JPH11127425A - Information processor and method for controlling the same device and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To realize a television telephone by an information processor having a compact display device. SOLUTION: When an electronic camera 1 is connected through a public line with a modular jack 18 and a photographic lens 3 is faced to the direction opposed to a surface X1 (the direction of a face on which a CD is formed), the picture of a photographed user is transmitted through the public line to a communicating party and displayed on the LCD of the communicating party side. Also, the picture of the user of the communicating party photographed at the communicating party side is transmitted through the public line and displayed on the LCD. In this state, when the user performs an operation for displaying memo information such as a linear picture on the LCD, the same memo information is displayed not only on the LCD of the oneself side but also on the LCD of the other side. That is, when one user performs an operation for displaying the picture of the oneself side on the LCD of the oneself side, the same picture is also displayed on the LCD of the other user.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a control method for the information processing apparatus, and a recording medium, and more particularly, to an information processing apparatus which is connected to each other via a communication line and can communicate information. The present invention relates to a processing device, a control method for an information processing device, and a recording medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Advances in image compression technology have made it possible to transmit images using a transmission medium such as a telephone line which has a relatively small transmission capacity.

For example, in a videophone or the like, an image picked up by a CCD or the like is converted to an MPEG (Moving Picture Exp).
erts Group), compresses the data, and sends it to the communication partner via a telephone line. The receiving side displays the original image on an LCD or the like after decompression processing. .

[0004]

By the way, in the case where the above-mentioned videophone system is to be realized by a portable information processing device, the display device provided in these devices is small in size. When a plurality of images are displayed at the same time, there is a problem that the resolution of each image is reduced, and as a result, the images are difficult to see.

Therefore, it is conceivable to appropriately select and display these images, but there has been a problem that no suitable selection method has been proposed in the past.

The present invention has been made in view of the above situation. For example, when a videophone system is constructed using a portable information processing device having a small display device, a plurality of images are displayed. It is possible to appropriately select and display on a display device.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus, comprising: an image input unit to which an image is input; an image input by the image input unit; Output means for outputting the displayed image to the display device, and a first mode in which an image displayed on the display device by the output means is different from an image displayed on the display device of another information processing device. Second image is similar
And a control means for controlling the switching means in accordance with the state of the information processing apparatus.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling an information processing apparatus, wherein an image is input, and the input image or an image transmitted from another information processing apparatus is output to a display device and displayed. An image displayed on a device is different from an image displayed on a display device of another information processing device in a first mode and a second mode in which these images are the same according to the state of the information processing device. And switching.

In the recording medium according to the present invention, an image is input, and the input image or an image sent from another information processing device is output to a display device and displayed on the display device. A control program that switches between a first mode in which an image to be displayed is different from an image displayed on a display device of another information processing apparatus and a second mode in which these images are similar in accordance with the state of the information processing apparatus Is recorded.

[0010]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views showing the configuration of an embodiment of an electronic camera to which the present invention is applied. In the electronic camera according to the present embodiment, when the subject is normally photographed (when the LCD 6 is turned to the user side),
The surface facing the subject is referred to as a surface X1, and the surface facing the user is referred to as a surface X2. Above the plane X1, a finder 2, a taking lens 3, a light emitting unit 4, a red-eye reduction lamp 15, a photometric element 16, and a rotating unit 19 provided with a colorimetric element 17 are arranged. The rotation unit 19 is rotatable, and is configured to move the surface on which the photographing lens 3 is provided
It is possible to rotate from one direction in the direction of the plane X2 and to fix it at an arbitrary position. The finder 2 is used to confirm the photographing range of the subject, the photographing lens 3 captures an optical image of the subject, and the light emitting section (strobe) 4 emits light for illuminating the subject.

Further, the red-eye reduction lamp 15 is adapted to emit red light before the flash 4 is emitted to reduce red-eye when the flash 4 is emitted for photographing. The photometric element 16 performs photometry when the operation of the CCD 20 (FIG. 4: image input means) is stopped. Further, the colorimetric element 17 is also
The colorimetry is performed when the operation is stopped.

On the other hand, on the back surface of the rotating unit 19 (the surface opposite to the surface on which the photographing lens 3 is provided), the eyepiece of the finder 2 and the sound recorded in the electronic camera 1 are recorded. An output speaker 5 is provided. Also, surface X
The LCD 6 and the operation keys 7 formed on the camera 2 are formed vertically below the finder 2, the photographing lens 3, the light emitting unit 4, and the speaker 5. On the surface of the LCD 6, a so-called touch tablet 6A (image input means, selection means) for outputting position data corresponding to a pointed position by a touch operation of a pen-type pointing device described later is arranged.

The touch tablet 6A is made of a transparent material such as glass, resin or the like.
LCD 6 formed inside touch tablet 6A
Can be observed through the touch tablet 6A.

The operation keys 7 are operated when, for example, reproducing and displaying recorded data on the LCD 6. The operation keys 7 detect an operation (input) by a user and supply it to the CPU 39 (FIG. 6: switching means, control means). It has been made like that.

The menu key 7A of the operation keys 7 is
These keys are operated when displaying a menu screen on the LCD 6. The execution key 7B is a key operated when reproducing the recording information selected by the user.

The clear key 7C is operated when deleting recorded information. Cancel key 7D
Are keys operated when the reproduction process of recorded information is interrupted. The scroll key 7E is a key operated to scroll the screen up and down when a list of recording information is displayed on the LCD 6.

On the surface X2, a slidable LCD cover 14 for protecting the LCD 6 when not in use.
Is provided. The LCD cover 14 covers the LCD 6 and the touch tablet 6A as shown in FIG. 3 when moved vertically upward. Also, L
When the CD cover 14 is moved vertically downward, the LCD 6
In addition, the touch tablet 6A appears, and the power switch 11 (described later) arranged on the surface Y2 is turned on by the arm 14A of the LCD cover 14.

On the upper surface of the electronic camera 1, a microphone 8 for collecting sound and an earphone jack 9 to which an earphone (not shown) is connected are provided.

On the left side (surface Y1), a release switch 10 operated when capturing an image of a subject, a continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 operated when switching between continuous shooting modes during shooting, and a telephone line. A modular jack 18 used for connection is provided. The release switch 10 and the continuous shooting mode switch 1
3 and a modular jack 18 are provided with a finder 2, a photographing lens 3,
It is arranged vertically below.

On the other hand, a surface Y2 opposite to the surface Y1 (right side surface)
Has a recording switch 1 operated when recording voice.
2 and a power switch 11. The recording switch 12 and the power switch 11 are, like the release switch 10 and the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13, vertically below the finder 2, the photographing lens 3, and the light emitting unit 4 provided in the rotating unit 19. Are located.
The recording switch 12 is formed at substantially the same height as the release switch 10 on the surface Y1, so that it does not feel uncomfortable when holding it with either left or right hand.

By making the height of the recording switch 12 and that of the release switch 10 different from each other, when one of the switches is pressed, when the opposite side is held with a finger to cancel the moment due to this pressing force, The switch provided on the opposite side may be prevented from being pressed by mistake.

The continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 is
When the user presses the release switch 10 to photograph a subject, this is used to set whether to photograph the subject in one frame or a predetermined plurality of frames. For example, when the release switch 10 is pressed while the pointer of the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 is switched to the position where “S” is printed (that is, the mode is switched to the S mode), only one frame is shot. Has been made to take place.

When the release switch 10 is pressed when the pointer of the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 is switched to the position where "L" is printed (ie, the mode is switched to the L mode), the release is performed. During the period in which the switch 10 is pressed, eight frames are shot per second (that is, the low-speed continuous shooting mode is set).

Further, a continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
When the release switch 10 is pressed in a case where the pointer is switched to the position where “H” is printed (that is, the mode is switched to the H mode), during the period in which the release switch 10 is pressed, 30 frames are taken per second (that is, high-speed continuous shooting mode is set).

Next, the internal configuration of the electronic camera 1 will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the internal configuration of the electronic camera shown in FIGS. The CCD 20 is provided at a stage subsequent to the photographing lens 3 and photoelectrically converts a light image of a subject formed through the photographing lens 3 into an electric signal.

