JPH09275542A - Camera - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide the camera in which various defects of use of the camera using a global positioning system(GPS) or the like being a position measurement means so as to record information relating to its own position on the earth to a recording medium in cross reference with image information obtained through image pickup are eliminated totally so as to improve the convenience and the reliability from the standpoint of practical use. SOLUTION: The camera is provided with a GPS(global positioning system) sensor unit 24 that receives data sent from an artificial satellite and measures its own position on the earth based on the received data and stores the image information based on an object image formed via an optical system 1 and position information relating to its own position measured by the GPS sensor unit 24 onto an IC memory card in cross reference. In this case, till the position information relating to its own position measured by the GPS sensor unit 24 is confirmed, the recording of the image information to the IC memory card is inhibited.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a camera adapted to record, on a predetermined recording medium, image information obtained by photographing, and information about one's position on the earth obtained by using an artificial satellite. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, GPS (Global Positioning Sys
tem: global positioning system) etc. to record information about one's position on the earth on a recording medium such as photographic film, magnetic or semiconductor memory together with the image information obtained by shooting. Various cameras are known. For example, JP-A-7-107351,
7-64169, 5-176268, 6-3
26902, 6-261244, 6-6729
No. 1, No. 6-67282, No. 6-67293, No. 5
-158887, 7-77737, 6-110
No. 117, No. 5-224290, No. 6-318231.
Issue publications and the like.

FIG. 32 conceptually shows these systems. That is, the electronic camera A that records the image information obtained by shooting on a recording medium such as a magnetic or semiconductor memory is
A sensor unit B is connected, and the GPS sensor unit B is adapted to communicate with a plurality of artificial satellites C, D and E, respectively. Then, the GPS sensor unit B calculates and obtains information on the current position of the earth on the earth as a result of communication with the artificial satellites C, D, and E, and the information on the obtained position of the self, specifically, Outputs information such as latitude, longitude, time, altitude, and speed when moving, to the electronic camera A. The electronic camera A is configured to record the input information relating to its own position in association with the recording medium together with the image information captured and recorded at the position.

[0004]

As described above, FIG.
There are various studies and proposals of cameras using GPS and the like as typified by No. 1, but there are many problems that must be solved separately in order to commercialize these cameras as commercial products.

That is, for example, the GPS sensor unit B in FIG. 32 has to communicate with a plurality of artificial satellites in order to calculate and obtain its own position. It may take time. Therefore, when the captured image information is recorded in the recording medium, the information of the position cannot be obtained in a timely manner at the time, and eventually the position information cannot be recorded in association with the captured image information, or Person moves from the shooting location without confirming the location information, and misidentifies the determined location information after the movement as the location information at the shooting location after the movement, or vice versa. It is impossible to move from the shooting location until the information is confirmed, and furthermore, it is missed even if there is a chance to take a picture because the position information is undecided. Even if it is in an undecided state during measurement, there is a risk that the power will be turned off carelessly,
It causes various problems.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and corresponds to a recording medium together with image information obtained by photographing information about one's position on the earth using GPS or the like. Of this kind of camera that I attached and recorded,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a camera in which various inconveniences in use are totally eliminated, and convenience and reliability are improved as much as possible from the viewpoint of practical usability.

[0007]

In order to solve the above problems, the camera of the present invention receives data transmitted from an artificial satellite, and based on the received data, the position of the self on the earth. Position measuring means for measuring the position of the object, image information based on the subject image formed via the optical system, and position information regarding the position of the subject measured by the position measuring means are recorded in association with a predetermined recording medium. In a camera provided with a recording means, a control means for controlling the recording of the image information on the recording medium by the recording means until the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means is confirmed. It is configured with. That is,
According to the above-mentioned camera of the present invention, the position measuring means receives the data transmitted from the artificial satellite, measures the own position on the earth based on the received data, and the recording means is the optical system. The image information based on the subject image formed via the position information and the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means are recorded in association with a predetermined recording medium, and the control means is controlled by the position measuring means. The recording is controlled so that the recording of the image information on the recording medium by the recording unit is prohibited until the position information regarding the measured own position is determined.

A camera according to another aspect of the present invention receives data transmitted from an artificial satellite, and measures position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and an optical system. In a camera provided with a recording means for recording image information based on a subject image formed via the camera and position information relating to its own position measured by the position measuring means in association with a predetermined recording medium, Even if the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means is in an undetermined state, it is provided with a control means for controlling the recording of the image information on the recording medium by the recording means with priority. To be done. That is, according to the above-mentioned camera of the present invention, the position measuring means receives the data transmitted from the artificial satellite, measures the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the recording means The image information based on the subject image formed via the optical system and the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means are recorded in association with a predetermined recording medium, and the control means measures the position. Even if the position information regarding the own position measured by the means is undetermined, the recording means is controlled to preferentially record the image information on the recording medium.

[0009]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Next, the present invention will be clarified by describing embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of a camera according to the present invention, and particularly shows an application example to a digital still camera in which photographed image information is recorded in a recording medium in the form of digital data. It is the configuration block diagram.

The subject light is transmitted through the optical system (lens) 1,
An image is formed on a solid-state image pickup device 2 such as a CCD which is an image pickup means, where it is converted into an electric signal and output to an image pickup process circuit 3. In the imaging process circuit 3, various processes such as well-known gamma correction and white balance are performed, and thereafter, the A / D
It is output to the conversion circuit 4 and becomes digital image data,
It is once written in the frame memory 5.

Writing and reading of the frame memory 5 are controlled by the memory control 17 which is controlled by the system control 18. The image data read from the frame memory 5 is digitally processed by the digital process circuit 12 to which the character data output from the character generator 19 is added, and then converted into an analog image signal by the D / A conversion circuit 13. It The converted analog image signal is amplified by the video buffer 14 and then amplified by the electronic viewfinder (EV).
F) 15 and an external terminal 16 for connecting an external monitor.

In recording still image data obtained by photographing, the image data read from the frame memory 5 is orthogonally transformed by a DCT / IDCT (discrete cosine transform / inverse discrete cosine transform) circuit 6 and obtained. After the quantized orthogonal coefficients are quantized by the coder / decoder circuit 7, for example, entropy coding is performed, and compression processing is performed by a compression method based on the JPEG method or the like. The image data thus compressed is stored in the IC memory card A9 as a recording medium.
And is recorded in the IC memory card A10. Auxiliary memory 8
Is mainly used as an auxiliary memory when the image data is compressed in the coder / decoder circuit 7.

In the camera of this embodiment, two slots are provided so that two IC memory cards A9 and B10 can be simultaneously attached and detached as a recording medium of image information. This is an I as a recording medium when connecting the GPS sensor unit 24 as the position measuring means in the present invention described later to the camera.
This is because it is considered that one of the slots is used as the connection slot of the GPS sensor unit 24 while connecting the C memory card. Therefore, the GPS sensor unit 24 may be fixed internally, or if the connection method is taken into consideration, only one IC memory card may be detachably attached to a single slot, or the recording medium itself. The internal organs may be fixed in advance.

