JP4967214B2 - camera - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a camera having shooting modes such as self-timer shooting and remote control shooting.

  The self-timer shooting mode is a shooting mode in which a shooting operation is started after a predetermined time has elapsed from the release instruction. The remote control shooting mode is a shooting mode in which a shooting operation is started after receiving a release instruction from the remote control transmitter. After using these shooting modes, unless the settings of each shooting mode are canceled, the shooting operation is not started immediately even when the release button of the camera is pressed, and a photo opportunity may be missed. Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a camera that automatically cancels the self-timer when one photographing operation is completed after setting the self-timer.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 60-181731

  When the technique of Patent Document 1 is applied to cancel the remote control shooting mode, the remote control shooting mode is canceled at the end of one shooting, and it is necessary to reset the remote control shooting mode for the camera for each shooting. Since the user is usually away from the camera when using the remote control, the user must move to the camera position every time the user takes a picture. As described above, the shooting mode such as self-timer shooting or remote control shooting is difficult to use unless the release is appropriately performed.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a first photographing mode for starting one photographing in response to one photographing instruction, a second photographing mode for continuing photographing while the photographing instruction is continued, and a self-timer. An operation means for generating an operation signal for selecting any one of the third shooting modes, which is at least one of the shooting mode and the remote control shooting mode, and a selection according to the operation signal from the operation means A setting shooting mode storage means for storing any one of the three shooting modes as a setting shooting mode, the first shooting mode selected according to an operation signal from the operation means, and the second shooting mode. Based on the updated shooting mode storage means for storing one of the shooting modes as the updated shooting mode, and the set shooting mode stored in the set shooting mode storage means When the main switch is turned off when the third shooting mode is set and the shooting control means for performing shadow processing, the setting shooting mode stored in the set shooting mode storage means is changed to the updated shooting mode. And a photographing mode updating means for updating in the first photographing mode or the second photographing mode which is the updated photographing mode stored in the storage means.
The invention according to claim 6 is a first shooting mode in which one shooting is started in response to one shooting instruction, a second shooting mode in which shooting is continued while the shooting instruction is continued, and a self-timer. An operation unit that generates an operation signal for selecting any one of the third shooting modes, which is at least one of the shooting mode and the remote control shooting mode, and the operation signal according to the operation signal from the operation unit Shooting mode setting means for setting one shooting mode as a set shooting mode, shooting control means for performing shooting processing based on the set shooting mode, and immediately before the third shooting mode is set by the shooting mode setting means. A shooting mode storage means for storing the first or second shooting mode set by the shooting mode setting means, and a third shooting mode. When the main switch-off is operated, the shooting mode setting unit is set to set the first or second shooting mode stored in the shooting mode storage unit as the set shooting mode. And mode control means for controlling.

  With the camera according to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately cancel shooting modes such as self-timer shooting and remote control shooting.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a camera according to an embodiment for carrying out the present invention. In FIG. 1, the control circuit 101 is configured by a microcomputer or the like. The control circuit 101 receives a signal output from each block described later, performs a predetermined calculation, and outputs a control signal to each block based on the calculation result.

The control circuit 101 is supplied with power from the battery 11. In FIG. 1, the terminal voltage of the battery 11 is represented by E. The power switch SW1 is a switch that is turned on / off in conjunction with a rotation operation of a power dial (not shown), and is turned on when the power dial is set to the on position, and is turned off when the power dial is set to the off position. . One terminal of the switch SW1 is pulled up is connected to the input port I ₁ of the control circuit 101 to the power supply line by the battery 11 via the resistor 12 (voltage E). The other terminal of the switch SW1 is grounded.

The half-press switch SW2 is a switch that is turned on / off in conjunction with a pressing operation of a release button (not shown). The switch is turned on when the release button is pressed deeper than the half-pressed position, and the release button is pressed from the half-pressed position. Turns off when shallow. One terminal of the switch SW2 is pulled up to the power supply line by the battery 11 via the resistor 13 is connected to the input port I ₂ of the control circuit 101 (voltage E). The other terminal of the switch SW2 is grounded.

The full-press switch SW3 is a switch that is turned on / off in conjunction with a depression operation of a release button (not shown). The switch is turned on when the release button is depressed to a full-press position deeper than the half-press position, and the release button is depressed. Turns off when becomes shallower than the fully pressed position. One terminal of the switch SW3 is pulled up is connected to the input port I ₃ of the control circuit 101 to the power supply line, which will be described later, via a resistor 14 (voltage V1). The other terminal of the switch SW3 is grounded.

The shooting operation mode switch SW4 is a switch that is turned on / off in conjunction with a pressing operation of a shooting operation mode button (not shown), and is turned on when the shooting operation mode button is pressed, and the pressing operation of the shooting operation mode button is released. When turned off. One terminal of the switch SW4 is pulled up is connected to the input port I ₄ of the control circuit 101 to the power supply line by the battery 11 via the resistor 15 (voltage E). The other terminal of the switch SW4 is grounded.

The PNP transistor 18 has an emitter terminal connected to the power supply line (voltage E) of the battery 11, and a base terminal connected to the output port O ₁ of the control circuit 101 via the resistor 17 and the inverter 16. When the signal output of the output ports O ₁ is at high level, and supplies power to the voltage V1 from the collector terminal transistor 18 is turned on. When the signal output of the output ports O ₁ is low, the transistor 18 cuts off the power supply voltage V1 is turned off.

The PNP transistor 21 has an emitter terminal connected to the power supply line (voltage E) of the battery 11, and a base terminal connected to the output port O ₂ of the control circuit 101 via the resistor 20 and the inverter 19. When the signal output of the output port O ₂ is high, supplies power voltage V2 from the collector terminal transistor 21 is turned on. When the signal output of the output port O ₂ is low, the transistor 21 cuts off the power supply voltage V2 is turned off. The power source of the voltage V2 is a power source for the remote control light receiving unit 108 described later.

The switches SW5 and SW6 are turned on / off in conjunction with a rotation operation of a command dial (not shown), and output an operation signal indicating the rotation direction and the rotation amount of the command dial to the control circuit 101. The control circuit 101 detects the rotation direction based on the phase relationship between the signals from both switches, and detects the rotation amount (dial operation amount) based on the number of signal pulses. One terminal of the switch SW5 is pulled up to the power supply line (voltage V1) via a resistor 22 is connected to the input port I ₅ of the control circuit 101. The other terminal of the switch SW5 is grounded. One terminal of the switch SW6 is pulled up to the power supply line (voltage V1) via a resistor 23 is connected to the input port I ₆ of the control circuit 101. The other terminal of the switch SW6 is grounded.

