JP4356272B2 - Electronic camera - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an electronic camera. In particular, the present invention relates to an image management technique for a child image generated for external transfer in an electronic camera.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, the number of imaging pixels of electronic cameras has been increasing. As the number of imaging pixels increases, the file capacity of an image generated in the electronic camera becomes 1 Mbyte or more even after compression.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, an image generated by the electronic camera is output to a personal computer, a printer, a large-capacity recording device, a mobile phone, and an electronic album server on the Internet as needed.
For example, when transferring an image of 1 Mbyte or more per frame to such an external transfer destination, there is a problem that it takes a long transfer time.
[0004]
In addition, for example, mobile phones and the like handle extremely fewer pixels of images than personal computers and printers. For this reason, when an image is transferred to a mobile phone with the same number of pixels as a personal computer or a printer, there is a lot of waste, such as the capacity being exceeded on the mobile phone side.
Therefore, it is desired to generate a child image for external transfer in advance in the electronic camera. In this case, a child image and a parent image that is a generation source thereof are mixed in the recording unit in the electronic camera.
[0005]
When such parent-child images are mixed, the number of images to be managed by the electronic camera is doubled, and there is a concern that the image management of the electronic camera becomes more complicated.
In addition, since these parent-child images have the same pattern, it is difficult for the user to easily distinguish them on the screen, and there is a concern that the user will be confused when managing images.
In view of the above-described problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a technique for appropriately managing child images generated for external transfer.
[0006]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is configured as follows.
[0007]
<Claim 1>
  The invention according to claim 1, an imaging unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image, a child image generation unit that generates a child image for transfer by lowering or reducing the resolution of the parent image,Under the hierarchy of folders that record parent images, a child folder that records child images for each image size is provided, and the parent image and child images are managed hierarchically.A recording unit that records a parent image and a child image in association with each other and a transfer unit that transfers the child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination are provided.
[0008]
<Claim 2>
  The invention described in claim 2An image capturing unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image, a child image generation unit that generates a child image for transfer by reducing or reducing the resolution of the parent image, and a parent image and the child image are recorded in association with each other. A recording unit; a transfer unit that transfers a child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination; and a parent image erasing operation unit that accepts an erasing instruction for only the parent image from a user. While deleting the image, search the child image recorded in association with the parent image and promote it to the parent imageIt is characterized by that.
[0009]
<Claim 3>
  The invention according to claim 3An image capturing unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image, a child image generation unit that generates a child image for transfer by reducing or reducing the resolution of the parent image, and a parent image and the child image are recorded in association with each other. A thumbnail, comprising: a recording unit; a transfer unit that transfers a child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination; and a thumbnail creation unit that generates a thumbnail image for thumbnail display from the parent image and adds the thumbnail image to the parent image The creation unit does not add a thumbnail image to the parent image when the number of pixels of the thumbnail image is greater than or equal to the number of pixels of the child image.It is characterized by that.
[0010]
<Claim 4>
  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to third aspects,The transfer unit obtains external transfer destination information from an external transfer destination or user, and the child image generation unit determines an image format corresponding to the external transfer destination information and generates a child image according to the image format.It is characterized by doing.
[0011]
<Claim 5>
  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to fourth aspects,An erasing operation unit that receives an erasing instruction for a parent image from a user, and the recording unit erases the parent image in accordance with the erasing instruction and searches for a child image recorded in association with the parent image.It is characterized by erasing.
[0012]
<Claim 6>
  The invention according to claim 6 is the electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 5,The recording unit is a child image that has been externally transferred by the transfer unit.It is characterized by erasing.
[0013]
<Claim 7>
  The invention according to claim 7 is the electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 6,A remaining capacity monitoring unit that determines a remaining capacity of the recording unit and detects an insufficient state of the remaining capacity, and the recording unit detects all or part of the child images when the remaining capacity monitoring unit detects the insufficient state of the remaining capacity; EraseIt is characterized by doing.