When reproducing the still image data recorded on the IC memory card A9 or the IC memory card B10, the IC memory card A9 or the IC memory card B10 is reproduced.
The image data read from is expanded through the processing of the coder / decoder circuit 7 and the DCT / IDCT circuit 6, and is once written in the frame memory 5. The image data read from the frame memory 5 is output to both an electronic viewfinder (EVF) 15 and an external terminal 16 connecting an external monitor via a digital process circuit 12, a D / A conversion circuit 13 and a video buffer 14. Then, the desired image can be reproduced and displayed.

The system control 18 sends and receives data via the data bus A11 and controls the overall operation of the camera. For example, it controls the display of the display unit 20 such as an LCD that displays the number of frames to be photographed and the operation mode of the camera, and controls the operation of the camera based on each input operation from the operation unit 21. System control 18
In addition, the character generator 19 is controlled to control output of desired character information, for example, the number of frames taken, or an external device such as a connected GPS sensor via the data bus B22 and the data input / output unit 23. Unit 24
Control data communication with.

As shown in FIG. 2, the system control 18 further includes an image information recording control section 18a for controlling recording of photographed image data on a recording medium based on an input operation from the operation section 21, and the GPS. The information about the current position of the camera, which is measured and obtained by the sensor unit 24, specifically, the latitude, the longitude, the time, the altitude, and the speed when the camera is moving, is recorded on the recording medium. Position information recording control unit 1 for controlling recording
8b and a position measuring unit control unit 18c that controls the operation of the GPS sensor unit 24.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing a basic processing sequence including a power supply processing in the above-described camera configuration of FIG.

This routine starts when the power is turned on in step S301. First, the camera is initialized in step S302, and then the connection state of the GPS sensor unit 24 to the camera is detected in step S303.
Here, when the GPS sensor unit 24 is connected to the IC memory card slot section of FIG. 1 or the data input / output section 23, the process proceeds to step S304 to initialize the GPS sensor unit 24, and the position is measured in step S305. A flag is set to indicate that the operation is possible, and the process proceeds to step S306. On the other hand, step S
In 303, when the GPS sensor unit 24 is not connected, the process proceeds to step S307, the flag is cleared to indicate that the position measuring operation is impossible, and the process proceeds to step S306. In addition, GPS as a position measuring means
When the sensor unit 24 is built in the camera in advance, the above step S303 can be omitted.

Next, in step S306, it is determined whether or not the shutter button for starting the shooting / recording operation is pressed. If this shutter button is pressed, the process proceeds to the shooting mode in step S308 and a predetermined operation is performed. If the shooting / recording operation of No. is executed or is not pressed, the process proceeds to step S309 to enter the input standby mode in which input operations other than various shooting / recording operations are possible, and until the power-off processing instruction is given in step S310. Returning to step S306, the above processing is repeated. Then, step S3
If it is determined in 10 that the power-off instruction is issued, the power-off process is performed in step S311 and the process ends in step S312.

FIG. 4 shows the subroutine processing of step S308 in the flow chart of FIG. That is, in step S402, the setting status of the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 described above is determined, and if this flag is set, step S40
At 3, the GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to output information regarding the current position. Then, if this flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S408, a message indicating that the GPS sensor unit 24 is not set is displayed using the display unit 20 or the like, and step S406.
Then, the recording operation is performed only for the image information obtained by photographing normally.

When the output of the information on the current position is requested in step S403, the output status of the information on the position is monitored in step S404, and when this information is output, that is, the information on the position is confirmed. Then, the process proceeds to step S405, and first, information on the position is recorded on the recording medium. After this,
In step S406, an image obtained by normal shooting is recorded on the recording medium, and in step S409, the shooting / recording operation ends. At this time, in the recording medium,
The information about the position and the image information obtained by shooting are recorded in association with each other. Specifically, for example, information about this position is used as DOS (Disk Operating System) as header information that is attribute information of image information obtained by shooting.
It is possible to make correspondence by recording based on a predetermined format such as).

On the other hand, if the information regarding the position is not output in step S404, step S407.
Then, a display to that effect is displayed on the display unit 20 or EV as shown in FIG.
The recording operation of the image information is prohibited by using F15 or the like (skipping step S406) and the process proceeds to step S409. At this time, the display should be continued until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output. You may make it return to step S404. In the case of this example as well, the information about the position is output, and the image information can be recorded for the first time.
Instead of the display in step S407, a sound may be output as the notification means.

According to the first embodiment described above, when recording the image information of a photographed image, the information regarding the position at the image-taking point is always recorded in association with the image information. Until the position information is fixed after the move, because the position information has been undetermined from the location and the fixed position information after the move is erroneously recognized as the position information at the shooting point after the move. Eliminates the inability to move from the shooting location.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the details of the processing corresponding to the subroutine processing (shooting mode processing) of step S308 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment, and particularly, the processing shown in FIG. The different point is that even when the information regarding the position is not determined, the recorded image information is preferentially recorded. Note that the configuration block diagrams shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied to the configuration.

That is, this routine starts in step S601, and in step S602 it is determined whether or not the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is set. If this flag is set, in step S603,
The GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to output information regarding the current position. If this flag is not set, the process proceeds to step S608 and the GP
A display indicating that the S sensor unit 24 is not set is displayed using the display unit 20 or the like, and the process proceeds to step S607 to perform a normal recording operation of only image information obtained by photographing.

On the other hand, in step S603, when the output of information on the current position is requested, step S60 is performed.
In 4, the output status of the information regarding the position is monitored, and when this information is output, that is, when the information regarding the position is determined and output, the process proceeds to step S605, and first, the recording of the information regarding the position is performed on the recording medium. Done against. After that, in step S607, the recording of the image obtained by the normal photographing is performed on the recording medium, and in step S609.
The shooting and recording operation is ended with. At this time, on the recording medium, the information regarding the position and the image information obtained by shooting are recorded in association with each other.

On the other hand, in step S604, if the position information is not confirmed and is not output, the process proceeds to step S606, and a display indicating that the position information is not ready is displayed on the display unit 20 or the EVF 15. After that, the process proceeds to step S607, and the recording operation of only the image information obtained by normal photographing is performed.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, even if the information on the position is not ready at the time of shooting, the shooting / recording operation can be preferentially performed, so that a photo opportunity for a break can be obtained. There is an advantage of not missing.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 shows a subroutine process (input of step S309 of FIG. 3 when the process shown in FIG. 6 is applied to the subroutine process (shooting mode process) of step S308 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. 7 is a flowchart showing details of a standby mode process). In the present embodiment, in particular, even when the information regarding the position is not fixed, the recorded image information is preferentially recorded, and further, in the input standby mode after the photographing, regarding the position, After the information is fixed, the feature is that the information about the position is recorded in association with the corresponding image information already recorded. Note that the configuration block diagrams shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied to the configuration.

