JP4724510B2 - Imaging apparatus and control method thereof - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus such as a digital camera or a portable information terminal used by connecting to another image processing apparatus and a control method thereof.

  Some conventional imaging devices such as digital cameras and personal digital assistants employ a function (hereinafter referred to as “auto shutdown”) that automatically turns off the power when no operation is performed for a certain period of time in order to prevent battery waste. . However, when an image pickup apparatus adopting auto shutdown is remotely operated from an external image processing apparatus such as a personal computer, there is a problem that the buttons of the image pickup apparatus are not pressed and the auto shutdown occurs during remote operation.

In order to cope with this problem, there is a technique for notifying the external image processing apparatus that the power is to be cut off from the imaging apparatus so that the power is not cut off until the external image processing apparatus permits it (see Patent Document 1). reference). In addition, there is a technique that does not automatically shut down an imaging apparatus when the imaging apparatus is simply connected to an external image processing apparatus that can be remotely operated (see Non-Patent Document 1).
JP 2002-91630 A “IXY DIGITAL 500/450 Camera User Guide”, [online], Canon Inc., Internet (URL: http://cweb.canon.jp/manual/digitalcamera/pd/ixyd500d450.pdf)

  However, in Patent Document 1, a notification regarding shutdown is sent from the imaging apparatus to the external image processing apparatus, and the shutdown operation of the imaging apparatus is controlled by a response to the notification. Therefore, a mechanism for performing communication processing related to shutdown is required for both the imaging device and the external image processing device. As a result, if the application on the external image processing device that performs remote operation of the imaging device does not support the communication processing even if the imaging device supports communication processing related to shutdown, the imaging device during remote operation. Sometimes shut down automatically. In addition, when there are a plurality of applications on the external image processing apparatus that performs remote operation of the imaging apparatus, it may be necessary to implement communication processing related to shutdown for each application.

  In Non-Patent Document 1, since no special communication is performed regarding shutdown, it is only necessary to implement a function in the imaging apparatus. However, even when the imaging device is not remotely operated by the external image processing device, as long as the connected external image processing device can remotely control the imaging device, the imaging device is automatically shut down. It wasn't done and wasted battery.

  An example of a process in which the imaging apparatus is not remotely operated from the external image processing apparatus even though an external image processing apparatus capable of remotely operating the imaging apparatus is connected is, for example, a simultaneous photographing transfer process. During these processes, the imaging apparatus is not remotely operated from the external image processing apparatus. In such a case, if the button of the imaging device is not pressed, the auto shutdown does not operate even though the operation on the imaging device is not performed including the remote operation. Therefore, there is a problem that the battery is wasted without turning off the power even when it can be determined that the operation on the imaging apparatus is not clearly performed.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to efficiently suppress power consumption by simple power control.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus, and a power supply control unit having an auto shutdown function for turning off power supply to at least a part of the own apparatus when a preset condition is satisfied, and an external The communication means that communicates with the apparatus and the processing mode of the own apparatus are processing modes that can receive a remote operation from the external apparatus using the communication means, or receive a remote operation from the external apparatus Mode determining means for determining whether the processing mode is impossible, and when the mode determining means determines that the processing mode is incapable of remote operation from the external device, the power supply When it is determined that the processing unit is in a processing mode in which the automatic shutdown function is enabled and the remote operation from the external device can be received, the power control unit Characterized in that it bets shutdown function invalid.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a communication means for communicating with an external device, and a power supply having an auto shutdown function for turning off power supply to at least a part of the own device when a preset condition is satisfied. An imaging apparatus control method comprising: a control means, wherein the processing mode of the own apparatus is a processing mode capable of receiving a remote operation from the external apparatus using the communication means, or from the external apparatus If it is determined in the mode determination step to determine whether it is a processing mode incapable of receiving remote operation, and the mode determination step is a processing mode incapable of remote operation from the external device, When it is determined that the automatic shutdown function in the power control means is valid and the processing mode is capable of receiving remote operation from the external device, the power Characterized in that it comprises a power supply control step for disabling the automatic shutdown function in the control unit.

A third aspect of the present invention relates to a program and causes a computer to execute the above control method .

  According to the present invention, power consumption can be efficiently suppressed by simple power supply control.

[First embodiment]
Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, 100 is an imaging device, 200 is a recording medium, and 300 is an information processing device.

  The imaging apparatus 100 receives data including a command and a captured image by wireless or wired communication via the communication unit 110 and the connector (antenna) 112, and the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 330 and the connector (antenna) 332. Send and receive.

  Wireless communication between the imaging apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 300 is performed by wireless LAN communication such as IEEE802.11b or IEEE802.11g, spread spectrum method such as Bluetooth, or the like. In the case of wired communication, communication is performed using RS232C, USB, IEEE1394, P1284, SCSI, modem, LAN, or the like.

The imaging apparatus 100 transmits image data captured through the lens 10 to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the connector (antenna) 112, and further via the connector (antenna) 332 and the communication unit 330. The information processing apparatus 300 can record the received image data on the detachable recording medium 200 and can transmit the received image data to another information processing apparatus or communication base station via the communication unit 326 and the antenna 328.
<Description of Configuration of Imaging Device 100>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 2, 10 is a photographing lens, 12 is a shutter having a diaphragm function, 14 is an image sensor that converts an optical image into an electric signal, and 16 is an A / D converter that converts an analog signal output from the image sensor 14 into a digital signal. It is.

  A timing generation circuit 18 supplies a clock signal and a control signal to the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, and the D / A converter 26, and is controlled by the memory control circuit 22 and the system control circuit 50.

  An image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined pixel interpolation processing and color conversion processing on the data from the A / D converter 16 or the data from the memory control circuit 22.

  Further, the image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined calculation processing using the captured image data. The system control circuit 50 performs, for example, TTL AF (autofocus) processing, AE (automatic exposure) on the exposure control unit 40 and the distance measurement control unit 42 based on the calculation result obtained by the image processing circuit 20. ) Process and EF (flash pre-emission) process.

  Further, the image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data, and performs TTL AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the obtained arithmetic result.

  A memory control circuit 22 controls the A / D converter 16, the timing generation circuit 18, the image processing circuit 20, the image display memory 24, the D / A converter 26, the memory 30, and the compression / decompression circuit 32.

  The data of the A / D converter 16 is sent to the image display memory 24 or the memory 30 via the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22, or the data of the A / D converter 16 is sent directly to the memory control circuit 22. Is written to.

  Reference numeral 24 denotes an image display memory, 26 denotes a D / A converter, and 28 denotes an image display unit including a TFT LCD or the like. Display image data written in the image display memory 24 is displayed by the image display unit 28 via the D / A converter 26.

  An electronic viewfinder function can be realized by sequentially displaying image data captured using the image display unit 28.

  The image display unit 28 can arbitrarily turn on / off the display according to an instruction from the system control circuit 50. When the display is turned off, the power consumption of the imaging apparatus 100 can be greatly reduced.

  Reference numeral 30 denotes a memory for storing captured still images and moving images, and has a sufficient storage capacity to store a predetermined number of still images and a moving image for a predetermined time. Examples of the memory 30 include a volatile memory and a nonvolatile memory.

  Thereby, even in the case of continuous shooting or panoramic shooting in which a plurality of still images are continuously shot, a large amount of image writing can be performed on the memory 30 at high speed.

  The memory 30 can also be used as a work area for the system control circuit 50.

  A compression / decompression circuit 32 compresses and decompresses image data by adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT) or the like, reads an image stored in the memory 30, performs compression processing or decompression processing, and stores the processed data in the memory 30. Write to.

  Reference numeral 40 denotes an exposure control unit that controls the shutter 12 having an aperture function, and has a flash light control function in cooperation with the flash 48.

  Reference numeral 42 denotes a distance measurement control unit that controls focusing of the photographing lens 10, reference numeral 44 denotes a zoom control unit that controls zooming of the photographing lens 10, and reference numeral 46 denotes a barrier control unit that controls the operation of the protection unit 102 serving as a barrier.

  A flash 48 has an AF auxiliary light projecting function and a flash light control function.

  The exposure control unit 40 and the distance measurement control unit 42 are controlled using the TTL method, and the system control circuit 50 controls the exposure control unit 40 and the distance measurement control based on the calculation result obtained by calculating the captured image data by the image processing circuit 20. The unit 42 is controlled.

  Reference numeral 50 denotes a system control circuit that controls the entire imaging apparatus 100, and 52 denotes a memory that stores constants, variables, programs, and the like for operation of the system control circuit 50.

  Reference numeral 54 denotes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display device or a speaker that displays an operation state, a message, and the like using characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with execution of a program in the system control circuit 50. The display unit 54 is installed at a single or a plurality of positions near the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100 that are easily visible, and is configured by a combination of, for example, an LCD, an LED, and a sounding element.

