JPH11146316A - Information processor and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To control the processing when a touch tablet is operated depending on whether or not a pen is contained in a case. SOLUTION: In the case that image recording is made by operation of either a touch tablet 6A or a release switch, a CPU 39 controls so that no video recording is made even when an enter key of the touch tablet 6A is depressed with a pen 41 contained in a case and a switch 51 closed. On the other hand, the CPU 39 controls it that the image recording is made when the pen 41 is not contained in the case, the switch 51 is open and the enter key of the touch tablet 6A is depressed.

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 and a recording medium, and more particularly to a touch tablet when a pen is stored when an image can be recorded using the touch tablet and a pen. TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus and a recording medium in which an operation using a computer cannot be performed.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art With the progress of electronic circuits, electronic cameras that use a photoelectric conversion element to electrically process and record a captured image have become widespread. Such electronic cameras often have a liquid crystal display (LCD). LC
D is used not only as a so-called electronic viewfinder that presents an image to a user during shooting, but also when displaying a shot image.

[0003] Further, there is a device having a device such as a so-called touch tablet for inputting hand-drawn line drawing information, in which a photographing operation can be instructed by operating the touch tablet with a pen. In some cases, the pen can be stored in an electronic camera.

[0004]

However, if the touch tablet is pressed while the pen is stored in the electronic camera, there is a problem that the photographing operation may be performed erroneously.

The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and prevents a photographing operation from being performed accidentally when a touch tablet is pressed while a pen is stored in an electronic camera. Is what you do.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus comprising:
CD20), storage means (for example, memory card 24 in FIG. 4) for storing information input by the input means,
First operation means (for example, touch tablet 6A in FIG. 2) operated when instructing input means to input information;
A second operating means (for example, the pen 41 in FIG. 4) for operating the first operating means, a storage means (for example, the housing 100 in FIG. 1) for storing the second operating means, Detecting means (for example, switch 51 in FIG. 4) for detecting whether or not the operating means is stored in the storing means, and control means (for controlling the input means, the storing means, the first operating means, and the detecting means) For example, the CPU 39) of FIG. 9 is provided, and the control unit operates the first operation unit when the detection unit detects that the second operation unit is stored in the storage unit. At this time, the input of information by the input means is prohibited.

When the first operating means is operated when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is housed in the housing means, the control means prevents information from being input by the input means. When the first operating means is operated when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is not stored in the storing means, information is input by the input means. You can make it.

A third operation means (for example, a release switch 10 in FIG. 1) operated when instructing input of information by the input means can be further provided.

The control means causes the input means to input information when the third operation means is operated, when the detection means detects that the second operation means is stored in the storage means, When the detecting means detects that the second operating means is not stored in the storing means, when the third operating means is operated, control is performed so that information is not input by the input means. When the operating means is operated, it can be controlled so that information is input by the input means.

[0010] The information may be at least one of an image and a sound.

The input means can be an image pickup means for picking up a subject image (for example, the CCD 20 in FIG. 4).

The second operating means can be a touch tablet (for example, the touch tablet 6A in FIG. 2).

A display means (for example, LCD 6 in FIG. 2) for displaying the information inputted by the input means is further provided, and the second operation means can be arranged so as to overlap the display means.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium, wherein an input means for inputting information, a storage means for storing information input by the input means, and a first operation which is performed when the input means is instructed to input information. Operating means, second operating means for operating the first operating means, storing means for storing the second operating means, and whether or not the second operating means is stored in the storing means. A control program for use in an information processing apparatus including: a detecting means for detecting, wherein when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is stored in the storing means, the first operating means A control program for inhibiting input of information by the input means when operated is recorded.

An image pickup means for picking up a subject image (for example, CCD 20 in FIG. 4), a drive means for driving the image pickup means (for example, CCD drive circuit 34 in FIG. 9), and an image picked up by the image pickup means are displayed. Display means (for example, L in FIG. 2)
CD6), a touch tablet (for example, the touch tablet 6A in FIG. 2) arranged so as to overlap the display means, and a first control means (for example, a control means for controlling the imaging means to be driven in accordance with the operation of the touch tablet) 14, the CPU 39 of FIG. 9 for executing the processing of step S3 of FIG. 14, and the second control means for controlling the imaging means not to be driven even if the touch tablet is operated (for example, the processing of step S2 of FIG. 14). And the CPU 39) of FIG.

In the information processing apparatus according to the first aspect, the control means operates the first operation means when the detection means detects that the second operation means is stored in the storage means. When this is done, the input of information by the input means is prohibited.

In the recording medium according to the ninth aspect, when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is stored in the storing means, when the first operating means is operated, an input is made. Prohibit input of information by means.

