JP6257198B2 - Optical apparatus, control method therefor, and control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an optical device, a control method thereof, and a control program, and more particularly, to an optical device including a plurality of distance measuring point input units for focus adjustment.

In general, in an optical apparatus such as a digital camera, an optical apparatus that selects a distance measuring point (focus detection region) according to the line-of-sight information and subject information of a finder observer is known. Various optical devices are available as optical devices having a subject detection function for detecting information related to a subject (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In the optical device described in Patent Document 1, a focus indicating the position and size of a subject to be detected by detecting the eyes of a person (subject) included in the image data obtained by the imaging unit and focusing according to the detection result. A frame is set to determine the focal position at the time of shooting.

  Furthermore, various optical devices are known as optical devices having a line-of-sight detection function for detecting the line of sight of a viewfinder observer (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

  The optical apparatus described in Patent Document 2 includes an automatic setting mode, a line-of-sight detection mode, and a manual setting mode as modes for selecting a distance measuring point. The selection of these modes is performed by switching the distance measuring point selection. Like to do. When the focus detection point is set in the line-of-sight detection mode, if the manual setting mode is selected, the manual setting mode is prioritized to reflect the intention of the photographer (user). .

  In addition, there is an optical device such as a digital camera in which a touch panel is mounted on a display device that displays a subject image, and a ranging point is selected by a touch operation.

JP 2005-338352 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-218813

  However, when a distance measuring point is selected by the subject detection function as described above, the distance measuring point may be erroneously detected depending on the size, color, and brightness of the subject. On the other hand, in the detection of the line of sight by the line-of-sight detection function, there is a difference in the detection of the line of sight depending on whether the observer (that is, the user) observes with each eyeball or left or right eye. Even if such a difference is calibrated by calibration or the like, it may be difficult to select a distance measuring point as intended by the photographer.

  In addition, in the conventional optical apparatus, the ranging point is not set by using both the subject detection function and the line-of-sight detection function. Also, there is no description on how to determine the distance measurement point when the user changes the distance measurement point after selecting the distance measurement point using the subject detection function and the gaze detection function. .

  In addition, in an optical device such as a single-lens reflex camera, when taking a picture while looking through the viewfinder, even if the display device is equipped with a touch panel, the user looks at the display device from the viewfinder to select a distance measuring point. It is difficult to select a distance measuring point by a touch operation.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an optical apparatus capable of performing selection of a distance measurement point while reflecting the intention of the photographer in an optical apparatus including a plurality of distance measurement point input units for focus adjustment, a control method thereof, And providing a control program.

In order to achieve the above object, an optical apparatus according to the present invention includes a first detection unit that detects a region of a specific subject from an image, and a position that is viewed in the image by monitoring a photographer's eyes. A second detection means for detecting; a mode selection means for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes; and a first range based on the area of the specific subject detected by the first detection means. A focus detection region is selected from a plurality of focus detection regions based on the region of the specific subject when the position being viewed in the image detected by the second detection unit is included; to, if it does not contain a position that is visible in the image detected by said second detection means, focus from a plurality of focus detection areas on the basis of the position that is visible in the image Area selecting means for selecting the detection area has, the first range, characterized in that it is set in accordance with the photographing mode selected by said mode selecting means.

The method for controlling an optical apparatus according to the present invention includes a first detection step for detecting a region of a specific subject from an image, and a second detection for detecting a position viewed by the photographer's eyes and monitoring the image. A detection step, a mode selection step of selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes, and a first range based on the region of the specific subject detected in the first detection step, in the second detection step. When the position being viewed in the detected image is included, a focus detection area is selected from a plurality of focus detection areas based on the area of the specific subject, and the second range falls within the first range. focus detection area from a plurality of focus detection areas on the basis of the case does not include a position which is visible in the image detected by the detection step, a position which is visible in the image A region selection step of selecting includes the first range is characterized in that characterized in that it is set in response to said mode selection the photographing mode selected in step.

A control program according to the present invention is a control program used in an optical device, and monitors a photographer's eyes in a first detection step of detecting a region of a specific subject from an image on a computer provided in the optical device. A second detection step for detecting a position viewed in the image, a mode selection step for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes, and the specific object detected in the first detection step. When the first range based on the region includes a position that is visually observed in the image detected in the second detection step, the focus from a plurality of focus detection regions is based on the region of the specific subject. When a detection area is selected and the first range does not include a position that is viewed in the image detected in the second detection step, An area selecting step of selecting a focus detection area from a plurality of focus detection areas on the basis of the position that is visible in the image, is executed, the first range, depending on the photographing mode selected by said mode selecting step It is characterized by being set .

According to the present invention, the focus detection area corresponding to the intention of the shadow's shooting is adapted to be selected, it is possible to improve the convenience when selecting a focus detection area.

It is a figure which shows the external appearance about an example of the optical apparatus by embodiment of this invention, (a) is a figure shown from the back side, (b) is a figure shown from the front side. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the state which attached the interchangeable lens to the camera main body shown in FIG. These are block diagrams which show an example of the control system of the camera shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the imaging | photography mode setting menu switched by the ranging point priority selection part shown in FIG. 3, (a) is a figure which shows portrait mode, (b) is a figure which shows travel mode, (c) Is a diagram showing a group photo mode, (d) is a diagram showing a sport mode, (e) is a diagram showing a tripod mode. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining setting of a face determination range according to the shooting mode shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining photographing processing in the camera shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows the ratio of the timer time according to imaging | photography mode and imaging | photography speed setting. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 1st example of the selection flow according to ranging point priority shown in FIG. FIGS. 9A and 9B are diagrams for explaining an example of a movement of a distance measuring point in the finder in the portrait mode process illustrated in FIG. 8, in which FIG. It is a figure which shows the other example of a point movement. It is a figure for demonstrating another example about the mode of the movement of the ranging point in a finder in the portrait mode process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 2nd example of the selection flow according to ranging point priority shown in FIG. 12A and 12B are diagrams for explaining the movement of a distance measuring point in the viewfinder in the travel mode process shown in FIG. 11, in which FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating an example of distance measuring point movement, and FIG. It is a figure which shows another example. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a third example of a selection flow by distance measurement point priority shown in FIG. 6. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the mode of the movement of the ranging point in a finder in the group photo mode process shown in FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the 4th example of the selection flow according to ranging point priority shown in FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the mode of the movement of the ranging point in a finder in the sport mode process shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining a fifth example of a selection flow by distance measurement point priority shown in FIG. 6. FIG.