  The display unit 54 is partly installed in the optical viewfinder 104.

  Of the display contents of the display unit 54, the following are displayed on the LCD or the like. Single shot / continuous shooting display, self-timer display, compression rate display, number of recorded pixels, number of recorded images, number of remaining shots displayed, shutter speed display, aperture value display, exposure compensation display, flash display, red-eye reduction display, Macro shooting display and buzzer setting display. Further, the display contents of the display unit 54 include a clock battery remaining amount display, a battery remaining amount display, an error display, an information display with a plurality of digits, a display state of the recording media 200 and 210, a communication I / F operation display. Date and time display are also included.

  Among the display contents of the display unit 54, what is displayed in the optical viewfinder 104 includes in-focus display, camera shake warning display, flash charge display, shutter speed display, aperture value display, exposure correction display, and the like.

  Reference numeral 56 denotes an electrically erasable / recordable nonvolatile memory, such as an EEPROM.

  58 is identification information, and stores various types of identification information for performing authentication prior to communication when communicating with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the antenna 112.

  Reference numerals 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, 70, and 72 are operation units for inputting various operation instructions of the system control circuit 50, such as switches, dials, touch panels, pointing by line-of-sight detection, voice recognition devices, and the like. Consists of a single or a plurality of combinations.

  Next, a specific description of these operation units will be given.

  Reference numeral 72 denotes a main switch, which can be switched between power on and power off. The “power off” includes not only completely shutting off the power supply but also putting the power supply in a sleep state by a power saving function.

  Reference numeral 60 denotes a mode dial switch, which can be set by switching each function mode such as an automatic shooting mode, a shooting mode, a panoramic shooting mode, a playback mode, a multi-screen playback / erase mode, and a PC connection mode.

  Reference numeral 62 denotes a shutter switch SW1, which is turned on during the operation of a shutter button (not shown), and includes AF (auto focus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, AWB (auto white balance) processing, EF (flash pre-flash) processing, and the like. Instruct the start of operation.

  Reference numeral 64 denotes a shutter switch SW2, which is turned on when the operation of a shutter button (not shown) is completed. The shutter switch 64 instructs an operation start of an exposure process in which a signal read from the image sensor 12 is written into the memory 30 via the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22. The shutter switch 64 instructs the start of the development processing operation using the calculation in the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22. The shutter switch 64 reads out the image data from the memory 30, compresses it with the compression / decompression circuit 32, and instructs the start of the recording processing operation for writing the image data into the recording medium 200 or 210.

  Reference numeral 66 denotes a single-shot / continuous-shot switch. When the shutter switch SW2 is pressed, the single-shot mode in which one frame is shot to enter a standby state, and shooting is continuously performed while the shutter switch SW2 is pressed. The continuous shooting mode can be set.

  An operation unit 70 includes various buttons and a touch panel. The operation unit 70 includes a menu button, a set button, a macro button, a multi-screen playback page break button, a flash setting button, and a self-timer button. The operation unit 70 also includes a menu movement + (plus) button, menu movement-(minus) button, reproduction image movement + (plus) button, reproduction image-(minus) button, shooting image quality selection button, exposure correction button, date. Also includes a time setting button and playback mode. The operation unit 70 also includes a playback switch that can set each function mode such as a multi-screen playback / erase mode and a PC connection mode. The operation unit 70 also includes an AF mode setting switch. This switch starts the autofocus operation when the shutter switch SW1 is pressed, and sets the one-shot AF mode that keeps the focused state and the servo AF mode that keeps the autofocus operation while the shutter switch SW1 is pressed. can do. Further, the operation unit 70 has an image display ON / OFF switch for setting ON / OFF of the image display unit 28, and a quick review ON / OFF switch for setting a quick review function for automatically reproducing image data taken immediately after shooting. Including. The operation unit 70 also includes a compression mode switch for selecting a CCDRAW mode for selecting the compression rate of JPEG compression or for digitizing the signal of the image sensor as it is and recording it on a recording medium.

  In addition, the functions of the plus button and the minus button can be selected more easily by providing a rotary dial switch.

  A power control unit 80 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit that switches a block to be energized, and the like. The power supply control unit 80 detects the presence / absence of a battery, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level, and controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system control circuit 50, and requires the necessary voltage. It is supplied to each part including the recording medium for a long period.

  Reference numerals 82 and 84 denote connectors, and 86 denotes a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, NiMH battery, or Li-ion battery, an AC adapter, and the like.

  Reference numeral 90 denotes an interface with a recording medium such as a memory card or hard disk, and reference numeral 92 denotes a connector for connecting to a recording medium such as a memory card or hard disk.

  In this embodiment, the interface and connector for attaching the recording medium are described as having one system, but the interface and connector for attaching the recording medium may have a single or a plurality of systems. Moreover, it is good also as a structure provided with combining the interface and connector of a different standard.

  The interface and connector may be configured using a PCMCIA card, a CF (compact flash (registered trademark)) card, an SD (secure digital) memory card, an MMC (multimedia card), or the like.

  Furthermore, the interface 90 and the connector 92 can be configured using a PCMCIA card, a CF (Compact Flash (registered trademark)) card, an SD (Secure Digital) memory card, or the like that conforms to a standard. In this case, by connecting various communication cards such as a communication card, image data and management information attached to the image data can be transferred to and from peripheral devices such as other computers and printers. Communication cards include, for example, LAN cards, modem cards, USB cards, IEEE1394 cards, P1284 cards, SCSI cards, and PHS.

  A recording medium attachment / detachment detection unit 94 detects whether or not the recording medium 200 is attached to the connector 92.

  A protection unit 102 serves as a barrier that prevents the imaging unit from being soiled or damaged by covering the imaging unit including the lens 10 of the imaging device 100.

  Reference numeral 104 denotes an optical viewfinder, which can perform photographing using only the optical viewfinder without using the electronic viewfinder function of the image display unit 28. In the optical viewfinder 104, some functions of the display unit 54, for example, focus display, camera shake warning display, flash charge display, shutter speed display, aperture value display, exposure correction display, and the like are installed.

  A communication unit 110 has various short-distance high-speed data communication functions such as a wired communication function, wireless LAN communication, spread spectrum communication, and infrared communication. Examples of the wired communication function include RS232C, USB, IEEE1394, P1284, SCSI, modem, LAN, and the like. The wireless LAN communication includes, for example, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11g, and the like. The spread spectrum communication includes, for example, Bluetooth. Infrared communication includes, for example, IrDA.

  Reference numeral 112 denotes a connector for connecting the imaging apparatus 100 to another device by the communication unit 110 or an antenna in the case of wireless communication. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a wired connection connector (for example, USB) and a wireless connection antenna (for example, wireless LAN) are provided.

  Reference numeral 200 denotes a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk.

  The recording medium 200 includes a recording unit 202 composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, or the like, an interface 204 with the imaging apparatus 100, a connector 206 for connecting to the imaging apparatus 100, and identification information 208.

<Description of Configuration of Information Processing Device 300>
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the information processing apparatus 300 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 310 denotes a microphone that converts sound into an electrical signal, and 312 denotes an A / D converter that converts an analog output signal of the microphone into a digital signal.

  Reference numeral 314 denotes a memory control circuit, in which output data of the A / D converter 312 is written into the memory 320 via the memory control circuit 314, and data read from the memory 320 is input to the D / A converter 316. Is done.

  A D / A converter 316 converts a digital signal into an analog signal, and a speaker 318 converts an electrical signal into an audio signal.

  Reference numeral 320 denotes a memory for storing at least one of audio input from the microphone 310 and still images or moving images transmitted from the imaging apparatus 100. The memory 320 has a storage capacity sufficient to store at least one of a predetermined period of sound and a predetermined number of still images or a predetermined period of moving images.

  Reference numeral 322 denotes a D / A converter that converts still image data or moving image data stored in the memory 320 into an analog signal, and reference numeral 324 denotes an image display unit that displays an output image signal of the D / A converter 322.

  A communication unit 326 has various long-range wireless communication functions such as TDMA, CDMA, and W-CDMA.

  Reference numeral 328 denotes an antenna that connects the information processing apparatus 300 to at least one of another information processing apparatus and a communication base station by the communication unit 326.

  A communication unit 330 has various short-distance high-speed data communication functions such as a wired communication function, wireless LAN communication, spread spectrum communication, and infrared communication. Examples of the wired communication function include RS232C, USB, IEEE1394, P1284, SCSI, modem, LAN, and the like. The wireless LAN communication includes, for example, IEEE802.11b, IEEE802.11g, and the like. The spread spectrum communication includes, for example, Bluetooth. Infrared communication includes, for example, IrDA.