In the information processing apparatus according to the tenth aspect, the first control means controls the imaging means to be driven in response to the operation of the touch tablet, whereas the second control means , So that the imaging means is not driven even when the touch tablet is operated.

[0019]

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

FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views showing a configuration example of an embodiment of an electronic camera to which the present invention is applied. In the electronic camera according to the present embodiment, when photographing a subject, a surface facing the subject is a surface X1,
The surface facing the user is referred to as a surface X2. Surface X1
A finder 2 used for confirming a photographing range of a subject, a photographing lens 3 for capturing an optical image of the subject,
A light emitting section (strobe) 4 for emitting light for illuminating the subject is provided.

Further, on the surface X1, a red-eye reduction LED 15 and a CCD 2, which emit light before the flash 4 emits light to reduce red-eye, when shooting with the flash 4 fired.
0 (FIG. 4) is provided with a photometric element 16 for performing photometry when the operation of the CCD 20 is stopped, and a colorimetric element 17 for performing color measurement when the operation of the CCD 20 is stopped.

On the other hand, at the upper end of the surface X2 opposite to the surface X1 (a position corresponding to the upper end of the surface X1 where the finder 2, the photographing lens 3, and the light emitting section 4 are formed), the finder 2 and the A speaker 5 for outputting sound recorded in the electronic camera 1 is provided. Also, plane X2
The LCD 6 and the operation keys 7 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 that outputs position data corresponding to a pointed position by a contact operation of a pen-type pointing device described later is arranged.

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

The operation keys 7 are operated when, for example, recording data is reproduced and displayed on the LCD 6.
ng unit) 39 (FIG. 9).

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 operated in the playback mode.
This key is operated when recording information selected by the user is reproduced and, in the recording mode, shooting is performed.

The cancel key 7C is operated when the reproduction of the recorded information is interrupted. The delete key 7D is a key operated when deleting recorded information. The scroll keys 7E to 7H are keys that are operated when the screen is scrolled up and down when a list of recording information is displayed on the LCD 6.

The surface X2 is provided with a slidable LCD cover 14 for protecting the LCD 6 when not in use. The LCD cover 14 covers the LCD 6 and the touch tablet 6A as shown in FIG. 3 when moved vertically upward. When the LCD cover 14 is moved vertically downward, the LCD 6 and the touch tablet 6A appear and the LCD cover 1 is moved.
The power switch 11 (described later) disposed on the surface Y2 is turned on by the fourth arm 14A.

On the surface Z1, which is 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. Further, a surface facing the surface Z1 is referred to as a surface Z2.

On the left side (surface Y1), there are provided a release switch 10 which is operated when capturing an image of a subject, and a continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 which is operated when switching between continuous shooting modes during shooting. . The release switch 10 and the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 are arranged vertically below the finder 2, the taking lens 3 and the light emitting unit 4 provided at the upper end of the plane X1.

On the other hand, a surface Y2 (right side surface) opposite to the surface Y1
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, the viewfinder 2 provided at the upper end of the surface X1.
It is arranged vertically below the taking lens 3 and the light emitting unit 4. 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.

The height of the recording switch 12 and the height of the release switch 10 are intentionally made different from each other so that when one of the switches is pressed, 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 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 while 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 downstream of the photographing lens 3 (on the surface X2 side), and photoelectrically converts an optical 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 settings of various functions to the user who is looking at the subject through the viewfinder 2.

Below the LCD 6, four cylindrical batteries (AA batteries) 21 are vertically arranged, and the power stored in the battery 21 is supplied to each section. It has been done. Further, a capacitor 22 for storing electric charge for causing the light emitting section 4 to emit light is disposed 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 memory card 24 that can be inserted and removed is provided between the circuit board 23, the LCD 6, and the battery 21.
Various kinds of information input to the electronic camera 1 are respectively recorded in preset areas of the memory card 24.

Further, the LCD switch 25 disposed 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 positioned 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 sets the power switch 11 in FIG.
As shown in (c), when the power switch 11 is turned on, the power switch 11 is turned on.
Remain off. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the LCD cover 14 is opened while the power switch 11 and the LCD switch 25 are off, as shown in FIG. The LCD switch 25 is turned on. After that, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, the LCD switch 25
Alone is in the off state as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the electronic camera 1 is configured so that the pen 41 can be housed in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1. FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the electronic camera 1. As shown in FIG.
Can be inserted from the bottom of the electronic camera 1. FIG. 7 is a side view showing a state in which the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1.