[0014]
<Claim 8>
  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, the user mayA moving operation unit for receiving a file moving instruction is provided, and the recording unit moves the parent image according to the file moving instruction, and searches for a child image recorded in association with the parent image to move the file.It is characterized by doing.
[0015]
<Claim 9>
  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the parent image is received from the user.The recording unit sets a protection attribute for the parent image in accordance with the protection instruction, and searches for a child image recorded in association with the parent image to set the protection attribute.It is characterized by that.
[0016]
<Claim 10>
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the imaging unit is provided with a selectable moving image capturing mode for capturing a subject image as a moving image. The image generating unit generates a child image by reducing or reducing the color of one frame of the parent image for the parent image (that is, a moving image) captured in the moving image capturing mode.
[0017]
<Claim 11>
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the electronic camera according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, the imaging unit can select a continuous shooting mode that captures a subject image as a continuous still image. The child image generation unit lowers or reduces the resolution of each frame of the parent image for the parent image (that is, a plurality of still images) captured in the continuous shooting mode, and outputs the child image (that is, the plurality of still images). ).
[0020]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[0021]
<< First Embodiment >>
The first embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera corresponding to the inventions of claims 1, 4, 5, 7 to 9, 12, and 13.
[0022]
[Description of electronic camera configuration]
FIG. 1 is an external view of the electronic camera 11 according to the first embodiment. 1A is a top view of the electronic camera 11, and FIG. 1B is a rear view of the electronic camera 11. On the other hand, FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the internal configuration of the electronic camera 11.
Hereinafter, the configuration of the electronic camera 11 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0023]
First, a photographing lens 12 is attached to the electronic camera 11. An image sensor 13 is disposed in the image space of the photographing lens 12. The image sensor 13 is controlled by the timing generator 13a to capture a subject image. An image picked up by the image pickup device 13 (that is, a parent image) is digitized via an image processing unit 14 and an A / D conversion unit 15 and then given to a digital signal processor (hereinafter referred to as DSP) 16. The DSP 16 exchanges pixel data with the buffer memory 18 via the data bus 17 in predetermined processing units, and performs two-dimensional image processing, image compression, and the like on the parent image. The parent image processed by the DSP 16 is recorded on the memory card 19 in the EXIF file format.
[0024]
On the other hand, the above-described image processing unit 14, DSP 16, buffer memory 18, and memory card 19 are connected to a microprocessor (hereinafter referred to as MPU) 21 via a control system bus 20.
A release button 22, a cross button 23, a menu button 24, a command dial 25, a zoom button 26, a mode switching button 27, and a transfer button 28 are connected to the MPU 21. The cross button 23 described above is composed of four-direction keys, that is, an up key 23a, a down key 23b, a left key 23c, and a right key 23d.
[0025]
The frame memory 30 is connected to the system bus 20 described above. The image data in the frame memory 30 is displayed on a liquid crystal display unit 31 provided on the back surface of the electronic camera 11.
Furthermore, an interface 32 for transferring image data to an external transfer destination is connected to the system bus 20 described above.
[0026]
[Correspondence with Invention]
The correspondence relationship between the invention and the first embodiment will be described below. Note that the correspondence relationship here illustrates one interpretation for reference, and does not limit the present invention.
The imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to the imaging element 13, the timing generator 13a, the image processing unit 14, the A / D conversion unit 15, and the DSP 16.
The child image generation unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function of generating a child image” of the MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
The recording unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function for performing file management of the memory card 19” of the MPU 21.
The transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to the interface 32.
The erasing operation unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function to accept a parent image erasing instruction from a user operation or the like of the cross button 23” of the MPU 21.
The movement operation unit described in the claims corresponds to “a function of receiving a file movement instruction of a parent image from a user operation or the like of the cross button 23” of the MPU 21.
The protect operation unit recited in the claims corresponds to the “function for receiving a protect instruction for a parent image from a user operation of the cross button 23” of the MPU 21.
The parent image erasing operation unit described in the claims corresponds to “a function of receiving an instruction to delete only the parent image from a user operation or the like of the cross button 23” of the MPU 21.