  Reference numeral 332 denotes a connector for connecting the information processing apparatus 300 to another device by the communication unit 330 or an antenna in the case of wireless communication. In this embodiment, it is assumed that a wired connection connector (for example, USB) and a wireless connection antenna (for example, wireless LAN) are provided.

  A system control circuit 350 controls the entire information processing apparatus 300, and a memory 352 stores constants, variables, programs, and the like for operation of the system control circuit 350.

  Reference numeral 354 denotes an electrically erasable / recordable non-volatile memory, such as an EEPROM.

  Reference numeral 356 denotes identification information, which stores various types of identification information for performing authentication prior to communication when communicating with the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330 and the connector (antenna) 332.

  Reference numeral 360 denotes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or a speaker that displays an operation state, a message, and the like using characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with execution of a program in the system control circuit 350. The display unit 360 is installed at a single or a plurality of locations near the operation unit of the information processing apparatus 300 that are easily visible, and is configured by, for example, a combination of an LCD, an LED, a sounding element, and the like.

  Reference numeral 362 denotes an operation unit for inputting various operation instructions of the system control circuit 350. The operation unit 362 includes one or a combination of a switch, a dial, a touch panel, pointing by eye-gaze detection, a voice recognition device, and the like.

  According to the operation unit 362, operations such as power on / off of the information processing apparatus 300, execution (off hook) / stop (on hook) of a call, telephone number input, telephone number search, and communication mode switching can be performed.

  Reference numeral 364 denotes an incoming call notification unit, which notifies the user of the information processing apparatus 300 of at least one of voice, image, vibration, and the like when a call is received from another information processing apparatus or communication base station. be able to. Here, the voice includes, for example, a ringing tone, utterance tone, music, and the like. The image includes, for example, an icon, a moving image, a still image, light emission, and the like.

  Reference numeral 366 denotes a recording medium attachment / detachment detection unit that detects whether or not the recording medium 200 is attached to the connector 392.

  Reference numeral 370 denotes a printing unit, which has printing functions such as a thermal transfer method, a sublimation method, an ink jet method, and a bubble jet (registered trademark) method. The printing unit 370 receives at least one of image data received from the imaging device 100 or another information processing device via the communication unit 330 and image data read from the mounted recording medium 200 with various sizes and types of paper ( Plain paper or predetermined printing paper).

  A power supply control unit 380 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit that switches a block to be energized, and the like. The power supply control unit 380 detects the presence / absence of a battery, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level, controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system control circuit 350, and requires the necessary voltage. It is supplied to each part including the recording medium for a long period.

  382 and 384 are connectors, and 386 is a power supply unit including a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery, a Li-ion battery or a Li polymer, or an AC adapter.

  Reference numeral 390 denotes an interface with a recording medium such as a memory card or hard disk, and reference numeral 392 denotes a connector for connecting to a recording medium such as a memory card or hard disk.

  In this embodiment, the interface and connector for attaching the recording medium are described as having one system. However, the interface and connector for attaching the recording medium may have a single system or a plurality of systems. Moreover, it is good also as a structure provided with combining the interface and connector of a different standard.

  The interface and connector may be configured using a PCMCIA card, a CF (compact flash (registered trademark)) card, an SD (secure digital) memory card, an MMC (multimedia card), or the like.

  Further, when the interface 390 and the connector 392 are configured using a PCMCIA card or the like that conforms to a standard, by connecting various communication cards, image data and management attached to the image data with other peripheral devices Information can be transferred to each other. Various communication cards include LAN cards, modem cards, USB cards, IEEE1394 cards, P1284 cards, SCSI cards, communication cards such as PHS, and the like. Other peripheral devices include computers and printers.

  Reference numeral 200 denotes a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium 200 includes a recording unit 202 composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, or the like, an interface 204 with the information processing apparatus 300, a connector 206 for connecting to the information processing apparatus 300, and identification information 208.

<Description of Operation of Imaging Device 100>
The operation of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of a main routine of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment.

  In step S301, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not task 1 has already been activated. If the task 1 has not been activated (“NO” in step S301), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S302 and activates task 1. Details of the task 1 processing will be described later with reference to FIG.

  If the task 1 has already been activated (“YES” in step S301), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S303.

  In step S303, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the task 2 has already been activated. If the task 2 has not yet been activated (“NO” in step S303), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S304 and activates the task 2. Details of the task 2 processing will be described later with reference to FIG. If the task 2 has already been activated (“YES” in step S303), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S301.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a flowchart of task 1 activated in step S302 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 101, the system control circuit 50 initializes flags, control variables, and the like by power-on such as battery replacement and performs initialization processing of each part of the imaging apparatus 100.

  In step S102, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the main switch 72 is set to power OFF. If the main switch 72 is set to power OFF ("YES" in step S102), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S103. If the main switch 72 is set to power ON (“NO” in step S102), the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S103, the system control circuit 50 changes the display of each display unit to the end state, closes the barrier and the like of the protection unit 102, and protects the imaging unit. In addition, the system control circuit 50 records necessary parameters including a flag, a control variable, and the like, a setting value, and a setting mode in the nonvolatile memory 56. Further, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined end process such as shutting off unnecessary power of each part of the imaging apparatus 100 including the image display unit 28 by the power control unit 80, and then returns to step S102.

  In step S <b> 104, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is a problem with the operation of the imaging apparatus 100 due to the remaining capacity and operation status of the power supply 86 configured by a battery or the like by the power supply control unit 80.

  If there is a problem with the remaining capacity of the power supply 86 to continue the operation of the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S104), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S105. If there is no problem with the remaining capacity of the power supply 86 to continue the operation of the imaging apparatus 100 (“YES” in step S104), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S106.

  In step S105, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display using at least one of an image and a sound by using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and proceeds to step S103.

  In step S <b> 106, the system control circuit 50 displays various setting states of the imaging apparatus 100 including the remaining battery capacity and the state of the memory 30 using at least one of the image and the sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28. And go to step S107.

  In step 107, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not a connection destination registration (pairing) button included in the operation unit 70 has been pressed. If the connection destination registration (pairing) button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S107), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S401. If the connection destination registration (pairing) button has been pressed (“YES” in step S107), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S108.

  In step S <b> 108, the system control circuit 50 executes connection destination registration processing with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330. In the connection destination registration process, the imaging apparatus 100 acquires in advance wireless parameters of a connection partner necessary for wireless connection with a device having a wireless function such as the information processing apparatus 300. The imaging apparatus 100 stores the wireless parameter of the connection partner in at least one of the internal memory and the memory 52 of the system control circuit 50 inside the imaging apparatus 100 and the nonvolatile memory 56. When acquiring the wireless parameters, information can be exchanged via the recording medium 200. Further, the imaging apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 300 can be connected using a cable (not shown) such as a USB interface to exchange wireless parameters.

  The stored wireless parameters are used when the imaging apparatus 100 makes a wireless connection with a device having a wireless function such as the information processing apparatus 300.

  When the connection destination registration process is completed, the process returns to S102.

  In step S <b> 401, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the imaging apparatus 100 is connected to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the connector 112. When the imaging apparatus 100 is connected to the information processing apparatus 300 via USB (“YES” in step S401), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S402. If the imaging apparatus 100 is not connected to the information processing apparatus 300 via USB (“NO” in step S401), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S109.

  In step S <b> 402, the system control circuit 50 determines the setting state of the mode switch included in the operation unit 70. If the mode switch is set to the still image (REC) mode or the moving image (MOVIE) mode (“REC, MOVIE” in step S402), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S109. If the mode switch is set to the reproduction (PB) mode (“PB” in step S402), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S403.

  In step S403, the system control circuit 50 notifies the information processing apparatus 300 that the operation mode is the playback (PB) mode via the communication unit 110, the connector 112, the connector 332, and the communication unit 330. Then, the system control circuit 50 inquires of the information processing apparatus 300 about the PC control mode.

  In step S404, if the PC direct transfer mode (DT) is selected in the information processing apparatus 300 ("DT" in step S404), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S405. If the remote capture mode (RC) is selected in the information processing apparatus 300 (“RC” in step S404), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S406.

  In step S405, the system control circuit 50 executes PC direct transfer processing. Details of the PC direct transfer process (DT) in step S405 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the PC direct transfer process in step S405 is completed, the system control circuit 50 returns to step S102.

  In step S406, the system control circuit 50 executes a remote capture process. Details of the remote capture processing in step S406 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  When the remote capture process in step S406 ends, the system control circuit 50 returns to step S102. In step S109, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the communication start button included in the operation unit 70 is pressed in order to start wireless connection. If the communication start button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S109), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S110 in order to execute various operations of the imaging apparatus 100 without performing wireless connection. If the communication start button has been pressed (“YES” in step S109), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S114 in order to determine the setting state of the mode switch included in the operation unit 70.