When the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1 as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the switch 51 is pressed by the pen 41 to turn on. ing. That is, when the pen 41 is not completely housed in the housing 100 (FIG. 8A), the switch is turned off, and when the pen 41 is completely housed in the housing 100 (FIG. 8B), The switch 51 is turned on. Therefore, from the ON / OFF state of the switch 51, it is possible to detect whether or not the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1.

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 information can be recorded in the memory. Also, a memory (memory card 24)
May be output to an external personal computer or the like via an interface (not shown).

Next, an example of 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 supplies a CCD horizontal drive pulse to the CCD 20, controls a CCD drive circuit 34, and supplies the CCD 20 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. CPU3
Numeral 9 controls each unit according to a control program stored in a ROM (read only memory) 43. Analog / digital conversion circuit (hereinafter A / D
The conversion circuit 32 digitizes the image signal sampled by the image processing unit 31 and supplies 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 out, and the image data is
The 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 and displayed on the LCD 6, and the memory card 2
After reading out the photographed image data from the memory 4 and expanding the photographed image data, the expanded image data is stored in the frame memory 3.
5 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. Alternatively, the DSP 33 first operates the photometric circuit 51,
According to the light receiving level detected by the photometric element 16,
The initial value of the exposure time of the CCD 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 manages the timing of data input / output when recording image data on the memory card 24 or storing expanded image data in the buffer memory 36.

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 voice information (collects voice) and supplies the voice 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 converts the digital signal into a digital signal.
The audio data supplied from the CPU 39 is supplied to the PU 39, and the audio data supplied from the CPU 39 is converted into an analog signal. The 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.

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 includes the colorimetric element 17.
After a predetermined process is performed on an analog signal that is a colorimetric result supplied from the device, the analog signal is converted into a digital signal, and the digital signal is output to the CPU 39.

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

The aperture driving circuit 53 sets the aperture diameter of the aperture 54 to a predetermined value. The aperture 54 is
It 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.

In response to a signal from the LCD switch 25, the CPU 39 stops the operation 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 colorimetric 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 operations such as changing the aperture diameter of the aperture 54. The drive circuit 53 is controlled.

The CPU 39 is provided with a flash drive circuit 3
7 is controlled so that the strobe 4 emits light appropriately, and the red-eye reduction LED drive circuit 38 is controlled to
Before the strobe 4 emits light, the red-eye reduction LED 15 emits light as appropriate.

Note that the CPU 39 can prevent the strobe 4 from emitting light when the LCD cover 14 is open (ie, when the electronic viewfinder is used). By doing this,
In the state of the image displayed on the electronic viewfinder,
The subject can be photographed.

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).

After compressing the digitized audio information, the CPU 39 temporarily stores the digitized and compressed audio data in the buffer memory 36.
Recording is performed in a predetermined area (audio recording area) of the memory card 24. 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) to exchange predetermined data with a predetermined external device (not shown).

The CPU 39 receives a signal from the operation key 7 and performs appropriate processing.

Further, the CPU 39 detects whether or not the pen (pen-type indicating member) 41 is housed in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1 based on a signal from the switch 51, and accordingly, the touch tablet 6A And the operation when the release switch 10 is operated.

When a predetermined position of the touch tablet 6A is pressed by the pen 41 operated by the user, the CPU 3
9 is XY of the pressed position of the touch tablet 6A.
Read the coordinates and the coordinate data (memo information described later)
Is stored in the buffer memory 36. Further, the CPU 39 records the memo information accumulated in the buffer memory 36 in the memo information recording area of the memory card 24 together with the header information of the memo 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 based on 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.

Then, the A / D conversion circuit 32 converts the image signal (analog signal) into image data which is a digital signal, and outputs the 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, shooting of a subject by the present apparatus will be described.

First, the 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.

First, an optical 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. Next, the light 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. The image signal sampled by the image processing unit 31 is A
The signal is supplied to the / D conversion circuit 32, where it is digitized and output to the DSP 33.

The DSP 33 once 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 combining quantization and Huffman coding
(Joint Photographic Experts Group), and the compressed image 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, and 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, 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.

The light image of the object observed by 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 unit 31
Of the image electric 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 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.

The image signal sampled by the image processing section 31 (the image signal of a quarter 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 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 by 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.
From one area, an image electric signal of one pixel arranged at a predetermined position is sampled at a rate of 30 times per second, and the remaining eight pixels are thinned out.

For example, at the time of the first sampling (first frame), the pixel a at the upper left of each area 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 outputs the digitized image signal to the buffer memory 36 once, 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 date and time of photographing. The header information is recorded in the captured image recording area of the memory card 24 along with the header information.