  Hereinafter, an example of an optical apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an appearance of an example of an optical apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a view shown from the back side, and FIG. 1B is a view shown from the front side.

  The illustrated optical apparatus is a so-called interchangeable lens type single-lens reflex camera (hereinafter simply referred to as a camera), and the camera has a camera body 100. When shooting starts, the user presses a menu button 106 that displays a shooting menu in order to set shooting conditions and the like. Then, the user uses the dial 103 to change various settings.

  Line-of-sight detection units 110a and 110b are arranged above and below the viewfinder including the eyepiece optical system 109, respectively. When a user (also called a photographer) looks into the viewfinder to check the subject image, the line of sight of the photographer is detected by the line-of-sight detection units 110a and 110b, and which part of the subject is being viewed by the photographer through the viewfinder Is determined.

When the distance measurement start button 101 is pressed, a distance measurement operation is performed. However, the photographer can move a distance measurement point (also referred to as a focus detection area ) by a distance measurement point selection unit (multi-controller: hereinafter referred to as MC) 102. it can. The MC 102 uses a switch member that can be operated in eight directions of up / down / left / right and diagonal directions in the figure, and the center portion of the distance measuring point can be selected by pressing the center portion 102a.

  The release button 111 has a two-stage push switch function. In the first stage, photometry start and distance measurement start are performed, and in the second stage, a release operation is performed. By the release operation, the main mirror 116 that reflects the subject image to the viewfinder is retracted from the photographing optical path O and photographing is performed.

  When the playback button 107 is pressed to confirm the captured image, the captured image is displayed on the display monitor 108. The captured image is recorded in an external storage device (not shown), and the external storage device take-out lid 104 is opened by operating the operation member 105, so that the user can take out the external storage device from the camera body 100. A lens attaching / detaching button 115 is provided around a mount portion 114 for fixing a photographing lens unit (hereinafter simply referred to as a photographing lens or an interchangeable lens) to the camera body 100, and the user operates the lens attaching / detaching button 115 to operate the photographing lens. Exchanges can be made.

  Distance measuring point priority changing units 113a, 113b, and 113c are arranged around the grip unit 112 that holds the camera body 100 with the right hand, and the user uses the fingertip while holding the grip unit 112 to measure the distance measuring point priority. The changing units 113a, 113b, and 113c can be operated.

  FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a state in which the interchangeable lens 200 is mounted on the camera body 100 shown in FIG.

  A part of the illustrated main mirror 116 is in a semi-transmissive state, and a subject image (optical image) that has passed through the interchangeable lens (photographing lens) 200 is reflected by the main mirror 116, and the reflected image is a focus plate 118. Image on top. On the other hand, the optical image transmitted through the main mirror 116 (that is, the transmitted image) is reflected by the sub mirror 117 and enters the focus detection device 122. The transmitted image is formed on the distance measuring unit 123 which is a focus detection element.

  The image formed on the focusing screen 118 enters the eyeball 300 of the photographer via the pentaprism 120 and the eyepiece optical system 109. A part of the eyepiece optical system 109 is provided with a dichroic mirror (not shown). That is, the shooting range is displayed on the finder configured by the pentaprism 120 and the eyepiece optical system 109.

  Each of the line-of-sight detection units 110a and 110b described in FIG. 1 includes an infrared light emitting diode (not shown), and infrared light is projected from the line-of-sight detection units 110a and 110b toward the eyeball 300. The line-of-sight detection sensor 110 detects the line of sight by monitoring the eyeball 300 via the dichroic mirror.

  Details of the line-of-sight detection are described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-34873, and a description thereof is omitted here.

  A light metering unit 121 is disposed on the exit side of the pentaprism 120, and the light metering unit 121 is an area sensor that can detect the brightness of the subject image and the face and color thereof. The details of the face detection are described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-330882, and a description thereof is omitted here.

  A transmissive liquid crystal 119 is disposed between the focus plate 118 and the pentaprism 120, and a plurality of distance measuring points are displayed on the transmissive liquid crystal 119. As a result, the photographer can view the subject image on the focusing screen 118 and a plurality of distance measuring points in a superimposed manner.

  A shutter 124 is disposed behind the main mirror 116, and an image sensor 125 such as a CMOS image sensor is disposed behind the shutter 124. During the photographing operation, exposure control is performed by the shutter 124 and the aperture of the photographing lens 200 according to the output of the photometry unit 121, and the main mirror 116 and the sub mirror 117 are retracted from the photographing optical path (the optical axis of the photographing lens 200). Then, a subject image is formed on the image sensor 125, and an image is taken.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system of the camera shown in FIG.

  The camera shown in FIG. 2 includes an MPU (control unit) 130. The shooting speed setting unit 131 is for setting the shooting speed in single shooting or continuous shooting, and the shooting speed setting unit 131 sets the shooting speed by operating the menu button 106 and the dial 103 described with reference to FIG. The imaging speed signal shown is sent to the MPU 130.

  As described above, the photometry unit 121 obtains subject information by detecting the subject such as the brightness, face, and color of the subject image. Here, the photometry unit 121 also functions as the face detection unit 132, and sends subject information to the MPU 130. The face detection area changing unit 133 changes the face detection range in the subject image (that is, the image). The setting and changing of the face detection range will be described later.