The thumbnail creation unit described in the claims corresponds to “a function of generating a thumbnail image and adding it to the file header of the parent image” by the MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
The control unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function of erasing the transferred child image from the memory card 19” of the MPU 21.
[0027]
[Description of child image creation process]
3 and 4 are flowcharts for explaining child image creation processing. This process is started as a part of the process accompanying the pressing of the lower key 23b. Hereinafter, the child image creation process will be described along the step numbers in FIGS. 3 and 4.
[0028]
Step S1: When the user presses the down key 23b, the MPU 21 first determines the current operation mode of the electronic camera 11.
Here, in the quick review mode (the mode in which the image immediately after imaging is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 31) or the reproduction mode (the mode in which the image of the memory card 19 is reproduced and displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 31), the MPU 21 proceeds to step S2. Transition operation.
On the other hand, in other operation modes, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S14.
[0029]
Step S2: The MPU 21 determines the current display state of the liquid crystal display unit 31. Here, when the parent image is displayed on the full screen, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S3.
On the other hand, in other display states (¼ screen display, thumbnail display, child image display, etc.), the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S14.
[0030]
Step S3: The MPU 21 acquires information on the remaining capacity of the memory card 19.
If the current remaining capacity is small and a new child image cannot be stored, the MPU 21 gives up creating a new child image and shifts the operation to step S14.
On the other hand, when the current remaining capacity is sufficient for storing the child image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S4.
[0031]
Step S4: The MPU 21 displays the following confirmation menu in an overlapping manner on the display image of the liquid crystal display unit 31.
Heading “Do you want to generate child images? ]
Options ▲ 1 ▼ Yes (default selection)
Option ▲ 2 ▼ No
Options (3) Change the reduction size.
[0032]
Step S5: The MPU 21 receives the selection of the above options (1) to (3) by monitoring the user operation of the cross button 23.
That is, when the user hits the right key 23d once, the option (1) is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S8.
If the user hits the right key 23d once after hitting the down key 23b once, the option (2) is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 stops the creation of a new child image and shifts the operation to step S14.
On the other hand, if the user hits the down key 23b twice and then hits the right key 23d once, the option (3) is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S6.
[0033]
Step S6: The MPU 21 additionally displays the following confirmation menu on the display image of the liquid crystal display unit 31.
Heading "Changing the reduction size"
Options (1) 640 x 480 (default at shipment)
Choice ▲ 2 ▼ 320 × 240
Choice ▲ 3 ▼ 160 × 120
Choice ▲ 4 ▼ 96 × 72
[0034]
Step S7: The MPU 21 accepts selection and determination of the image size (reduction size) of the child image by monitoring the user operation of the cross button 23. The MPU 21 uses the image size determined here as a default thereafter. After such an operation, the MPU 21 returns the operation to step S4.
[0035]
Step S8: The MPU 21 searches for a file in the memory card 19 and determines whether or not a child image to be created already exists.
Here, when the child image to be created already exists, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S9.
On the other hand, when there is no child image to be created, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S11.
[0036]
Step S9: The MPU 21 displays the following confirmation menu on the display image of the liquid crystal display unit 31 in an overlapping manner.
Heading “Child images have already been made. Do you want to overwrite? ]
Option ▲ 1 ▼ Yes
Options ▲ 2 ▼ No (default selection)
Options (3) Change the reduction size.
[0037]
Step S10: The MPU 21 receives the selection of the above options (1) to (3) by monitoring the user operation of the cross button 23.
That is, when the user hits the right key 23d once, the option (2) is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 stops the creation of a new child image and shifts the operation to step S14.
If the user hits the right key 23d once after hitting the down key 23b once, the option (3) is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S6.
On the other hand, if the user hits the upper key 23a once and then hits the right key 23d once, the choice {circle around (1)} is confirmed. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S11.
[0038]
Step S11: In the playback mode, the MPU 21 reads the compressed file of the parent image currently displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 31 from the memory card 19 and stores it in the buffer memory 18. The DSP 16 expands the compressed image and expands the parent image in the buffer memory 18.