The display element 26 in the viewfinder is arranged in the field of view of the viewfinder 2 and displays the setting state of various functions to the user who is looking at the subject through the viewfinder 2. The finder 2, the photographing lens 3, the light-emitting unit 4, the speaker 5, the CCD 20, and the light-emitting element 26 in the finder are formed by a cylindrical rotating unit 1.
9.

On the lower side of the LCD 6, four cylindrical batteries (AA batteries) 21 are vertically arranged, and the power stored in the battery 21 is supplied to each part. Further, a capacitor 22 for storing electric charge for causing the light emitting section 4 to emit light is arranged together with the battery 21 below the LCD 6 vertically.

Various control circuits for controlling each part of the electronic camera 1 are formed on the circuit board 23. A removable memory card 24 (recording means) is provided between the circuit board 23, the LCD 6 and the battery 21, and various kinds of information input to the electronic camera 1 are stored in the memory card 24 in advance. Each is recorded in the set area.

Further, the LCD switch 25 arranged adjacent to the power switch 11 is a switch which is turned on only while its projection is being pressed,
When the cover 14 is moved vertically downward, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the arm 14A of the LCD cover 14 is turned on together with the power switch 11.

When the LCD cover 14 is located vertically upward, the power switch 11 is turned on by the LCD switch 25.
Independent of the user. For example, LC
When the D cover 14 is closed and the electronic camera 1 is not used, as shown in FIG.
And the LCD switch 25 is off. In this state, the user turns the power switch 11 on as shown in FIG.
As shown in (5), when the power switch 11 is turned on, the power switch 11 is turned on, but the LCD switch 25 remains off. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the power switch 11 and the LCD switch 25 are turned off and the LCD cover 14 is opened,
As shown in (a), the power switch 11 and the LCD switch 25 are turned on. Thereafter, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, only the LCD switch 25 is turned on as shown in FIG.
As shown in (c), the device is turned off.

Further, as shown in FIG.
An arbitrary angle between the normal direction of the plane X1 and the normal direction of the plane X2 can be set.

In the present embodiment, the memory card 24 can be inserted and removed. However, a memory may be provided on the circuit board 23 so that various kinds of information can be recorded in the memory. Also, a memory (memory card 24)
May be output to an external personal computer via an interface (not shown).

Next, the electrical configuration inside the electronic camera 1 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. The CCD 20 having a plurality of pixels photoelectrically converts a light image formed on each pixel into an image signal (electric signal). A digital signal processor (hereinafter referred to as DSP) 33 (recording means) supplies a CCD horizontal drive pulse to the CCD 20 and controls the CCD drive circuit 34 so that the CCD 20 is supplied with a CCD vertical drive pulse.

The image processing section 31 is controlled by the CPU 39, samples the image signal photoelectrically converted by the CCD 20 at a predetermined timing, and converts the sampled signal into a signal.
It is designed to amplify to a predetermined level. Analog / digital conversion circuit (hereinafter referred to as A / D conversion circuit)
Numeral 32 is configured to digitize the image signal sampled by the image processing unit 31 and supply it to the DSP 33.

The DSP 33 controls a data bus connected to the buffer memory 36 and the memory card 24.
After temporarily storing the image data supplied from the / D conversion circuit 32 in the buffer memory 36, the image data stored in the buffer memory 36 is read, and the image data is recorded on the memory card 24.

The DSP 33 includes an A / D conversion circuit 32
The supplied image data is stored in the frame memory 35 (output means) and displayed on the LCD 6, the captured image data is read from the memory card 24, the captured image data is expanded, and the expanded image data is stored in a frame. The data is stored in the memory 35 and displayed on the LCD 6.

Further, when the electronic camera 1 is started, the DSP 33 adjusts the exposure time (exposure value) while adjusting the exposure time (exposure value) until the exposure level of the CCD 20 becomes an appropriate value.
0 is repeatedly operated. At this time, first, the DSP 33 operates the photometric circuit 51, and in accordance with the light receiving level detected by the photometric element 16, C
The initial value of the exposure time of the CD 20 may be calculated. By doing so, the exposure time of the CCD 20 can be adjusted in a short time.

In addition, the DSP 33 stores the memory card 24
, And the timing of data input / output in the storage of the decompressed image data in the buffer memory 36 and the like.

The buffer memory 36 stores the memory card 24
Speed of data input / output to / from CPU 39 and DSP
It is used to alleviate the difference in processing speed in, for example, 33.

The microphone 8 inputs audio information (collects audio) and supplies the audio information to the A / D and D / A conversion circuit 42.

The A / D and D / A conversion circuit 42 converts an analog signal corresponding to the sound detected by the microphone 8 into a digital signal, and then outputs the digital signal to the CPU 39 and is supplied from the CPU 39. The audio data is converted into an analog signal, and an analog audio signal is output to the speaker 5.

The photometric element 16 measures the light quantity of the object and its surroundings, and outputs the measurement result to the photometric circuit 51.

The photometric circuit 51 performs predetermined processing on an analog signal as a photometric result supplied from the photometric element 16, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal to the CPU 39. I have.

The colorimetric element 17 measures the color temperature of the object and its surroundings, and outputs the measurement result to the colorimetric circuit 52.

The colorimetric circuit 52 performs a predetermined process on the analog signal as the colorimetric result supplied from the colorimetric element 17, converts the analog signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal to the CPU 39. Has been made.

The timer 45 has a built-in clock circuit, and outputs data corresponding to the current time to the CPU 39.

The aperture drive circuit 53 sets the aperture diameter of the aperture 54 to a predetermined value.

The diaphragm 54 is arranged between the photographing lens 3 and the CCD 20, and changes the aperture of light incident on the CCD 20 from the photographing lens 3.

The rotation unit position detection circuit 55 refers to the output from the potentiometer 56 that is linked with the rotation unit 19,
At this time, the direction in which the rotating portion 19 is turned is detected.

The modem unit 57 transmits and receives information to and from another electronic camera 1 connected via a public line.
The format of the data is converted.

In response to a signal from the LCD switch 25, the CPU 39 stops the operations of the photometric circuit 51 and the colorimetric circuit 52 when the LCD cover 14 is open, and stops the operation when the LCD cover 14 is closed. Is
The photometric circuit 51 and the colorimetric circuit 52 are operated, and C is held until the release switch 10 is half-pressed.
The operation of the CD 20 (for example, an electronic shutter operation) is stopped.

When the operation of the CCD 20 is stopped, the CPU 39 controls the photometric circuit 51 and the colorimetric circuit 52 so as to receive the photometric result of the photometric element 16 and the colorimetric result of the colorimetric element 17. It has been done.

Then, the CPU 39 calculates a white balance adjustment value corresponding to the color temperature supplied from the color measurement circuit 52 with reference to a predetermined table, and supplies the white balance adjustment value to the image processing section 31. It has been made like that.

That is, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, the operation of the CCD 20 is stopped because the LCD 6 is not used as an electronic viewfinder. Since the CCD 20 consumes a lot of power, stopping the operation of the CCD 20 in this way can save the power of the battery 21.

When the LCD cover 14 is closed, the CPU 39 operates until the release switch 10 is operated (until the release switch 10 is half-pressed).
The image processing unit 31 is controlled so that the image processing unit 31 does not perform various processes.

Further, the CPU 39 controls the LCD cover 14
Is closed, until the release switch 10 is operated (until the release switch 10 is half-pressed) so that the aperture driving circuit 53 does not perform an operation of changing the aperture diameter of the aperture 54 or the like. The circuit 53 is controlled.

The CPU 39 controls the strobe drive circuit 37 so that the strobe 4 emits light appropriately. In addition, the CPU 39 controls the red-eye reduction lamp drive circuit 38 so that the red-eye reduction lamp is driven before the strobe 4 emits light. 15 is adapted to emit light as appropriate.