That is, this routine is started in step S701, and the presence or absence of recorded image information in which position information is not recorded is detected in step S702. Here, when the image information in which the position information is not recorded is detected, the process proceeds to step S703, it is determined whether or not the position information is fixed, and if it is fixed, the position information is determined in step S70.
In step 4, the image information is recorded in association with the already recorded image information.

When the position information is recorded in step S704, it is detected in step S705 whether or not there is other recorded image information in which the position information is not recorded. If there is any other, it is determined in step S704. Returning to this, this routine is repeated until there is no recorded image information for which position information is not recorded. If there is no other information, the routine proceeds to step S706 and this routine is ended.

In step S702, if there is no recorded image information in which position information is not recorded, the process proceeds to step S706 to end this routine, and in step S703, if the position information is not confirmed. Similarly, the routine proceeds to step S706 to end this routine.

According to the third embodiment, since the photographing and recording operation is first preferentially permitted, the photo opportunity is not missed. On the other hand, the information regarding the position is the already recorded image information after the confirmation. Since the information is recorded in correspondence with, there will be no omission of information regarding the position.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the details of the processing corresponding to the subroutine processing (shooting mode processing) of step S308 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment, and particularly the processing shown in FIG. The difference is that even if the information about the position is not confirmed, the recorded image information is preferentially recorded, and the subsequent image information recording is performed on the previously captured image. This is prohibited until the recording of the information regarding the position of the information is confirmed and performed. Note that the configuration block diagrams shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can be applied to the configuration.

That is, this routine is started in step S801, and first, in step S802, a recording operation of photographed image information is executed. Then, step S803
In step S807, the setting status of the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is determined, and if the flag is set, the GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to output information about the current position in step S807.

On the other hand, if this flag is not set, the flow advances to step S804 to display that the GPS sensor unit 24 should be attached using the display unit 20 or the like, and the GPS sensor unit is displayed in step S805. Two
If the mounting condition of No. 4 is judged and it is mounted, step S
Proceeding to 806, the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is set, and proceeding to step S807.

In step S807, when the output of the information regarding the current position is requested, the output status of the information regarding the position is monitored in step S808, and when the information regarding this position is output, that is, this is confirmed as the information. When it is output, the process proceeds to step S810, information about the position is recorded on the recording medium, and the routine ends in step S811. At this time, similarly, on the recording medium, the information regarding the position and the image information obtained by photographing are recorded in association with each other.

On the other hand, as the output status of the position-related information in step S808, if it is not confirmed and output, the process proceeds to step S809, and a display indicating that the position-related information is being detected is displayed on the display unit 20 or the EVF 15. Etc., and returns to step S808. Eventually, it becomes impossible to exit this routine until the information regarding the position corresponding to the image information already captured and recorded is determined and output, and the subsequent recording / recording operation of new image information is prohibited. Will be.

According to the fourth embodiment described above, since the photographing and recording operation is first preferentially permitted, the shutter chance is never missed. Further, the information regarding the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation, but at this time, new photographing and recording operations thereafter are prohibited until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate as much as possible the accidental omission of the recording of the information regarding the position.

Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a main configuration of the present embodiment, and corresponds to the system control 18 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the image information recording control unit 1 for controlling the recording of the image data photographed on the recording medium based on the input operation from the operation unit 21.
8a and information about the current position where the camera is located, which is obtained by measurement in the GPS sensor unit 24, specifically, latitude, longitude, time, altitude, and when moving, speed, etc. A position information recording control unit 18b that controls recording of information on a recording medium and a position measurement unit control unit 1 that controls the operation of the GPS sensor unit 24.
8c, and a camera power controller 18d for controlling the power supply of the camera.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 9 described above, showing the processing corresponding to the subroutine processing (shooting mode processing) of step S308 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Details are shown, and in particular, the points different from those of the processing shown in FIG.
Even if the information regarding the position is not confirmed, the captured image information is preferentially recorded, and until the information regarding the position of the image information captured and recorded is confirmed and recorded. The point is that it is prohibited to turn off the power of the camera.

That is, this routine is started in step S1001, and first, in step S1002, a recording operation of photographed image information is executed. Then, step S1
In 003, the setting status of the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is determined, and when this flag is set, in step S1007, the GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to output information regarding the current position.

On the other hand, if this flag is not set, the flow advances to step S1004 to display that the GPS sensor unit 24 should be attached using the display unit 20 or the like, and in step S1005 the GPS sensor unit is displayed. If the state of attachment of 24 is determined and if it is attached, the process proceeds to step S1006, the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is set, and the process proceeds to step S1007.

In step S1007, when the output of information on the current position is requested, step S100
In 8, the output status of the information regarding the position is monitored, and when the information regarding this position is output, that is, when this is confirmed and output as information, the process proceeds to step S1011.
Recording of information about the position is performed on the recording medium so as to correspond to the already recorded image information. Next, in step S1012, an interrupt for power-off processing is permitted, and this routine ends in step S1013.

On the other hand, as the output status of the position-related information in step S1008, if it is not confirmed and output, the process proceeds to step S1009 and a display indicating that the position-related information is being detected is displayed on the display unit 20 or the EVF 15.
Etc., and subsequently, in step S1010, interrupts for power-off processing are prohibited, and in step S10
Return to 08. Eventually, it becomes impossible to exit this routine until the information regarding the position corresponding to the image information already captured and recorded is determined and output, and the subsequent recording / recording operation of new image information is prohibited. Also, until the information regarding the position is determined and output, the power-off processing is surely prohibited.

According to the fifth embodiment described above, since the photographing and recording operation is preferentially permitted for the time being, the shutter chance is never missed. Further, the information regarding the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation, but at this time, the new photographing and recording operation is prohibited until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output. Since the power-off process is also prohibited until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output, it is possible to surely eliminate the accidental or careless omission of the information regarding the position.

Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 11, 12 and 13. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration of main parts of the present embodiment,
This corresponds to the system control 18 and the operation unit 21 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the image information recording control section 1 for controlling the recording of the image data photographed on the recording medium based on the input operation from the operation section 21.
8a and information about the current position where the camera is located, which is obtained by measurement in the GPS sensor unit 24, specifically, latitude, longitude, time, altitude, and when moving, speed, etc. A position information recording control unit 18b that controls recording of information on a recording medium and a position measurement unit control unit 1 that controls the operation of the GPS sensor unit 24.
8c, and a position information storage unit 18e for storing information about the current position, which is acquired based on an instruction from the position information acquisition instruction unit 21a in the operation unit 21.

12 and 13 are flow charts showing the operation of each processing based on the configuration of FIG. 11 described above. The subroutine processing of step S309 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment (input standby mode processing) ), And details of the processing corresponding to the subroutine processing (shooting mode) of step S308 in FIG.

Therefore, in this embodiment, in particular, when the operator instructs in advance the acquisition of the information relating to the position and stores it, and then when the image information is photographed and recorded, or when the image information is photographed. After the recording, the feature is that the information regarding the stored position is recorded in the recording medium in association with the image information.