On the other hand, in the quick view mode, the MPU 21 develops the parent image immediately after imaging in the buffer memory 18.
The MPU 21 (or DSP 16) converts the resolution of the parent image in the buffer memory 18 to a default image size, and creates a child image.
The DSP 16 compresses this child image to about 1/16, for example, regardless of the compression rate of the parent image.
The MPU 21 copies the header information of the parent image, adds it to the compressed data of the child image, and generates an EXIF format compressed file.
Further, the MPU 21 replaces the initial letter of the file name “DSCN ***. Jpg” of the parent image with a character (for example, “S”) according to the image size to create a file name of the child image. . Such a file name rule associates a parent image with a child image.
The MPU 21 records the completed child image file in the same folder as the parent image of the memory card 19.
[0039]
Step S12: The MPU 21 compares the number of pixels of the thumbnail image added in the parent image file with the number of pixels of the newly created child image.
Here, if the number of pixels of the thumbnail image is greater than or equal to the number of pixels of the child image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S13.
On the other hand, when the number of pixels of the thumbnail image is less than the number of pixels of the child image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S14.
[0040]
Step S13: The MPU 21 deletes the thumbnail image in the parent image file to reduce the file size of the parent image. Thereafter, in a situation where a thumbnail image of the parent image is required, a child image is used as a substitute for the thumbnail image.
[0041]
Step S14: The MPU 21 calls another processing routine to be executed when the lower key 23b is pressed.
With the operation described above, the child image creation process is completed.
[0042]
[Description of image file operations]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a file operation processing routine. Hereinafter, image file operations will be described along the step numbers shown in FIG.
[0043]
Step S18: First, the user switches the electronic camera 11 to the reproduction mode, and selects a parent image as a file operation target on the liquid crystal display unit 31.
[0044]
Step S19: When the parent image to be operated is selected, the MPU 21 changes the initial character from the file name of the parent image and creates a file name of the child image. The MPU 21 searches the memory card 19 for the file name of this child image, and determines whether there is a corresponding child image.
[0045]
Step S20: Next, the MPU 21 monitors user operations of the menu button 24 and the transfer button 28.
Here, when the transfer button 28 is pressed, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S21.
On the other hand, when the menu button 24 is pressed, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S22.
[0046]
Step S21: When the operation target parent image has a child image, the MPU 21 transfers the child image to a preset external transfer destination via the interface 32. When such a transfer operation is completed, the MPU 21 erases the transferred child image from the memory card 19 and increases the free capacity of the memory card 19.
If the parent image to be operated does not have a child image, the parent image is directly transferred to the external transfer destination via the interface 32.
After such a file operation, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
[0047]
Step S22: The MPU 21 displays a menu screen on the liquid crystal display unit 31 in response to the pressing operation of the menu button 24. The user operates the cross button 23 while looking at the menu screen on the liquid crystal display unit 31 to input a desired file operation.
[0048]
Step S23: When the file operation instruction by the user is to delete the parent image file, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S24. In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S25.
[0049]
Step S24: The MPU 21 erases the operation target parent image from the memory card 19. Note that if the parent image to be operated has a child image, the MPU 21 also deletes this child image together. After such a file operation, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
[0050]
Step S25: The MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S26 when the file operation instruction by the user is the file movement of the parent image. In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S27.
[0051]
Step S26: The MPU 21 moves the file of the operation target parent image to a folder designated by the user. Note that if the parent image to be operated has a child image, the MPU 21 moves the file together with the child image. After such a file operation, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
[0052]
Step S27: When the file operation instruction by the user is a parent image protection instruction, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S28. In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S29.
[0053]
Step S28: The MPU 21 adds a protect attribute to the parent image file to be operated. Note that if the parent image to be operated has a child image, the MPU 21 also adds a protection attribute to the child image file. After such a file operation, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
[0054]
Step S29: When the file operation instruction by the user is an instruction to delete only the parent image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S30. In other cases, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
[0055]
Step S30: The MPU 21 deletes the parent image file to be operated from the memory card 19. If the parent image to be operated has a child image, the MPU 21 changes the child image file name to the parent image file name and promotes the child image to the parent image. After such a file operation, the MPU 21 ends the file operation processing routine.