  The line-of-sight detection unit 110 (line-of-sight detection units 110a and 110b shown in FIG. 1) detects the line of sight of the photographer and sends the line-of-sight detection information to the MPU 130. The distance measuring unit 123 sends distance information indicating the distance from the camera to the subject to the MPU 130. As described above, the distance measurement point can be moved by the MC 102 which is the distance measurement point selection unit, and the distance measurement point movement amount is performed by the distance measurement point movement step changing unit 134.

  The user can input a distance measuring point moving step by operating the dial 103 while viewing a distance measuring point moving step change screen (not shown) displayed by operating the menu button 106 shown in FIG. Here, for example, a plurality of steps such as two steps or three steps can be moved by one input with respect to one normal step.

  A focus detection point priority changing unit (also referred to as a focus detection point priority selection unit) 113 (buttons 113a to 113c shown in FIG. 1B) is a face detection unit 132, a line-of-sight detection unit 110, and a focus detection point selection. The priority of the unit (MC) 102 is determined, and the ranging point selected by the ranging point priority selection unit 113 is changed. The operation of the distance measuring point priority selection unit 113 will be described later.

  Ranging, photometry, face detection, and line-of-sight detection at a distance measuring point selected as described above by operating the distance measuring start button (ranging switch) 101 or the first stage of the release button (release switch) 111 The shooting start signal is input to the MPU 130 from the release switch 11 by the second stage of the release button 111.

  The timer 135 is for monitoring the time from when the distance measurement start button 101 is turned on to when the release button 111 is turned on. If the release button is not turned on even after a predetermined time has passed since the distance measurement start button 101 is turned on, the MPU 130 performs face detection and line-of-sight detection again according to the set distance measurement point priority. Thereafter, the count value of the timer 135 is reset.

  The photographic lens / diaphragm driving unit 200a is provided in the photographic lens 200. Under the control of the MPU 130, the photographic lens 200 (that is, the focus lens provided in the photographic lens 200) is driven to an in-focus position to control the aperture. Do. As described above, the transmissive liquid crystal (that is, the distance measurement point display unit) 119 illuminates and displays the distance measurement point display frame selected from the distance measurement point display frames.

  When the release button 111 is turned on, the MPU 130 causes the shutter blades of the shutter 124 to travel by a drive circuit (not shown). Then, the image sensor 125 is exposed as the shutter blades travel. As a result, the image obtained by the image sensor 125 is recorded on the external recording device and displayed on the display monitor (image display unit) 108.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a shooting mode setting menu switched by the distance measuring point priority selection unit 113 shown in FIG. FIG. 4A shows the portrait mode, and FIG. 4B shows the travel mode. Further, FIG. 4C is a diagram showing the group photo mode, and FIG. 4D is a diagram showing the sport mode. FIG. 4E shows the tripod mode.

  Now, when the portrait mode (first shooting mode) M1 shown in FIG. 4A is set as the shooting mode, the ranging point priority selection unit 113 assigns the first priority to the face detection unit 132, The second priority order is the line-of-sight detection unit 110, and the third priority order is the distance measuring point selection unit (MC) 102.

  When the travel mode (second shooting mode) M2 shown in FIG. 4B is set as the shooting mode, the distance measuring point priority selection unit 113 assigns the first priority to the line-of-sight detection unit 110, the second The priority order is the face detection unit 132, and the third priority order is the distance measuring point selection unit (MC) 102.

  Similarly, when the group photo mode (third shooting mode) M3 shown in FIG. 4C is set as the shooting mode, the ranging point priority selection unit 113 assigns the first priority to the face detection unit. 132, the second priority order is the distance measuring point selection unit (MC) 102, and the third priority order is the line-of-sight detection unit 110.

  When the sports mode (fourth shooting mode) M4 shown in FIG. 4D is set as the shooting mode, the distance measuring point priority selection unit 113 sets the first priority to the line-of-sight detection unit 110, the first priority. Assume that the priority order 2 is the distance measuring point selection unit (MC) 102 and the third priority order is the face detection unit 132.

  Furthermore, when the tripod mode (fifth shooting mode) M5 shown in FIG. 4E is set as the shooting mode, the distance measurement point priority selection unit 113 sets the first priority to the distance measurement point selection unit ( MC) 102, the second priority is the face detection unit 132, and the third priority is the line-of-sight detection unit 110.

  In the illustrated example, in the group photo mode M3, the function of the line-of-sight detection unit 110, which is the third priority, is stopped. Similarly, in the sport mode M4, the function of the face detection unit 132 that is the third priority is stopped, and in the tripod mode M5, the face detection unit 132 and the line-of-sight detection unit that are the second and third priorities. 110 is deactivated.

  The shooting mode shown in FIG. 4 is set by the distance measuring point priority selection unit 113 as described above. For example, as a button for switching to the portrait mode M1, the travel mode M2, and the tripod mode M5, FIG. ) Button 113a shown in FIG. A button 103b shown in FIG. 1B is used as a button for switching from the portrait mode M1 to the group photograph mode M3 and a button for switching from the travel mode M2 to the sports mode M4. Further, when MC input is prohibited during a shooting operation described later, the button 113c is used as a button for temporarily permitting movement of the distance measuring point by MC input.

  By switching the shooting mode by operating the buttons 113a to 113c described above, the user can easily select the distance measuring point priority while holding the grip portion 112. Even when the shooting state changes while the user is looking through the viewfinder, it is possible to instantaneously switch to the optimal shooting mode setting.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the face determination range according to the shooting mode shown in FIG.

  The photometric unit 121 (area sensor) described in FIG. 2 detects the outline of the face (that is, the face area) in the subject image on the focus plate 118. For the detection of the face area, for example, a technique described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-274587 is used.