That is, in FIG. 12, step S120.
This routine starts at 1 and at step S1202,
The setting status of the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is determined, and if this flag is set, it is determined in step S1204 whether or not the GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to detect information regarding the position. To be done. The determination here is to determine whether or not the operator has instructed the position information fetching instruction section 21a to fetch information on the current position in step S1203. If the fetching instruction has been issued, the step is executed. In S1205, output of information regarding the current position is requested.

In step S1205, when the output of information on the current position is requested, step S120
In 6, the output status of the information regarding the position is monitored, and when the information regarding the position is output, that is, when this is confirmed and output as information, the process proceeds to step S1208, and the storage of the information regarding the position is stored as position information. Storage unit 18
This is performed for e, and the process proceeds to step S1210 to end this routine.

On the other hand, as the output status of the position-related information in step S1206, if it is not confirmed and output, the process proceeds to step S1207, and a display indicating that the position-related information is being detected is displayed on the display unit 20 or the EVF 15.
Etc., and returns to step S1206. After all,
It becomes impossible to exit this routine until the information on the position at that time is confirmed and output.
Only after it is determined can the information about the position be stored. In step S1202, if the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is not set, the process proceeds to step S1209 and the display unit 20 or E
Using the VF 15 or the like, a message indicating that the GPS sensor unit 24 is not attached is displayed, and the flow advances to step S1210 to end this routine.

Next, in the routine of FIG. 13, step S
This routine starts at 1301, and step S130
In 2, first, the recording operation of the captured image information is executed. Then, in step S1303, it is determined whether or not information regarding the position is stored in the position information storage unit 18e. If the information is already stored, the process proceeds to step S1304, and the image in which the information regarding the position is already recorded is recorded. It is recorded on the recording medium so as to correspond to the information, and then the process proceeds to step S1306 to end this routine.

On the other hand, if the position information is not stored in the position information storage unit 18e in step S1303, the process proceeds to step S1305 to warn that the position information is not stored in the position information storage unit 18e. Therefore, the routine proceeds to step S1306 to end this routine.

According to the sixth embodiment, it suffices to leave the detection timing of the information regarding the position to the operator, detect the information regarding the position before photographing, and store it. Therefore, in the case where a large number of images are taken at one place, the troublesomeness of detecting information about the position of communicating with the artificial satellite every time the image is taken is eliminated, and the usability is improved. Further, in shooting and recording, it is possible to easily record the position-related information on the recording medium together with the image information simply by reading out the position-related information from the storage means. It can be expected to save the power supply.
Especially, since the number of times required to communicate with artificial satellites decreases,
As a result, the power supply time to the GPS sensor unit is also reduced, which can greatly contribute to saving the power supply.

Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a main part configuration of the present embodiment, and corresponds to the system control 18 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the image information recording control section 1 for controlling the recording of the image data photographed on the recording medium based on the input operation from the operation section 21.
8a and information about the current position where the camera is located, which is obtained by measurement in the GPS sensor unit 24, specifically, latitude, longitude, time, altitude, and when moving, speed, etc. A position information recording control unit 18b that controls recording of information on a recording medium and a position measurement unit control unit 1 that controls the operation of the GPS sensor unit 24.
In addition to having 8c, it further has a timer unit 18f for measuring time.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 14 described above, showing the processing corresponding to the subroutine processing (shooting mode processing) of step S308 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Details are shown. Thus, the feature of the present embodiment is that the image information is first photographed and recorded, and the time from when the image information is photographed and recorded until the information regarding the subsequent position is confirmed and recorded, The point is that the time measured is also recorded.

That is, this routine is started in step S1501, and first, in step S1502, a recording operation of photographed image information is executed. Then, step S1
At 503, the counting for time counting by the time counting unit 18f is started. In the next step S1504, the setting status of the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is determined, and if this flag is set, step S15
At 08, the GPS sensor unit 24 is requested to output information regarding the current position. After step S1503, as step S1514, a step of starting the display of the counting state by the timing unit 18f may be inserted. Also in this case, it is preferable to use the display unit 20, the EVF 15, or the like. (Refer to the display in the shooting mode in FIG. 16)

If the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is not set in step S1504, the flow advances to step S1505 to display that the GPS sensor unit 24 should be attached using the display unit 20 and the like, and In step S1506, the mounting status of the GPS sensor unit 24 is determined, and if it is mounted, step S1507.
Then, the flag of the GPS sensor unit 24 is set, and the process proceeds to step S1508.

When it is requested in step S1508 to output information about the current position, step S150 is performed.
In 9, the output status of the information regarding the position is monitored, and when the information regarding this position is output, that is, when this is confirmed and output as information, the process proceeds to step S1511,
Recording of information about the position is performed on the recording medium so as to correspond to the already recorded image information. Next, in step S1512, the counting operation started in step S1503 is terminated, and the count result is similarly recorded in association with the recording medium.
The routine proceeds to step 3 to end this routine.

On the other hand, as the output status of the position information in step S1509, if it is not confirmed and output, the process proceeds to step S1510, and a display indicating that the position information is being detected is displayed on the display unit 20 or the EVF 15.
Etc., and returns to step S1509. After all,
It is impossible to exit this routine until the information about the position corresponding to the image information that has already been shot and recorded is confirmed and output, and subsequent shooting and recording operations for new image information are prohibited. become.

According to the seventh embodiment described above, since the photographing and recording operation is preferentially permitted for the time being, the shutter chance is never missed. Further, the information on the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation. At this time, there is a time lag between the recording time of the information on the position and the recording time of the image information together with the information on the position. Since the data is recorded as data, it is possible to more accurately estimate the information regarding the position of the image information captured and recorded while moving.

In the seventh embodiment described above, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, an example in which the result of the time measurement by the time measuring unit 18f is displayed in the shooting / recording mode is shown, but this may be displayed in the playback mode when the image information recorded and shot is played back. .

That is, this will be described with reference to the flowchart of the reproduction process shown in FIG. 17. This routine starts in step S1701, and step S1
At 702, the reproduction operation of the recorded image information is executed. Then, in step S1703, it is determined whether or not the time difference information is recorded in the image information being reproduced. If it is recorded, the process proceeds to step S1704, and the time difference information is displayed in the reproduction mode display of FIG. Then, the process advances to step S1706 to end the present routine.

If the time difference information is not recorded in step S1703, a message to that effect is displayed and step S170
The routine proceeds to 6 and the present routine ends.

According to this example, it is possible to provide a user interface for the operator to immediately recognize the time difference information when reproducing the image information, and to display the information regarding the position of the image information captured and recorded while moving. Estimates are also easier to make.