When the LCD cover 14 is open (ie, when the electronic viewfinder is used), the CPU 39 does not allow the strobe 4 to emit light. By doing so, the subject can be photographed in the state of the image displayed on the electronic viewfinder.

The CPU 39 records information on the date and time of shooting as header information of the image data in the shot image recording area of the memory card 24 in accordance with the date and time data supplied from the timer 45. (That is, the photographed image data recorded in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24 is accompanied by data of the photographing date and time).

Further, the CPU 39 compresses the digitized voice information, temporarily stores the digitized and compressed voice data in the buffer memory 36, and then stores the voice data in a predetermined area of the memory card 24 (voice recording). Area). At this time, in the audio recording area of the memory card 24, data of the recording date and time is recorded as header information of the audio data.

The CPU 39 controls the lens driving circuit 30 to move the photographing lens 3 to perform an autofocus operation, and also controls the aperture driving circuit 53 to be disposed between the photographing lens 3 and the CCD 20. Diaphragm 54
The opening diameter is changed.

Further, the CPU 39 controls the display circuit 40 in the finder to display the settings in various operations on the display element 26 in the finder.

The CPU 39 has an interface (I / F)
48, predetermined data is exchanged with a predetermined external device (not shown).

The CPU 39 receives signals from the operation keys 7 and processes the signals as appropriate.

A pen operated by the user (pen-type indicating member)
When a predetermined position of the touch tablet 6A is pressed by the CPU 41, the CPU 39 reads the XY coordinates of the pressed position of the touch tablet 6A, and stores the coordinate data (line drawing information described later) in the buffer memory 36. It has been made to be. The CPU 39 records the line drawing information stored in the buffer memory 36 in the line drawing information recording area of the memory card 24 together with the header information of the line drawing information input date and time.

Next, various operations of the electronic camera 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. First, the operation of the electronic viewfinder on the LCD 6 of the present apparatus will be described.

When the user half-presses the release switch 10, the DSP 33 determines whether or not the LCD cover 14 is open from the value of the signal supplied from the CPU 39 corresponding to the state of the LCD switch 25. L
If it is determined that the CD cover 14 is closed, the electronic viewfinder operation is not performed. In this case, DSP33
Stops the processing until the release switch 10 is operated.

When the LCD cover 14 is closed, the electronic viewfinder operation is not performed.
39 stops the operation of the CCD 20, the image processing unit 31, and the aperture driving circuit 53. And the CPU 39
Operates the photometric circuit 51 and the colorimetric circuit 52 instead of stopping the CCD 20, and supplies the measurement results to the image processing unit 31. The image processing unit 31 uses the values of the measurement results when performing white balance control and luminance value control.

When the release switch 10 is operated, the CPU 39 controls the CCD 20 and the aperture driving circuit 5
3 is performed.

On the other hand, when the LCD cover 14 is open, the CCD 20 performs an electronic shutter operation at a predetermined exposure time for a predetermined exposure time, and photoelectrically converts the light image of the subject condensed by the photographing lens 3. Then, the image signal obtained by the operation is output to the image processing unit 31.

The image processing section 31 performs white balance control and luminance value control, performs predetermined processing on the image signal, and outputs the image signal to the A / D conversion circuit 32. When the CCD 20 is operating, the image processing unit 31 uses the adjustment values calculated by the CPU 39 using the output of the CCD 20 and used for the white balance control and the control of the luminance value.

The A / D conversion circuit 32 converts the image signal (analog signal) into image data which is a digital signal, and outputs the obtained image data to the DSP 33.

The DSP 33 outputs the image data to the frame memory 35 and causes the LCD 6 to display an image corresponding to the image data.

As described above, in the electronic camera 1, L
When the CD cover 14 is open, at a predetermined time interval,
The CCD 20 operates the electronic shutter.
The electronic viewfinder operation is performed by converting the signal output from 0 into image data, outputting the image data to the frame memory 35, and displaying the image of the subject on the LCD 6 constantly.

As described above, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, the electronic viewfinder operation is not performed, and the operations of the CCD 20, the image processing unit 31, and the aperture driving circuit 53 are stopped, and the power consumption is reduced. Is saving.

Next, photographing of a subject by the present apparatus will be described.

First, a case where the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 provided on the surface Y1 is switched to the S mode (a mode in which only one frame is shot) will be described. First, the power switch 11 shown in FIG.
Is switched on, and the power of the electronic camera 1 is turned on. When the subject is confirmed in the viewfinder 2 and the release switch 10 provided on the surface Y1 is pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

When the LCD cover 14 is closed, when the release switch 10 is half-pressed, the CPU 39 restarts the operations of the CCD 20, the image processing section 31, and the aperture driving circuit 53, When the release switch 10 is fully pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

A light image of a subject observed through the finder 2 is condensed by the photographing lens 3 and forms an image on the CCD 20 having a plurality of pixels. The optical image of the subject formed on the CCD 20 is photoelectrically converted into an image signal by each pixel, and is sampled by the image processing unit 31. The image signal sampled by the image processing unit 31 is supplied to an A / D conversion circuit 32, where the image signal is digitized,
Is output to

The DSP 33 temporarily outputs the image data to the buffer memory 36, reads the image data from the buffer memory 36, and performs a discrete cosine transform.
JPEG (Jo that combines quantization and Huffman coding)
Int Photographic Experts Group), and is recorded in the captured image recording area of the memory card 24. At this time, in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24, data of the photographed date and time is recorded as header information of the photographed image data.

When the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 is switched to the S mode, only one frame is shot. Even if the release switch 10 is continuously pressed, the subsequent shooting is not performed. I can't. When the release switch 10 is continuously pressed, the taken image is displayed on the LCD 6 when the LCD cover 14 is open.

Second, a continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
Is switched to the L mode (a mode in which 8 frames are continuously shot in one second). When the power of the electronic camera 1 is turned on by switching the power switch 11 to the side where “ON” is printed, and the release switch 10 provided on the surface Y1 is pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

When the LCD cover 14 is closed, when the release switch 10 is half-pressed, the CPU 39 restarts the operations of the CCD 20, the image processing section 31, and the aperture driving circuit 53. When the release switch 10 is fully pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

A light image of a subject observed through the finder 2 is condensed by the photographing lens 3 and forms an image on the CCD 20 having a plurality of pixels. The optical image of the subject formed on the CCD 20 is photoelectrically converted into an image signal at each pixel, and is sampled by the image processing unit 31 at a rate of eight times per second. At this time, the image processing section 31 thins out three-quarters of the pixels of the image electrical signals of all the pixels of the CCD 20.

That is, the image processing section 31 divides the pixels of the CCD 20 arranged in a matrix into regions each having 2 × 2 pixels (four pixels) as shown in FIG. From one area, an image signal of one pixel arranged at a predetermined position is sampled, and the remaining three pixels are thinned out.

For example, at the time of the first sampling (first frame), the upper left pixel a of each area is sampled, and the other pixels b, c and d are thinned out. At the time of the second sampling (second frame), the pixel b at the upper right of each area is sampled, and the other pixels a,
c and d are thinned out. Hereinafter, at the time of the third and fourth samplings, the lower left pixel c and the lower right pixel d
Are sampled and other pixels are decimated. That is, each pixel is sampled every four frames.

An image signal sampled by the image processing section 31 (an image signal of a quarter of all the pixels of the CCD 20) is supplied to an A / D conversion circuit 32, where it is digitized and output to a DSP 33. Is done.

The DSP 33 temporarily outputs the digitized image signal to the buffer memory 36, reads the image signal, compresses the image signal in accordance with the JPEG system, and converts the digitized and compressed photographed image data into the memory card 24. Is recorded in the captured image recording area. At this time,
In the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24, data of the photographed date and time is recorded as header information of the photographed image data.

Third, a continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
Is switched to the H mode (a mode in which 30 frames are continuously shot in one second). When the power of the electronic camera 1 is turned on by switching the power switch 11 to the side where “ON” is printed, and the release switch 10 provided on the surface Y1 is pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

When the LCD cover 14 is closed, the CPU 39 restarts the operations of the CCD 20, the image processing section 31, and the aperture driving circuit 53 when the release switch 10 is half-pressed. When the release switch 10 is fully pressed, the subject photographing process is started.