The sequence switch SW7 constitutes a sequence mechanism (not shown), and generates an operation timing of mirror up and down (not shown). One terminal of the switch SW7 is pulled up to the power supply line (voltage V1) via a resistor 24 is connected to the input port I ₇ of the control circuit 101. The other terminal of the switch SW7 is grounded.

  The image sensor 102 is configured by a CCD image sensor or the like. The image sensor 102 captures an image of subject light that has passed through the photographing lens L, and outputs an image signal to the A / D conversion circuit 103. The power of the image sensor 102 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18. The sensitivity SV of the image sensor 102 is set to be equivalent to ISO 100, for example.

  The A / D conversion circuit 103 converts the analog imaging signal into a digital signal. The image sensor 102 and the A / D conversion circuit 103 are driven at a predetermined operation timing by a drive signal output from the timing circuit 104. Power for the A / D conversion circuit 103 and the timing circuit 104 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The ASIC 105 constituting the imaging signal processing circuit performs predetermined image processing on the signal after digital conversion. Image processing includes white balance (WB) adjustment processing, contour compensation processing, gamma correction processing, compression processing for compressing image data in a predetermined format (for example, JPEG), and decompression processing for decompressing data after the compression processing. The power of the ASIC 105 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The buffer memory 106 temporarily stores the image data subjected to signal processing by the ASIC 105. As the buffer memory 106, VRAM, SRAM, SDRAM or the like is used. The buffer memory 106 is supplied with power by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18. The recording medium 107 is configured by a detachable flash memory or the like. The recording medium 107 records image data temporarily stored in the buffer memory 106. The power of the recording medium 107 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

The remote control light receiving unit 108 receives an operation signal transmitted from the remote control device 109 and outputs the operation signal to the control circuit 101. The signal output to the control circuit 101 by the remote control light receiving unit 108 is continued until a reset command output from the control circuit 101 is received. The remote control light receiving unit 108 is configured to perform the above operation only when the power supply of the voltage V2 is supplied from the transistor 21. Therefore, the control circuit 101 supplies power to the remote control light receiving unit 108 when the camera is set to the remote control shooting mode, and stops supplying power to the remote control light receiving unit 108 when the camera is not set to the remote control shooting mode. a signal level to be output from the output port O ₂ to switch.

  The photometric device 110 detects the amount of light that has passed through the taking lens L and outputs a detection signal to the control circuit 101. The photometric device 110 is configured by an IC including a photoelectric conversion element. The power of the photometric device 110 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The display device 111 includes a liquid crystal display element, a drive circuit, and the like, and displays a photographing operation mode, a shutter speed, an aperture value, and the like set in the camera according to a command from the control circuit 101. The power of the display device 111 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The motor drive circuit 112 drives and controls the sequence motor 113 according to a command from the control circuit 101. The sequence motor 113 constitutes the above-described sequence drive mechanism, and performs up / down of a mirror (not shown), driving of a diaphragm (not shown), charging of a shutter 115, and the like. Power for the motor drive circuit 112 is supplied by a power line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18. The shutter drive circuit 114 controls holding and releasing of a front curtain and a rear curtain (not shown) of the shutter 115, respectively. The power for the shutter drive circuit 114 is supplied by a power line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The aperture position detection device 116 detects the aperture position corresponding to the aperture value and outputs a detection signal to the control circuit 101. Power for the aperture position detection device 116 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18. The aperture locking device 117 locks the aperture being driven and stops the aperture at a predetermined aperture value. The power for the diaphragm locking device 117 is supplied by a power supply line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The display LED 119 performs display indicating that the cell timer is operating in the self-timer imaging mode, which will be described later, and that the timer is operating in the 2-second remote control imaging mode. The LED driving circuit 118 blinks or lights up the display LED 119 according to a command from the control circuit 101. The power source of the LED drive circuit 118 is supplied by a power source line (voltage V1) by the transistor 18.

  The camera selects one of “single frame shooting mode”, “continuous shooting mode”, “self-timer shooting mode”, and “remote control shooting mode” in accordance with the operation of the shooting operation mode button (not shown). . The “remote control shooting mode” includes a “2-second remote control shooting mode” and an “instant remote control shooting mode”.

  The single-frame shooting mode is an operation mode in which one shooting operation is started by turning on the full-press switch SW3. The continuous shooting mode is an operation mode in which the first shooting operation is started by turning on the full-press switch SW3, and the second and subsequent shooting operations are repeated while the full-press switch SW3 is turned on. The self-timer shooting mode is an operation mode in which a shooting operation is started after a predetermined time has elapsed since the ON operation of the full push switch SW3. The remote control shooting mode is an operation mode in which a shooting operation is started in response to an operation signal from the remote control device 109. Of these, the 2-second remote control shooting mode is an operation mode in which the shooting operation is started after 2 seconds have elapsed since the operation signal from the remote control device 109 was received. The instantaneous remote control shooting mode is an operation mode in which a shooting operation is started immediately upon receiving an operation signal from the remote control device 109.

  The present invention is characterized by the timing of releasing these modes when the above-described camera is set to the remote control shooting mode or the self-timer shooting mode.

  The flow of camera operation processing performed by the camera control circuit 101 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The program according to the flowchart of FIG. 2 is activated when the battery 11 (FIG. 1) is loaded into the camera. In step S1 of FIG. 2, the control circuit 101 performs the following initial settings. That is, the shooting operation mode parameter D is set to 1, the mode storage parameter M is set to 1, the remote control flag R is set to 0, and the first time count t is set to 0, and the process proceeds to step S2.

  The shooting operation mode parameter D is 1 for the single frame shooting mode, 2 for the continuous shooting mode, 3 for the self-timer shooting mode, 4 for the 2-second remote control shooting mode, and for the instantaneous remote control shooting mode. 5 is set respectively. The mode storage parameter M is 1 when the camera is set to the single-frame shooting mode before the camera is changed to the self-timer shooting mode, the 2-second remote control shooting mode, or the instantaneous remote control shooting mode (most recently). When the continuous shooting mode is set, 2 is set.

  The remote control flag R is set to 1, 1 frame shooting mode, continuous shooting mode, and self-timer shooting mode in any of the 2-second remote shooting mode and the instantaneous remote shooting mode (that is, when power is supplied to the remote control light receiving unit 108). In either case (that is, when no power is supplied to the remote control light receiving unit 108), 0 is set.