  In step S114, if the mode switch is set to the moving image (MOVIE) mode (“MOVIE” in step S114), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S115. If the mode switch is set to the still image shooting (REC) mode or the playback (PB) mode (“REC, PB” in step S114), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S116.

  In step S115, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display with an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and returns to step S102.

  As described above, if the transmission rate is insufficient when wirelessly transmitting a moving image from the imaging device 100 to the information processing device 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330, the setting state of the moving image mode is set. When a wireless connection is started, a predetermined warning is displayed. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the user of the imaging apparatus 100 from performing the moving image shooting by performing the wireless connection in the moving image mode although the moving image cannot be erroneously transferred. As a result, it is possible to prevent incomplete transfer of moving image data such as dropping a frame, being interrupted in the middle, or being temporarily stopped.

  In step S <b> 116, the system control circuit 50 performs a connection establishment process for establishing a communication state with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330.

  In step S117, as a result of executing the connection establishment process in step S116, the system control circuit 50 does not establish communication between the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 300 (“NO” in step S117), step 118. Proceed to When communication is established between the imaging apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 300 (“YES” in step S117), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step 119.

  In step S118, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display with an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and the process proceeds to step S125.

  In step S119, the system control circuit 50 determines the setting state of the mode switch included in the operation unit 70. If the mode switch is set to the still image shooting (REC) mode (“REC” in step S119), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S120. If the mode switch is set to the playback (PB) mode (“PB” in step S119), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S121.

  In step S <b> 120, the system control circuit 50 notifies the information processing apparatus 300 that the operation mode is the still image shooting (REC) mode via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330. Perform simultaneous transfer processing. Details of the simultaneous photographing transfer process in step S120 will be described later with reference to FIGS. When the simultaneous photographing transfer process in step S120 is completed, the process proceeds to step S125.

  In step S121, the system control circuit 50 notifies the information processing apparatus 300 that the operation mode is the playback (PB) mode via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330. Then, the system control circuit 50 inquires of the information processing apparatus 300 about the PC control mode.

  In step S122, the system control circuit 50, if the PC direct transfer mode (DT) is selected in the information processing apparatus 300 (“DT” in step S122), the system control circuit 50 performs the PC direct transfer in step S123. Execute the process. If the remote capture mode (RC) is selected in the information processing apparatus 300 (“RC” in step S122), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S124.

  Details of the PC direct transfer process in step S123 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S123, the system control circuit 50 executes the PC direct transfer process. When the PC direct transfer process ends, the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S125.

  In step S124, the system control circuit 50 executes a remote capture process.

  Details of the remote capture processing in step S124 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the remote capture process in step S124 ends, the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S125.

  In step S125, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the communication end button included in the operation unit 70 is pressed in order to disconnect the wireless connection. If the communication end button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S125), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S102. If the communication end button has been pressed (“YES” in step S125), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S126.

  In step S126, the system control circuit 50 performs a process of disconnecting wireless communication with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330, and returns to step S102.

  5 to 6 are detailed flowcharts of the photographing simultaneous transfer process in step S120 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 131, the system control circuit 50 confirms the communication state with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330. If the wireless connection with the information processing apparatus 300 is established ("NO" in step S131), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S132. If the wireless connection with the information processing apparatus 300 is established ("YES" in step S131), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S133.

  In step S132, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display by image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and ends the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine of step S120.

  In step S133, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the shutter switch SW1 is pressed. If the shutter switch SW1 is pressed (“YES” in step S133), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S134. If the shutter switch SW1 is not pressed (“NO” in step S133), the system control circuit 50 ends the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine in step S120.

  In step S134, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is a problem with respect to the following points. That is, it is determined whether or not the recording medium 200 is attached, acquisition of management information of image data recorded on the recording medium 200, and an operation state of the recording medium 200 (operation of the imaging apparatus 100, particularly an image on the recording medium). Is there a problem in the data recording / reproducing operation?). If there is no problem with these ("YES" in step S133), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S137. If there is a problem with these ("NO" in step S133), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S135.

  In step S135, the system control circuit 50 determines the setting state of the image display ON / OFF switch. If the image display ON / OFF switch is OFF, that is, if the image display ON / OFF switch is in a state of taking an image using the optical viewfinder 104 (OVF shooting) (“OVF” in step S135), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S136. If the image display ON / OFF switch is ON, that is, if the image control unit 50 is in a state of performing image capturing (EVF image capturing) (“EVF” in step S135), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S137. .

  In step S136, the system control circuit 50 displays a predetermined warning by an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and ends the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine in step S120. Since the image display unit 28 is set to OFF in the OVF shooting state, a predetermined warning is displayed on the image display unit 28 with characters, icons, and images after the image display unit 28 is turned on.

  As described above, if the wireless connection state is established with the information processing apparatus 300 (step S131), the recording medium 200 cannot be used (step S134), and if the OVF photographing state is set (step S135). ), Prohibit shooting and give warning. As a result, it is misunderstood that the user of the imaging apparatus 100 can reliably save the captured image in a state where the captured image is not recorded in the recording medium 200 and can be wirelessly disconnected before the transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 is completed. It is possible to prevent the shutter switch 64 from being accidentally pressed.

  Even if the image display unit 28 is in the OFF state, the image display unit 28 is turned on and a warning is displayed on the image display unit 28. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the shutter switch 64 from being mistakenly pressed by misunderstanding that the captured image can be reliably stored.

  In step S137, the system control circuit 50 performs a distance measurement process to focus the photographing lens 10 on the subject, performs a photometry process to determine an aperture value and a shutter time, performs a white balance process, and adjusts the color temperature. . In the photometric process, the flash is set if necessary.

  In the distance measurement / photometry process of step S137, whether or not at least one of the AE control and the AWB control can be executed is determined according to at least one state of various flags, and each process is performed according to the determination result. The various flags include a shooting start flag, an AE lock flag, and a white balance mode setting flag stored in the internal memory of the system control circuit 50 or the memory 52.

  Details of the distance measurement / photometry processing in step S137 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the distance measurement / photometry processing in step S137 is completed, the process proceeds to step S138.

  In step S138, the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the flash flag stored in the internal memory of the system control circuit 50 or the memory 52. If the flash flag is set (“YES” in step S138), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S139. If the flash flag is released (“NO” in step S138), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S140.

  In step S139, the system control circuit 50 charges the flash 48, and proceeds to step S140.

  In step 140, if the shutter switch SW2 is not pressed (“NO” in step S140), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S141. If the shutter switch SW2 is pressed (“YES” in step S140), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S151 in FIG.

  In step 141, if the shutter switch SW1 remains pressed (“YES” in step S141), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S140. If the shutter switch SW1 is released (“NO” in step S141), the system control circuit 50 ends the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine in step S120.

  Next, in step S151 of FIG. 6, the system control circuit 50 writes exposure image data to the memory 30 via the image sensor 12, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22. The imaging process consisting of Alternatively, the system control circuit 50 executes a photographing process including an exposure process for writing the photographed image data in the memory 30 via the memory control circuit 22 directly from the A / D converter. Details of the photographing process in step S151 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S152, the system control circuit 50 uses the memory control circuit 22 and, if necessary, the image processing circuit 20 to read the captured image data written in the memory 30 and perform various processes (development processing).

  In step S153, the system control circuit 50 performs image compression processing according to the mode set using the compression / decompression circuit 32 as necessary (compression processing).

  In step S154, the system control circuit 50 performs a review display of the photographed image that has been developed in step S152 by the image display unit 28, and proceeds to step S155.

  In step S155, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is a problem with respect to the following points. That is, it is determined whether or not the recording medium 200 is mounted, acquisition of management information of image data recorded on the recording medium 200, and the operation state of the recording medium 200 is the operation of the imaging apparatus 100, particularly an image on the recording medium. This is a data recording / reproducing operation. If there is no problem with these ("YES" in step S155), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S157. If there is a problem with these ("NO" in step S155), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S156.

  In step S156, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display with an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and ends the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine in step S120.

  As described above, although the captured image is not recorded on the recording medium 200 and wireless disconnection can be performed before the transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 is completed, the user of the imaging apparatus 100 reliably stores the captured image. It is possible to prevent misunderstanding that it is possible.

  In step S157, the system control circuit 50 stores image data that has undergone predetermined processing such as development processing (step S152) and compression processing (step S153) in the buffer area secured in the memory 30, and proceeds to step S158. .

  In step S158, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is unrecorded image data on the recording medium 200 in the buffer area secured in the memory 30. If there is no unrecorded image data (“NO” in step S158), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S160. If there is unrecorded image data (“YES” in step S158), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S159.

  In step S159, the system control circuit 50 starts recording unrecorded image data on the recording medium 200 from the buffer area secured in the memory 30 via the interface 90 and the connector 92, and proceeds to step S160.

