 12 by a predetermined amount. And in order to update the image displayed on the display apparatus 22, it transfers to the process of the above-mentioned step S35, and subsequent processes are performed.
[0105]
Therefore, the user can arbitrarily set the position of the focus lens in the photographic optical system 12 by the processing in steps S39 to S41 described above. At this time, every time the position of the focus lens is adjusted, an enlarged image displayed on the display device 22 is updated by executing an imaging operation. As a result, the user operates each operation member (lens UP button 45 and lens DOWN button 46) linked to the lens UPSW 35 or the lens DOWNSW 36 while observing an enlarged image displayed on the display device 22, and a desired subject. Thus, manual focus adjustment operation can be performed while observing the focus state.
[0106]
In step S43, the system controller 27 determines that the 1st. The state of the instruction signal of the release SW 32a is detected. If it is confirmed that the SW 32a is in the on state, the process proceeds to step S44. If it is confirmed that the SW 32a is in the off state, the process returns to the above-described step S2 (see FIG. 3). The subsequent processing is repeated.
[0107]
About the process of step S44-S46, the process exactly the same as the above-mentioned step S3-S5 is performed. With this process, the entire range of images that can be captured by the image sensor 18 is displayed using the entire area of the display screen of the display device 22.
[0108]
In the above-described processing of steps S39 to S41, the position of the focus lens of the photographing optical system 12 is adjusted by each operation member (lens UP button 45 and lens DOWN button 46) linked to the lens UPSW 35 or the lens DOWNSW 36. In some cases, an enlarged image is displayed on the display screen of the display device 22. Therefore, the display device 22 is in a state in which only a partial area of the entire image that can be photographed can be confirmed.
[0109]
In a normal case, after the manual focus adjustment operation is completed, an operation of confirming a range of an image to be photographed and setting a composition before executing an actual exposure operation is performed. For this purpose, the electronic imaging device 1 is provided with the processes of steps S43 to S46 described above.
[0110]
In other words, in the state where the enlarged image is displayed on the display screen of the display device 22, the 1st. By only generating an instruction signal from the release SW 32a, the user cancels the display of the enlarged image displayed on the display device 22 and causes the display device 22 to display the entire range of images that can be captured. Can be observed.
[0111]
Then, after setting the composition in this way, the operation of further pushing the release SW 32 causes 2nd. An actual exposure operation may be started by generating an instruction signal from the release SW 32b.
[0112]
That is, in step S47, the system controller 27 sets 2nd. When the state of the instruction signal of the release SW 32b is detected and the SW 32b is turned on, the process proceeds to the above-described step S22 and an actual exposure operation for acquiring a desired image signal is started.
[0113]
In step S47, if the instruction signal of the release SW 32b is in an off state, the process proceeds to the above-described step S2, and the subsequent processes are repeated.
[0114]
As described above, according to the above-described embodiment, when the focus adjustment mode is set to the AF mode during the photographing operation, the predetermined display area near the AF area is automatically set in conjunction with the photographing operation. The corresponding image is controlled to be displayed for a predetermined time in an enlarged form on the display screen of the display device 22. Therefore, the user of the electronic imaging apparatus 1 can easily confirm the focus state of the desired subject before executing the actual exposure operation by observing the enlarged image of the display device 22.
[0115]
Further, when the focus adjustment mode is set to the MF mode during the photographing operation, the magnification of the enlarged image displayed on the display screen of the display device 22 is arbitrarily selected when the manual focus adjustment operation is performed, The focus state of a desired subject can be easily confirmed.
[0116]
In addition, after the focus adjustment operation is completed and the focus state is confirmed by the display on the display device 22, the display on the display device 22 is automatically switched to become an image in the normal form. Subsequent operations such as composition setting can be performed without hindrance. Therefore, it is possible to provide an electronic imaging apparatus with extremely good operability.
[0117]
[Appendix]
According to the embodiment of the above invention, an invention having the following configuration can be obtained.
[0118]
(1) a photographing optical system;
Imaging means for generating image data of a subject based on a subject image formed by the photographing optical system;
Display means for displaying the image data as an image;
Control means for controlling the display means to enlarge and display the image data;
A focus adjusting means for driving the photographing optical system to perform a focus adjusting operation;
A manual operation member for activating the focus adjusting means;
Comprising
The electronic image pickup apparatus, wherein the control means starts operating prior to activation of the focus adjusting means.
[0119]
(2) In the electronic imaging device according to attachment 1,
The manual operation member is an electronic imaging device including a release button.
[0120]
(3) In the electronic imaging device according to attachment 1,
The manual operation member is an electronic imaging apparatus including an operation button for performing a focus adjustment operation of the photographing optical system.
[0121]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, in an electronic imaging apparatus having a display means, a desired operation can be performed according to an image displayed on the display apparatus only by performing a simpler operation even when performing a shooting operation. It is possible to provide an electronic imaging apparatus that can easily check the focus state of a subject.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block configuration diagram showing an internal configuration of an electronic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is an external perspective view of the electronic imaging apparatus of FIG. 1 as viewed from the back side, and is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of operation members for changing the states of a plurality of operation switches.
3 is a flowchart showing an operation of a system controller during a photographing operation in the electronic imaging apparatus of FIG.
4 is a flowchart showing an operation of a system controller during a photographing operation in the electronic imaging apparatus of FIG.
5 is a diagram showing a relationship between an image range displayed by an image signal acquired by an image sensor in the electronic imaging apparatus of FIG. 1 and an AF display area.
6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the range of an image displayed by an image signal acquired by an image sensor in the electronic imaging device of FIG. 1 and an AF display area, and has a distance measuring area having three distance measuring areas; The figure which shows the example of AF display area set so that it might respond | correspond to a sensor.
7 is a diagram showing a display area (display area shown based on the coordinate data of the light receiving surface of the image sensor) when performing an enlarged display that can be set when the electronic imaging apparatus of FIG. 1 is imaged in the MF mode. .
[Explanation of symbols]
1. Electronic imaging device
2 ... Lens barrel
3 …… Optical viewfinder eyepiece
11 ... Ranging sensor
12 …… Shooting optics
13. Lens drive mechanism (lens drive means, focus adjustment means)
14 …… Lens control circuit (lens driving means, focus adjusting means)
15 …… Ranging sensor
15a …… Separator lens
15b …… Line sensor
16 …… Ranging circuit
17 …… Filter
18 …… Image sensor (imaging means)
19 …… A / D converter
20. Image signal controller (DSP; image processing means, focus detection means)
21 …… Display circuit (display means)
22 …… Display device (display means)
23 …… Image companding circuit
24 …… Recording medium
25 …… DRAM (memory means)
26 …… EEPROM
27 …… System controller (control means)
28 …… Timing pulse generator
31 …… Power SW
32 …… Release SW
32a ...... 1st. Release SW
32b 2nd. Release SW
33 …… AF / MF selector switch
34 …… Magnification change switch
35 ... Lens UPSW
36 …… Lens DOWNSW
41 …… Power button (manual operation member)
42 …… Release button (manual operation member)
43 …… AF / MF switch button (manual operation member)
44 …… Magnification change button (manual operation member)
45 …… Lens Up Button (Lens UP Button; Manual Operation Member)
46 …… Lens down button (Lens DOWN button; Manual operation member)