  The first time t is a time measured by the timer circuit in the control circuit 101. In this timing, the power supply time by the power supply line (voltage V1) from the transistor 18 and the power supply line (voltage V2) from the transistor 21 is measured. By setting t to 0, the first time measurement time t is reset. The values of the parameters and flags are held in the memory in the control circuit 101 if the battery 11 is loaded.

In step S2, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (SW1 is on) an affirmative decision in step S2 advances to step S3 when a high level signal is input to the input port I ₁ to the input port I ₁ If it is determined that SW1 is off, a negative determination is made in step S2, and the determination in step S2 is repeated.

In step S3, the control circuit 101 sets the normal time T ₁ (for example, 8 seconds) as the power supply time T and proceeds to step S4. In step S4, the control circuit 101 starts measuring the first time t, and proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port O ₁ to a high level and proceeds to step S6. Thereby, the power supply by the power supply line (voltage V1) is started.

In step S6, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S6 and proceeds to step S7, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If SW1 is off (SW1 is off), a negative determination is made in step S6, and the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S7, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (halfway press switch SW2 is turned on) to the input port I ₂ an affirmative decision in step S7, the control flow proceeds to step S8 when the high level signal to the input port I ₂ Is input (SW2 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S7, and the process proceeds to step S9.

In step S8, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S9. As a result, when a release button (not shown) is half-pressed, the power supply time is extended by the normal time T ₁ . In step S9, the control circuit 101 determines whether t ≧ T is satisfied. If t ≧ T is established, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S9 and proceeds to step S101 in FIG. 6. If t ≧ T is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S9 and proceeds to step S10. t ≧ T is established when the so-called half-press timer is up. This is a case where the normal time T ₁ (8 seconds in this example) has passed without being pressed halfway when the 2-second remote control shooting mode and the instantaneous remote control shooting mode are not selected in the setting process (S10) described later.

In step S10, the control circuit 101 performs a setting process and proceeds to step S11. Details of the setting process will be described later. In step S11, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S11 and proceeds to step S12, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined that SW1 is OFF, a negative determination is made in step S11, and the process proceeds to step S15.

In step S12, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (halfway press switch SW2 is turned on) to the input port I ₂ an affirmative decision in step S12 advances to step S13 if the high level signal to the input port I ₂ Is input (SW2 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S12, and the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S13, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S14. Thus, when a release button (not shown) is half-pressed, the power supply time is extended by time T. In step S14, the control circuit 101 determines whether t ≧ T is satisfied. When t ≧ T is established, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S14 and proceeds to step S101 in FIG. 6. When t ≧ T is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S14 and proceeds to step S31 in FIG. move on.

In step S15, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port O ₁ to a low level, and proceeds to step S16. Thereby, the power supply by the power supply line of the voltage V1 is stopped. In step S16, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the remote control flag R = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S16 when R = 1 (2-second remote control shooting mode or instantaneous remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S17. If R = 0 (not in the remote control shooting mode), step S16 is executed. A negative determination is made and the process proceeds to step S22.

In step S17, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port _{O 2} to the low-level processing proceeds to step S18. As a result, the supply of power to the remote control light receiving unit 108 through the power line of the voltage V2 is stopped.

  In step S18, the control circuit 101 sets the remote control flag R to 0 and proceeds to step S19. In step S19, the control circuit 101 sets the value of the mode storage parameter M to the shooting operation mode parameter D, changes the setting to the latest shooting operation mode corresponding to M, and proceeds to step S20. The most recent shooting operation mode is the single frame shooting mode (M = 1) or the continuous shooting mode (M = 2).

  In step S20, the control circuit 101 stops counting the first time t and proceeds to step S21. In step S21, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and returns to step S2.

  In step S22, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S16, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 3. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S22 when D = 3 (self-timer shooting mode) and proceeds to step S19, and makes a negative determination in step S22 when D ≠ 3 (single frame shooting mode or continuous shooting mode). Then, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S31 of FIG. 3, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the remote control flag R = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S31 when R = 1 (2-second remote control shooting mode or instantaneous remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S32. If R = 0 (not in the remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 performs step S31. A negative determination is made and processing proceeds to step S36.

  In step S32, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 4. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S32 when D = 4 (2-second remote control shooting mode) and proceeds to step S40, and makes a negative determination in step S32 when D ≠ 4 (not in the 2-second remote control shooting mode). Then, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 5. When D = 5 (instantaneous remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S33 and proceeds to step S40. When D ≠ 5 (not in the instantaneous remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S33. Proceed to S34.

In step S34, the control circuit 101 sets the remote control flag R to 0 and proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port _{O 2} to the low-level processing proceeds to step S40. As a result, the supply of power to the remote control light receiving unit 108 through the power line of the voltage V2 is stopped.

  In step S36, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 4. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S36 when D = 4 (2-second remote control shooting mode) and proceeds to step S38, and makes a negative determination in step S36 when D ≠ 4 (not in the 2-second remote control shooting mode). Then, the process proceeds to step S37.

  In step S37, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 5. When D = 5 (instantaneous remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S37 and proceeds to step S38. When D ≠ 5 (not in the instantaneous remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S37. Proceed to S40.

In step S38, the control circuit 101 sets the remote control flag R to 1 and proceeds to step S39. In step S39, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port _{O 2} at a high level the process proceeds to step S40. As a result, power supply to the remote control light receiving unit 108 via the power line of the voltage V2 is started.

In step S40, it is determined whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S40 and proceeds to step S41, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined that SW1 is OFF (NO in step S40), the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

In step S41, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (halfway press switch SW2 is turned on) to the input port I ₂ an affirmative decision in step S41 advances to step S42 if the high level signal to the input port I ₂ Is input (SW2 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S41, and the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S42, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S43. Thus, when a release button (not shown) is half-pressed, the power supply time is extended by time T. In step S43, the control circuit 101 determines whether t ≧ T is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S43 when t ≧ T is established, and proceeds to step S101 in FIG. 6. If t ≧ T is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S43 and proceeds to step S44.

In step S44, the control circuit 101 performs photometry / exposure calculation processing and proceeds to step S45. Details of photometry / exposure calculation processing will be described later. In step S45, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is ON), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S45 and proceeds to step S46, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined that SW1 is off (NO in step S45), a negative determination is made in step S45, and the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

In step S46, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₂ (half-press switch SW2 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S46 and proceeds to step S47, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _2. Is input (SW2 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S46, and the process proceeds to step S48.

  In step S47, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S48. Thus, when a release button (not shown) is half-pressed, the power supply time is extended by time T. In step S48, the control circuit 101 determines whether t ≧ T is satisfied. If t ≧ T is satisfied, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S48 and proceeds to step S101 in FIG. 6. If t ≧ T is not satisfied, the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S48 and proceeds to step S49.