Next, an eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Figure 18
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a main part configuration of the present embodiment, which is a part corresponding to the system control 18 of FIG. 1 and a battery remaining amount detecting part 25 connected to the system control 18.
It is mainly composed of The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 uses the battery 25 by the connected battery level detector 25.
A battery remaining amount monitoring unit 18g for monitoring the remaining amount detection result for a, and a recording state determination for determining the recording state of the information regarding the position obtained by the GPS sensor unit 24 on the recording medium. It has a unit 18h and a power supply control unit 18i for controlling power supply to each circuit of the power supply.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 18, which corresponds to the subroutine processing (input standby mode processing) of step S309 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Shows the details of. Thus, the feature of the present embodiment is that even if the remaining amount of the battery decreases and the camera reaches the operating limit, the recording of the information regarding the position at that time is not yet completed on the recording medium. The point is that the power supply system is controlled in a predetermined manner in order to ensure the recording of at least the information about the position.

That is, this routine starts in step S1901, and in step S1902 the battery 25a
Monitor the remaining amount of. If the battery level is low, a warning to that effect is displayed in step S1904, and the flow advances to step S1905. On the other hand, if it is confirmed in step S1902 that the remaining battery level is sufficient, the flow advances to step S1903 to exit this routine to the main routine.

In step S1905, it is determined whether or not there is image information in which the information regarding the position has not been recorded on the recording medium. If there is image information in which the information regarding the position has not been recorded, step S1905 is performed. S1
Proceeding to step 906, processing for prohibiting power-off to the GPS sensor unit 24, each display unit, and the circuit system related to recording of information regarding position is performed, and further, step S
In 1907, a process of cutting off the power supply to the circuit system other than the above is performed, and the process proceeds to step S1908.

In step S1908, the fact that the GPS sensor unit 24 is not in the normal operation mode but in the power saving mode as described above is displayed to the operator using the LCD or the like, and the next step S1909 is performed. Proceed to. Then, in step S1909, if the information regarding the position is confirmed and output, the process proceeds to step S1911, the information regarding the position is recorded on the recording medium in association with the image information, and then step S1912.
Then, the power-off process for the entire camera is performed, and the process ends. (Step S1913)

In step S1909, if the position information is not confirmed and output, step S1909 is performed.
Proceeding to 1910, information indicating that position information is being detected is displayed, and the process returns to step S1909. If it is determined in step S1905 that there is no image information for which the position information has not been recorded on the recording medium, the process jumps to step S1912 to perform power-off processing for the entire camera, and the process ends. (Step S1913)

According to the eighth embodiment described above, even when the remaining battery level becomes low and the camera reaches the operating limit, the position information is not recorded on the recording medium. In order to guarantee the recording of the information regarding the position at all times, power is supplied to at least the circuit system involved in the operation of recording the information regarding the position. Therefore, it is possible to reliably record the information regarding the position while effectively utilizing the remaining power source.

Next, a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 20, 21 and 22. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a main part configuration of the present embodiment,
This corresponds to the system control 18 and the operation unit 21 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the recording of the image data photographed on the recording medium based on the input operation from the operation unit 21.
8a and information about the current position where the camera is located, which is obtained by measurement in the GPS sensor unit 24, specifically, latitude, longitude, time, altitude, and when moving, speed, etc. The position information recording control unit 18b for controlling the recording of information on the recording medium and each recording mode of the information regarding the position measured by the GPS sensor unit 24 are set to the position information recording mode setting unit 2 of the operation unit 21.
The position information recording mode control unit 18j for controlling based on the input operation of 1b.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 20 described above, which corresponds to the subroutine processing (initialization of the camera) of step S302 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Shows the details of. Thus, the feature of the present embodiment is that the operator can select the mode of whether to prioritize the recording of the information regarding the position or the recording of the image information according to the usage scene or the purpose of use of the camera. The point is to further improve the usability of the camera equipped with the GPS sensor unit which is the position measuring means.

That is, this routine is started in step S2101, and in step S2102, camera power-on processing including processing for starting power supply to each circuit system and lens (optical system) reset processing is performed. Then, in step S2103, the recording mode of the information regarding the position input by the operation unit 21 is detected, and step S210
If the mode is the position information priority mode (a mode in which the recording of the image information on the recording medium is prohibited until the information regarding the position is determined) in step 4, the process proceeds to step S210.
In step 5, the recording mode of the camera is set to the position information priority mode.

In step S2104, the mode is the image information priority mode (the image information is preferentially recorded on the recording medium even if the information on the position is undetermined, and the position information is Is a mode in which the information regarding the position is recorded in association with the already recorded image information to be supported after the determination), step S2106
In step S2107, the recording mode of the camera is set to the image information priority mode.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing the processing for changing and setting the recording mode of the information relating to the position during the operation of the camera, which is the subroutine processing of step S309 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment ( The details of the processing corresponding to the input standby mode) are shown.

That is, this routine is started in step S2201, and it is determined in step S2203 whether or not the recording mode for recording position information has been changed. Here, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the position information recording mode setting unit 21b of the operation unit 21 in step S2202. If it is determined in step S2203 that the recording mode for recording position information is changed, step S22.
In 04, it is determined whether or not the mode is the position information priority mode, and if so, step S220.
In step 5, the recording mode of the camera is set to the position information priority mode.

If the recording mode is not the position information priority mode in step S2204, step S22.
Proceeding to 06, the recording mode of the camera is set to the image information priority mode, and this routine is ended in step S2207, but if there is no change in the recording mode of information regarding the position in step S2203, the same step is performed. The process jumps to S2207 to end this routine.

According to the ninth embodiment described above, the operator is in the position information priority mode in the shooting and recording scene where the accuracy of the information regarding the position is requested according to the scene or purpose of use of the camera at that time. In addition, since the image information priority mode can be selected in the scene of photographing and recording in which the shutter opportunity or the quick shooting property is required, the usability of the camera equipped with the position measuring means (for example, GPS sensor unit) is further improved.

Next, a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 23, 24 and 25.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the present embodiment, and corresponds to the system control 18 and the operation part 21 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the position measuring unit operation mode control unit 18k for controlling the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit 24 based on the input operation from the position measuring unit operation mode setting unit 21c of the operation unit 21.
And a position measuring unit power supply control unit 18l for controlling power supply to the GPS sensor unit 24.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 23, which corresponds to the subroutine processing (initialization of the camera) of step S302 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Shows the details of. Thus, the feature of the present embodiment is that, depending on the use scene or purpose of use of the camera, the operator can select the operation mode for the position measuring means, for example, the GPS sensor unit at any time, thereby allowing the camera to operate freely. The point is that it is further improved.

That is, this routine is started in step S2401, and in step S2402, camera power-on processing including processing for starting power supply to each circuit system and lens (optical system) reset processing is performed. Then, in step S2403, the operation mode input to the GPS sensor unit is detected, and in step S2404
Then, it is determined whether or not the mode is the constant operation mode (the mode in which the GPS sensor unit constantly measures).
Here, when it is determined that the continuous operation mode is set,
In step S2405, the constant operation mode is set as the operation mode for the GPS sensor unit.

On the other hand, in step S2404, if the input mode is not the constant operation mode, in step S2406, the mode is the recording operation mode (the mode in which the GPS sensor unit measures only during photographing and recording). Determine if there is. Here, when it is determined that the operation mode is the recording operation mode, step S240
7, the recording operation mode is set as the operation mode for the GPS sensor unit.