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

As described above, in addition to the method of taking a picture by pressing the release switch 10, there is a method of taking a picture by pressing the execution key 7B of the touch tablet 6A with the pen 41 or the like.

In the case of this method, first, the menu key 7A of the operation keys 7 is pressed with, for example, the pen 41, and the main menu screen shown in FIG. The main menu screen is, for example, a blue main menu background 61.
And a white menu item 62 displayed thereon, for example. In FIG. 12, "Record" 62A is pressed when switching to a mode for recording images, sounds, and the like, "Reproduction" 62B is pressed when switching to a mode for reproducing recorded images, sounds, and the like. "Continuous Playback" 62 pressed when switching to a mode for continuously playing back multiple images, sounds, etc.
C and four menu items 62 of “SETTING” 62D pressed when switching to a mode for setting various operations are displayed.

Next, in this state, the menu item 62
Is pressed to switch to the recording mode. When the mode is switched to the recording mode, an electronic viewfinder is displayed on the LCD 6 as shown in FIG.
The image of the subject received by the CCD 20 via the is displayed.

At this time, a setting icon 93 for setting various functions of the electronic camera 1 and a display icon 94 for displaying the remaining amount of the battery 21 are displayed in the mode setting area 92 on the lower side of the LCD 6. By pressing these setting icons 93, various functions can be set. The design of the icons 93 and 94 changes depending on the state of the corresponding function. For example, when the self-timer is set to ON, the self-timer setting icon 93A blinks.

Among the setting icons 93, the icon 93B
Indicates the setting state of the recording mode, and is selected when the recording mode is changed. Icon 93C is for strobe 4
Represents the setting state of the light emission mode, and is selected when the light emission mode is changed. The icon 93D indicates the setting state of the image quality of the image to be recorded, and is selected when changing the image quality setting. The icon 93E indicates the setting state of the shooting mode at the time of shooting, and is selected when changing the shooting mode. Icons 93F are icons 93A to 93E,
And whether to display the icon 94 or not.

The user can know the setting status of each function by checking these icons 93 and 94.

When the shooting mode is set to macro (close-up shooting), a macro setting icon 95 is displayed at a predetermined position on the electronic viewfinder screen.

As described above, after the mode is switched to the recording mode, when the electronic viewfinder screen is displayed on the LCD 6, by pressing the execution key 7B of the operation keys 7 with, for example, the pen 41, the recording operation is performed. Can be performed. That is, image data corresponding to the image displayed on the electronic viewfinder screen is stored in the memory card 24.
Can be recorded.

When the mode of the electronic camera 1 is switched to the recording mode, shooting can be performed using either the release switch 10 or the touch tablet 6A. However, when the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the touch tablet 6
If A is pressed by mistake, the recording operation will be performed.
Therefore, when the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100, the recording operation is not performed even if the touch tablet 6A is pressed.

The operation procedure in that case will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. First, in step S1, it is determined whether or not the release switch 10 has been pressed. If it is determined in step S1 that the release switch 10 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S2, in which the pen 41
It is determined whether or not it is stored inside. When it is determined that the pen 41 is housed in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the process returns to step S1, and the process of step S1 is repeatedly executed.

If it is determined in step S2 that the pen 41 is not stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the process proceeds to step S3, where it is determined whether the touch tablet 6A has been pressed. If it is determined that the touch tablet 6A has not been pressed, the process returns to step S1, and
The process of step S1 is repeatedly executed. If it is determined in step S3 that the touch tablet 6A has been pressed, or if it is determined in step S1 that the release switch 10 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S4, and a recording operation is performed. Then, step S
The process returns to 1 and the processes after step S1 are repeatedly executed.

As described above, when the pen 41 is stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the touch tablet 6
Even if A is pressed, it is possible to prevent the recording operation from being performed.

Next, another operation procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, in step S11, the pen 41 is connected to the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1.
It is determined whether or not it is stored inside. If it is determined that the pen 41 is housed in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the process proceeds to step S12, where the release switch 10
It is determined whether or not is pressed. Release switch 10
If it is determined that is not pressed, the process returns to step S11, and the processes after step S11 are repeatedly executed.

If it is determined in step S12 that the release switch 10 has been pressed, the flow advances to step S14 to perform a video recording operation. Thereafter, the process returns to step S11, and the processes after step S11 are repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, in step S11, the pen 41
If it is determined that is not stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the process proceeds to step S13, and it is determined whether the touch tablet 6A is pressed. If it is determined that the touch tablet 6A has not been pressed, step S
Then, the process returns to step S11, and the processes after step S11 are repeatedly executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the touch tablet 6A has been pressed, the flow advances to step S14 to perform a recording operation. After that, the process returns to step S11, and step S1
The processes after 1 are repeatedly executed.