  In step S49, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the display device 111, and displays a shutter speed TV and an aperture value AV obtained by photometry / exposure calculation processing, which will be described later, and a set photographing operation mode. Proceed to step S51 of FIG.

In step S51 of FIG. 4, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S51 and proceeds to step S52, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined (SW1 is off), a negative determination is made in step S51, and the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

In step S52, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (halfway press switch SW2 is turned on) to the input port I ₂ an affirmative decision in step S52 advances to step S53 if the high level signal to the input port I ₂ Is input (SW2 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S52, and the process proceeds to step S54.

  In step S53, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S54. Thus, when a release button (not shown) is half-pressed, the power supply time is extended by time T. In step S54, the control circuit 101 determines whether t ≧ T is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S54 when t ≧ T is satisfied and proceeds to step S101 in FIG. 6, and if t ≧ T is not satisfied, the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S54 and proceeds to step S55.

  In step S55, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the remote control flag R = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S55 when R = 1 (2-second remote control shooting mode or instantaneous remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S56. If R = 0 (not in the remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 performs step S55. A negative determination is made and processing proceeds to step S68.

  In step S56, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the operation signal transmitted from the remote control device 109 by the remote control light receiving unit 108 has been received. When an output signal is input from the remote control light receiving unit 108, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S56 and proceeds to step S57. When no signal is input from the remote control light receiving unit 108, the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S56. Return to step S6.

  In step S57, the control circuit 101 outputs a reset command to the remote control light receiving unit 108, resets the output signal, and proceeds to step S58. In step S58, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 4. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S58 when D = 4 (2-second remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S59. On the other hand, if D ≠ 4 (instantaneous remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S58 and proceeds to a release sequence process in step S70.

  In step S59, the control circuit 101 sets the second time measurement τ to 0 and proceeds to step S60. The second measuring time τ measures the time (in this case, a 2-second timer) until the release sequence process is started. By setting τ to 0, the second timing time τ is reset.

In step S60, the control circuit 101 starts measuring the second timing time τ and proceeds to step S61. As a result, the 2-second timer starts operating. In step S61, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, starts lighting the LED 119, and proceeds to step S62. In step S62, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S62 and proceeds to step S63, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If SW1 is off (SW1 is off), a negative determination is made in step S62, and the process proceeds to step S66.

  In step S63, the control circuit 101 determines whether τ ≧ 2 (seconds) is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S63 when τ ≧ 2 is established, and proceeds to step S64. If τ ≧ 2 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S63, and returns to step S62.

  In step S64, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, turns off the LED 119, and proceeds to step S65. In step S65, the control circuit 101 stops counting the second time τ and proceeds to the release sequence process in step S70.

  In step S66, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S62, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, turns off the LED 119, and proceeds to step S67. In step S67, the control circuit 101 stops counting the second timing time τ and proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

In step S68, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S55 described above, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been fully pressed. Control circuit 101, a low level signal is inputted (the full press switch SW3 is turned on) an affirmative decision in step S68 if the input port I ₃ proceeds to step S69, the high level signal to the input port I ₃ If it is input (SW3 is off), a negative determination is made in step S68, and the process returns to step S6 in FIG.

  In step S69, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 3. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S69 when D = 3 (self-timer shooting mode), and proceeds to step S71. On the other hand, if D ≠ 3 (not in the self-timer shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S69 and proceeds to a release sequence process in step S70.

  In step S70, the control circuit 101 performs a release sequence process and proceeds to step S81 in FIG. Details of the release sequence process will be described later. In step S71, the control circuit 101 sets the second time count τ to 0 and proceeds to step S72. The second time measurement τ measures the time (in this case, the self-timer) until the process proceeds to the release sequence process. By setting τ to 0, the second timing time τ is reset.

In step S72, the control circuit 101 starts measuring the second time τ and proceeds to step S73. As a result, the self-timer starts operating. In step S73, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, starts blinking the LED 119, and proceeds to step S74. In step S74, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S74 and proceeds to step S75, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If SW1 is off (SW1 is off), a negative determination is made in step S74, and the process proceeds to step S66.

  In step S75, the control circuit 101 determines whether τ ≧ 8 (seconds) is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S75 when τ ≧ 8 is established, and proceeds to step S76. If τ ≧ 8 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S75 and returns to step S74. In step S76, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, turns on the LED 119, and proceeds to step S77.

In step S77, the control circuit 101 determines whether a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S77 and proceeds to step S78, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If SW1 is off (NO in step SW1), a negative determination is made in step S77, and the process proceeds to step S66.

  In step S78, the control circuit 101 determines whether τ ≧ 10 (seconds) is satisfied. If τ ≧ 10 is established, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S78 and proceeds to step S64. If τ ≧ 10 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S78 and returns to step S77.

  In step S81 in FIG. 5, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 3. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S81 when D = 3 (self-timer shooting mode) and proceeds to step S82, and makes a negative determination in step S81 when D ≠ 3 (not in the self-timer shooting mode). Proceed to S83.

  In step S82, the control circuit 101 sets the value of the mode storage parameter M to the shooting operation mode parameter D, changes the setting to the latest shooting operation mode corresponding to M, and proceeds to step S91. The most recent shooting operation mode is the single frame shooting mode (M = 1) or the continuous shooting mode (M = 2).

  In step S83, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 5. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S83 when D = 5 (instantaneous remote control shooting mode) and proceeds to step S84, and makes a negative decision in step S83 if D ≠ 5 (not in the instantaneous remote control shooting mode). Proceed to S92.

  In step S84, the control circuit 101 sets the second time measurement τ to 0 and proceeds to step S85. Here, the second measuring time τ measures the time during which the LED 119 is turned on (in this case, a 0.5 second timer) in order to notify the user of the end of the release sequence process when the instantaneous remote control shooting mode is set. To do. By setting τ to 0, the second timing time τ is reset.

In step S85, the control circuit 101 starts measuring the second time τ and proceeds to step S86. As a result, the 0.5 second timer starts operating. In step S86, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, starts lighting the LED 119, and proceeds to step S87. In step S87, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is ON), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S87 and proceeds to step S88, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If (when SW1 is OFF), a negative determination is made in step S87, and the process proceeds to step S66 in FIG.

  In step S88, the control circuit 101 determines whether τ ≧ 0.5 (seconds) is satisfied. If τ ≧ 0.5 is established, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S88 and proceeds to step S89. If τ ≧ 0.5 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S88 and returns to step S87. In step S89, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the LED drive circuit 118, turns off the LED 119, and proceeds to step S90.