With the operation described above, the file operation process is completed.
[0056]
[Effects of First Embodiment]
As described above, in the first embodiment, the resolution of the parent image is reduced and a child image for transfer is newly created. The MPU 21 changes the initial “D” of the file name of the parent image to the initial “S” for the child image, thereby generating the file name of the child image. By such a file name rule, the parent image and the child image are associated with each other and recorded on the memory card 19.
[0057]
Therefore, by following the association of the file name rules later, the file operation for the parent image can be automatically propagated to the child images. As a result, it is not necessary for the user to perform file operations for the parent image and the child image separately, and it is possible to save the image management for the child image.
In particular, according to the first embodiment, the corresponding child images are deleted together with the deletion of the parent image. Therefore, the unnecessary child image remains in the memory card 19 indefinitely after the parent image is erased, and the harmful effect of occupying the memory space is eliminated.
[0058]
Further, in the first embodiment, the child image is erased when the external transfer of the child image is completed. Therefore, the adverse effect that the transferred child image remains in the electronic camera indefinitely and occupies the memory space of the memory card 19 is eliminated.
In the first embodiment, the corresponding child image is moved together with the file movement of the parent image. Therefore, the adverse effect that the child image exists away from the parent image after moving the file of the parent image is eliminated.
[0059]
Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the corresponding child image is also protected according to the protection setting (erasure prevention setting) of the parent image. Therefore, it is not necessary to individually set the protection for the parent image and the child image, and the user's trouble can be reduced.
[0060]
In the first embodiment, when only the parent image is deleted, the corresponding child image is promoted to the parent image. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a harmful effect that a child image without a parent image remains in the memory card 19 and is forgotten by the user and left unprocessed.
[0061]
Furthermore, in the first embodiment, when the number of pixels of the thumbnail image exceeds the number of pixels of the child image, the thumbnail image is deleted from the parent image file. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the file size of the parent image by the thumbnail image.
Next, another embodiment will be described.
[0062]
<< Second Embodiment >>
The second embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera corresponding to the inventions of claims 1 to 13. Note that the configuration of the electronic camera in the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1 and 2), and thus the description of the configuration is omitted here. Also, operations similar to those in the first embodiment (image file operation, thumbnail image addition stop, etc.) are omitted here in order to avoid redundant description.
[0063]
[Correspondence with Invention]
The correspondence relationship between the invention and the second embodiment will be described below. Note that the correspondence relationship here illustrates one interpretation for reference, and does not limit the present invention.
The imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to the imaging element 13, the timing generator 13a, the image processing unit 14, the A / D conversion unit 15, and the DSP 16.
The child image generation unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function of generating a child image” of the MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
The recording unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function for performing file management of the memory card 19” of the MPU 21.
The transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to the interface 32.
The remaining capacity monitoring unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function for monitoring the remaining capacity of the memory card 19” of the MPU 21.
The control unit described in the claims corresponds to the “function of erasing the transferred child image from the memory card 19” of the MPU 21.
[0064]
[Description of child image creation process]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a child image creation process, which is a feature of the second embodiment.
Hereinafter, the child image creation process will be described along the step numbers shown in FIG.
[0065]
Step S40: First, similarly to the first embodiment, the user operates the cross button 23 to give a child image creation instruction to the MPU 21.
[0066]
Step S41: The MPU 21 acquires information on the remaining capacity of the memory card 19.
[0067]
Step S42: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the remaining capacity of the memory card 19 is sufficient for storing the child image.
If the remaining capacity is insufficient to store the child image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S42.
On the other hand, when the remaining capacity is sufficient for storing the child image, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S43.
[0068]
Step S43: The MPU 21 secures a memory space in the memory card 19 by deleting a part or all of the existing child images from the memory card 19.