As described above, when the pen 41 is not stored in the housing 100 of the electronic camera 1, the recording operation is performed only when the touch tablet 6A is pressed, and the pen 41 is When stored in the housing 100, the recording operation can be performed only when the release switch 10 is pressed.

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 memo 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 memo information such as desired characters and graphics into the touch tablet 6A (LCD 6).

When a photographed image is displayed on the LCD 6 and memo information is inputted by the pen 41, the memo 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 predetermined color selection switch, the user can select the color of the memo displayed on the LCD 6 from colors such as black, white, red, and blue.

After the memo information is input to the touch tablet 6A by the pen 41, when the execution key 7B of the operation key 7 is pressed, the memo 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 recorded in the memo information recording area of the memory card 24.

Note that the memo information recorded on the memory card 24 is information that has been subjected to compression processing. Since the memo information input to the touch tablet 6A includes 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 low and the information amount is not reduced. The time required for compression and decompression increases. Furthermore, since the compression by the JPEG method is lossy compression, it is not suitable for compressing memo information having a small amount of information (decompressing the LCD 6
If displayed above, gathers and bleeding due to missing information will be noticeable).

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the memo information is compressed by a run-length method used in a facsimile or the like. The run-length method scans the memo 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 of compressing the memo information by encoding the memo information.

By using this run length method,
The memo information can be compressed to the minimum, and even when the compressed memo information is decompressed, the loss of the information can be suppressed. Note that the memo information may not be compressed when the information amount is relatively small.

Further, 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 memo information of the pen input are combined in the frame memory 35, and the photographed image and the memo The composite image of LC
Displayed on D6. On the other hand, in the memory card 24, the photographed image data is recorded in the photographed image recording area, and the memo information is recorded in the memo 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 memo) from the composite image of the captured image and the memo,
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 memo information recording area of the memory card 24, a list thereof can be displayed on the LCD 6, as shown in FIG.

On the display screen of the LCD 6 shown in FIG. 16, the date when the information was recorded (recording date) (in this case, November 1, 1996) is displayed at the upper end of the screen. The number and recording time of the information recorded on the recording date are displayed on the left side of the screen.

[0133] 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: 2”
The information recorded (input) at "one minute" includes photographed image information, and the information recorded at other times does not include image information.

A memo icon “□” indicates that a predetermined memo is recorded as line drawing information.

An audio icon (note) is displayed on the right side of the thumbnail image display area, and a recording time (unit is seconds) is displayed on the right of the icon (when no audio information is inputted). , These are not displayed).

The user operates the LCD 6 as shown in FIG.
By pressing a desired voice icon in the list displayed on the pen 41 with the pen tip of the pen 41 to select and specify information to be reproduced, and pressing the execution key 7B shown in FIG. Play the selected information.

For example, when the voice icon indicating “10:16” shown in FIG. 16 is pressed by the pen 41, the CPU 39 sets the selected recording date and time (10:01).
6 minutes) from the memory card 24, expands the audio data, and then reads A / D and D
/ A conversion circuit 42. The 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.

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

That is, the CPU 39 instructs the DSP 33 to read out the photographed image data corresponding to the photographing date and time of the selected thumbnail image from the memory card 24.
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.

An image shot 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.

Further, in this 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 human eyes, 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 taken 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 the present embodiment, when the subject is imaged in the L mode and the H mode, the image processing unit 31
CCD to the extent that you do not mind degradation of image quality during playback
Since 20 pixels 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. In addition, this makes it possible to reduce the cost and power consumption of the device.

The light emitting section 4 can be operated to irradiate the subject with light as required.

In the present embodiment, as described above, various information (data) recorded on the memory card 24 is accompanied by data on the date and time when the information was input as header information. . The user can use the LCD
6, desired information can be selected and reproduced from the list screen (FIG. 16) displayed on the screen.

When a plurality of pieces of information (captured image, sound, line drawing) are inputted at the same time, each piece of information is separately recorded in a predetermined area of the recording card 24. Header information of the same date and time is attached to each other.

For example, when information A (captured image), information B (sound), and information C (line drawing) are input simultaneously, each information A, B, C recorded in a predetermined area of the memory card 24 is input.
Are provided with data of the same input date and time as header information. Further, the header information of the information A may be set as the data of the input date and time, and the header information of the information B and C may be set as the data indicating the information A.

As described above, a plurality of types of information input simultaneously can be reproduced simultaneously at the time of reproduction.