Claims (3)

Photographic optics,
An image sensor that converts a subject image formed by the imaging optical system into an image signal;
Display means for displaying in a normal display form for displaying an image corresponding to the entire area that can be imaged from the image signal acquired by the image sensor or an enlarged display form for displaying a part of the entire area;
A release button composed of a 1st release SW and a 2nd release SW;
When the release button is operated and the first release SW is turned on, the photographing optical system is driven to focus the subject image on the image sensor and then focus lock, and when the 2nd release SW is turned on, control means for executing a photographing operation;
Have
The control means causes the display means to display a normal display form before the focus lock, and causes the display means to perform an enlarged display form for a predetermined time after the focus lock. apparatus.   The electronic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes the display of the display unit from an enlarged display form to a normal display form when a predetermined time after the focus lock elapses. Photographic optics,
An image sensor that converts a subject image formed by the imaging optical system into an image signal;
Display means for displaying in a normal display form for displaying an image corresponding to the entire area that can be imaged from the image signal acquired by the image sensor or an enlarged display form for displaying a part of the entire area;
Detection means for detecting camera shake;
A release button composed of a 1st release SW and a 2nd release SW;
When the release button is operated and the first release SW is turned on, the photographing optical system is driven to focus the subject image on the image sensor and then focus lock, and when the 2nd release SW is turned on, control means for executing a photographing operation;
Have
The control means causes the display means to display a normal display form before the focus lock, and causes the display means to perform an enlarged display form display after the focus lock, and the composition change operation after the focus lock. Is detected from the output of the detection means, the display on the display means is changed from an enlarged display form to a normal display form.

Images