  In step S90, the control circuit 101 stops counting the second time τ and proceeds to step S91. In step S91, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and returns to step S6 in FIG.

  In step S92, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S83, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S92 when D = 1 (single frame shooting mode) and proceeds to step S93. If D ≠ 1 (not in the single frame shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S92. Proceed to S91.

In step S93, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. Control circuit 101, a low-level signal is input (SW1 is on) an affirmative decision in step S93 the process proceeds to step S94 if the high level signal is input to the input port I ₁ to the input port I ₁ If (when SW1 is off), a negative determination is made in step S93, and the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

In step S94, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been fully pressed. Control circuit 101, a high-level signal is input (the full press switch SW3 is off) an affirmative decision in step S94 to step S91 if the input port I _3, low-level signal to the input port I ₃ Is input (SW3 is ON), a negative determination is made in step S94, and the process returns to step S93. The processing from step S92 to step S94 is the next processing until the release button (not shown) is fully pressed or the power dial is operated to the off position when the single frame shooting operation mode is set. It will prevent you from moving on.

In step S101 of FIG. 6, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port O ₁ to a low level, and proceeds to step S102. Thereby, the power supply by the power supply line of the voltage V1 is stopped. In step S102, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the remote control flag R = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S102 when R = 1 (2-second remote control shooting mode or instantaneous remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S103. If R = 0 (not in the remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 performs step S102. A negative determination is made and processing proceeds to step S107.

In step S103, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port _{O 2} to the low-level processing proceeds to step S104. As a result, the supply of power to the remote control light receiving unit 108 through the power line of the voltage V2 is stopped.

  In step S104, the control circuit 101 sets the remote control flag R to 0 and proceeds to step S105. In step S105, the control circuit 101 sets the value of the mode storage parameter M to the shooting operation mode parameter D, changes the setting to the latest shooting operation mode corresponding to M, and proceeds to step S106. The most recent shooting operation mode is the single frame shooting mode (M = 1) or the continuous shooting mode (M = 2).

In step S106, the control circuit 101 sets the normal time T ₁ (for example, 8 seconds) as the power supply time T and proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the control circuit 101 stops counting the first time t, and proceeds to step S108. In step S108, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S109.

In step S109, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S109 and proceeds to step S110, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined that SW1 is off, a negative determination is made in step S109, and the process proceeds to step S112.

In step S110, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a release button (not shown) has been pressed halfway. Control circuit 101, input port low-level signal to I ₂ is input (halfway press switch SW2 is turned on) a step S110 affirmative decision to return to step S4 of FIG. 2 when a high to the input port I ₂ If a level signal is input (SW2 is off), a negative determination is made in step S110 and the process proceeds to step S111.

In step S111, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a shooting operation mode button (not shown) is pressed. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₄ (the shooting operation mode switch SW4 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S111 and proceeds to step S115, where the input port I ₄ has a high level signal. If a signal is input (SW4 is off), a negative determination is made in step S111, and the process returns to step S109.

  In step S112, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 3. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S112 when D = 3 (self-timer shooting mode) and proceeds to step S113, and makes a negative determination in step S112 when D ≠ 3 (not in the self-timer shooting mode). Return to step S3 of step 2.

  In step S113, the control circuit 101 sets the value of the mode storage parameter M to the photographing operation mode parameter D, changes the setting to the latest photographing operation mode corresponding to M, and returns to step S3 in FIG. The most recent shooting operation mode is the single frame shooting mode (M = 1) or the continuous shooting mode (M = 2).

In step S115, the control circuit 101 sets the output signal of the output port O ₁ to a high level, and proceeds to step S203 in FIG. 7 (setting process).

  The processing from step S101 to step S113 described above is processing corresponding to the power saving operation after the first time measurement time t has timed the power supply time T (half-press timer has timed up). Exiting the processing shown in FIG. 6 (releasing the power saving operation) is performed by operating the power dial (not shown) to the off position, half-pressing the release button (not shown), and shooting operation mode button (not shown). This is a case where any one of the pressing operations is performed.

Details of the setting process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In step S201 in FIG. 7, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a shooting operation mode button (not shown) is pressed. When the input level of the input port I ₄ indicates that the switch SW4 is turned on, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S201 and proceeds to step S202, and the input level of the input port I ₄ does not indicate that the switch SW4 is turned on. In step S201, a negative determination is made in step S201, the processing in FIG. 7 is terminated, and the process returns to step S11 in FIG.

In step S202, the control circuit 101 stops counting the first time t, and proceeds to step S203. In step S203, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a command dial (not shown) is rotated counterclockwise while the shooting operation mode button is pressed. When the input levels of the input ports I ₅ and I ₆ (that is, the input signals from the switches SW5 and SW6) indicate counterclockwise rotation, the control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S203 and proceeds to step S204. When the counterclockwise rotation is not indicated, a negative determination is made in step S203, and the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S204, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 5. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S204 when D = 5 (instantaneous remote control shooting mode) and proceeds to step S209, and makes a negative decision in step S204 when D ≠ 5 (not in the instant remote control shooting mode). The process proceeds to S205. In step S205, the control circuit 101 adds 1 to D, changes the setting to the operation mode corresponding to the imaging operation mode parameter D after the addition, and proceeds to step S209.

In step S206, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a command dial (not shown) is rotated in the clockwise direction while the shooting operation mode button is pressed. When the input levels of the input ports I ₅ and I ₆ (that is, the input signals from the switches SW5 and SW6) indicate clockwise rotation, the control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S206 and proceeds to step S207. If no direction rotation is indicated, a negative determination is made in step S206 and the process proceeds to step S209.

  In step S207, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 1. The control circuit 101 makes a positive determination in step S207 when D = 1 (single frame shooting mode) and proceeds to step S209, and makes a negative determination in step S207 when D ≠ 1 (not in the single frame shooting operation mode). Proceed to step S208. In step S208, the control circuit 101 subtracts 1 from D, changes the setting to the operation mode corresponding to the imaging operation mode parameter D after the subtraction, and proceeds to step S209.

In step S209, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the display device 111 to display a shooting operation mode corresponding to the shooting operation mode parameter D, and the process proceeds to step S210. In step S210, the control circuit 101 determines whether a power dial (not shown) is in the on position. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₁ (SW1 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S210 and proceeds to step S211. A high level signal is input to the input port I _1. If it is determined that SW1 is off (NO in step S210), a negative determination is made in step S210, and the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

  In step S211, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not a shooting operation mode button (not shown) is pressed. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S211 when the switch SW4 is continuously turned on, and returns to step S203. If the switch SW4 is not turned on, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S211 and proceeds to step S212. move on.