  FIG. 5 shows a subject image 400 imaged on the focus plate 118 and face determination range sizes 402 a, 402 b, and 402 c), and transmissive liquid crystal disposed adjacent to the focus plate 118. A plurality of distance measuring points 401 and a face determination range 402 are displayed in 119. Here, when a line of sight is detected in the face determination range 402, the MPU 130 automatically selects a distance measuring point 401 a near the center of the face determination range 402 and turns on the distance measuring point 401 a on the transmissive liquid crystal 119. indicate.

  The MPU 130 sets the face determination range 402 according to the shooting speed setting (single shooting or continuous shooting) and the distance measurement point priority setting (gaze detection or face detection) with the width of the face area as a reference. In the example shown in FIG. 6, in the case of line-of-sight priority, the face determination range 402 is set to 100% and 150% based on the width of the face for single shooting and continuous shooting, respectively. On the other hand, in the case of face priority, the face determination range 402 is set to 200% and 300% based on the width of the face in single shooting and continuous shooting, respectively.

  In the setting of the shooting mode shown in FIG. 4, the face determination range is different as shown in FIG. 5 in accordance with the priority order of the gaze detection and the face detection. By the way, there is no problem if the distance measurement point selected corresponding to face detection and the distance measurement point corresponding to the line of sight are completely coincident with each other. There arises a problem that it is not possible to determine whether to select a distance point. On the other hand, in the selection of distance measuring points according to the line-of-sight detection, there are many distance measuring points, and there is a possibility of erroneous detection if these distance measuring points are dense. For this reason, the face determination ranges are made different according to the priority order of line-of-sight detection and face detection.

  Furthermore, since the line of sight often moves to confirm the inside of the field of view, the line of sight may deviate from the face to be photographed. Therefore, in order to appropriately determine whether or not the photographer intentionally removes the line of sight from the face, the face determination range is varied according to the priority order of the line of sight detection and face detection.

  For example, if the priority of face detection is higher than the priority of gaze detection, the face determination range is set wide as shown in FIG. As a result, even if the face determination range becomes small, such as when the line of sight deviates from the face, when the subject is small, or when the subject is looking sideways, the face determination range is expanded, so a distance measurement point is added to the subject's face. Can be matched continuously.

  Furthermore, when the shooting speed setting is set to continuous shooting, the face determination range is set wider than in the case of single shooting. As a result, even when the line of sight deviates from the subject's face during continuous shooting, the face determination range is set wide, so the probability that the distance measuring point can be moved to the center of the face area can be increased.

  It should be noted that here, the face determination range according to face detection and the distance measurement points selected by line-of-sight detection are determined by face detection if the distance measurement point display frame is partially included in the face determination range. However, the relationship between the face determination range corresponding to the face detection and the distance measuring point based on the gaze detection is not limited to this. Further, instead of face detection, the subject determination range may be determined using subject detection information based on subject color, feature points such as eyes, subject shape, and the like. And you may make it hide the face determination range according to face detection.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining a photographing process in the camera shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Note that the processing according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is performed under the control of the MPU 130.

  Now, the camera is turned on and the photographer sets the shooting speed (step S1). Subsequently, the photographer selects the photographing mode shown in FIG. 4, that is, the focus detection point priority (step S2). Thus, the MPU 130 sets a face determination area (face determination area) as described with reference to FIG. 5 (step S4). Subsequently, the photographer sets a distance measuring point moving step by the distance measuring point moving step changing unit 134 (step S4).

  Next, the MPU 130 determines whether or not the distance measuring switch 101 is turned on (step S5). If the distance measuring switch 101 is not turned on, that is, if the distance measuring switch 101 is turned off (NO in step S5), the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S1 and waits for the user to set the photographing speed. In addition, if each said setting value has not changed from the setting value preset to the camera, the setting change of step S1-S4 will not be performed.

  When distance measuring switch 101 is turned on (YES in step S5), timer 135 starts counting. Then, the MPU 130 performs a selection flow process for each focus detection point priority described later (step S6). When the timer 135 counts up (step S7), the MPU 130 determines whether or not the release button is turned on (step S8).

  If the release button is not turned on (NO in step S8), the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S5 and determines whether or not the distance measuring switch 101 is turned on. When the release button is turned on (YES in step S8), MPU 130 performs exposure control by controlling the aperture and shutter speed (step S9). Then, the MPU 130 exposes the image sensor 125 to perform imaging (step S10), and ends the imaging process.

  Although not shown, when the shooting speed setting is continuous shooting, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S5. If the release button is not turned on by the predetermined timer time in step S8, the MPU 130 returns to the process in step S5 as described above.

  The predetermined timer time counted up by the timer 135 can be arbitrarily set according to, for example, the distance measuring point priority setting. For example, when the subject is moving and the subject is tracked while pressing the distance measurement start button 101, the timer time is set short to shorten the face detection and line-of-sight detection cycles, thereby following the tracking. Make it better. Specifically, the timer time is automatically shortened when the MPU 130 detects camera panning or when the shooting speed setting is set to continuous shooting.

  In addition, when the portrait mode is set in the shooting mode setting or the shooting speed setting is set to single shooting, the MPU 130 increases the timer time and the period of face detection and line-of-sight detection to increase the distance measuring point. Is prevented from moving one after another.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the ratio of the timer time according to the shooting mode and the shooting speed setting. In FIG. 7, a ratio to a predetermined timer time (that is, standard time) is shown.

  In FIG. 7, when the shooting speed setting is single shooting, the ratio is the highest when the shooting mode is the group photo mode, and the ratio is the lowest when the shooting mode is the sport mode. Similarly, when the shooting speed is set to continuous shooting, the ratio is the highest when the shooting mode is the group photo mode, and the ratio is the lowest when the shooting mode is the sport mode. The ratio is made smaller.