In this embodiment, after the first information (for example, a photographed image) is recorded, second information (for example, a line drawing (memo)) different from the first information is stored in the first information. It can also be recorded in an additional form. Thus, when adding the second information in addition to the first information,
While reproducing the first information, the second information is input. Hereinafter, a detailed description of this case will be described.

For example, when the pre-recorded audio information is being reproduced, when the release switch 10 is pressed and the subject is photographed, the memory card 2
The photographed image data recorded in the photographed image recording area No. 4 is accompanied by header information of the date and time when the recording of the audio information was started.

Further, for example, on August 25, 1995, 10
During the playback of the audio information whose recording was started at 15:00,
When one minute has elapsed from the start of the reproduction (that is, when the reproduction data has become the data at 10:06 on August 25, 1995), when the photographing processing is performed, it is recorded in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24. 199 image data
It is also possible to add header information at 10:06 on August 25, 5 (start time (10: 5)
May be used as header information, or one of them may be registered as a default (the selection is made by the user).

Similarly, when line information is input while audio information recorded in advance is being reproduced,
In the line drawing information recording area of the memory card 24, the same header information as the header information of the recording date and time of the audio information is recorded together with the line drawing information.

When the line information is input in the case where the audio information and the photographed image information which have been input simultaneously are reproduced, the line information is recorded in the line image information recording area of the memory card 24 together with the audio information ( Alternatively, the same header information as the header information of the recording date and time of (captured image information) is recorded.

If the photographed image information is inputted in the case where the voice information and the line drawing information which have been inputted simultaneously are reproduced, the photographed image data and the photographed image data are stored in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24. The same header information as that of the recording date and time of (or line drawing information) is recorded.

When audio information is input in the case where a previously input captured image is being reproduced, the audio information recording area of the memory card 24 includes the audio data and the header information of the recording date and time of the captured image. The same header information is recorded.

When the line image information is input in the case where the previously input photographed image is reproduced, the line image information recording area of the memory card 24 includes the line information and the header information of the recording date and time of the photographed image. The same header information is recorded.

In the case where the photographed image information and the line drawing information which have been input at the same time are reproduced, if the sound information is inputted, the sound recording area of the memory card 24 together with the photographed image information ( Or, the same header information as the header information of the recording date and time of the line drawing information) is recorded.

When the photographed image information is input in a case where the previously inputted line drawing information is reproduced, the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24 includes the photographed image data and the recording date and time of the line drawing information. The same header information as the header information is recorded.

When audio information is input while the previously input line image information is being reproduced, the audio data in the audio recording area of the memory card 24 is stored in the audio recording area together with the header information of the recording date and time of the line image information. The same header information is recorded.

As described above, when the prerecorded first information is reproduced, when the second information is input, the recording date and time of the first information is changed to the header information of the second information. (Hereinafter referred to as a normal mode). By doing so, even if information is added later, the relationship between the original information and the added information can be maintained.

Further, in this embodiment, when the second information is added to the first information recorded in advance, the second information is added.
In addition to recording the input time of the information as the header information of the second information, the header information of the first information may be rewritten with the header information of the second information (hereinafter, referred to as the header information of the second information).
Recording time change mode). In this case, a recording date and time mode switch (not shown) is further provided to change the recording date and time (switch between the normal mode and the recording date and time change mode) by the user's selection.

For example, when the user later decides at a specific time,
If a specific subject is scheduled to be photographed, and a comment on the photographed image is recorded as line drawing information in advance (that is, the line drawing information is the first information), the mode switch for the recording date and time is set to the recording mode. The mode is switched to the date and time change mode, and the object is photographed while reproducing the recorded line drawing information (that is, the photographed image is the second information). Then, the input date and time of the captured image (second information) are attached as header information to both the line drawing information (first information) and the captured image (second information).

Further, the input information is prioritized,
The header information of the input time may be added to each information in accordance with the priority.

For example, if the priority of a photographed image is the first, the priority of the audio information is the second, and the priority of the line drawing information is the third, the previously recorded line drawing information is reproduced. While inputting audio information, both line drawing information and audio information recorded on the memory card 24 include:
Header information including the input time of the audio information is appended (since the priority of the audio information is higher than the priority of the line drawing information). Further, when a captured image is input while reproducing the audio information and the line image information, the line information, audio information, and the captured image recorded on the memory card 24 are accompanied by header information including the input time of the captured image. (Because the priority of a captured image is higher than the priority of other information). This priority may be set by the user.

Next, description will be made regarding a case where sound is recorded while a subject is being photographed.