  In step S212, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 1. When D = 1 (single frame shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S212 and proceeds to step S213. If D ≠ 1, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S212 and proceeds to step S214. In step S213, the control circuit 101 sets 1 to the mode storage parameter M and proceeds to step S217.

  In step S214, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 2. If D = 2 (continuous shooting mode), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S214 and proceeds to step S215. If D ≠ 2, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S214 and proceeds to step S216. In step S215, the control circuit 101 sets 2 to the mode storage parameter M and proceeds to step S217. In step S216, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the shooting operation mode parameter D = 3. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S216 when D = 3 (self-timer shooting mode) and proceeds to step S217. If D ≠ 3 (2-second remote shooting mode or instantaneous remote shooting mode), step S216 is performed. A negative determination is made and processing proceeds to step S218.

In step S217, the control circuit 101 sets the normal time T ₁ (for example, 8 seconds) as the power supply time T and proceeds to step S219. In step S218, the control circuit 101 sets a time T ₂ (for example, 1 minute) for the remote control photographing mode as the power supply time T, and proceeds to step S219. Time T ₂ is set in order to prolong the time-up time of the half-press timer on the remote control shooting mode.

  In step S219, the control circuit 101 resets the first time t and proceeds to step S220. In step S220, the control circuit 101 starts counting the first time t, and proceeds to step S11 in FIG.

  Details of the photometry / exposure calculation processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the exposure calculation process, for example, a program automatic exposure calculation is performed. The control circuit 101 calculates the control exposure by changing the shutter speed TV and the aperture value AV in a predetermined combination so as to obtain an appropriate exposure. In this description, apex values are used for the shutter speed TV, the aperture value AV, the imaging sensitivity SV, and the subject brightness BV. Here, the setting range of the shutter speed TV of the camera is 0 (1 second) to 12 (1/4000 seconds). The setting range of the camera aperture value AV is 3 (F2.8) to 9 (F22). In addition, it is assumed that the imaging sensitivity SV of the camera is set to 5 (equivalent to ISO 100).

  In step 301 in FIG. 8, the control circuit 101 detects the lens transmitted light amount (BV-3) based on the detection signal input from the photometric device 110 and proceeds to step S302. The reason why 3 is subtracted from the subject brightness BV is that detection is performed through the photographing lens L having an open F value of 2.8 (AV = 3).

In step S302, the control circuit 101 calculates an exposure value EV by the following equation (1), and proceeds to step S303.
EV = (BV-3) + 3 + SV (1)
Here, (BV-3) corresponds to the lens transmitted light amount, 3 corresponds to the open F value, and SV corresponds to 5 (equivalent to ISO 100).

  In step S303, the control circuit 101 calculates the aperture value AV = EV / 2-1 and proceeds to step S304. In step S304, the control circuit 101 determines whether AV <3 is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S304 when AV <3 is established (the control aperture value is smaller than the open F value 2.8), and proceeds to step S305. If AV <3 is not established, the control circuit 101 proceeds to step S304. A negative determination is made and processing proceeds to step S307. In step S305, the control circuit 101 sets the control aperture value AV to 3, and proceeds to step S306. As a result, the aperture value is set to the open F value 2.8, which is the lower limit of the control range. In step S306, the control circuit 101 calculates the control shutter speed TV = EV-3, and proceeds to step S311.

  In step S307, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S304 described above, the control circuit 101 determines whether AV> 9 is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S307 when AV> 9 is established (the control aperture value is greater than the minimum aperture F value 22), and proceeds to step S308. If AV> 9 is not established, the control circuit 101 negates step S307. Determine and proceed to step S310. In step S308, the control circuit 101 sets the control aperture value AV to 9, and proceeds to step S309. Thereby, the aperture value is set to the minimum aperture F value 22 which is the upper limit of the control range. In step S309, the control circuit 101 calculates the control shutter speed TV = EV-9, and proceeds to step S311.

  In step S310, the control circuit 101 calculates the control shutter speed TV = EV / 2 + 1 and proceeds to step S311. In step S311, the control circuit 101 determines whether TV <0 is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S311 when TV <0 is established (the control shutter speed is slower than 1 second), and proceeds to step S312. If TV <0 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S311. The process proceeds to step S313. In step S312, the control circuit 101 sets 0 to the control shutter speed TV and proceeds to step S315. Thereby, the shutter speed is set to 1 second which is the lower limit of the control range.

  In step S313, which proceeds after making a negative determination in step S311 described above, the control circuit 101 determines whether TV> 12 is satisfied. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S313 when TV> 12 is established (the control shutter speed is faster than 1/4000 seconds) and proceeds to step S314. If TV> 12 is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S313. Then, the process proceeds to step S315. In step S314, the control circuit 101 sets 12 to the control shutter speed TV and proceeds to step S315. As a result, the shutter speed is set to 1/4000 seconds, which is the upper limit of the control range.

  In step S315, the control circuit 101 calculates the control aperture pulse number Pc as a function f of the control aperture stage number (AV-3), and proceeds to step S316. The control aperture pulse number Pc is the number of detection pulses output from the aperture position detector 116 until the aperture is locked at the control aperture value AV. The number of aperture stages and the number of detected aperture pulses are basically in a proportional relationship. However, since the number of detected aperture pulses output near the full aperture is increased, it is calculated as a function f of the aperture stage number (AV-3).

In step S316, the control circuit 101 calculates a control shutter speed time Tc corresponding to the control shutter speed TV by the following equation (2), and proceeds to step S45 in FIG.
Tc = 2- ^TV (2)

  Details of the release sequence process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In step S401 of FIG. 9, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the shutter drive circuit 114, and energizes a magnet (not shown) of the shutter 115 to hold the front curtain and the rear curtain. In step S402, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the motor drive circuit 112, causes the sequence motor 113 to start normal rotation, and proceeds to step S403. As a result, the mirror up and the aperture stop of the mirror (not shown) are started.

  In step S403, the control circuit 101 detects the drive aperture pulse Pk based on the detection signal input from the aperture position detection device 116, and proceeds to step S404. In step S404, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not Pk ≧ Pc is established between the drive aperture pulse Pk and the control pulse Pc corresponding to the aperture value AV. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative determination in step S404 when Pk ≧ Pc is satisfied, and proceeds to step S405. If Pk ≧ Pc is not satisfied, the control circuit 101 makes a negative determination in step S404. If a negative determination is made, the process returns to step S403 so as to continue the narrowing down.