  In step S <b> 160, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is untransferred image data from the imaging device 100 to the information processing device 300 in the buffer area secured in the memory 30. If there is no untransferred image data (“NO” in step S160), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S162. If there is untransferred image data (“YES” in step S160), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S161.

  In step S161, the system control circuit 50 starts transfer of untransferred image data from the buffer area secured in the memory 30 to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the antenna 112, and proceeds to step S162.

  In step S162, if the shutter switch SW1 is pressed (“YES” in step S162), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S131. If the shutter switch SW1 has not been pressed (“NO” in step S162), the photographing simultaneous transfer processing routine in step S120 ends.

  FIG. 7 is a detailed flowchart of the PC direct transfer process in steps S123 and S405 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 171, the system control circuit 50 confirms the communication state with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the connector (antenna) 112, the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330. If the system control circuit 50 is not connected to the information processing apparatus 300 (“NO” in step S171), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S172. If the system control circuit 50 is connected to the information processing apparatus 300 (“YES” in step S171), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S173.

  In step S172, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined warning display by image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and ends the PC direct transfer processing routine in step S123.

  In step S173, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not a file such as image data to be transferred from the imaging device 100 to the information processing device 300 exists in the buffer area secured in at least one of the recording medium 200 and the memory 30. to decide. If there is no file such as image data to be transferred (“NO” in step S173), the system control circuit 50 ends the PC direct transfer processing routine in step S123. If there is a file such as image data to be transferred ("YES" in step S173), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S174.

  In step S174, the system control circuit 50 transfers a file such as image data to be transferred from the recording medium 200 to the information processing apparatus 300 via the connector 92, the interface 90, the communication unit 110, and the antenna 112. Alternatively, the system control circuit 50 transfers a file such as image data to be transferred to the information processing apparatus 300 from the buffer area secured in the memory 30 via the communication unit 110 and the antenna 112. Thereafter, the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S175.

  In step S175, when the transfer ends ("YES" in step S175), the system control circuit 50 ends the PC direct transfer processing routine in step S123. If the transfer is not completed (“NO” in step S174), the system control circuit 50 performs the transfer in step S174.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of the remote capture process in steps S124 and S406 in FIG.

  In step S <b> 181, the system control circuit 50 confirms the communication state with the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the connector (antenna) 112, the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330. If the system control circuit 50 is not connected to the information processing apparatus 300 (“NO” in step S181), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S182. If the system control circuit 50 is connected to the information processing apparatus 300 (“YES” in step S181), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S183.

  In step S182, a predetermined warning is displayed by an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 54 and the image display unit 28, and the remote capture processing routine of step S124 is terminated.

  In step S183, the system control circuit 50 determines whether a command has been received from the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 330, the connector (antenna) 332, the connector (antenna) 112, and the communication unit 110. If the system control circuit 50 has not received a command from the information processing apparatus 300 (“NO” in step S183), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S195. If the system control circuit 50 receives a command from the information processing apparatus 300 (“YES” in step S183), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S184.

  In step S184, the system control circuit 50 determines the contents of the command, and if the received command is a command related to shooting (“YES” in step S184), the process proceeds to step S186. If the received command is not a command related to shooting (“NO” in step S184), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S185.

  In step S185, the system control circuit 50 executes processing according to the command, and proceeds to step S195.

  In step S186, the system control circuit 50 performs a distance measurement process to focus the photographing lens 10 on the subject, performs a photometry process to determine an aperture value and a shutter time, performs a white balance process, and adjusts the color temperature. . In the photometric process, the flash is set if necessary.

  In the distance measurement / photometry process in step S186, it is determined whether or not at least one of the AE control and the AWB control can be executed according to at least one state of each flag, and each process is performed according to the determination result. . The various flags include a shooting start flag, an AE lock flag, and a white balance mode setting flag stored in the internal memory of the system control circuit 50 or the memory 52.

  Details of the distance measurement / photometry processing in step S186 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S187, the system control circuit 50 performs a photographing process including an exposure process for writing image data photographed in the memory 30 via the image sensor 12, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22. Execute. Alternatively, the system control circuit 50 executes a photographing process including an exposure process for writing the photographed image data in the memory 30 via the memory control circuit 22 directly from the A / D converter. Details of the photographing process in step S187 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  In step S188, the system control circuit 50 uses the memory control circuit 22 and, if necessary, the image processing circuit 20 to read the captured image data written in the memory 30 and perform various processes (development processing).

  In step S189, the system control circuit 50 performs a compression process for performing an image compression process corresponding to the mode set using the compression / decompression circuit 32 as necessary, and then proceeds to step S190.

  In step S190, the system control circuit 50 stores the image data that has undergone predetermined processing such as the development processing in step S188 and the compression processing in step S189 in the buffer area secured in the memory 30, and proceeds to step S191.

  In step S191, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is a problem with respect to the following points. That is, it is determined whether or not the recording medium 200 is mounted, acquisition of management information of image data recorded on the recording medium 200, and the operation state of the recording medium 200 is the operation of the imaging apparatus 100, particularly an image on the recording medium. This is a data recording / reproducing operation. If there is no problem with these ("YES" in step S191), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S192. If there is a problem with these ("NO" in step S191), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S193.

  In step S192, the system control circuit 50 starts recording image data on the recording medium 200 from the buffer area secured in the memory 30 via the interface 90 and the connector 92, and proceeds to step S193.

  In step S193, the system control circuit 50 transfers the image data captured from the buffer area secured in the memory 30 to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the connector (antenna) 112 and stored in the buffer. .

  In step S194, the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S195 if the image transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 is completed ("YES" in step S194). If the image transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 has not been completed successfully (“NO” in step S194), the system control circuit 50 performs the transfer in step S193.

  As described above, even during wireless capture shooting, even when shooting wirelessly, it is possible not to prohibit shooting and not to issue warnings, thus preventing the operability during remote capture from becoming complicated. Can be easy to use.

  In step S195, the system control circuit 50 ends the remote capture processing routine in step S124 when the remote capture processing needs to be interrupted for the convenience of the imaging apparatus 100 ("YES" in step S195). If it is not necessary to interrupt the remote capture process due to the convenience of the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S195), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S181. Then, the system control circuit 50 waits for an instruction based on a new command from the information processing apparatus 300 in step S183.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of distance measurement / photometry processing in step S137 of FIG. 5 and step S186 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 1001, the system control circuit 50 reads out a charge signal from the image sensor 14 and sequentially reads captured image data into the image processing circuit 20 via the A / D converter 16. Using the sequentially read image data, the image processing circuit 20 is a predetermined used for TTL (through the lens) AE (automatic exposure) processing, EF (flash pre-flash) processing, and AF (autofocus) processing. Perform the operation. In each processing here, a specific portion of the total number of photographed pixels is extracted by extracting a necessary portion according to necessity and used for calculation. Thereby, in each process of TTL type AE, EF, AWB, and AF, it is possible to perform optimum calculation for each different mode such as the center-weighted mode, the average mode, and the evaluation mode.

  In step S <b> 1002, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not exposure (AE) is appropriate using the calculation result in the image processing circuit 20. If the exposure is appropriate (“YES” in step S1002), the system control circuit 50 stores at least one of the measurement data and the setting parameter in the internal memory or the memory 52 of the system control circuit 50. Then, the process proceeds to step S1006. If the exposure is not appropriate (“NO” in step S1002), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1003.

  In step S <b> 1003, the system control circuit 50 performs AE control using the exposure control unit 40.

  In step S1004, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not flashing is necessary using measurement data obtained by AE control. If the flash is necessary (“YES” in step S1004), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1005. If the flash is not necessary (“NO” in step S1004), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S1001.

  In step S1005, the system control circuit 50 sets a flash flag and charges the flash 48.

  In step S1006, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the white balance (AWB) is appropriate, using the calculation result in the image processing circuit 20 and the measurement data obtained by the AE control. If the white balance (AWB) is appropriate (“YES” in step S1006), the system control circuit 50 stores at least one of the measurement data and the setting parameter in the internal memory or the memory 52 of the system control circuit 50, and the step The process proceeds to S1008. If the white balance (AWB) is not appropriate (“NO” in step S1006), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1007.

  In step S <b> 1007, the system control circuit 50 performs AWB control by adjusting color processing parameters using the image processing circuit 20.

  In step S1008, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the distance measurement (AF) is in focus using the measurement data obtained by the AE control and the AWB control. If ranging (AF) is in focus (“YES” in step S1008), the system control circuit 50 stores at least one of measurement data and setting parameters in the internal memory or the memory 52 of the system control circuit 50. Then, the system control circuit 50 ends the distance measurement / photometry processing routine of steps S137 and S186.