[0069]
Step S44: The MPU 21 communicates with the external transfer destination via the interface 32, and acquires information on the external transfer destination. (Note that information such as the type of external transfer destination may be acquired by user input.)
[0070]
Step S45: The MPU 21 determines the image format (for example, image size, screen aspect ratio, number of colors, etc.) of the child image suitable for the external transfer destination according to the information of the external transfer destination.
[0071]
Step S46: The MPU 21 determines the type of the parent image that is the generation source of the child image.
Here, when the parent image is an image of one frame taken in the single shooting mode, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S47.
If the parent image is a moving image captured in the moving image capturing mode, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S48.
On the other hand, when the parent image is a group of still images taken in the continuous shooting mode, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S49.
[0072]
Step S47: The MPU 21 converts the parent image (here, one frame of still image) into the image format determined in step S45, and generates a child image. After such an operation, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S50.
[0073]
Step S48: The MPU 21 extracts the first frame of the parent image (here, the moving image). The MPU 21 converts the first frame into the image format determined in step S45, and generates a child image. After such an operation, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S50.
[0074]
Step S49: The MPU 21 converts each frame of the parent image (here, a plurality of still images) into the image format determined in Step S45, and generates a plurality of child images. After such an operation, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to Step S50.
[0075]
Step S50: The MPU 21 determines whether or not a child folder corresponding to the image size of the child image exists in the parent image folder.
If no child folder exists, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S51.
On the other hand, when the child folder exists, the MPU 21 shifts the operation to step S52.
[0076]
Step S51: The MPU 21 creates a child folder dedicated to the image size of the child image under the parent image folder hierarchy of the memory card 19.
[0077]
Step S52: The MPU 21 stores the child image file in a child folder dedicated to the image size.
With the operation described above, the child image creation process is completed.
[0078]
[Effects of Second Embodiment, etc.]
As described above, in the second embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained.
Furthermore, in the second embodiment, a child folder is created for each image size of the child image in the parent image folder, and the child images are classified and stored for each image size. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently manage the parent image and the child image based on the hierarchical folder.
[0079]
In the second embodiment, an image format suitable for an external transfer destination is determined from information regarding the external transfer destination, and a child image is generated so as to match the image format. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the troublesome trouble such as the user changing the image format as needed for each external transfer destination. In addition, it is possible to reliably generate a child image suitable for the external transfer destination.
[0080]
Furthermore, in the second embodiment, when the remaining capacity of the memory card 19 is insufficient, all or part of the child image is erased. In this case, the shortage of the remaining capacity can be compensated for by the capacity of the deleted child image, and the number of recordable frames of the electronic camera can be increased without waste.
[0081]
If the remaining capacity of the memory card 19 is insufficient to store the captured parent image, part or all of the child image may be deleted. In this case, a storage space for the parent image can be secured.
[0082]
<< Additional items of embodiment >>
In the embodiment described above, the child image is generated by reducing the resolution of the parent image. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the child image may be generated by reducing the color of the parent image.
[0083]
In the above-described embodiment, the parent image and the child image are associated using the file name rule and the hierarchical folder. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the association between the parent image and the child image may be stored using data such as file header information and file management information in the recording medium.
[0084]
【The invention's effect】
<Claim 1>
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the child image for transfer is generated by reducing the resolution or reducing the color of the captured parent image. A recording unit in the electronic camera records these parent images and child images in association with each other.
  Therefore, by tracing the association between the records, it is easy to spread the image management of the parent image (or child image) and manage the child image (or parent image) almost automatically. As a result, it is possible to reduce the trouble of separately handling the parent image and the child image related to the same design, and it is possible to appropriately manage the child images generated for the external transfer.
  Further, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a child folder for child images is created in the parent image folder, and the parent images and child images related to the same picture are managed hierarchically. Such hierarchical management makes it possible to appropriately manage the parent image and the child image.
  In particular, by making such a child folder dedicated to storing child images, there is no mistake such as the parent image being mixed into the child folder, and it becomes possible to manage the image by accurately distinguishing the parent image and the child image. .