In step S405, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the aperture locking device 117 to lock the aperture, and the process proceeds to step S406. In step S406, the control circuit 101 determines whether the mirror up has been completed. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₇ (sequence switch SW7 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S406 and proceeds to step S407, where a high level signal is input to the input port I _7. (S7 is off), a negative determination is made in step S406. If a negative determination is made, the mirror-up is continued and the determination process in step S406 is repeated.

  In step S407, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the motor drive circuit 112, stops normal rotation of the sequence motor 113, and proceeds to step S408. Note that a sequence driving device (not shown) is configured so that the stop of the stop is ended by the stop locking device 117 before the end of the mirror up. In step S408, the control circuit 101 resets the second time measurement τ to 0 and proceeds to step S409. In step S409, the control circuit 101 starts the second time measurement and proceeds to step S410. In this time measurement, the shutter speed time Tc is measured.

  In step S410, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the shutter drive circuit 114, cancels energization of a magnet (not shown) of the shutter 115 to release the front curtain holding, and proceeds to step S411. As a result, the travel of the shutter front curtain is started, and the light transmitted through the photographing lens L reaches the imaging surface of the imaging element 102.

  In step S411, the control circuit 101 causes the timing circuit 104 to start generating a drive signal and proceeds to step S412. As a result, the image sensor 102 starts to accumulate charges.

  In step S412, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not τ ≧ Tc is established between the second timing time τ and the control shutter speed time Tc. If τ ≧ Tc is established, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S412 and proceeds to step S413. If τ ≧ Tc is not established, the control circuit 101 makes a negative decision in step S412 and repeats the determination process. As a result, the rear curtain holding is not released and the exposure is continued until the second timing time τ reaches the control shutter speed time Tc.

  In step S413, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the shutter drive circuit 114, cancels energization of a magnet (not shown) of the shutter 115 to release the rear curtain holding, and proceeds to step S414. As a result, the travel of the shutter rear curtain is started, and the subject light incident on the image sensor 102 is blocked.

  In step S414, the control circuit 101 waits for a predetermined time and proceeds to step S415. The wait time is a time required for the rear curtain to completely shield the image pickup area of the image pickup element 102 and complete the traveling. The imaging operation of the image sensor 102 is continued during the trailing curtain travel completion weight. In step S415, the control circuit 101 stops the driving of the image sensor 102 by the timing circuit 104 and proceeds to step S416. As a result, the image sensor 102 ends the charge accumulation. In step S416, the control circuit 101 stops counting the second time τ and proceeds to step S417.

  In step S417, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the motor drive circuit 112, causes the sequence motor 113 to start reverse rotation, and proceeds to step S418. Thereby, the mirror down of the mirror (not shown) and the return of the aperture to the open state are started. In step S418, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the timing circuit 104, causes the image signal to be read from the image sensor 102, and proceeds to step S419. As a result, an image signal based on accumulated charges is output from the image sensor 102, converted into digital data by the A / D conversion circuit 103, and then temporarily stored in the buffer memory 106.

  In step S419, the control circuit 101 sends the digital data to the ASIC 105, performs image processing (white balance adjustment, contour compensation, gamma correction, etc.), and proceeds to step S420. In step S420, the control circuit 101 causes the ASIC 105 to perform image compression processing and proceeds to step S421. In step S421, the control circuit 101 records the image data after the image compression processing on the recording medium 107, and proceeds to step S422.

In step S422, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the mirror down has been completed. When a low level signal is input to the input port I ₇ (sequence switch SW7 is on), the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S422 and proceeds to step S423, and a high level signal is input to the input port I _7. If (SW7 is off), a negative determination is made in step S422. When negative determination is made in step S422, the control circuit 101 continues mirror down while repeating the determination process.

  In step S423, the control circuit 101 outputs a command to the motor drive circuit 112, stops the reverse rotation of the sequence motor 113, and proceeds to step S424. In step S424, the control circuit 101 determines whether or not the remote control flag R = 1. The control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S424 when R = 1 (2-second remote control shooting mode or instantaneous remote control shooting mode), and proceeds to step S425. If R = 0 (not in the remote control shooting mode), the control circuit 101 performs step S424. A negative determination is made, the processing in FIG. 9 is terminated, and the process proceeds to step S81 in FIG.

  In step S425, the control circuit 101 determines whether an operation signal transmitted from the remote control device 109 is received by the remote control light receiving unit. When an output signal is input from the remote control light receiving unit 108, the control circuit 101 makes an affirmative decision in step S425 and proceeds to step S426. The process ends, and the process proceeds to step S81 in FIG.

  In step S426, the control circuit 101 outputs a reset command to the remote control light-receiving unit 108, resets the output signal, ends the processing in FIG. 9, and proceeds to step S81 in FIG. The output signal is reset at the end of the release sequence process. Even if an unnecessary remote control operation signal is transmitted from the remote control device 109 during the release sequence process, the output signal from the remote control light receiving unit 108 by this operation signal can be reset. Because.

According to the embodiment described above, the following operational effects can be obtained.
(1) When the camera performs the shooting process in the state set to the self-timer shooting mode (D = 3), after the release sequence process (step S70), the camera returns to the most recent mode among the single frame shooting mode and the continuous shooting mode. (Step S82). Therefore, since the self-timer is automatically canceled for each shooting, even if the user forgets to cancel the self-timer shooting mode, the shooting operation is started immediately at the next release operation, and a photo opportunity may be missed. Is prevented. In addition, since the self-timer shooting mode is canceled and the most recent mode is restored, the continuous shooting mode is set even though the user normally uses single-frame shooting, or the user uses continuous shooting. Nevertheless, the single-frame shooting mode is not set, and a user-friendly camera can be obtained.

(2) When the camera is set to the self-timer shooting mode (D = 3) and the power dial (not shown) is operated to the off position, the camera switches to the most recent mode among the single frame shooting mode and the continuous shooting mode. Return (steps S19 and S113). Therefore, since the self-timer is canceled every time the power is turned off, it is possible to prevent the user from missing a photo opportunity even if the user forgets to release the self-timer shooting mode after the next power-on operation. In addition, since the self-timer shooting mode is canceled and the most recent mode is restored, the shooting mode that the user uses regularly is selected, and a camera that is easy for the user to use is obtained.