  In step S <b> 1009, the system control circuit 50 performs AF control using the distance measurement control unit 42.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a detailed flowchart of the photographing process in step S151 in FIG. 6 and step S187 in FIG.

  In step 1101, the system control circuit 50 opens the shutter 12 having an aperture function according to the aperture value by the exposure control unit 40 according to the photometric data stored in the internal memory of the system control circuit 50 or the memory 52.

  In step 1102, the system control circuit 50 exposes the image sensor 10.

  In step 1103, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the flash 48 is necessary based on the flash flag. If the flash 48 is necessary (“YES” in step 1103), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1104. If the flash 48 is not necessary (“NO” in step 1103), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1105.

  In step S1104, the system control circuit 50 causes the flash to emit light.

  In step S1105, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the exposure of the image sensor 12 is completed according to the photometric data. When the exposure is completed (“YES” in step S1106), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S1107. If the exposure is not completed (“NO” in step S1106), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S1105.

  In step S1106, the system control circuit 50 closes the shutter 12.

  In step S <b> 1107, the system control circuit 50 reads out a charge signal from the image sensor 14 and writes captured image data in the memory 30 via the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22. Alternatively, the system control circuit 50 writes captured image data in the memory 30 directly from the A / D converter 16 via the memory control circuit 22.

  When the series of processing ends, the photographing processing routines in steps S151 and S187 are ended.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a flowchart of task 2 activated in step S304 of FIG.

  In step S501, when there is an input from the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100 ("YES" in step S501), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S502. If there is no input from the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S501), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S503. The operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100 includes, for example, a mode dial 60, a shutter switch 62, a shutter switch 64, a single / continuous shooting switch 66, an operation unit 70, and a main switch 72.

  In step S502, the system control circuit 50 resets the idle timer. The idle timer measures a time during which no input is made to the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100, changes with time, and is reset every time there is an input from the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100.

  In step S503, the system control circuit 50 determines the processing mode of the imaging device 100 at that time, that is, the processing that the imaging device 100 is performing at that time. The processing mode includes simultaneous photographing transfer processing (FIG. 4, step S120), PC direct transfer (FIG. 4, step S123), and remote capture (FIG. 4, step S124). The processing mode also includes a playback mode process (FIG. 4, step S113), a moving image mode process (FIG. 4, step S112), and a shooting mode process (FIG. 4, step S111). When the processing mode is a mode in which the imaging apparatus 100 can be remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 300 (“remote operation is possible” in step S503), the system control circuit 50 returns to step S501. In the present embodiment, PC direct transfer and remote capture processing are processing modes in which the imaging device 100 can be remotely operated from the information processing device 300. If the processing mode is a mode in which the image pickup apparatus 100 cannot be remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 300 (“remote operation not possible” in step S503), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S504.

  In step S504, the system control circuit 50 performs auto shutdown processing. Details of the auto shutdown processing will be described later with reference to FIG. Processing modes in which the imaging apparatus 100 cannot be remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 300 include simultaneous photographing transfer processing, reproduction mode processing, moving image mode processing, and photographing mode processing. When the auto shutdown process in step S504 is completed, the process returns to step S501.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of the auto shutdown process in step S504 of FIG.

  In step S601, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the value of the idle timer is greater than the shutdown time stored in the nonvolatile memory 56 or the like. The idle timer measures the time when no input is made to the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100, changes with time, and is reset whenever there is an input from the operation unit of the imaging apparatus 100 (step of FIG. 5). S502). When the idle timer is equal to or shorter than the shutdown time (“NO” in step S601), the system control circuit 50 ends the auto shutdown processing routine in step S504. If the idle timer is greater than the shutdown time (“YES” in step S601), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S602.

  In step S <b> 602, the system control circuit 50 determines whether there is untransferred image data in the buffer area secured in the memory 30. If the buffer is empty (“YES” in step S602), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S604. If there is untransferred data in the buffer (“NO” in step S602), the system control circuit 50 proceeds to step S603.

  In step S603, the system control circuit 50 transfers the data in the buffer. In this case, in addition to the case where the information is transferred to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110 and the connector (antenna) 112, the data is transferred to the recording medium 200 via the interface 90 and the connector 92 to record unrecorded image data. May do. After transferring the data in the buffer, the system control circuit 50 returns to step S602.

  In step S604, the system control circuit 50 changes the display of each display unit to the end state, closes the barrier of the protection unit 102, protects the imaging unit, and includes necessary parameters and setting values including flags and control variables. The setting mode is recorded in the nonvolatile memory 56. In addition, the system control circuit 50 performs a predetermined end process such as cutting off unnecessary power sources of the respective units of the imaging apparatus 100 including the image display unit 28 by the power source control unit 80. Thereafter, the system control circuit 50 ends the auto shutdown processing routine in step S504.

<Description of Operation of Information Processing Device 300>
With reference to FIG. 11, the operation of the information processing apparatus 300 according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a flowchart of a main routine of the information processing apparatus 300 according to the present embodiment.

  In step 2001, the system control circuit 350 initializes flags, control variables, and the like by power-on such as battery replacement, and performs initialization processing of each part of the information processing apparatus 300.

  In step S2002, the system control circuit 350 determines whether the power switch included in the operation unit 362 is set to power OFF or power ON. If the power switch is set to power OFF ("Power OFF" in step S2002), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2003. If the power switch included in the operation unit 362 is set to power ON (“power ON” in step S2002), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2004.

  In step S2003, the system control circuit 350 changes the display of each display unit to the end state. Then, the system control circuit 350 records necessary parameters, setting values, and setting modes including flags and control variables in the nonvolatile memory 354. The system control circuit 350 performs a predetermined end process such as shutting off unnecessary power of each unit of the information processing apparatus 300 including the image display unit 324 by the power control unit 380, and then returns to step S2002.

In step S2004, the system control circuit 350, the remaining capacity and operation like status of constituted power 386 by a battery or the like determines whether there is a problem in the operation of the information processing apparatus 300 by the power control unit 380. If there is no problem with the remaining capacity of the power supply 386 to continue the operation of the information processing apparatus 300 (“YES” in step S2004), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2006. If there is a problem with the remaining capacity of the power supply 386 to continue the operation of the information processing apparatus 300 (“NO” in step S2004), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2005.

  In step S2005, a predetermined warning is displayed by an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324, and the process proceeds to step S2003.

  In step S2006, the system control circuit 350 displays various setting states of the information processing apparatus 300 including the remaining battery capacity and the state of the memory 320 by using an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324. Then, the process proceeds to step S2007.

  In step S2007, the system control circuit 350 determines whether or not the connection destination registration (pairing) button included in the operation unit 362 is pressed. If the connection destination registration (pairing) button has been pressed (“YES” in step S2007), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step 2008. If the connection destination registration (pairing) button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S2007), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S601.

  In step S2008, the system control circuit 350 executes connection destination registration processing with the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330, the antenna 332, the antenna 112, and the communication unit 110.

  In the connection destination registration process in step S2008, the system control circuit 350 acquires in advance wireless parameters of a connection partner that are necessary for the information processing apparatus 300 to wirelessly connect to a device having a wireless function such as the imaging apparatus 100. The system control circuit 350 stores the wireless parameter in at least one of the internal memory of the system control circuit 350 in the image treatment apparatus 300, the memory 352, and the nonvolatile memory 354. When acquiring the wireless parameters, information can be exchanged via the recording medium 200. In addition, the information processing apparatus 300 and the imaging apparatus 100 can be connected using a cable by a wired interface such as USB (not shown) to exchange wireless parameters.

  The stored wireless parameters are used when the information processing apparatus 300 performs wireless connection with a device having a wireless function such as the imaging apparatus 100. When the connection destination registration process in step S2008 ends, the process returns to step S2002.

  In step S <b> 601, the system control circuit 350 determines whether or not the imaging apparatus 100 is connected to the information processing apparatus 300 via the communication unit 330 and the connector 332. If the information processing apparatus 300 is connected to the imaging apparatus 100 via USB (“YES” in step S601), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S602. If the information processing apparatus 300 is not connected to the imaging apparatus 100 via USB (“NO” in step S601), the process proceeds to step S2009.

  In step S <b> 602, the system control circuit 350 receives the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 110, the connector 112, the connector 332, and the communication unit 330.

  In step S603, if the received operation mode of the imaging apparatus 100 is the still image (REC) mode (“REC” in step S603), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2009. If the received operation mode of the imaging apparatus 100 is the playback (PB) mode (“PB” in step S603), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S604.

  In step S <b> 604, the system control circuit 350 performs display (camera window) for operating the imaging apparatus 100 using the display unit 360, and accepts selection of a control mode for controlling the imaging apparatus 100 using the operation unit 362.

  In step S605, if the control mode input by the operation unit 362 is “PC direct transfer mode (DT)” (“DT” in step S605), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S606. If the control mode input by the operation unit 362 is “remote capture mode (RC)” (“RC” in step S605), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S607.