[0085]
<Claim 2>
  In the invention of claim 2,A child image for transfer is generated by reducing the resolution or reducing the color of the captured parent image. A recording unit in the electronic camera records these parent images and child images in association with each other.
  Therefore, by tracing the association between the records, it is easy to spread the image management of the parent image (or child image) and manage the child image (or parent image) almost automatically. As a result, it is possible to reduce the trouble of separately handling the parent image and the child image related to the same design, and it is possible to appropriately manage the child images generated for the external transfer.
Furthermore, in the invention of claim 2, when the user erases only the parent image, the corresponding child image is promoted to the parent image. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a harmful effect that a child image without a parent image remains in the electronic camera, is forgotten by the user, and is left unprocessed.
Note that when there are a plurality of corresponding child images, the recording unit preferably promotes the child image having the largest image size to the parent image. Furthermore, the recording unit preferably newly associates the promoted parent image with the remaining child images.
[0086]
<Claim 3>
  In the invention of claim 3,A child image for transfer is generated by reducing the resolution or reducing the color of the captured parent image. A recording unit in the electronic camera records these parent images and child images in association with each other.
  Therefore, by tracing the association between the records, it is easy to spread the image management of the parent image (or child image) and manage the child image (or parent image) almost automatically. As a result, it is possible to reduce the trouble of separately handling the parent image and the child image related to the same design, and it is possible to appropriately manage the child images generated for the external transfer.
Furthermore, in the invention of claim 3, when the number of pixels of the thumbnail image is equal to or larger than the number of pixels of the child image, the thumbnail image is not added to the parent image. By not adding a thumbnail image in this way, the file size of the parent image can be suppressed.
If no thumbnail image is added to the parent image, it is preferable to use the child image instead of the thumbnail image.
[0087]
<Claim 4>
  In the invention of claim 4,The image format is determined from the information of the external transfer destination, and a child image is created in accordance with this image format. Therefore, it is possible to definitely create a child image having an image format suitable for the external transfer destination. Further, each time the user changes the external transfer destination, the trouble of manually changing the image format of the child image can be saved.
[0088]
《Claims5》
  Claim5In the invention ofAs the parent image is deleted, the corresponding child image is also deleted. Therefore, the disadvantage that the child image is forgotten by the deletion of the parent image and remains in the electronic camera is eliminated.
In addition, the user only needs to be aware of the deletion of the parent image, and the trouble of deleting the parent image and the child image separately becomes unnecessary.
[0089]
<Claim 6>
  In the invention of claim 6,When the external transfer of the child image is completed, the child image is deleted. Therefore, the adverse effect that the transferred child image remains in the electronic camera forever is eliminated.
[0090]
<Claim 7>
  In the invention of claim 7,When the remaining capacity of the recording unit is insufficient, all or part of the child image is erased. In this case, it is possible to automatically solve the shortage of the remaining capacity due to the child image.
[0091]
<Claim 8>
  In the invention of claim 8,In accordance with the movement of the parent image file, the corresponding child image is also moved. Therefore, the adverse effect that the remaining child image is isolated from the parent image by moving the file of the parent image is eliminated.
  In addition, the user only needs to be aware of the file movement of the parent image, and has the trouble of moving the parent image and the child image separately.It becomes unnecessary.
[0092]
<Claim 9>
  In the invention of claim 9,The corresponding child image is also protected according to the protection setting (erasure prevention setting) of the parent image. Therefore, the adverse effect that the child image is erroneously erased without the protection setting is eliminated regardless of the protection setting of the parent image.
  In addition, the user need only be aware of the protection setting of the parent image, and the trouble of setting the protection of the parent image and the child image separately becomes unnecessary.
[0093]
<Claim 10>
In the invention of claim 10, a child image is generated from one frame of a moving image. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the processing load of child image generation for moving images. In addition, after capturing a moving image, it is possible to transfer only one child image as a trial.