A light image of a subject observed through the finder 2 is condensed by the photographing lens 3 and forms an image on the CCD 20. An optical image of a subject formed on the CCD 20 having a plurality of pixels is photoelectrically converted into an image signal at each pixel, and is sampled by the image processing unit 31 at a rate of 30 times per second. At this time, the image processing unit 31
8/9 pixels out of the image electrical signals of all the pixels are thinned out.

That is, the image processing section 31 divides the pixels of the CCD 20 arranged in a matrix into regions each having 3 × 3 pixels as shown in FIG. Is sampled at a rate of 30 times per second for the image electric signal of one pixel arranged at the position of
The remaining 8 pixels are thinned out.

For example, at the time of the first sampling (first frame), the upper left pixel a of each region is sampled, and the other pixels b to i are thinned out. At the time of the second sampling (second frame), the pixel b disposed on the right side of the pixel a is sampled, and the other pixels a, c to i are thinned out. Hereinafter, at the time of the third and subsequent samplings, the pixels c, d,.
Are sampled and other pixels are decimated. That is, each pixel is sampled every nine frames.

The image signal sampled by the image processing section 31 (the image signal of one-ninth of all the pixels of the CCD 20) is supplied to the A / D conversion circuit 32, where it is digitized and output to the DSP 33. Is done.

The DSP 33 once outputs the digitized image signal to the buffer memory 36, reads out the image signal, compresses the image signal according to the JPEG system, and adds the header of the photographing date and time to the digitized and compressed photographed image data. The information is added and recorded in the captured image recording area of the memory card 24.

Note that, if necessary, the strobe 4 can be operated to irradiate the subject with light. Where L
When the CD cover 14 is open, that is, when the LCD 6 is performing the electronic viewfinder operation, the CPU 39
Controls the strobe 4 not to emit light.

Next, an operation when two-dimensional information (pen input information) is input from the touch tablet 6A will be described.

When the touch tablet 6A is pressed with the pen tip of the pen 41, the XY coordinates of the touched position are displayed on the CPU.
39 is input. The XY coordinates are stored in the buffer memory 36. In addition, data can be written into the frame memory 35 at locations corresponding to the XY coordinates, and a line drawing corresponding to the contact of the pen 41 can be displayed on the XY coordinates on the LCD 6.

As described above, the touch tablet 6A
Is composed of a transparent member,
The point displayed on the LCD 6 (the point at the position pressed by the pen tip of the pen 41) can be observed, as if the LCD
6 can be felt as if a pen input was made directly. When the pen 41 is moved on the touch tablet 6 </ b> A, a line accompanying the movement of the pen 41 is displayed on the LCD 6. Further, when the pen 41 is intermittently moved on the touch tablet 6A, a broken line accompanying the movement of the pen 41 is displayed on the LCD 6. As described above, the user inputs desired line drawing information such as characters and graphics to the touch tablet 6A (LCD 6).

When the photographed image is displayed on the LCD 6, when the line drawing information is inputted by the pen 41, the line drawing information is synthesized with the photographed image information in the frame memory 35, and is simultaneously displayed on the LCD 6. Is displayed.

By operating a color selection switch (not shown), the user can select the color of the line drawing displayed on the LCD 6 from colors such as black, white, red, and blue.

When the execution key 7B of the operation key 7 is pressed after the line information is input to the touch tablet 6A by the pen 41, the line image information stored in the buffer memory 36 is stored in the memory card 24 together with the header information of the input date and time. And is recorded in the line drawing information recording area of the memory card 24.

The line drawing information recorded on the memory card 24 is information that has been subjected to compression processing. Since the line drawing information input to the touch tablet 6A contains a lot of information having a high spatial frequency component, if the compression processing is performed by the JPEG method used for compressing the photographed image, the compression efficiency is poor. The time required for the operation becomes longer. Furthermore, since the compression by the JPEG method is irreversible compression, it is not suitable for compression of line drawing information having a small amount of information (when expanded and displayed on the LCD 6, gathers and bleeding due to lack of information are noticeable. To get it).

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the line drawing information is compressed by the run length method used in facsimile and the like. The run-length method scans a line drawing screen in the horizontal direction, and continues the length of information (points) of each color such as black, white, red, and blue, and the length of continuous non-information (portion without pen input). This is a method for compressing line drawing information by encoding the line drawing information.

By using this run length method,
Line drawing information can be optimally compressed, and even when the compressed line drawing information is decompressed, loss of information can be suppressed. The line drawing information may not be compressed when the information amount is relatively small.

As described above, when a photographed image is displayed on the LCD 6, when a pen input is performed, the photographed image data and the line drawing information of the pen input are combined in the frame memory 35, and the photographed image and the line drawing information are combined. The composite image of LC
Displayed on D6. On the other hand, in the memory card 24, photographed image data is recorded in a photographed image recording area, and line drawing information is recorded in a line drawing information recording area. As described above, since the two pieces of information are recorded in different areas, the user can delete one of the images (for example, the line drawing) from the composite image of the captured image and the line drawing,
Further, each image information can be compressed by an individual compression method.

When data is recorded in the audio recording area, photographed image recording area, or line drawing information recording area of the memory card 24, a predetermined display is displayed on the LCD 6, as shown in FIG.

On the display screen of the LCD 6 shown in FIG. 9, the date when the information was recorded (recorded date) (in this case, August 25, 1995) is displayed at the lower end of the screen. The recording time of the information recorded on the recording date is displayed on the leftmost side of the screen.

[0110] On the right side of the recording time, a thumbnail image is displayed. This thumbnail image is displayed on the memory card 2
4 is created by thinning (reducing) the bitmap data of each image data of the photographed image data recorded in No. 4. The information with this display is information including captured image information. That is, "10:16" and "10:21"
The information recorded (input) includes the captured image information, such as “10:05”, “10:28”, and “10:28”.
Hour 54 ”and“ 13:10 ”
No image information is included.

A memo symbol "*" indicates that a predetermined memo is recorded as line drawing information.

On the right side of the thumbnail image display area, an audio information bar is displayed, and a bar (line) having a length corresponding to the length of the recording time is displayed (when no audio information is input, Do not show).

The user presses any part of the desired information display line of the LCD 6 shown in FIG. 9 with the pen tip of the pen 41 to select and designate the information to be reproduced, and presses the execution key 7B shown in FIG. By pressing with the pen tip of the pen 41, the selected information is reproduced.

For example, when the displayed line of “10:05” shown in FIG.
The CPU 39 reads the audio data corresponding to the selected recording date and time (10:05) from the memory card 24,
After expanding the audio data, the audio data is supplied to the A / D and D / A conversion circuit 42. A / D and D / A conversion circuit 42
Converts the supplied audio data into an analog signal, and then reproduces the data via the speaker 5.

When reproducing the photographed image data recorded on the memory card 24, the user presses a desired thumbnail image with the pen tip of the pen 41 to select the information, and presses the execution key 7B to select the selected information. To play.

The CPU 39 instructs the DSP 33 to read out, from the memory card 24, the photographed image data corresponding to the selected photographing date and time. The DSP 33 expands the photographed image data (compressed photographed image data) read from the memory card 24, stores the photographed image data in the frame memory 35 as bitmap data, and causes the LCD 6 to display it.

The image photographed in the S mode is displayed on the LCD 6 as a still image. This still image is CC
It goes without saying that the image signals of all the pixels of D20 are reproduced.

An image photographed in the L mode is continuously displayed on the LCD 6 at a rate of 8 frames per second. At this time, the number of pixels displayed in each frame is CCD2
0 is a quarter of the total number of pixels.

Normally, the human eye is sensitive to the deterioration of the resolution of a still image, and thus thinning out the pixels of the still image is perceived by the user as deterioration of the image quality. However, when the continuous shooting speed at the time of shooting is increased, eight frames are captured per second in the L mode, and when this image is reproduced at a speed of eight frames per second, the number of pixels of each frame becomes equal to the number of pixels of the CCD 20. Although this is a quarter of the number, since the human eye observes eight frames per second, the amount of information perceived by the human eye per second is twice as large as that of a still image.