  When comparing portrait mode and group photo mode, and travel mode and sport mode, when making judgments based on both face detection and gaze detection, the timer time is lengthened so that the ranging point switches slowly. To do. Thereby, the operation by the MC can also be performed.

  On the other hand, when the portrait mode and the travel mode are compared, and the group photo mode and the sport mode are compared, in the photographing mode having a high priority of the line-of-sight detection, the timer time is shortened so that the ranging points are switched one after another. Furthermore, when the shooting speed setting is switched from single shooting to continuous shooting, as described above, the timer time in each shooting mode is shortened to improve followability.

  Note that the ratio of the timer time in the shooting mode setting shown in FIG. 7 is an example, and for example, the unit of seconds may be used instead of the ratio. In continuous shooting, the timer time may be varied according to the frame speed setting.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining a first example of the selection flow by priority of distance measurement points shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 8, it is assumed that the portrait mode is selected and set in the shooting mode setting. When the portrait mode is started, the MPU 130 determines whether or not a face area is detected by the face detection unit 132 (step S101). When the face area is detected (YES in step S101), the MPU 130 determines whether or not the line of sight is detected by the line-of-sight detection unit 110 (step S102).

  When the line of sight is detected (YES in step S102), the MPU 130 determines whether or not the line of sight is detected in the face determination range. That is, the MPU 130 determines whether or not the face and the line of sight match (step S103). Here, as described with reference to FIG. 5, since face priority is given, the MPU 130 has a rectangular range up to 200% of the face width in the single shooting mode and up to 300% of the face width in the continuous shooting mode. It is determined whether or not the line of sight is detected in (face determination range).

  When a line of sight is detected in the face determination range (YES in step S103), the MPU 130 selects a face center distance measuring point (step S104). Subsequently, when there is a distance measuring point movement instruction from the MC, the MPU 130 blinks the distance measuring point so that the distance measuring point can be moved step by step (step S105).

  Here, a time during which the movement of the distance measuring point is permitted is set as a timer, and the distance measuring point can be moved by the MC within the set timer time. Note that the distance measuring point blinks in order to inform the photographer that permission for temporary movement is allowed, and any technique other than blinking may be used as long as it is possible to notify that permission for temporary movement is available.

  When the distance measurement point is determined, the MPU 130 performs distance measurement by the distance measurement unit 123 and light measurement by the light measurement unit 121 (step S106), and drives the focus lens according to the distance measurement result to focus on the subject (step S107). ). Then, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S7 shown in FIG.

  If the face area is not detected (NO in step S101), the MPU 130 shifts to a sport mode described later (step S108). If the line of sight is not detected (NO in step S102), the MPU 130 shifts to a group photo mode described later (step S109). If the line of sight is not detected in the face determination range (NO in step S103), the MPU 130 selects a distance measuring point closest to the line of sight position (step S110), and proceeds to the process of step S106.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of the movement of the distance measuring point in the viewfinder in the portrait mode process shown in FIG. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of distance measurement point movement, and FIG. 9B is a diagram showing another example of distance measurement point movement.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9A, two face areas are detected in the shooting range, and face determination ranges M101a and M101b are set for these face areas, respectively. Here, assuming that the closest distance measuring point by line-of-sight detection is the distance measuring point M102a, since the distance measuring point M102a is included in the face determination range M101a, the MPU 130 uses the distance measuring point M104a near the face center as the distance measuring point. Selected.

  On the other hand, regarding the face determination area M101b, if the closest distance measurement point by line-of-sight detection is the distance measurement point M102b, the distance measurement point M102b is not included in the face determination range M101b, and the MPU 130 does not move the distance measurement point. The distance measuring point M102b is selected (that is, the distance measuring point does not move from the distance measuring point M102b).

  In this way, if the gaze detection and the face detection are used, it is possible to accurately measure the main subject.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9B, a large face area including a plurality of ranging points is detected in the shooting range, and a face determination range M101c is set. Here, assuming that the closest distance measuring point by line-of-sight detection is the distance measuring point M102c, the distance measuring point M102c is included in the face determination range M101c, and therefore the MPU 130 selects the distance measuring point M104c near the face center. At this time, if a distance measuring point movement instruction by the MC is performed in the upper right direction, the MPU 130 moves the distance measuring point to the distance measuring point M105c and blinks it.

  In this way, when a plurality of distance measuring points are included, a distance measuring point in the vicinity of the center of the face of the target subject is selected by face detection together with line of sight detection. In some cases, the MPU 130 permits the movement by the MC to be limited to one step.

  When the position of the movement instruction by the MC is out of the face determination range, the MPU 130 does not permit the movement of the distance measuring point. That is, since the focus detection point priority setting is face detection priority, the MPU 130 does not permit the movement of the focus detection point when the position of the movement instruction by the MC is outside the face determination range. This means that the MPU 130 limits the movement range of the distance measuring point.

  If the face determination range M101c includes a plurality of distance measuring points, the MPU 130 sets a longer timer time in step S105 shown in FIG. 8 to ensure time for distance measuring point movement by the MC. Further, the MPU 130 sets the timer time longer in step S7 shown in FIG. 6 so that the distance measuring point selected in step S104 or step S110 shown in FIG. 8 is switched slowly. This makes it possible to measure the subject carefully.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining another example of the movement of the distance measuring point in the finder in the portrait mode process shown in FIG. In FIG. 10, it is assumed that the subject is moving and the shooting speed setting is the continuous shooting mode.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 10, the face determination range M101d is set as the face determination range in the single shooting mode. On the other hand, in the continuous shooting mode, the face determination range is expanded and the face determination range M101e is set.