[0094]
<Claim 11>
In the invention of claim 11, a plurality of child images are generated all at once by reducing the resolution or reducing the color of the continuously shot still images one frame at a time. This eliminates the need for the user to generate child images separately for each frame of continuously shot still images.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view of an electronic camera 11. FIG.
2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an electronic camera 11. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart (1/2) illustrating a child image creation process;
FIG. 4 is a flowchart (2/2) illustrating a child image creation process.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a file operation processing routine;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing child image creation processing in the second embodiment;
[Explanation of symbols]
11 Electronic camera
12 Shooting lens
13 Image sensor
13a Timing generator
14 Image processing unit
15 A / D converter
16 DSP
17 Data bus
18 Buffer memory
19 Memory card
20 System bus
21 MPU
22 Release button
23 Cross button
23a Up key
23b Down key
23c Left key
23d right key
24 Menu button
25 Command dial
26 Zoom button
27 Mode switch button
28 Transfer button
30 frame memory
31 Liquid crystal display
32 interface

Claims (11)

An imaging unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image;
A child image generation unit that lowers or reduces the color of the parent image and generates a child image for transfer;
A child folder for recording the child images exclusively for each image size is provided below the hierarchy of the folder for recording the parent images, and the parent image and the child images are managed in a hierarchical manner. A recording unit for associating and recording images;
An electronic camera comprising: a transfer unit that transfers the child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination.   An imaging unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image;
  A child image generation unit that lowers or reduces the color of the parent image and generates a child image for transfer;
  A recording unit for recording the parent image and the child image in association with each other;
  A transfer unit that transfers the child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination;
  A parent image erasing operation unit that accepts an instruction to erase only the parent image from a user,
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit erases the parent image in accordance with the erasure instruction, searches for the child image recorded in association with the parent image, and promotes the child image to the parent image.   An imaging unit that captures a subject image to generate a parent image;
  A child image generation unit that lowers or reduces the color of the parent image and generates a child image for transfer;
  A recording unit for recording the parent image and the child image in association with each other;
  A transfer unit that transfers the child image recorded in the recording unit to an external transfer destination;
  A thumbnail creation unit for generating a thumbnail image for thumbnail display from the parent image and adding the thumbnail image to the parent image;
  The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the thumbnail creation unit does not add the thumbnail image to the parent image when the number of pixels of the thumbnail image is greater than or equal to the number of pixels of the child image. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ,
The transfer unit, the information of the external transfer destination, obtained from the external transfer destination or the user,
The child image generation unit determines an image format corresponding to the information of the external transfer destination, and generates the child image according to the image format. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
An erasing operation unit that receives an erasing instruction for the parent image from the user,
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit erases the parent image according to the erasing instruction, and searches for and erases the child image recorded in association with the parent image. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit erases the child image that has been externally transferred by the transfer unit. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 6 ,
A remaining capacity monitoring unit for determining a remaining capacity of the recording unit and detecting an insufficient state of the remaining capacity;
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit erases all or a part of the child image when the remaining capacity monitoring unit detects an insufficient state of the remaining capacity. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 7 ,
A move operation unit for receiving a file move instruction for the parent image from the user;
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit moves the parent image in accordance with the file movement instruction, and searches for the child image recorded in association with the parent image to move the file. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
A protect operation unit for receiving a protect instruction for the parent image from the user;
The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit sets a protection attribute for the parent image in accordance with the protection instruction, and sets the protection attribute by searching for the child image recorded in association with the parent image. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The imaging unit is provided with a selectable moving image capturing mode for capturing a subject image as a moving image,
The child image generation unit
An electronic camera that generates the child image of the parent image (that is, a moving image) captured in the moving image capturing mode by reducing or reducing the color of one frame of the parent image. The electronic camera according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
The imaging unit is capable of selecting a continuous shooting imaging mode for imaging a subject image as a continuous still image,
The child image generation unit
For the parent image (that is, a plurality of still images) captured in the continuous shooting mode, the child image (that is, a plurality of still images) is generated by reducing or reducing the resolution of the parent image one frame at a time. An electronic camera characterized by that.

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