First, the case where the continuous shooting mode switch 13 is switched to the S mode (single shooting mode) will be described. First, when the recording switch 12 is pressed, voice information is input, and the voice information and the header information of the recording start date and time are recorded in the voice information recording area of the memory card 24. When the release switch 10 is pressed during the input of the audio information (S mode),
One frame of the subject is photographed, and the photographed image data is recorded on the memory card 24. The photographed image data is accompanied by header information of the date and time when the release switch 10 is pressed (at the start of photographing).

On the other hand, when the release button 10 is first pressed, one frame of the subject is photographed. At this time, in the captured image data recorded on the memory card 24, the date and time when the image was captured is recorded as header information. Further, when the release button 10 is continuously pressed, the photographed image is displayed on the LCD 6, and at this time, the recording switch 1
When 2 is pressed, voice information is input. At this time, the date and time when the image was captured is attached to the audio data recorded in the audio information recording area of the memory card 24 as header information.

Next, the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
Is switched to L mode or H mode (continuous shooting mode). First, when the release switch 10 is pressed and then the recording switch 12 is pressed, and when the release switch 10 and the recording switch 12 are pressed simultaneously, the captured image and audio information are recorded as shown below. You.

When the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13 is switched to the L mode, eight frames are photographed per second, and the photographed image data of each frame recorded in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24. Is attached with header information of the date and time when each image was taken. Therefore, the date and time at intervals of 0.125 seconds are recorded in the header of each frame. At this time, the audio information is recorded every 0.125 seconds (but continuously input), and the audio data recorded in the audio information recording area of the memory card 24 is also recorded at intervals of 0.125 seconds. Date and time header information is recorded.

Similarly, the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
Is switched to the H mode, 30 frames are photographed per second, and the photographed image data of each frame recorded in the photographed image recording area of the memory card 24 includes the date and time when each photographed. Is attached.
Therefore, the date and time at 1/30 second intervals are recorded in the header of each frame. At this time, the audio information is 1
/ Recorded every 30 seconds (but continuously entered)
Also in the audio data recorded in the audio information recording area of the memory card 24, header information of the date and time at 1/30 second intervals is recorded.

As described above, when a photographed image or sound is edited after recording, when an arbitrary photographed image is removed, audio information having the same header information as that of the photographed image can also be removed. it can.

On the other hand, the continuous shooting mode changeover switch 13
When the recording mode is switched to the L mode or the H mode (when the mode is switched to the continuous shooting mode), when the recording switch 12 is pressed first and then the release switch 10 is pressed, the data is recorded on the memory card 24. The information to be recorded includes the following header information.

That is, in this case, the audio data until the release switch 10 is pressed is recorded as one file in the audio information recording area of the memory card 24. Thereafter, when the release switch 10 is pressed, the header information of the date and time corresponding to each frame of the captured image is recorded together with the audio data.

By the way, in the present embodiment, as described above, it is possible to record not only a light image of a subject but also memo (line drawing) information. In the present embodiment, a mode for inputting such information (shooting mode and memo input mode) is provided, and these modes are appropriately selected according to the operation of the user, so that the information can be input smoothly. It has been made.

In the above embodiment, FIG.
A program that causes the CPU 39 to perform each process illustrated in FIG. 15 can be stored in the ROM 43, the memory card 24, or the like of the electronic camera 1. The program may be supplied to the user in a state stored in the ROM 43 or the memory card 24 in advance, or a CD-ROM (compact disc) may be copied to the ROM 43 or the memory card 24 so that the program can be copied to the user. -read only memory)
Or the like may be supplied to the user in a state stored. In this case, the ROM 43 is, for example, an electrically erasable EEPROM (electrically erasable and
Programmable read only memory).

In the above embodiment, the finder 2 is optical. However, it is also possible to use a liquid crystal finder using liquid crystal.

In the above embodiment, the taking lens, the finder, and the light emitting section are arranged in this order from the left when viewed from the front of the electronic camera. However, they may be arranged in order from the right. It is possible.

In the above-described embodiment, only one microphone is provided. However, two microphones may be provided on the left and right sides, and sound may be recorded in stereo.

Further, in the above embodiment, various information is input by using the pen-type pointing device, but it is also possible to input by using a finger.

The display screen displayed on the LCD 6 is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this. It is possible to use screens of various layouts.
Similarly, the type and layout of the operation keys are also examples,
It is not limited to this.

[0184]

As described above, according to the information processing apparatus of the first aspect, when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is stored in the storing means,
Since the input of information by the input means is prohibited when the first operation means is operated, it is possible to prevent an image from being photographed and recorded by mistake.

According to the recording medium of the ninth aspect, when the first operating means is operated when the detecting means detects that the second operating means is stored in the storing means, Since a control program that prohibits the input of information by the input means was recorded, images were mistakenly taken,
Recording can be suppressed.