That is, one of the images shot in the S mode
Assuming that the number of pixels of a frame is 1, the number of pixels of one frame of an image captured in the L mode is １ ／. When an image (still image) captured in the S mode is displayed on the LCD 6, the amount of information perceived by the human eye in one second is 1 (= (number of pixels 1) × (number of frames 1)). On the other hand, when an image captured in the L mode is displayed on the LCD 6, the amount of information perceived by the human eye in one second is 2 (= (number of pixels ４) × (number of frames 8)) (ie, The human eye receives twice as much information as a still image.) Therefore, even if the number of pixels in one frame is reduced to ４, the user can observe the reproduced image at the time of reproduction without much concern about deterioration in image quality.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, different pixels are sampled for each frame and the sampled pixels are displayed on the LCD 6, so that an afterimage effect occurs to the human eye and 4 pixels per frame. Even if three pixels are thinned out, the user can observe the image photographed in the L mode displayed on the LCD 6 without much concern about the deterioration of the image quality.

An image shot in the H mode is an LC mode.
The images are continuously displayed on D6 at a rate of 30 frames per second. At this time, the number of pixels displayed in each frame is C
Although the number of pixels of the CD 20 is one-ninth of the total number of pixels, for the same reason as in the case of the L mode, the user can copy an image captured in the H mode displayed on the LCD 6 without much concern about deterioration in image quality. Can be observed.

In this embodiment, the L mode and the H mode
When capturing an image of a subject in the mode, the image processing unit 31 controls the CCD 2 so that the image quality does not deteriorate during reproduction.
Since pixels of 0 are thinned out, the load on the DSP 33 can be reduced, and the DSP 33 can be operated at low speed and with low power. This also means that
The cost and power consumption of the device can be reduced.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, two electronic cameras 1-1 are connected via a public line 61.
A and 1-B are connected to enable mutual communication. Hereinafter, an operation mode in which two electronic cameras are connected to each other via a communication line and communication is performed between them will be referred to as a videophone mode.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, the electronic camera 1-A is connected to a public line 61 via a connection line 60, and the electronic camera 1-B is connected to a public line 6 via a connection line 62.
1 is connected. At this time, the respective photographing lenses 3 are oriented in the normal direction of the plane X2 (the direction in which the user is present), and the optical images of the users converted into image signals by the CCD 20 are mutually connected via the public line 61. Transmitted,
The information is displayed on each LCD 6. Therefore, an image of the user as a communication partner is displayed on the LCD 6 of each of the electronic cameras 1-A and 1-B.

FIG. 11 shows an example of the format of information transmitted between the electronic cameras 1-A and 1-B via the public line 61. As shown in this figure, information transmitted via the public line 61 includes a header 70 storing information indicating the type of information transmitted immediately thereafter, and a header 70 for controlling the electronic camera 1 of the communication partner. Control information 71,
It is composed of image information 72, memo image information 73 composed of line drawings and the like, and audio information 74. Note that, depending on the type of information transmitted, the control information 71,
Image information 72, memo image information 73, or audio information 7
4 may not be included.

FIG. 12 shows the electronic camera 1-A or 1-B
5 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a process executed in step S1. This processing is executed when the menu key 7A is operated and a menu screen (not shown) is displayed. In the following description, the electronic camera 1-A is the transmitting side, and the electronic camera 1-A
The description proceeds assuming that B is the receiving side.

When the processing shown in FIG. 12 is executed, the CPU
39 determines whether or not the videophone mode has been selected from the selection items on the menu screen in step S1. As a result, if it is determined that an item other than the videophone mode has been selected (NO), the process is terminated (end), and the videophone mode is selected (YES).
When the determination is made, the process proceeds to step S2.

In step S2, the CPU 39 refers to the output of the potentiometer 56 (see FIG. 6) and
9 is turned to the user side (the taking lens 3 is
2) is determined. As a criterion for the determination in this case, as shown in FIG. 5C, when the optical axis of the taking lens 3 is within ± 30 ° with respect to the normal direction of the plane X2, Rotating part 19
Is determined to be directed to the user side (YES), otherwise, it is determined not to be directed to the user side (NO).

If it is determined in step S2 that the rotation unit 19 is not turned to the user side (NO), the process proceeds to step S3, and a message prompting the user to turn the rotation unit 19 to the user side (for example, " Display the LCD on the LCD 6, return to step S2, and repeat the same process until the user turns the rotation unit 19 toward the user. Also, in step S2, the rotating unit 1
If it is determined that 9 is directed to the user (YES), the process proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the CPU 39 executes the processing shown in FIG.
Are displayed on the LCD 6 to allow the user to input the telephone number of the communication partner. In addition,
In this display example, a window 79 displaying the telephone number input by the numeric keys 80 to 91 is displayed at the top of the screen, so that the input telephone number can be confirmed. When the telephone number is input and the execution key 7B is pressed, the process proceeds to step S5.

In step S5, the CPU 39 controls the modem unit 57 to output, for example, a tone signal corresponding to the input telephone number to the public line 61.
As a result, the communication line is closed with the communication partner (receiving side).

In the following step S6, CPU 39 starts data transmission with the communication partner. That is, FIG.
The image of the user A (sender) taken by the electronic camera 1-A (sending side) shown in FIG. 1 is transmitted via the public line 61 and displayed on the LCD 6 of the electronic camera 1-B (sending side). As a result, an image (image of the user A) as shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the electronic camera 1-B.

In the following step S7, CPU 39 starts receiving data transmitted from the called side. That is, the image of the user B (the called party) photographed by the electronic camera 1-B is transmitted via the public line 61 and displayed on the LCD 6 of the electronic camera 1-A. FIG. 15 shows a display example of an image (an image of the user B) displayed on the LCD 6 of the electronic camera 1-A.

In step S8, the CPU 39 determines whether any of the operation members, that is, the touch tablet 6A, the operation keys 7, the release switch 10, or the recording switch 12 has been operated. As a result, when it is determined that any of these has been operated (YES), the process proceeds to step S9. If it is determined that none of these operations has been performed (NO), the process of step S9 is skipped, and the process proceeds to step S10.

In step S9, processing 1 is executed.
Note that this processing 1 is a subroutine processing.
The details will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S10, if data received by modem unit 57 (data transmitted from the communication partner) contains control information 71, CPU 39 extracts this information.

In the following step S11, the CPU 39 executes
It is determined whether the control information 71 has been obtained from the received data. As a result, the control information 71
If it is determined that has been acquired (YES), the process proceeds to step S12. If it is determined that the control information 71 has not been acquired (NO), the process of step S12 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S13. move on. Step S
The processing 2 of 12 is a subroutine, the details of which will be described later with reference to FIGS.

At step S13, CPU 39 determines whether or not an operation to end the videophone mode has been performed. For example, when the cancel key 7D is pressed, the CPU 39 determines that an operation to end the videophone mode has been performed (YES), and proceeds to step S14.
Further, the cancel key 7D is not pressed (NO).
If the determination is made, the process returns to step S8, and the same processing as in the above-described case is repeated.

In step S14, the CPU 39 performs processing for disconnecting the communication line, and proceeds to step S15. In step S15, the CPU 39 displays the image input from the CCD 20 on the LCD 6 (transition to the electronic viewfinder mode), and ends the processing (END).

According to the above processing, when the videophone mode is selected on the menu screen, the rotating unit 1
It is determined whether or not 9 is directed to the user side. If so, the communication line is closed with the communication partner and data communication is started. When the data communication is started, it is determined whether or not the operation member has been operated,
It is determined whether control information has been sent from the communication partner. As a result, when it is determined that the operation member has been operated, the corresponding processing is performed, and when it is determined that the control information has been sent from the communication partner, the processing corresponding to the control information is performed.