If it is determined in step S2406 that the input mode is not the recording-time operation mode, then in step S2408, the remaining operation mode (instruction-time operation mode (GPS sensor) A mode in which measurement is performed only when an instruction is given to the unit) is set, and this routine ends in step S2409.

FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing the process of changing and setting the operation mode for the GPS sensor unit during the operation of the camera, which is the subroutine process of step S309 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment ( The details of the processing corresponding to the input standby mode) are shown.

That is, this routine is started in step S2501, and it is determined in step S2503 whether the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit has been changed. Here, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the position measuring unit operation mode setting unit 21c of the operation unit 21 in step S2502. If the operation mode is changed in step S2503, the process proceeds to step S2504, it is determined whether the mode is the constant operation mode, and if so, the process proceeds to step S2505 and the GPS Set the operation mode of the sensor unit to the constant operation mode.

If it is determined in step S2504 that the operation mode is not the constant operation mode, step S2506 is performed.
Then, it is determined whether the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit is the recording operation mode, and if so, the process proceeds to step S2507 to set the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit to the recording operation mode. .

If it is determined in step S2506 that the operation mode is not the recording operation mode, the flow advances to step S2508 to set the remaining instruction mode as the operation mode for the GPS sensor unit. This routine ends in step S2509. When the operation mode is not changed in step S2503, the process similarly jumps to step S2509 to end this routine.

According to the tenth embodiment, the operator can appropriately select the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit, which is the position measuring means, according to the use scene or purpose of use of the camera at that time. . That is, by selecting the constant operation mode in which the constant operation is performed, it is possible to always obtain accurate information regarding the position and obtain the quick-shooting property with respect to the subject. In addition, by selecting the recording operation mode in which the GPS sensor unit is operated only during shooting and recording, it is possible to suppress the power consumption of the camera as compared with the constant operation mode. Further, by selecting the operation mode at the time of instructing the GPS sensor unit to operate only at the time of instructing, it is possible to obtain a camera having a certain degree of power saving and a strong shutter chance.

Next, an eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 26, 27 and 28.
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a main configuration of the present embodiment, and corresponds to the system control 18 and the operation unit 21 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

That is, the system control 18 controls the position measuring section operation mode control section 18k for controlling the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit 24 based on the input operation from the operation section 21, and the power supply to the GPS sensor unit 24. Position measuring unit power supply control unit 18 for controlling
have l and. The operation unit 21 further includes a power supply on / off switch 21d and a setting unit 21e for the position measurement unit power supply control unit 18l.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 26, which corresponds to the subroutine processing (initialization of the camera) of step S302 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. Shows the details of. The feature of the present embodiment is that power is constantly supplied only to the circuit system related to position information acquisition, which is position measurement means, including the GPS sensor unit, regardless of the on / off operation of the power switch of the camera. It has a mode to do.

That is, this routine is started in step S2701, and in step S2702, camera power-on processing including processing for starting power supply to each circuit system and lens (optical system) reset processing is performed. Then, in step S2703, the operation mode for the GPS sensor unit of the power source input by the setting unit 21e is detected.

In step S2704, the setting mode is the constant power supply mode (regardless of the on / off operation of the power switch of the camera, the mode in which the power is constantly supplied only to the circuit system related to the acquisition of the position information, including the GPS sensor unit). If it is, step S2705
After proceeding to step S2 and setting so as to prohibit the process of shutting off the power supply to a predetermined circuit including the GPS sensor unit, the routine proceeds to step S2707 to end this routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2704 that the setting mode is not the constant power supply mode, the flow advances to step S2706 to permit power-off processing to a predetermined circuit including the GPS sensor unit. After setting, similarly, the process proceeds to step S2707 to end the present routine.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing the details of the power-off process of the camera in which the constant power supply mode is set in FIG. 27, which is the subroutine of step S311 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment. It corresponds to processing (power-off processing).

That is, this routine is started in step S2801, and it is determined in step S2802 whether or not the process of cutting off the power supply to a predetermined circuit including the GPS sensor unit is prohibited. Here, if it is prohibited, that is, if the constant power supply mode is set, the process proceeds to step S2803, and after performing the power-off process for a circuit other than the predetermined circuit including the GPS sensor unit, In step S2804, it is displayed that the camera is set to the constant power supply mode, and the process advances to step S2806 to end the present routine.

On the other hand, in step S2802 described above,
If the above-described constant power supply mode is not set, the process advances to step S2805 to perform a normal power shutoff process, and then similarly advances to step S2806 to end the present routine.

According to the eleventh embodiment, when the power of the camera is once turned off and the GPS sensor unit is turned off, the GPS sensor unit outputs the information regarding the accurate position when the camera is started next time. It takes a considerable amount of time to get to the shooting / recording operation, but even if the camera is turned off, it is possible to immediately obtain accurate position information from the GPS sensor unit when the camera is restarted. There is an advantage that you do not miss a photo opportunity while saving power as a camera.

Next, a twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 29, 30 and 31.
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a main configuration of the present embodiment and corresponds to the system control 18 of FIG. The other constituent members are the same as the constituent members shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, in particular, a plurality of types of device structures such as a GPS sensor unit having a built-in position measuring means having different output data formats can be detachably applied to the camera. By recognizing what kind or format the output data format of the applied device structure is, the input interface unit of the output position information data is appropriately switched, and this is recorded together with the image information. It is characterized in that it can be recorded on a medium.

That is, in FIG. 29, the system control 18 recognizes the position information output format recognition unit 18m for recognizing the data format of the position information output from the GPS sensor unit as the connected device structure, and this recognition. The position information output format identification unit 18n for specifically identifying the format of the format recognized by the unit 18m, the position information input unit 18o for inputting information regarding the position, and the position information output format identification unit 18n. And a position information input interface switching unit 18p for switching the position information input unit 18o so as to match the identified format.・

In the configuration shown in FIG. 29, the switching of the input section 18o of the information data regarding the position is executed by the software processing in the system control 18, but in the present embodiment, it is partially hardware. It is also possible to carry out. This will be described below.

That is, in FIG. 30, the system control 18 recognizes the position information output format recognizing unit 18m for recognizing the data format of the information on the position output from the GPS sensor unit as the connected device structure, and this recognition. A position information output format identification unit 18n for specifically identifying the format of the format recognized by the unit 18m, and data input so as to match the identified format based on the identification result by the identification unit 18n. It has a position information input interface unit 23a of the output unit 23 or a position information input interface switching unit 18p for switching to the position information input interface unit 26a of the PC card interface unit 26. In this mode, the GPS sensor unit as the device structure is connected via the data input / output unit 23 or the PC card interface unit 26.

FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing the processing operation based on the configuration of FIG. 29 or FIG. 30, and the subroutine processing of step S304 of FIG. 3 in the first embodiment (position measurement unit initialization). The details of the processing corresponding to are shown.