  As a result, the focus point at the center of the face is selected even when the closest focus point by line-of-sight detection is greatly deviated from the subject as indicated by the focus point M102e. As a result, the distance measuring point can be continuously adjusted to the moving object. Then, even when the subject becomes far away and becomes smaller, and even when the subject turns to the side and the face determination range becomes narrower, the distance measurement point can be accurately selected by expanding the face determination range.

  However, when shooting a situation where multiple people are running in a continuous shooting mode at an athletic meet, etc., it will be easier to track a specific person by gaze detection and face detection, but if the face determination range is too wide, the target will be There is a possibility that the ranging point may be moved to a person different from the person who performs the operation. Therefore, the face determination range may be arbitrarily set.

  Further, the timer time in step S105 shown in FIG. 8 is set to be shorter to restrict the distance measuring point movement by the MC than in the single shooting mode, and the timer time in step S7 shown in FIG. In addition, the range-finding point determination by the gaze detection is performed quickly.

  FIG. 11 is a flow chart for explaining a second example of the selection flow for each focus detection point priority shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 11, it is assumed that the travel mode is selected and set in the shooting mode setting. When the travel mode is started, first, the MPU 130 determines whether or not the line of sight is detected by the line of sight detection unit 110 (step S201). When the line of sight is detected by the line of sight detection unit 110 (YES in step S201), the MPU 130 determines whether or not a face area is detected by the face detection unit 132 (step S202).

  When the face area is detected (YES in step S202), the MPU 130 determines whether or not the line of sight is detected in the face determination range (step S203). Here, as described with reference to FIG. 5, since the line of sight is prioritized, the MPU 130 has a rectangular range up to 100% of the face width in the single shooting mode and up to 150% of the face width in the continuous shooting mode. It is determined whether or not the line of sight is detected in (face determination range).

  When the line of sight is detected in the face determination range (YES in step S203), the MPU 130 selects a face center distance measuring point (step S204). Subsequently, the MPU 130 prohibits distance measuring point movement by the MC (step S205).

  In the travel mode, since the determination of the coincidence rate between the face determination range and the line-of-sight detection position is made strict, the MPU 130 prohibits the movement of the distance measurement point by the MC because the distance measurement point movement by the MC is not necessary. As a result, the MPU 130 prevents inadvertent ranging point movement.

  On the other hand, since the photographer may want to move the distance measuring point by the MC, the MPU 130 determines whether or not the release button is turned on (step S206). Note that the button 113c disposed on the grip portion 113 shown in FIG. 2 is a release button that releases the prohibition of movement of the distance measuring point by the MC.

  If the release button is not turned on, that is, if it is off (NO in step S206), MPU 130 performs distance measurement by distance measurement unit 123 and light measurement by light measurement unit 121 (step S207), and according to the distance measurement result The focus lens is driven to focus on the subject (step S208). Then, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S7 shown in FIG.

  If the line of sight is not detected (NO in step S201), the MPU 130 shifts to a group photo mode described later (step S209). If no face area is detected (NO in step S202), the MPU 130 shifts to a sport mode described later (step S210).

  If the line of sight is not detected in the face determination range (NO in step S203), the MPU 130 selects a distance measuring point closest to the line of sight position (step S211). Then, when there is an instruction to move the distance measuring point by the MC (that is, by user operation), the MPU 130 sets the distance measuring point to the blinking state (that is, the identification state) so that the distance measuring point can be moved step by step (step S212). Thereafter, the MPU 130 proceeds to the process of step S207.

  When the release button is turned on (YES in step S206), MPU 130 proceeds to the process in step S212.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining how the distance measuring points in the viewfinder move in the travel mode process shown in FIG. FIG. 12A is a diagram illustrating an example of distance measurement point movement, and FIG. 12B is a diagram illustrating another example of distance measurement point movement.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12A, two face areas are detected, and face determination ranges M202a and M202b are set for these face areas, respectively. Here, assuming that the distance measuring point by line-of-sight detection is the distance measuring point M201a, since the distance measuring point M201a is not included in any of the face determination ranges M202a and 202b, the MPU 130 selects the distance measuring point as the distance measuring point M201a. Do not move from.

  In the example shown in FIG. 12B, a large face area including a plurality of distance measuring points is detected, and a face determination range M202c is set. Here, assuming that the closest distance measuring point based on line-of-sight detection is the distance measuring point M201c, the distance measuring point M201c is included in the face determination range M202c, so the MPU 130 selects the distance measuring point M204 near the face center.

  On the other hand, if the closest focus point by line-of-sight detection is the focus point M212, since the focus point M212 is not included in the face determination range M202c, the MPU 130 does not move the focus point from the focus point M212. When it becomes possible to move the distance measuring point by, the moved distance measuring point is made to blink.

  In this way, when the travel mode is selected, the face determination range is narrowed so that the distance measuring point does not easily move to the face area. This makes it possible to focus on a person when a subject other than a person such as a landscape is determined by line of sight and the line of sight matches a specific person or family with a high probability.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining a third example of the selection flow for each focus detection point priority shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 13, it is assumed that the group photo mode is selected and set in the shooting mode setting. When the group photo mode is started, the MPU 130 first determines whether a face area is detected by the face detection unit 132 (step S301). When the face area is detected by face detection unit 132 (YES in step S301), MPU 130 selects the largest face area from the detected face areas (that is, the face determination range) (step S302).

  Here, the face area is not limited to the maximum face area. For example, a face area located close to the face area or a face area located in the center of the image may be selected.

  Subsequently, the MPU 130 determines whether or not there is a distance measuring point movement due to the operation of the MC (step S303). When there is an MC operation (YES in step S303), the MPU 130 determines whether or not a face area exists in the moving direction of the distance measuring point that is moved by the MC operation (step S304).