  In step S606, the system control circuit 350 executes PC direct reception processing. Details of the PC direct reception processing in step S606 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the PC direct reception process in step S606 ends, the process returns to step S2002.

  In step S607, remote capture control processing is executed. Details of the remote capture control processing in step S607 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the remote capture control process in step S607 ends, the process returns to step S2002.

  In step S2009, the system control circuit 350 determines whether or not the communication start button included in the operation unit 362 is pressed in order to start wireless connection. If the communication start button has been pressed (“YES” in step S2009), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2010. If the communication start button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S2009), the system control circuit 350 returns to step S2002.

  In step S2010, the system control circuit 350 performs connection establishment processing for establishing a communication state with the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 330, the antenna 332, the antenna 112, and the communication unit 110.

  In step S2011, if communication is established between the information processing apparatus 300 and the imaging apparatus 100 ("YES" in step S2011), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2013. If communication is not established between the information processing apparatus 300 and the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S2011), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2012.

  In step S2012, the system control circuit 350 performs a predetermined warning display using an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324, and the process proceeds to step S2020.

  In step S2013, the system control circuit 350 receives the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330.

  In step S2014, the system control circuit 350 determines whether the received operation mode of the imaging apparatus 100 is a still image shooting (REC) mode or a playback (PB) mode. If the operation mode is the still image capturing (REC) mode (“REC” in step S2014), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2015. If the operation mode is the playback (PB) mode (“PB” in step S2014), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2016.

  In step S2015, the system control circuit 350 executes simultaneous photographing reception processing. Details of the photographing simultaneous reception process in step S2015 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the photographing simultaneous reception process in step S2015 is completed, the process proceeds to step S2020.

  In step S <b> 2016, the system control circuit 350 performs display (camera window) for operating the imaging apparatus 100 using the display unit 360, and accepts selection of a control mode for controlling the imaging apparatus 100 using the operation unit 362.

  In step S2017, the system control circuit 350 determines whether the control mode input by the operation unit 362 is “PC direct transfer mode (DT)” or “remote capture mode (RC)”. If it is the PC direct transfer mode (“DT” in step S2017), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2018. If the system control circuit 350 is in the remote capture mode (“RC” in step S2017), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2019.

  In step S2018, PC direct reception processing is executed. Details of the PC direct reception processing in step S2018 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the PC direct reception process in step S2018 ends, the process proceeds to step S2020.

  In step 2019, the system control circuit 350 executes a remote capture control process. Details of the remote capture control processing in step S2019 will be described later with reference to FIG. When the remote capture control process in step S2019 ends, the process proceeds to step S2020.

  In step S2020, the system control circuit 350 determines whether or not the communication end button included in the operation unit 362 is pressed in order to disconnect the wireless connection. If the communication end button has been pressed (“YES” in step S2020), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2021. If the communication end button has not been pressed (“NO” in step S2020), system control circuit 350 returns to step S2002.

  In step S2021, processing for disconnecting radio from the imaging apparatus 100 is performed via the communication unit 330, the antenna 332, the antenna 112, and the communication unit 110, and the process returns to step S2002.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of the simultaneous photographing reception process in step S2015 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 2031, the system control circuit 350 confirms the communication state with the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330, the antenna 332, the antenna 112, and the communication unit 110. If the wireless connection with the imaging apparatus 100 is established (“YES” in step S2031), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2033. If the system control circuit 350 is not wirelessly connected to the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S2031), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2032.

  In step S2032, the system control circuit 350 performs a predetermined warning display with an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324, and ends the simultaneous photographing reception processing routine of step S2015.

  In step S2033, the system control circuit 350 determines whether an image is transmitted from the imaging device 100 to the image treatment device 300 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330. If there is an image to be received ("YES" in step S2033), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2034. If there is no image to be received (“NO” in step S2033), the system control circuit 350 ends the photographing simultaneous reception processing routine in step S2015.

  In step S2034, the system control circuit 350 receives an image from the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 110, the antenna 112, the antenna 332, and the communication unit 330 and stores the image in the memory 320.

  In step S <b> 2035, the system control circuit 350 determines whether image reception from the imaging device 100 has been completed. If the image reception from the imaging apparatus 100 is completed (“YES” in step S2035), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2036. If the image reception from the imaging apparatus 100 is not completed (“NO” in step S2035), the system control circuit 350 performs the image reception in step S2034.

  In step S <b> 2036, the system control circuit 350 records the image received from the imaging device 100 stored in the memory 320 on the recording medium 200 via the interface 390 and the connector 392. When the recording is completed, the system control circuit 350 ends the photographing simultaneous reception processing routine in step S2015.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of the PC direct reception process in steps S2018 and S606 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 2071, the system control circuit 350 checks the communication state with the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330, the connector (antenna) 332, the connector (antenna) 112, and the communication unit 110. If the system control circuit 350 is connected to the imaging apparatus 100 (“YES” in step S2071), the process proceeds to step S2073. If the system control circuit 350 is not connected to the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S2071), the process proceeds to step S2072.

  In step S2072, the system control circuit 350 performs a predetermined warning display using an image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324, and ends the PC direct reception processing routine in step S2018.

  In step S2073, the system control circuit 350 transmits a file such as image data from the imaging apparatus 100 to the image treatment apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the connector (antenna) 112, the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330. Determine whether or not. If there is a file such as image data to be received ("YES" in step S2073), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2074. If there is no file such as image data to be received (“NO” in step S2073), system control circuit 350 ends the PC direct reception processing routine in step S2018.

  In step S2074, the system control circuit 350 receives a file such as image data from the imaging device 100 via the communication unit 110, the antenna connector (antenna), the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330, and stores the file in the memory 320. To do.

  In step S2075, the system control circuit 350 determines whether reception of a file such as image data from the imaging device 100 is completed.

  In step S2076, the system control circuit 350 records a file such as image data received from the imaging device 100 stored in the memory 320 on the recording medium 200 via the interface 390 and the connector 392. When the recording is completed, the system control circuit 350 ends the PC direct reception processing routine in step S2018.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a detailed flowchart of the remote capture control process in steps S2019 and S607 of FIG.

  In step S <b> 2081, the system control circuit 350 confirms the communication state with the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330, the connector (antenna) 332, the connector (antenna) 112, and the communication unit 110. If the system control circuit 350 is connected to the imaging apparatus 100 (“YES” in step S2081), the process proceeds to step S2083. If the system control circuit 350 is not connected to the imaging apparatus 100 (“NO” in step S2081), the process proceeds to step S2082.

  In step S2082, the system control circuit 350 displays a predetermined warning by image or sound using at least one of the display unit 360 and the image display unit 324, and ends the remote capture control processing routine of step S2019.

  In step S <b> 2083, the system control circuit 350 performs display (camera window) for operating the imaging apparatus 100 using the display unit 360, and whether or not an instruction for executing remote capture shooting using the imaging apparatus 100 is input via the operation unit 362. Determine whether. If an instruction to perform remote capture shooting is input ("YES" in step S2083), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2084. The system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2090 if an instruction to perform remote capture shooting is not input (“NO” in step S2083).

  In step S2084, the system control circuit 350 transmits a shooting command to the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 330, the connector (antenna) 332, the connector (antenna) 112, and the communication unit 110, and the process proceeds to step S2085.

  In step S <b> 2085, the system control circuit 350 determines whether an image is transmitted from the imaging apparatus 100 to the image treatment apparatus 300 via the communication unit 110, the connector (antenna) 112, the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330. Judging. If there is an image to be received ("YES" in step S2085), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2086. If there is no image to be received (“NO” in step S2085), system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2090.

  In step S <b> 2086, the system control circuit 350 receives an image from the imaging apparatus 100 via the communication unit 110, the connector (antenna) 112, the connector (antenna) 332, and the communication unit 330 and stores the image in the memory 320.

  In step S <b> 2087, the system control circuit 350 determines whether image reception from the imaging device 100 has been completed. If the image reception is completed (“YES” in step S2087), the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2088. If the image reception is not completed (“NO” in step S2087), the system control circuit 350 performs the image reception in step S2086.

  In step S 2088, system control circuit 350 displays the received image on at least one of display unit 360 and image display unit 324.

  In step S2089, the system control circuit 350 records the image received from the imaging apparatus 100 stored in the memory 320 on the recording medium 200 via the interface 390 and the connector 392. When the recording ends, the system control circuit 350 proceeds to step S2090.