That is, this routine is started in step S3101, and in step S3102, the applied GPS is applied.
The format of the sensor unit (position measuring unit) is determined. The determination here is performed by the position information output format recognition unit 18m and the position information output format identification unit 1 described above.
The process by 8n is executed. Then, step S31
03, the position information input unit 18o, the position information input interface unit 23a, or the position information input interface unit 26 of the PC card interface unit 26.
A predetermined switching of the input interface is performed for a, and this routine ends in step S3104.

According to the twelfth embodiment, the type of the GPS sensor unit (position measuring unit) connected to the camera is automatically recognized and identified, and the GPS sensor unit conforms to the output format. Since the input interface unit is switched as described above, various position measuring units can be applied to the camera and the versatility thereof can be improved.

In the present invention, the information regarding the position in each of the above-mentioned embodiments includes not only the information regarding the position indicating the absolute position on the earth but also the relative position with respect to the certain position. Information indicating a position can also be adopted as information relating to the position, and in addition, specific position information such as place name information and an address obtained by comparing with map data stored in the camera can also be adopted. In addition to the above digital still camera, the camera of the present invention includes a camera using a silver salt film.

[0117]

As described above in detail, according to the camera of the present invention, the image information obtained by photographing the information about the position of the user on the earth by using the GPS or the like as the position measuring means. Along with being able to record in association with a recording medium, various problems in using this type of camera can be totally eliminated, and a camera with its convenience and reliability improved from the viewpoint of practical usability is provided. can do. still,
The gist of the configuration of each of the above-described embodiments and the specific effects thereof are as follows.

(1) Position measuring means for receiving data transmitted from an artificial satellite and measuring its own position on the earth based on the received data, and a subject image formed through an optical system. In a camera provided with a recording means for recording the image information based on the position information and the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means in association with a predetermined recording medium, A camera provided with a control unit that controls recording of image information on the recording medium by the recording unit until the position information regarding the position is determined. According to this configuration, in recording the image information of the photographed image, the information regarding the position at the photographing point is always recorded in association with the image information. It is moved, and the position information determined after the movement is erroneously recognized as the position information at the shooting point after the movement, or conversely, even after the shooting, the position cannot be moved until the position information is fixed. That is solved.

(2) The camera according to (1), further including an informing unit indicating an unconfirmed state until the position information is fixed. According to this configuration, the operator can clearly know whether or not the position information is ready at that time before recording the image, so that the operation mistakes in handling are reduced and the usability as a camera is reduced. improves.

(3) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit for recording image information based on the above and position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, A camera provided with a control unit that controls to preferentially record the image information on the recording medium by the recording unit even if the position information regarding the position is undetermined. According to this configuration, even if the information regarding the position is not ready at the time of shooting, the shooting / recording operation can be preferentially performed, so that there is an effect that a shutter chance at a corner is not missed.

(4) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording means for recording the image information based on the position information and the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means in association with a predetermined recording medium, Even if the position information regarding the position is unconfirmed, the recording means controls the recording of the image information on the recording medium with priority, and after the position information is confirmed, the position information is not confirmed. A camera provided with a control means for controlling the fixed position information to be recorded on the recording medium in association with one or a series of a plurality of image information recorded at the time of confirmation. According to this configuration, the shooting and recording operation is first preferentially permitted so that the photo opportunity is not missed. On the other hand, the position information is also recorded after the confirmation in association with the already recorded image information. , There is no omission of record of position information.

(5) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of oneself on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit for recording image information based on the above and position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, Even if the position information regarding the position is unconfirmed, the recording means controls the recording of the image information on the recording medium with priority, and the position information is confirmed and recorded on the recording medium. Until then, the camera is provided with a control means for controlling so as to prohibit the subsequent recording of image information by the recording means on the recording medium. According to this configuration, since the photographing and recording operation is first preferentially permitted, the photo opportunity will not be missed. Further, the information regarding the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation, but at this time, new photographing and recording operations thereafter are prohibited until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the possibility that the information regarding the position is not recorded by mistake.

(6) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit for recording image information based on the above and position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, Even if the position information regarding the position is unconfirmed, the recording means controls the recording of the image information on the recording medium with priority, and the position information is confirmed and recorded on the recording medium. Until this is done, the camera is equipped with a control means that controls the power off of the camera. According to this configuration, since the photographing and recording operation is first preferentially permitted, the photo opportunity will not be missed.
Further, the information regarding the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation, but at this time, the new photographing and recording operation is prohibited until the information regarding the position is confirmed and output. , The power shutoff process is also prohibited until the information about the position is confirmed and output.
It is possible to surely eliminate the accidental or careless omission of the recording of the information regarding the position.

(7) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit that records image information based on the image information and position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, An operation switch, a position information storage unit that stores the position information acquired based on an input instruction of the operation switch, and the position information storage unit during or after recording the image information on the recording medium by the recording unit. And a control unit for controlling the position information to be read from the unit and recorded on the recording medium. According to this configuration, it is sufficient to leave the detection timing of the information regarding the position to the operator, and to detect the information regarding the position before shooting and store the information, so that a large number of images can be recorded at one place. For example, when taking a picture, the troublesomeness of detecting information about the position, such as communicating with an artificial satellite every time the picture is taken, is eliminated, and the operability is improved. Further, in photographing and recording, it is possible to easily record the position information on the recording medium together with the image information simply by reading the position information from the storage means.
It can be expected that the time required for shooting and recording will be shortened, and the time saved will save power. In particular, since the number of times required to communicate with the artificial satellite is reduced, the total power supply time to the position measuring means is also reduced, which can greatly contribute to the saving of the power source.

(8) When the control means detects that the position information is recorded on the recording medium at a time substantially different from the corresponding image information, the recording means records the recorded information. The camera according to (4), (5), (6) or (7), further including means for controlling the time difference to be recorded on the recording medium. According to this configuration, since the photographing and recording operation is first preferentially permitted, the photo opportunity will not be missed. Further, the information on the position is also recorded in association with the already recorded image information after the confirmation. At this time, there is a time lag between the recording time of the information on the position and the recording time of the image information together with the information on the position. Since the data is recorded as data, it is possible to more accurately estimate the information regarding the position of the image information captured and recorded while moving.

(9) The camera further comprises display means for displaying the recording time difference when the position information is recorded on the recording medium at a time substantially different from the corresponding image information ( 4), (5), (6) or (7)
Camera. With this configuration, it is possible to provide a user interface for the operator to immediately recognize the time difference information when reproducing the image information, and also to estimate the position information regarding the image information recorded and recorded while moving. It will be easier.

(10) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording means for recording image information based on the above and position information relating to its own position measured by the position measuring means in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, the remaining amount of the battery as a power source of the camera. A battery remaining amount detecting means for detecting the battery remaining amount detecting means, a recording state determining means for determining the recording state of the position information on the recording medium by the recording means, and a battery remaining amount detecting result by the battery remaining amount detecting means for a predetermined amount. Detected to be
And a control means for controlling the power supply from the battery only to the circuit system related to the recording of the position information when the recording status determination means determines that the position information is in an unrecorded state. A camera. According to this configuration, even when the remaining battery level becomes low and the camera reaches the operating limit, if the position information is not yet recorded on the recording medium, at least the position information is stored. By supplying power to the circuit system involved in the recording operation, the recording of the information regarding the position is always guaranteed. Therefore, it is possible to reliably record the information regarding the position while effectively utilizing the remaining power source.