Furthermore, according to the information processing apparatus of the tenth aspect, the first control means for controlling the imaging means to be driven in response to the operation of the touch tablet, and Since the second control unit that controls the imaging unit so as not to be driven is provided, it is possible to appropriately prevent a subject from being erroneously imaged based on a predetermined condition.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an electronic camera to which the present invention is applied, as viewed from the front side.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the electronic camera 1 as viewed from the back side with the LCD cover 14 opened.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the electronic camera 1 as viewed from the back side with the LCD cover 14 closed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the electronic camera 1.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of an LCD switch 25 and an LCD cover 14 of the electronic camera 1.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view showing a state in which the pen 41 is stored in the electronic camera 1.

FIG. 7 is a side view showing a state in which the pen 41 is stored in the electronic camera 1.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a state in which a switch 51 is turned on / off by a pen 41;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an electrical configuration inside the electronic camera 1.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a thinning process.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of the thinning processing.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a display example of a main menu screen.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example in which electronic viewfinder display is performed.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation procedure during recording.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating another example of an operation procedure during recording.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen displayed on the LCD 6 of the electronic camera 1.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Electronic camera 2 Viewfinder 3 Shooting lens 4 Light-emitting part (flash) 5 Speaker 6 LCD 6A Touch tablet 7 Operation key 7A Menu key 7B Execute key 7C Cancel key 7D Delete key 7E, 7F, 7G, 7H Scroll key 8 Microphone 9 Earphone jack Reference Signs List 10 release switch 11 power switch 12 recording switch 13 continuous shooting mode switch 15 red-eye reduction LED 16 photometric element 17 colorimetric element 20 CCD 21 battery 22 capacitor 23 circuit board 24 memory card 26 finder display element 30 lens drive circuit 31 image processing Unit 32 analog / digital conversion circuit (A / D) 33 digital signal processor (DSP) 34 CCD drive circuit 35 frame memory 36 buffer memory 37 Robo driving circuit 38 red-eye reduction LED driving circuit 39 CPU 40 viewfinder display circuit 41 pen 42 A / D and D / A conversion circuit 43 ROM 45 timer 48 interface 51 iris photometric circuit 52 colorimetry circuit 53 diaphragm driving circuit 54

Claims (10)

[Claims] An input unit that inputs information; a storage unit that stores the information input by the input unit; a first operation unit that is operated when the input unit is instructed to input the information. A second operating means for operating the first operating means; a storing means for storing the second operating means; and a determination as to whether the second operating means is stored in the storing means. Detecting means for detecting, the input means, the storage means, the first operating means, and a control means for controlling the detecting means, the control means, the second operating means by the detecting means When it is detected that the first operation unit is stored in the storage unit, when the first operation unit is operated,
An information processing apparatus, wherein input of the information by the input unit is prohibited. 2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein, when the detection means detects that the second operation means is stored in the storage means, when the first operation means is operated, The input means is controlled so as not to be input, and when the detection means detects that the second operation means is not stored in the storage means, the first operation means is operated. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control is performed such that the information is input by the input unit. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising third operation means operated when instructing the input of the information by the input means. 4. The control means, when the detection means detects that the second operation means is stored in the storage means, when the third operation means is operated, When the information is input to the input means, and when the detection means detects that the second operation means is not stored in the storage means, when the third operation means is operated, the input is performed. 4. The information according to claim 3, wherein the information is controlled so as not to be input by means, and the information is controlled to be input by the input means when the first operation means is operated. Processing equipment. 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information is at least one of an image and a sound.
The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input unit is an imaging unit that captures a subject image. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second operation unit is a touch tablet. 8. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying information inputted by said input means, wherein said second operation means is arranged so as to overlap with said display means. An information processing device according to any one of the above. 9. An input unit for inputting information, a storage unit for storing the information input by the input unit, a first operation unit operated when instructing the input unit to input the information, Second operating means for operating the first operating means, storing means for storing the second operating means, and detecting whether or not the second operating means is stored in the storing means A control program for use in an information processing apparatus including: a detecting unit that detects that the second operating unit is stored in the storing unit by the detecting unit. A recording medium having recorded thereon a control program for inhibiting input of the information by the input means when the operation means is operated. 10. An image pickup unit for picking up an image of a subject, a drive unit for driving the image pickup unit, a display unit for displaying an image picked up by the image pickup unit, and a touch tablet arranged so as to overlap the display unit. A first control unit that controls the imaging unit to be driven in response to an operation of the touch tablet; and a second control unit that controls the imaging unit not to be driven even when the touch tablet is operated. An information processing apparatus comprising: a control unit.