  If a face area exists in the movement direction of the distance measurement point (YES in step S305), the MPU 130 moves the distance measurement point to the face center closest to the distance measurement point before the movement in the movement direction (step S305). Then, the MPU 130 performs distance measurement by the distance measurement unit 123 and light measurement by the light measurement unit 121 (step S306), and drives the focus lens according to the distance measurement result to focus on the subject (step S307). Then, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S7 shown in FIG.

  If the face area is not detected by the face detection unit 132 (NO in step S301), the MPU 130 shifts to a tripod mode described later (step S308). If there is no MC operation (NO in step S303), the MPU 130 proceeds to the process of step S306.

  If there is no face area in the movement direction of the distance measurement point (NO in step S305), the MPU 130 moves the distance measurement point in the movement direction designated by the MC operation by a preset movement step amount. (Step S309). At this time, the MPU 130 blinks the distance measuring point to notify the photographer that the distance measuring point has been moved without detecting the face area. Thereafter, the MPU 130 proceeds to the process of step S306.

  Note that the time during which the movement of the distance measuring point is permitted is set by a timer, and if the time is less than the time set in the timer, the distance measuring point can be moved by the MC.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining how the distance measuring points in the viewfinder move in the group photo mode process shown in FIG.

  In the example shown in FIG. 14, three face areas are detected, and face determination ranges M301a, M301b, and M301c are set for these face areas, respectively. Here, since the face determination range M301a is the maximum face determination range, the MPU 130 selects the center ranging point in the face detection range M301a as the ranging point M302.

  Here, when a rightward movement is instructed by the MC operation, the MPU 130 selects the distance measuring point M305 because the closest face determination range in the movement direction is the face determination range M301b. Further, when a downward movement is instructed by the MC operation, there is no face detection range in the direction indicated by the MC, so the MPU 130 moves the distance measuring point M310 by a preset step amount (for example, 3 steps). The distance measuring point is made to blink.

  In this way, when the group photo mode is selected, the face determination range can be selected according to the MC operation, and when shooting a large number of people or shooting a specific person in the crowd Facilitates selection of face determination range.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining a fourth example of the selection flow by priority of distance measurement points shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 15, it is assumed that the sport mode is selected and set in the shooting mode setting. When the sport mode is started, first, the MPU 130 determines whether or not a line of sight is detected by the line-of-sight detection unit 110 (step S401). When the line of sight detection unit 110 detects a line of sight (YES in step S401), the MPU 130 selects a distance measuring point that is closest to the detected line of sight (step S402).

  Subsequently, the MPU 130 determines whether or not there is a distance measuring point movement due to the operation of the MC (step S403). When the MC is operated (YES in step S403), the MPU 130 makes the distance measuring point blinking so that the distance measuring point can be moved step by step (step S404).

  In step S404, the MPU 130 blinks the distance measuring point to notify the photographer that the distance measuring point has moved to a position different from the line-of-sight detection position. At this time, the time during which the movement of the distance measuring point is permitted is set by a timer, and the distance measuring point can be moved by the MC operation if the time is shorter than the set timer time. Note that the timer time allowed here is set to the shortest time compared to other shooting modes.

  Thereafter, the MPU 130 performs distance measurement by the distance measurement unit 123 and light measurement by the light measurement unit 121 (step S405), and drives the focus lens according to the distance measurement result to focus on the subject (step S406). Then, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S7 shown in FIG.

  If the line-of-sight detection unit 110 does not detect a line of sight (NO in step S401), the MPU 130 shifts to a tripod mode described later (step S407). If there is no MC operation (NO in step S403), the MPU 130 proceeds to the process in step S405.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining how the distance measuring point in the finder moves in the sport mode process shown in FIG.

  In the example shown in FIG. 16, the distance measuring point M402 is selected according to the line-of-sight detection. Here, if there is an instruction to move the distance measuring point in the lower left direction by the MC operation, the MPU 130 moves the distance measuring point M402 to the distance measuring point M404 and causes the distance measuring point to blink.

  In this way, when the sports mode is selected, the shortest time is set even in the timer setting for each shooting mode without permitting the selection of a distance measuring point by detecting a face or a specific subject. As a result, the distance measuring point can be instantaneously moved by the line of sight and the MC operation, which is suitable for shooting a high-speed moving subject such as a car race, railway, soccer, or athletics.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining a fifth example of the selection flow for each focus detection point priority shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 17, it is assumed that the tripod mode is selected and set in the shooting mode setting. When the tripod mode is started, the MPU 130 first determines whether or not there is a distance measuring point movement due to the operation of the MC (step S501). When the MC is operated (YES in step S501), the MPU 130 moves the distance measurement point in the movement direction designated by the MC operation by a preset movement step amount (step S502). At this time, the MPU 130 blinks the distance measuring point to notify the photographer that the distance measuring point has been moved without detecting the face area.

  Thereafter, the MPU 130 performs distance measurement by the distance measurement unit 123 and light measurement by the light measurement unit 121 (step S503), and drives the focus lens according to the distance measurement result to focus on the subject (step S504). Then, the MPU 130 returns to the process of step S7 shown in FIG.

  If there is no MC operation (NO in step S501), the MPU 130 automatically selects a distance measuring point (step S505). At this time, the MPU 130 determines a distance measuring point according to a preset algorithm. For example, the MPU 130 selects the closest focused subject or adjusts it to infinity. Then, the MPU 130 proceeds to the process of step S503.

  In this way, when the tripod mode is selected, the distance measuring point movement by the face detection and the line-of-sight detection is not permitted, and the distance measuring point can be moved by an arbitrary number of steps by the MC operation. As a result, it is suitable for shooting a landscape or the like with the camera fixed on a tripod.

  In the above-described embodiment, a single-lens reflex camera such as a digital camera has been described as an example of an optical device. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to any electronic device having a camera function.

  13 and 17, the example has been described in which the distance measurement point is moved by an arbitrary number of steps by the MC operation. However, when there is no distance measurement point that can be moved in the movement instruction direction by the MC operation, Move the AF point to the end point of the screen.