(11) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit for recording image information based on the above and position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, Until the position information regarding the position is determined, the position information priority mode in which the recording unit controls the recording of the image information on the recording medium is prohibited, and the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit is displayed. Even in the unconfirmed state, the recording means controls the recording of the image information on the recording medium with priority, and after the position information is confirmed, The operation is performed in any one of the image information priority modes in which the determined position information is controlled to be recorded on the recording medium in association with one or a series of image information recorded when the position information is not confirmed. A camera equipped with a control means that controls as described above. According to this configuration, the operator selects the position information priority mode in a shooting / recording scene in which accuracy of position-related information is requested according to the scene or purpose of use of the camera at that time, and the shutter chance Alternatively, the image information priority mode can be selected in a shooting / recording scene requiring a quick-shooting property, so that the usability of a camera equipped with a position measuring means (for example, a GPS sensor unit) is further improved.

(12) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of oneself on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording means for recording image information based on the above and position information relating to its own position measured by the position measuring means in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, the position measuring means always performs measurement. The measurement operation is performed in any one of an operation mode, an operation mode at the time of shooting / recording in which the position measuring means performs measurement at the time of shooting / recording, and an operation mode at an instruction time in which measurement is performed only when an input instruction is given to the position measuring means. A camera equipped with a control means that controls as described above. According to this configuration, the operator
Depending on the use situation or purpose of use of the camera at that time,
For example, the operation mode of the GPS sensor unit, which is the position measuring means, can be appropriately selected. That is, by selecting the constant operation mode in which the constant operation is performed, it is possible to always obtain accurate information regarding the position and obtain the quick-shooting property with respect to the subject. Further, by selecting the shooting / recording operation mode in which the GPS sensor unit is operated only at the time of shooting / recording, the power consumption of the camera can be suppressed as compared with the constant operation mode. Further, by selecting the operation mode at the time of instructing the GPS sensor unit to operate only at the time of instructing, it is possible to obtain a camera having a certain degree of power saving and a strong shutter chance.

(13) Position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data, and the subject image formed through the optical system. In a camera provided with a recording unit that records image information based on the above and position information relating to its own position measured by the position measuring unit in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, depending on an on / off operation of a power switch of the camera. A camera provided with a power supply mode in which power is constantly supplied only to a circuit system related to acquisition of position information relating to the position of the self measured by the position measuring means. According to this configuration, when the power of the camera is once turned off and the position measuring means is turned off at the same time, it takes a considerable time for the position measuring means to output accurate position information at the next camera startup. However, where there is a problem that it is not possible to move quickly to the shooting and recording operation, even if the power of the camera is turned off, the information regarding the accurate position can be immediately obtained from the position measuring means when the camera is restarted. It has the advantage of not missing a photo opportunity.

(14) Assuming that the device structure having the position measuring means for receiving the data transmitted from the artificial satellite and measuring the position of the self on the earth based on the received data has a different output format. A plurality of types, which are not detachably applicable to the camera, relate to image information based on a subject image formed through an optical system and the position of the self measured by the position measuring means of the inserted device structure. Depending on the type of the inserted device structure, recording means for recording the positional information in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, and for enabling the recording means to recognize the output format and record the positional information. And a control means for controlling the input interface unit to switch. According to this configuration, the type and the like of the position measuring unit as the device structure connected to the camera is automatically recognized and identified, and the input interface unit is switched so as to match the output format from this device structure. Therefore, various position measuring units can be applied to the camera, and its versatility can be improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration block diagram showing an application example of a camera according to a first embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an internal configuration of the system control of FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a basic operation sequence of the digital still camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a specific display example on the display unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to an input standby mode of the digital still camera according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a configuration block diagram showing a main part of an application example of a camera according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a configuration block diagram showing a main part of an application example of a camera according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to an input standby mode of the digital still camera according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a configuration block diagram showing a main part of an application example of a digital still camera which is a seventh embodiment of a camera according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a shooting mode of the digital still camera according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a specific display example on the display unit according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to a reproduction mode of the digital still camera according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 18] Fig. 18 is a configuration block diagram showing a main part of an application example of a camera according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to an input standby mode of the digital still camera according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 20] Fig. 20 is a configuration block diagram illustrating a main part of an application example of a camera according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to initialization of a digital still camera according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing an operation sequence relating to an input standby mode of the digital still camera according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a configuration block diagram showing a main part of an application example of the camera according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to initialization of the digital still camera according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to an input standby mode of the digital still camera according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 26] Fig. 26 is a configuration block diagram illustrating a main part of an application example of a digital still camera that is an eleventh embodiment of a camera according to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to initialization of the digital still camera according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing an operation sequence relating to power-off processing of the digital still camera according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 29] Fig. 29 is a configuration block diagram illustrating a main part of an application example of a camera according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, which is a digital still camera.

FIG. 30 is another configuration block diagram showing the main parts of an application example of the camera according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention to a digital still camera.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing an operation sequence relating to initialization of the position measuring unit of the digital still camera according to the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a system conceptual diagram of a general camera using GPS.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Optical System 2 CCD 3 Imaging Process Circuit 4 A / D Conversion Circuit 5 Frame Memory 6 DCT / IDCT Circuit 7 Coder / Decoder Circuit 8 Auxiliary Memory 9 IC Memory Card A 10 IC Memory Card B 11 Data Bus A 12 Digital Process Circuit 13 D / A conversion circuit 14 Video buffer 15 Electronic viewfinder (EVF) 16 External terminal 17 Memory control 18 System control 19 Character generator 20 Display section 21 Operation section 22 Data bus B 23 Data input / output section 24 Position measuring section (GPS sensor unit ) 25 Battery level detector

Claims (3)

[Claims] 1. Receiving data transmitted from an artificial satellite,
Position measuring means for measuring one's position on the earth based on the received data, image information based on a subject image formed through an optical system, and one's own position measured by the position measuring means In a camera provided with a recording means for recording position information and a predetermined recording medium, until the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring means is confirmed, the image information is recorded on the recording medium by the recording means. A camera provided with a control means for controlling so as to prohibit recording. 2. The camera according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that indicates an undetermined state until the position information is confirmed. 3. Receiving data transmitted from an artificial satellite,
Position measuring means for measuring one's position on the earth based on the received data, image information based on a subject image formed through an optical system, and one's own position measured by the position measuring means In a camera provided with a recording unit that records position information in a predetermined recording medium in association with each other, even if the position information regarding the own position measured by the position measuring unit is in an unconfirmed state, A camera provided with a control means for controlling to preferentially record image information on the recording medium.