Next, the details of the processing 1 shown in FIG. 12 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. When this process is executed (called), step S3
At 0, the CPU 39 determines whether or not the menu key 7A has been operated. As a result, if it is determined that the menu key 7A has not been operated (NO), step S
Proceed to 37. When the menu key 7A is operated (Y
If it is determined to be (ES), the process proceeds to step S31.

In step S31, for example, as shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 39 sets the “RECORDING (recording) mode”, “PLAY BACK (reproduction) mode”, “SLIDE SHOW (slide show) mode”, and “SET UP”. (Setting) Mode ”is displayed on the menu screen. Then, in step S32, CPU 39 transmits control information for displaying the menu screen to the receiving side via modem unit 57. As a result, a menu screen similar to that shown in FIG. 18 is displayed on the LCD 6 of the receiving side.

At the following step S33, the CPU 39
It is determined whether a predetermined item has been selected on the menu screen. As a result, a predetermined item is selected (Y
If it is determined to be (ES), the process proceeds to step S34. If it is determined that the predetermined item has not been selected (NO), the process proceeds to step S35.

At step S34, CPU 39 transmits control information indicating that a predetermined item has been selected to modem unit 57.
To the called party via. Step S3
In 5, it is determined whether or not the modem unit 57 has received control information indicating that a predetermined item has been selected on the receiving side. As a result, predetermined control information is not received (N
If the determination is O), the process returns to step S33, and the same processing as in the above-described case is repeated. If it is determined that the predetermined control information has been received (YES), step S3
Proceed to 6.

In step S36, a process corresponding to the selected item (or the item specified by the received control information) is executed. For example, when the “playback mode” is selected on the transmitting side, not only the electronic camera 1-A but also the electronic camera 1-B shifts to the playback mode. Also,
The same operation is performed when “playback mode” is selected on the receiving side.

If the clear key 7C is operated during the playback mode and the information being played back is recorded in the operated electronic camera 1, the playback is performed. The current image is deleted from the memory card 24, and if the information being reproduced is recorded in the electronic camera 1 of the communication partner, the image is not deleted (the operation on the cancel key 7C is ignored). Is also good. According to such a configuration, it is possible to prevent a communication partner from deleting important information without knowing it.

In the following step S37, CPU 39
When the rotation unit 19 is within a predetermined range (the optical axis of the photographing lens 3 is
2 has been rotated out of a predetermined range from within a range within ± 30 ° with respect to the normal direction of 2, or rotated out of a predetermined range into a predetermined range, or in other cases (for example,
(When the rotating unit is not rotated). As a result, when it is determined that the rotating unit 19 has been rotated from within the predetermined range to outside the predetermined range (1), the process proceeds to step S38. If it is determined that the rotating unit 19 has been moved from outside the predetermined range to within the predetermined range (2), the process proceeds to step S40. Further, when it is determined to be other (3), the process proceeds to step S42.

If it is determined in step S37 that the rotating section 19 has been rotated from within the predetermined range to outside the predetermined range (1), the process proceeds to step S38, in which the CPU 39 proceeds to step S38.
The image input from the CCD 20 is displayed on the LCD 6. Then, the process proceeds to step S39, where the CPU 39 transmits the image information input from the CCD 20 of the electronic camera 1-A on the transmitting side and the control information for instructing display of this image information to the receiving side via the modem unit 57. To the electronic camera 1-B.

In step S37, the rotating unit 1
9 is rotated from outside the predetermined range to within the predetermined range (2)
If it is determined that the CPU 3
Reference numeral 9 allows the modem unit 57 to receive an image transmitted after being input in the CCD 20 on the receiving side. Then, the process proceeds to a step S41, and the received image is displayed on the LCD 6.

Further, if it is determined in step S37 that the state is other than the above (for example, the rotating portion 19 is not rotated), the process proceeds to step S42.

In step S42, CPU 39 determines whether or not a pen input has been made with reference to the output of touch tablet 6A. As a result, when it is determined that the pen input has not been made (NO), step S in FIG.
The process proceeds to step S50, and if it is determined that pen input has been performed (YES), the process proceeds to step S43.

In step S43, the CPU 39 changes the screen for pen input (for example, the screen whose background color is blue) to L.
Display on CD6. Then, the process proceeds to step S44,
The CPU 39 transmits control information for displaying the pen input screen to the receiving side. As a result, the same screen for pen input is displayed on the receiving side.

At step S45, the memo information input by the pen 41 on the transmitting side is displayed on the LCD 6.
FIG. 19 shows the process of step S45 (or step S45).
47 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a memo image (line drawing) input by the pen 41 is displayed on the LCD 6 as a result of (process 47). In this display example, a circuit using an operational amplifier is input as a line drawing, and when the pen 41 is moved on the touch tablet 6A, a curve corresponding to the movement is displayed on the LCD 6.
Will be displayed. Upon completion of the process in the step S45, the process proceeds to a step S46, where the CPU 39 transmits the input memo image to the receiving side via the modem unit 57.

In step S47, the CPU 39 causes the modem unit 57 to receive the memo information input by the pen 41 on the receiving side, and writes the received image so as to be superimposed on the data stored in the frame memory 35. As a result, the memo image input on the transmitting side and the memo image input on the receiving side are superimposed and displayed on the LCD 6. That is, as shown in FIG. 19, when an input is made with the pen 41 on the touch tablet 6A on the receiving side, the cursor 1 is moved to a corresponding position on the LCD 6 on the transmitting side.
00 is displayed, and the locus of the cursor 100 is displayed as a curve. On the receiving side, the position of the pen 41 on the transmitting side is indicated by the cursor 100, and a curve corresponding to the locus of the pen 41 on the receiving side is drawn. Therefore, a similar image is displayed on the calling side and the called side.

In step S48, the CPU 39 determines whether a predetermined operation for ending the pen input mode (for example, an operation of pressing the cancel key 7D) has been performed. As a result, when it is determined that the predetermined operation for ending the pen input has not been performed (NO), the process returns to step S45, and
The same processing as that described above is repeated. If it is determined that the operation of ending the pen input has been performed (YES), the process proceeds to step S49.

In step S49, processing for ending pen input is executed. That is, the CPU 39 returns the display screen to the original state (for example, displays an image input on the CCD 20 on the receiving side) and transmits control information for terminating the pen input to the transmission partner. Then, the process proceeds to step S50 in FIG.

In the step S50 of FIG.
Determines whether the release switch 10 has been operated. As a result, when it is determined that the release switch 10 has not been operated (NO), the process returns to the original process (the process of step S10 in FIG. 12). Also,
If it is determined that the release switch 10 has been operated (YES), the flow proceeds to step S51.

In the step S51, a photographing process is executed. That is, the image signal of the subject output from the CCD 20 is sampled by the image processing unit 31, digitized by the A / D conversion circuit 32, and
3 is output. The DSP 33 compresses the digitized image based on the JPEG method and records it in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24. Then, the process proceeds to step S52.

In step S52, CPU 39 transmits control information for displaying the photographed image data to the communication partner via modem unit 57.

In the following step S53, CPU 39
From the memory card 24, data of the photographed image (the image photographed in step S51) is read out, and the modem 57
Is transmitted to the communication partner via. Then, the process returns to the original process (the process of step S10 in FIG. 12) (return).
I do.

According to the above processing, when the menu key 7A is operated on either the transmitting side or the receiving side, a menu screen is displayed on both LCDs 6,
It is possible for both to select any item from among them.

For example, on the transmitting side, the menu key 7
When A is operated, a menu screen is displayed on both the calling side and the called side. Then, for example, when the reproduction mode is selected on the receiving side, the image captured on the transmitting side (the side displaying the menu) is reproduced. Also, on the receiving side, the menu key 7
When A is pressed and the reproduction mode is selected, the image captured on the called side is reproduced.