  Furthermore, in the embodiment of the present invention, the description has been given by taking the lens interchangeable single-lens reflex camera as an example. Can do.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, a camera having an optical viewfinder using a pentaprism or the like has been described as an example. However, for example, a camera in which a line-of-sight input device is attached to an EVF device is also described. Embodiments can be applied.

  In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, the focus detection by the phase difference method and the subject detection by the photometric element have been described as examples. Thus, the present embodiment can be applied.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated based on embodiment, this invention is not limited to these embodiment, Various forms of the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention are also contained in this invention. .

  For example, the function of the above embodiment may be used as a control method, and this control method may be executed by an optical apparatus. In addition, a program having the functions of the above-described embodiments may be used as a control program, and the control program may be executed by a computer included in the optical device. The control program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, for example.

  The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus via a network or various recording media, and the computer (or CPU, MPU, etc.) of the system or apparatus reads the program. To be executed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 ranging start button 102 ranging point selection part 109 finder 110 gaze detection part 111 release button 113 ranging point priority change part 119 transmissive liquid crystal 121 photometry part 123 distance measurement part 130 MPU

Claims (15)

First detecting means for detecting a region of a specific subject from an image;
A second detecting means for monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
Mode selection means for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes;
When the first range based on the region of the specific subject detected by the first detection unit includes a position that is visually observed in the image detected by the second detection unit, A focus detection area is selected from a plurality of focus detection areas based on a specific subject area, and the first range does not include a position that is viewed in the image detected by the second detection means. A region selecting means for selecting a focus detection region from a plurality of focus detection regions based on the position being visually observed in the image ,
The optical apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first range is set according to the photographing mode selected by the mode selection unit . The region selecting means, prior Symbol first range, if it contains a position which is visible in front Kiga image, selecting a focus detection area located near the center of the first range The optical apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The first range is set to have a predetermined ratio with respect to the size of the area of the specific subject , and the second range is compared to the case where the first shooting mode is selected . the optical apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the predetermined ratio when the shooting mode is selected is small. Having setting means for setting either single shooting mode or continuous shooting mode,
The optical apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein the predetermined ratio when the continuous shooting mode is set is increased as compared with a case where the single shooting mode is set. A selection means for selecting a focus detection area in accordance with an instruction from the photographer;
Regulation means for regulating the selection range of the focus detection area according to an instruction from the photographer
Before SL regulating means, when the region of the specific subject is detected, before describing the hexene-option range to any one of claims 1-4, characterized by regulating the first range Optical equipment. 6. The optical apparatus according to claim 5 , further comprising display control means for displaying the focus detection area so that the photographer can identify the focus detection area when the focus detection area is changed in accordance with an instruction from the photographer. First detecting means for detecting a region of a specific subject from an image;
A second detecting means for monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
Mode selection means for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes including at least a first shooting mode that prioritizes the area of the specific subject and a second shooting mode that prioritizes a position being viewed in the image; ,
An optical apparatus comprising: area selection means for selecting a focus detection area from a plurality of focus detection areas according to the photographing mode selected by the mode selection means. A selection means for selecting a focus detection region in accordance with an instruction from the photographer;
8. The optical apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising display control means for displaying the focus detection area so that the photographer can identify the focus detection area when the focus detection area is changed in accordance with an instruction from the photographer. 9. The area selection unit, according to selection by the mode selection unit, varies a time during which a focus detection area can be changed according to an instruction from a photographer. Optical equipment. Optical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the region of the specific subject is characterized in that a region of the face. Said mode selecting means, either in response to the presence or absence of at least one of the detection result of the first detecting means and the second detection means, according to claim 1-10, characterized in that for changing the photographing mode The optical apparatus of Claim 1. A method for controlling an optical instrument,
A first detection step of detecting a region of a specific subject from the image;
A second detection step of monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
A mode selection step for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes;
When the first range based on the region of the specific subject detected in the first detection step includes a position visually observed in the image detected in the second detection step, A focus detection area is selected from a plurality of focus detection areas based on a specific subject area, and the first range does not include a position that is viewed in the image detected in the second detection step. A region selection step of selecting a focus detection region from a plurality of focus detection regions based on the position being viewed in the image ,
The first range is set according to the photographing mode selected in the mode selection step . A control program used in an optical device,
In the computer provided in the optical device,
A first detection step of detecting a region of a specific subject from the image;
A second detection step of monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
A mode selection step for selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes;
When the first range based on the region of the specific subject detected in the first detection step includes a position visually observed in the image detected in the second detection step, A focus detection area is selected from a plurality of focus detection areas based on a specific subject area, and the first range does not include a position that is viewed in the image detected in the second detection step. A region selection step of selecting a focus detection region from a plurality of focus detection regions based on the position being viewed in the image ,
The control program according to claim 1, wherein the first range is set in accordance with the photographing mode selected in the mode selection step . A method for controlling an optical instrument,
A first detection step of detecting a region of a specific subject from the image;
A second detection step of monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
A mode selection step of selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes including at least a first shooting mode that prioritizes the area of the specific subject and a second shooting mode that prioritizes a position viewed in the image; ,
And a region selection step of selecting a focus detection region from a plurality of focus detection regions according to the photographing mode selected in the mode selection step. A control program used in an optical device,
In the computer provided in the optical device,
A first detection step of detecting a region of a specific subject from the image;
A second detection step of monitoring a photographer's eyes and detecting a position viewed in the image;
A mode selection step of selecting a shooting mode from a plurality of shooting modes including at least a first shooting mode that prioritizes the area of the specific subject and a second shooting mode that prioritizes a position viewed in the image; ,
An area selection step of selecting a focus detection area from a plurality of focus detection areas according to the shooting mode selected in the mode selection step.

Images