(3) The camera times the normal time T ₁ (8 seconds in the above example) when the release button (not shown) is not half-pressed in the state set to the self-timer shooting mode (D = 3) ( When an affirmative determination is made in any of steps S9, S14, S43, S48, and S54, power supply through the power supply line of voltage V1 is turned off (step S101), so that battery consumption can be suppressed. At this time, since the self-timer shooting mode is not canceled, for example, even if 8 seconds elapses while the camera is set on a tripod (the half-press timer expires) and the power supply is turned off, the self-timer shooting mode again. There is no need to set the mode again, and a user-friendly camera can be obtained.

(4) The camera is set after the release sequence process (step S70) when the shooting process is performed in a state (D = 4 or 5) set to either the 2-second remote control shooting mode or the instantaneous remote control shooting mode. Does not cancel shooting mode. In general, the user is often away from the camera when using the remote control. By continuing the remote control shooting mode after shooting, the user does not have to move to the camera position to reset the remote control shooting mode for each shooting.

(5) When the power dial (not shown) is operated to the off position while the camera is set to either the 2-second remote control shooting mode or the instantaneous remote control shooting mode (D = 4 or 5), one frame shooting is performed. It returns to the most recent mode among the mode and the continuous shooting mode (step S19). Therefore, since the shooting mode by the remote control is canceled every time the power is turned off, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to release the remote control shooting mode after the next power-on operation and missing a photo opportunity. In addition, since the remote control shooting mode is canceled and the most recent mode is restored, the shooting mode that the user uses regularly is selected, and a camera that is easy for the user to use is obtained.

(6) When the release button (not shown) is not half-pressed when the camera is set to either the 2-second remote control shooting mode or the instantaneous remote control shooting mode (D = 4 or 5), the time T ₂ (above 1 minute in this example) (when affirmative determination is made in any of steps S9, S14, S43, S48, and S54), the power supply by the power line of voltage V1 is turned off (step S101), and the voltage V2 The power supply through the power line is also turned off (step S103). Therefore, battery consumption can be suppressed. The camera further cancels the shooting mode by the remote controller and returns to the most recent mode among the single frame shooting mode and the continuous shooting mode (step S105). As a result, it is possible to prevent the user from forgetting to release the remote control shooting mode and miss a photo opportunity, and to select a shooting mode that the user uses regularly, thereby obtaining a camera that is easy for the user to use.

  In the above description, the electronic camera has been described as an example, but a silver salt camera may be used.

  Although the example in which the camera has both the self-timer shooting mode and the remote control shooting mode has been described, the present invention can be applied even to a camera having one of the shooting modes.

The time measured by the half-press timer (values of T ₁ and T ₂ ) and each time measured in the self-timer operation are not limited to the exemplified times, and may be set as appropriate.

  The shooting operation mode can be changed not only by the combination of pressing the switch and the dial operation described above, but also only by the dial operation, only by the lever operation, only by the press operation, or a combination of these operation members. May be performed.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the camera by one Embodiment. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the camera operation | movement process performed with a control circuit. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the camera operation | movement process performed with a control circuit. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the camera operation | movement process performed with a control circuit. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the camera operation | movement process performed with a control circuit. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the camera operation | movement process performed with a control circuit. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a setting process. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a photometry and exposure calculation process. It is a flowchart explaining the detail of a release sequence process.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 ... Control circuit 102 ... Image pick-up element 104 ... Timing circuit 108 ... Remote control light-receiving part 109 ... Remote control apparatus 110 ... Photometry apparatus 111 ... Display apparatus SW1 ... Power switch SW2 ... Half press switch SW3 ... Full press switch SW4 ... Shooting operation mode switch SW5 , SW6: Switch linked to command dial SW7: Sequence switch V1, V2 ... Power line voltage

Claims (6)

A first shooting mode in which one shooting is started in response to one shooting instruction, a second shooting mode in which shooting is continued while the shooting instruction is continued, a self-timer shooting mode, and a remote control shooting mode. operation means for generating an operation signal for selecting any one shooting mode from the third imaging mode is at least one,
A setting shooting mode storage unit that stores any one of the three shooting modes selected according to an operation signal from the operation unit as a setting shooting mode ;
Updated shooting mode storage means for storing one of the first shooting mode and the second shooting mode selected in response to an operation signal from the operation means as an updated shooting mode ;
Shooting control means for performing shooting processing based on the set shooting mode stored in the set shooting mode storage means;
If the main switch is turned off when the third shooting mode is set, the set shooting mode stored in the set shooting mode storage means is updated to the updated shooting mode stored in the update shooting mode storage means. A camera comprising: a shooting mode update means for updating in a first shooting mode or a second shooting mode as a mode . The camera of claim 1,
It further comprises a power saving control means for performing a power saving operation when the camera operation is not operated continuously for a predetermined time,
If the set shooting mode is a remote control shooting mode, the shooting mode update means updates the set remote control shooting mode when the power saving operation is performed by the power saving control means. If the setting shooting mode is the self-timer shooting mode and the power saving operation is performed by the power saving control unit , the update is performed in the first or second shooting mode which is the updated shooting mode stored in The camera does not update the self-timer shooting mode . The camera according to claim 2,
The photographing mode update unit is configured to change the self-timer photographing mode stored in the setting photographing mode storage unit to the updated photographing mode stored in the updated photographing mode storage unit after completion of photographing processing in the self-timer photographing mode. The camera is updated in the first or second shooting mode .   The camera of claim 1,
  The camera, wherein the shooting mode update means does not update the remote control shooting mode stored in the set shooting mode storage means after the shooting process in the remote control shooting mode ends.   The camera according to claim 4, wherein
  It further comprises a power saving control means for performing a power saving operation when the camera operation is not operated continuously for a predetermined time,
  If the set shooting mode is a remote control shooting mode, when the power saving operation is performed by the power saving control unit, the set shooting mode is the updated shooting mode stored in the updated shooting mode storage unit. A camera that is changed to a certain first or second photographing mode. A first shooting mode in which one shooting is started in response to one shooting instruction, a second shooting mode in which shooting is continued while the shooting instruction is continued, a self-timer shooting mode, and a remote control shooting mode. Operation means for generating an operation signal for selecting any one of the third shooting modes from at least one of the third shooting modes;
  Shooting mode setting means for setting the one shooting mode as a set shooting mode in response to an operation signal from the operation means;
  Shooting control means for performing shooting processing based on the set shooting mode;
  A shooting mode storage unit that stores the first or second shooting mode set by the shooting mode setting unit immediately before the third shooting mode is set by the shooting mode setting unit;
  If the main switch-off is operated when the third shooting mode is set, the first or second shooting mode stored in the shooting mode storage means is set as the set shooting mode. And a mode control means for controlling the photographing mode setting means.

Images