When the rotating unit 19 on the transmitting side is rotated from within the predetermined range to outside the predetermined range (when the photographing lens 3 is turned in the direction opposite to the user), the C on the transmitting side is set.
The image input from the CD 20 is displayed on the LCD 6 on both the calling side and the called side. When the rotation unit 19 on the receiving side is operated in the same manner, an image input from the CCD 20 on the receiving side is displayed on both LCDs 6. That is, if the rotating unit 19 is turned in a direction different from that of the user, it is presumed that the user does not intend to transmit his / her own image to the communication partner and is trying to transmit another image. In such a case, the image input from the CCD 20 is transmitted to the communication partner, and the same image is displayed on the LCD 6 of the own device so that the displayed content can be confirmed.

Further, in the above state (when any of the rotating portions 19 is fixed outside the predetermined range),
When the rotating unit 10 is returned within the predetermined range, the image input from the CCD 20 of the communication partner is received and displayed. In other words, when the rotation unit 19 is returned to the original position, it is considered that the intention to transmit an image other than the user (for example, an image of a person other than the user) is no longer present, and the image of the user is transmitted to the communication partner. At the same time, the image of the communication partner user is displayed on the LCD 6 (return to the videophone mode).

When the release switch 10 is operated on either the transmitting side or the receiving side, a photographing process is executed, and the photographed image is transmitted to the electronic camera 1 of the communication partner. The photographed image is displayed not only on the photographing side but also on the LCD 6 of the communication partner.

In other words, when an operation of displaying the image of the user is performed on either the transmitting side or the receiving side (for example, when the rotating portion 19 is rotated from within a predetermined range to outside the range). Or, when the release switch 10 is operated), the image of the user is displayed on both the user and the other party. With such a configuration, when any user attempts to transmit an image other than the user's own image to the communication partner, it is possible to check the image transmitted to the partner.

Next, the details of the processing 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 20 and FIG.

When this processing is executed, step S60
In, the CPU 39 determines whether or not control information for displaying the menu screen has been received. That is, it is determined whether or not the menu key 7A is pressed on the receiving side, and as a result, control information for displaying the menu screen is transmitted via the public line 61. As a result, the control information for displaying the menu screen has not been received (NO).
If it is determined that the control information for displaying the menu screen has been received (YES), the process proceeds to step S61.

At the step S61, the CPU 39 sets the LC
A menu screen (see FIG. 18) is displayed on D6. Then, the process proceeds to a step S62 to determine whether or not a predetermined item is selected. As a result, when it is determined that the predetermined item has been selected (YES), the process proceeds to step S63,
If it is determined that the predetermined item has not been selected (NO), the process proceeds to step S64.

In step S64, CPU 39 transmits control information indicating that a predetermined item has been selected to modem unit 57.
It is determined whether or not has been received. As a result, control information indicating that the predetermined item has been selected has not been received (N
If the determination is O), the process returns to step S62, and the same processing as in the above-described case is repeated. If it is determined that the control information indicating that the predetermined item has been selected has been received (YES), the process proceeds to step S65.

On the other hand, in the step S63, the CPU 39
Transmits the control information for selecting the predetermined item acquired in step S62 to the called side. And
Proceed to step S65.

In the step S65, a process corresponding to the selected item is executed. That is, the CPU 39 executes a process corresponding to the item selected on the calling side or the item selected on the called side. For example, if the playback mode is selected on any side, the image captured on the calling side (the side on which the operation of displaying the menu screen has been executed) is reproduced.

At the following step S66, the CPU 39
It is determined whether control information for displaying an image input from the CCD 20 (information transmitted in step S39 in FIG. 16) has been received. As a result, when it is determined that the control information has not been received (NO), the process proceeds to step S68, and the control information has been received (YE
When it is determined as S), the process proceeds to step S67.

At step S 67, CPU 39 displays the image data received by modem unit 57 on LCD 6. As a result, the image input from the CCD 20 on the receiving side is displayed on the LCD 6.

In the following step S68, the CPU 39 executes
It is determined whether control information for displaying the pen input screen (information transmitted in the process of step S44 in FIG. 16) has been received. As a result, when it is determined that the control information for displaying the pen input screen has not been received (NO),
Proceed to step S75 in FIG. If it is determined that the control information for displaying the pen input screen has been received (YES), the process proceeds to step S69.

At step S69, CPU 39 causes LCD 6 to display a pen input screen (for example, a screen with a blue background), and proceeds to step S70. In step S70, a line drawing (memo image) received by the modem unit 57 after being input and transmitted from the touch tablet 6A on the receiving side is displayed on the LCD 6.

In step S71, the CPU 39 converts the memo image input from the touch tablet 6A on the transmitting side into a memo image.
The data is written so as to be superimposed on the image displayed on the LCD 6.
As a result, the memo image input from the touch tablet 6A on the transmitting side and the memo image input and transmitted from the touch tablet 6A on the receiving side are superimposed and displayed on the LCD 6.

At step S72, CPU 39 transmits the memo image input from touch tablet 6A on the transmitting side to the receiving side via modem unit 57. As a result, the memo image input from the transmitting side touch tablet 6A is
It is also displayed on the LCD 6 of the receiving side.

In the following step S73, it is determined whether or not pen input is to be terminated. That is, the CPU 39 determines whether or not an operation for ending the pen input (for example, an operation on the cancel key 7D) has been performed. As a result, when it is determined that the operation of ending the pen input has not been executed (NO), the process returns to step S70, and the same processing as the above-described case is repeated. If it is determined that the operation of ending the pen input has been performed (YES), the process proceeds to step S74.

At step S74, processing for ending pen input is executed. That is, the CPU 39 restores the display (for example, displays an image input from the CCD 20 of the communication partner on the LCD 6), and transmits control information for terminating the pen input to the transmission partner. And FIG.
Proceed to step S75.

In step S75, CPU 39 refers to the output from modem unit 57 and determines whether or not control information for displaying a captured image has been received. As a result, when it is determined that the control information for displaying the captured image has not been received (NO), the process returns to the original process (the process of step S13 in FIG. 12). If it is determined that the control information for displaying the captured image has been received (YES), the process proceeds to step S76. That is, when the release switch 10 is operated on the communication partner side and the control information (control information for displaying the captured image) transmitted as a result is received, the process proceeds to step S76.

At step S76, CPU 39 receives the photographed image data transmitted from the communication partner via modem unit 57. Then, the process proceeds to step S77.

In step S77, the CPU 39 performs decompression processing on the photographed image data received in step S76, and causes the LCD 6 to display the data. Then, the process returns to the original process (the process of step S13 in FIG. 12).

According to the above processing, for example, a menu screen is displayed, a pen input is performed, or a photographed image photographed by a communication partner side is displayed in accordance with the control information transmitted from the receiving side. It can be displayed.

Next, an example of processing executed in the electronic camera 1-B on the receiving side will be described with reference to FIG. When this process is executed, CPU 39 determines whether or not the videophone mode is selected on the menu screen displayed by operating menu key 7A. As a result, if it is determined that the videophone mode has not been selected (NO), the process ends (END). In addition, the videophone mode is selected (YES).
If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S91.

[0187] In step S91, the CPU 39 determines whether or not the rotating section 19 is turned to the user side.
As a result, when it is determined that the turning unit 19 is not turned to the user side (NO), the process proceeds to step S92, and a message prompting to turn the turning unit 19 to the user side (for example, “ Please turn to yourself. ") LC
D6 is displayed, the process returns to step S91, and the same processing is repeated until the rotating unit 19 is turned to the user side. In addition, the rotation unit 19 is turned to the user side (YES).
When the determination is made, the process proceeds to step S93.

In step S93, it is determined whether or not a communication line is closed with the communication partner. That is, C
The PU 39 determines whether a call has been made from the calling side and the communication line has been closed. As a result, if it is determined that the line is not closed (NO), step S9
3 and the same process is repeated until the communication line is closed. If it is determined that the communication line has been closed (YES), the process proceeds to step S94.

In step S94, CPU 39 sends a predetermined control signal to modem unit 57 to start data reception processing. As a result, the image input from the CCD 20 on the transmitting side is received by the modem unit 57 on the receiving side, and is displayed on the LCD 6 on the receiving side. In the following step S95,
Similarly, the data transmission process is started by the modem unit 57. As a result, the image input from the CCD 20 on the receiving side is transmitted by the modem unit 57 and the LCD on the transmitting side is sent.
6 will be displayed.