  In step S2090, the system control circuit 350 ends the remote capture control processing routine in step S2019 if an instruction to end the remote capture processing is input from the operation unit 362 (“YES” in step S2090). If the instruction to end the remote capture process is not input from the operation unit 362 (“NO” in step S2090), the system control circuit 350 returns to step S2081.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not auto shutdown is to be performed on the imaging device 100 side in accordance with the processing mode of the imaging device 100 (step S503), and the auto shutdown can be appropriately controlled. Therefore, it is not necessary to newly add processing related to auto shutdown to the information processing apparatus 300, which is effective for simplification of processing and reduction of mounting load.

  Further, even when the imaging apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 300 are wirelessly connected, auto shutdown is performed in a processing mode in which the imaging apparatus 100 is not remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 300 (for example, simultaneous imaging transfer processing). . Thereby, waste of the battery can be further prevented.

  In addition, auto shutdown is performed during both normal shooting (shooting mode processing (step S111)) and simultaneous shooting transfer in step S120, and the operational feeling during normal shooting and simultaneous transfer is unified. Since image transfer during simultaneous shooting transfer is also performed in the background, the user can use normal shooting and simultaneous transfer without being aware of the difference between them.

  Next, if the imaging device 100 is in a wireless connection state with the information processing device 300 (step S131), the recording medium 200 cannot be used (step S134), and is in the OVF shooting state (step S131). S135), shooting is prohibited and a warning is issued. As a result, the user of the imaging apparatus 100 can reliably save the captured image even though the captured image is not recorded on the recording medium 200 and wireless disconnection can be performed before the transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 is completed. It is possible to prevent the shutter switch 64 from being mistakenly pressed by mistake.

  Even if the image display unit 28 is in the OFF state, the shutter switch is misunderstood that the photographed image can be reliably stored by turning on the image display unit 28 and displaying a warning on the image display unit 28. It is possible to prevent 64 from being pushed by mistake.

  Further, if the wireless connection state is established with the information processing apparatus 300 (step S131), the recording medium 200 cannot be used (step S134), and if the EVF photographing state is set (step S135), the sky photographing is performed. (Step S151). Then, review display is performed (step S154), and a warning is issued (step S156). By this. The user of the imaging apparatus 100 misunderstands that the captured image can be reliably stored even though the captured image is not recorded on the recording medium 200 and wireless disconnection can be performed before the transfer to the information processing apparatus 300 is completed. Can be prevented.

  When the wireless connection state is established with the information processing apparatus 300 (step S181), the remote capture photographing operation state is established (step S184), and the recording medium 200 is not usable (step S191), the following Let it work. In other words, if the image transfer of one remote capture still image to the information processing apparatus 300 is not completed (step S194), a new remote capture still image cannot be started. As a result, even when shooting with remote capture, it is possible not to prohibit shooting and not to warn even when shooting with wireless connection. Can be made easier.

[Second Embodiment]
Examples of the external information processing apparatus 300 that can remotely operate the imaging device 100 include a personal computer, a storage that includes a remote operation unit, and a printer that includes a remote operation unit. The shutdown time may be a fixed value or may be set by the user.

  Regarding the shutdown time setting menu, when the processing mode is a mode in which the imaging apparatus 100 can be remotely operated, that is, a mode in which automatic shutdown is not performed, the corresponding menu item may be displayed in gray.

  When determining whether or not to perform auto shutdown, in addition to examining the processing mode, an auto shutdown flag that can be set by the user may be provided and used. For example, first, the processing mode is determined, and when the imaging apparatus 100 is in a processing mode incapable of remote operation (step S504), the auto shutdown flag is further checked. Then, the auto shutdown process (step S504) may be executed only when the flag is set. Regarding the auto shutdown flag setting menu, if the processing mode is a mode in which the imaging apparatus 100 can be remotely operated, that is, a mode in which auto shutdown is not performed, the corresponding menu item may be displayed in gray.

  In the first embodiment, when the connection is disconnected, the processing mode changes (for example, the playback mode processing (step S113), the moving image mode processing (step S112), and the shooting mode processing (step S111). ) Auto shutdown is enabled. However, after the step of determining the processing mode (step S503), a step of determining whether or not a connection is established is provided, and the power source of the imaging apparatus 100 is turned on based on the determined processing mode and the determination result of the connection. You may cut automatically. By providing these steps, even in a processing mode in which the imaging apparatus 100 may be remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 300, the automatic shutdown is effective when the connection is disconnected. For example, when the connection is disconnected during the remote capture mode, it is possible to determine that the imaging apparatus 100 is not likely to be remotely operated even if the processing mode remains unchanged in the remote capture mode. Can be further suppressed.

  The recording medium 200 is not only a memory card such as a PCMCIA card or compact flash (registered trademark), a hard disk, but also a micro DAT, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk such as a CD-R or CD-RW, and a phase change type such as a DVD. You may comprise with an optical disk etc.

  Further, the recording medium 200 may be a composite medium in which a memory card, a hard disk, and the like are integrated, or may be configured to be partly removable from the composite medium.

  In the above embodiment, the recording medium 200 has been described as being separated from the imaging device 100 and can be arbitrarily connected. However, at least one of the recording media may be fixed to the imaging device 100.

  In addition, a configuration in which a single or a plurality of recording media 200 can be connected to the imaging apparatus 100 may be employed.

  In the above embodiment, the recording medium 200 is mounted on the imaging apparatus 100. However, the recording medium may have a single or a plurality of combinations.

  Also, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium (or recording medium) on which a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded to a system or apparatus. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. In addition, the functions of the above-described embodiments are not only realized by executing the program code read by the computer. This includes a case where an operating system (OS) or the like running on a computer performs part or all of actual processing based on an instruction of the program code, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing. Needless to say.

  Further, the program code read from the storage medium is first written to a memory provided in a function expansion card inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. After that, based on the instruction of the program code, the CPU included in the function expansion card or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing. Needless to say.

  In addition, you may make it this invention combine the above-mentioned each embodiment or those technical elements as needed.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to all or a part of the structure of the claims or the embodiment to form one device or to be combined with another device. It may be an element constituting the apparatus.

1 is an overall configuration block diagram of a preferred first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a configuration block diagram of an imaging apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a configuration block diagram of an information processing apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the task 1 routine of the imaging device which concerns on preferable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the imaging | photography simultaneous transfer routine of the imaging device which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the imaging | photography simultaneous transfer routine of the imaging device which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. 6 is a flowchart of a PC direct transfer routine of the imaging apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the remote capture routine of the imaging device which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. 5 is a flowchart of a distance measurement / photometry process routine of the imaging apparatus according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. It is a flowchart of the imaging | photography process routine of the imaging device which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the main routine of the information processing apparatus which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the imaging | photography simultaneous reception routine of the information processing apparatus which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of PC direct reception routine of the information processing apparatus which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the remote capture control routine of the information processing apparatus which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the main routine of the imaging device which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the task 2 routine of the imaging device which concerns on preferable embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the auto shutdown processing routine which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention.

Claims (7)

Power supply control means having an auto-shutdown function that turns off the supply of power to at least a part of its own device when a preset condition is satisfied,
  A communication means for communicating with an external device;
  The processing mode of the own device is a processing mode in which remote control from the external device can be received using the communication means, or a processing mode in which remote control from the external device cannot be received. Mode discriminating means for discriminating whether or not
  When the mode determining means determines that the processing mode is incapable of remote operation from the external device, the power control means enables the auto shutdown function and receives the remote operation from the external device. When it is determined that the processing mode is enabled, the power supply control unit invalidates the auto shutdown function. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing mode in which remote operation from the external apparatus is impossible includes a processing mode in which the imaging apparatus operates by communicating with the external apparatus. In a processing mode in which remote operation from the external device is not possible, the imaging device executes imaging in response to an imaging instruction input from the operation unit of the imaging device, and image data obtained by the imaging is stored. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a processing mode transmitted to the external apparatus. The processing mode incapable of remote operation from the external device includes at least one processing mode of a reproduction mode, a moving image mode, and a shooting mode. Imaging device. Further comprising storage means for temporarily storing image data to be transmitted to the external device by the communication means;
  The power control means transfers image data remaining in the storage means to the external device using the communication means if image data remains in the storage means when executing the auto shutdown function. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the auto shutdown function is executed after the transfer is completed. Control of an imaging apparatus comprising: communication means for communicating with an external device; and power supply control means having an auto shutdown function for turning off power supply to at least a part of the own device when a preset condition is satisfied A method,
  The processing mode of the own device is a processing mode in which remote control from the external device can be received using the communication means, or a processing mode in which remote control from the external device cannot be received. A mode discrimination process for discriminating between
  When it is determined by the mode determining step that the processing mode is not capable of remote operation from the external device, the auto shutdown function in the power control means is enabled and the remote operation from the external device is received. When it is determined that the processing mode is possible, a power control step of invalidating the auto shutdown function in the power control means,
  A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, comprising: The program for making a computer perform each process of the control method of the imaging device of Claim 6.

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