In step S96, the CPU 39 determines whether or not an operation member (the touch tablet 6A, the operation key 7, the release switch 10, or the recording switch 12) has been operated. As a result, when it is determined that the operation member has not been operated (NO), the process proceeds to step S98.
If it is determined that the operation member has been operated (YES), the process proceeds to step S97.

At step S97, processing 1 is executed. This processing is similar to the processing shown in FIG.
The description is omitted.

In the following step S98, CPU 39
If the received data contains control information, it is extracted. Then, the process proceeds to a step S99, wherein the CPU 39
Determines whether control information has been acquired. as a result,
If it is determined that the control information has not been acquired (NO),
Proceed to step S101. If it is determined that the control information has been acquired (YES), the process proceeds to step S100.

In step S100, processing 2 is executed. Note that this processing 2 is the same as the processing shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, and a description thereof will be omitted. Step S
When the process of 100 is completed, the process proceeds to step S101.

At step S101, CPU 39 determines whether or not a predetermined operation for ending the videophone mode has been performed. For example, when the cancel key 7D is pressed, the CPU 39 determines that the operation of ending the videophone mode has been performed (YES), and step S102.
Proceed to. If it is determined that the cancel key 7D has not been pressed (NO), the process returns to step S96,
The same processing as that described above is repeated.

In step S102, a line disconnection process is executed, and the communication line with the calling side is disconnected. Then, in step S103, an image input from the CCD 20 is selected as an image to be displayed on the LCD 6. Then, the process ends (END).

According to the above processing, the communication line is closed with the calling side, and communication with the calling side becomes possible.

It is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the electronic camera of the above embodiment, but can be applied to, for example, a mobile phone.

Also, FIG. 12, FIG. 16, FIG. 17, FIG.
The programs shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 are stored in the memory card 24. These programs may be supplied to the user in a state stored in the memory card 24 in advance, or may be stored in a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM) or the like so that the programs can be copied to the memory card 24. It may be supplied to the user in a state.

[0199]

According to the present invention, the information processing apparatus according to claim 1, the control method of the information processing apparatus according to claim 7, and an eighth method.
According to the recording medium described in the above, an image is input, the input image, or an image sent from another information processing device is output to the display device, the image displayed on the display device, Since the first mode, which is different from the image displayed on the display device of another information processing device, and the second mode, in which these images are the same, are switched according to the state of the information processing device, When either the user on the receiving side or the receiving side intends to transmit an image other than the user's own image to the communication partner, the image can be transmitted while confirming the image on the display device.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of an electronic camera according to an embodiment of the present invention when viewed from the front.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration when viewed from the back of the electronic camera 1 shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is an electronic camera 1 with an LCD cover 14 closed.
FIG.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an internal configuration of the electronic camera 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 5 shows the position of the LCD cover 14 and the power switch 11.
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the state and the state of an LCD switch 25.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration inside the electronic camera shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating pixel thinning processing in the L mode.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating pixel thinning processing in the H mode.

9 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen of the electronic camera shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

10 is a diagram showing a connection relationship when the electronic camera shown in FIG. 1 is connected via a public line.

11 is a diagram showing an example of a format of information mutually transmitted by the electronic camera shown in FIG. 10 via a public line.

12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed in the electronic camera 1-A illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 13 shows an LCD 6 in step S4 shown in FIG.
9 is a display example of a screen displayed in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an electronic camera 1-B according to the processing shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of an image displayed in FIG.

FIG. 15 shows an electronic camera 1-A by the processing shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of an image displayed in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating details of processing 1 shown in step S9 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating details of processing 1 shown in step S9 of FIG. 12;

18 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed on the LCD 6 in step S31 of FIG.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a display example of an image displayed when pen input is performed.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating details of a process shown in step S12 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating details of a process shown in step S12 of FIG. 12;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process performed in the electronic camera 1-B illustrated in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Electronic camera 2 Viewfinder 3 Shooting lens 4 Light emitting part 5 Speaker 6 LCD 6A Touch tablet (image input means, selection means) 7 Operation key 7A Menu key 7B Execution key 7C Clear key 7D Cancel key 7E Scroll key 8 Microphone 9 Earphone jack 10 Release switch 11 Power switch 12 Recording switch 13 Continuous shooting mode switch 15 Red-eye reduction lamp 16 Photometry element 17 Colorimetry element 20 CCD (image input means) 21 Battery 22 Capacitor 23 Circuit board 24 Memory card (recording means) 25 LCD switch 26 Display element in finder 30 Lens drive circuit 31 Image processing unit 32 Analog / digital conversion circuit 33 Digital signal processor (DSP: recording means) 34 CCD drive circuit 5 Frame memory (output means) 36 Buffer memory 37 Strobe drive circuit 38 Red-eye reduction lamp drive circuit 39 CPU (switching means, control means) 40 Display circuit in finder 42 A / D and D / A conversion circuit 45 Timer 48 Interface 51 Photometry Circuit 52 Colorimetric circuit 53 Aperture drive circuit 54 Aperture

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. An information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus and mutually communicating information, comprising: an image input unit for inputting an image; an image input by the image input unit; An output unit that outputs an image sent from the information processing device to a display device; and an image displayed on the display device by the output unit is an image displayed on a display device of the another information processing device. Switching means for switching between different first modes and a second mode in which these images are the same, and control means for controlling the switching means in accordance with the state of the information processing apparatus. Information processing device. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first mode is configured to output an image input from the image input unit of the another information processing device and transmitted through a communication line to the display device by the output unit. Transmitting the image input from the image input means to the other information processing apparatus via the communication line, wherein the second mode is input from the image input means of the other information processing apparatus. Output one of the image transmitted through the communication line and the image input from the image input unit of the information processing device to the display device by the output unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the line input information is input from the image input unit, and the control unit is configured to input the line image information from the image input unit or from the image input unit of the other information processing apparatus. When the input line drawing information is received, the switching unit is controlled to switch to the second mode, and the image of the information processing apparatus on the input side is displayed by the output unit on the display device. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information is output to the information processing apparatus. 4. An image of a subject is input from the image input unit, and the control unit is configured to change a direction of an optical axis of an optical system of the image input unit, or the other information processing apparatus. In the case where the direction of the optical axis of the optical system of the image input means is changed and the state is detected, the switching means is controlled to switch to the second mode, and the direction of the optical axis is changed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an image input from the image input unit of the changed information processing apparatus is output to the display device by the output unit. 5. An image input unit for receiving an image of a subject from the image input unit, further comprising a recording unit for recording the image input from the image input unit, wherein the control unit is configured to control the recording unit of the information processing apparatus. In a state where recording has been started, or in a state where recording has been started and detected by the recording means of the other information processing apparatus, the switching means is controlled to control the second mode. 5. The information according to claim 1, wherein an image input from the image input unit of the information processing apparatus on which recording is performed is output to the display device by the output unit. 6. Processing equipment. 6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a selection unit that selects an image to be output from the output unit, wherein the control unit is configured to operate the selection unit of the information processing device, or to select the image of the another information processing device. When the selection means is operated and the state is detected, the switching means is controlled to switch to the second mode, and the image selected by the selected information processing device is output to the output means. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the information is output to the display device according to: 7. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus connected to another information processing apparatus and mutually communicating information, wherein an image is input, and the input image or the image is transmitted from the other information processing apparatus. Output to the display device, the image displayed on the display device is a first mode different from the image displayed on the display device of the other information processing device, and these images are the same. A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, wherein the method switches between a certain mode and a second mode according to a state of the information processing apparatus. 8. A recording medium which is connected to another information processing apparatus and records a control program used in an information processing apparatus for mutually communicating information, wherein an image is input, and the input image or the other An image transmitted from the information processing device of the first mode to a display device, wherein the image displayed on the display device is different from the image displayed on the display device of the other information processing device. And a second mode in which these images are similar to each other, according to a state of the information processing apparatus.