JPS6396642A - E2 prom incorporated camera - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To effectively rewrite data which varies on every photographic operation in an EEPROM by detecting the start of the traveling of a trailing curtain and writing information on a camera in the EEPROM. CONSTITUTION:When the start of the traveling of the trailing curtain is detected through a switch S2 which is turned on by the 2nd depression of a shutter release button, an L signal is applied through the switch S2 and a microcomputer muC writes the total number of times of shutter release efficiently in the total shutter release frequency area of the EEPROM by utilizing the control free time of the microcomputer muC during the run of the trailing curtain. The number of film frames is also written similarly.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention [Technical Field] The present invention relates to a camera controlled by a microcomputer, particularly an E2 equipped with a built-in E2PROM and data related to the camera written to the E'PTIOM.
This relates to a camera with a built-in PROM.

[Prior Art] In recent years, various cameras have been commercially available which are equipped with a microcomputer and whose focus adjustment and exposure control are performed by the microcomputer.

In this case, normal photographing information is stored in the RAM of the microcomputer, but since the RAM memory is erased when the power is turned off, photographing information such as the total number of shutter releases cannot be stored.

Of course, it is possible to provide a backup source for RAM to retain the memory, but in that case,
It is necessary to install a backup battery, which requires a space for it, and increases costs.

In this respect, E"FROM, which can be erased and written electrically, is advantageous because it does not require a backup power supply. However, the E"FROM currently available on the market has a limit on the number of times it can be rewritten. There are problems to be solved in the adoption and control of

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 60-61731 has a built-in E'F ROM, and data indicating shooting information such as the number of film sheets and the winding switch status is transferred from the RAM to E'Pr (OM) when the power battery is removed or the voltage drops. A camera has been proposed in which the written data is written and the written data is read out when the battery is installed. However, in the above camera, all data is written uniformly, and individual Writing according to the data contents is not performed.

The following 5 rows of blank spaces [Object of the invention] The present invention is directed to data E"Pr1 that changes every time a photograph is taken.
E”F that can efficiently control writing to 0M
The aim is to provide a camera with a built-in ROM.

[Structure of the Invention] For this reason, the present invention includes a focal plane shutter, a built-in microcomputer for camera control, and an E2PROM whose writing and erasing are electrically controlled by the control microcomputer. In the camera, there is a data creation means for creating data regarding the camera, a detection means for detecting the start of running of the rear curtain of the focal plane shutter, and upon receiving the output of the detection means, writing data regarding the camera into E"FROM. E2P characterized in that it is provided with a write control means.
This provides a camera with a built-in ROM.

In the present invention, when the rear curtain of the focal plane shutter starts running, the microcomputer writes camera-related data to the E"FROM at that timing, and the writing can be completed at the timing when one shooting session ends. Therefore, there is no need to set aside special time for writing, which is especially effective during continuous shooting.

[Example] Hereinafter, an example of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a circuit block diagram of an embodiment for achieving the present invention.

(E) is a battery that supplies power to each circuit, and (μC) is a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as microcomputer) that controls the entire camera. A microcontroller (μ) that controls the entire camera
The flowchart of C) will be described later. (E”FR
OM) is a ROM that can be electrically written and erased.It has a built-in voltage booster circuit, and when a write signal is input, it automatically erases the data and at the same time boosts the voltage to the voltage required for writing. Then, writing to the ROM becomes possible. (LMC) is a photometry circuit that measures the brightness of a subject, and outputs a digital signal indicated by the apex system as brightness information to the microcomputer (μC).

(LEC) uses a microcomputer (μC
) The lens circuit (AEC) that outputs to the microcomputer (μ
C) an exposure control circuit that controls the aperture and focal plane shutter based on the exposure information from (MOD);
is a one-frame winding circuit that controls the motor to wind one frame of film. ) is used, it automatically reads the film sensitivity and sends the digital signal indicated by the Apex system to the microcomputer (
This is a film sensitivity reading circuit that outputs the information to the microcomputer (μC) and also automatically reads the number of sheets of the film and outputs it to the microcomputer (μC). (DISP) is a microcontroller (
A display device (BC) that performs various displays based on the signals output from μC) detects the battery voltage, and when the voltage falls below a predetermined voltage, stops camera control to prevent camera malfunction. In the battery check circuit, when this battery check signal is input to the microcomputer (μC), the microcomputer (μC) executes the interrupt routine BATIN described later.
Execute the flow of T. (D℃-DC) is the microcomputer (μC) and E”PrtOM when the battery voltage decreases.
This is a converter circuit that supplies stable 5V power to the

Next, to explain the signal line between the microcomputer (μC) and E"P1'tOM, the microcomputer (μC) and E"FROM are connected to an address bus (ADO~,) that specifies the ROM address of E"FROM, Data bus (0° to 7) for exchanging data, W/R control line (W/rl) for transmitting read and write signals, and chip enable line for transmitting signals to start read and write control. (CE), Wr transmits the write Busy signal indicating that writing is in progress.
ite Busy line (VIBu), and each device is provided with the necessary terminals. (
Tri) is a power supply transistor that supplies power to devices other than the microcomputer (μC), E"PrtOM, and display device (DISP), and (RR) and (OR) are resistors and capacitors for resetting the microcomputer (μC). , (DI), (
D2) is a diode for preventing reverse charging, and (CyL) is a crystal oscillator that supplies a clock to the microcomputer (μC).

Next, to explain the switches, (St) is a shooting preparation switch that is turned on by pressing the first release button (not shown), (SISO) is a film sensitivity change switch for changing the film sensitivity; The film sensitivity setting value is changed by pressing down (ON) the up/down switches (Su) and (Sd) to be described later. Also, when either the shooting preparation switch (St) or the film sensitivity change switch (SISO) is turned on, the output of the AND circuit (ANI) changes from the I-Itgh level (hereinafter referred to as rHJ level) to the Low level (hereinafter referred to as "L").
As a result, the microcomputer (μC) performs a predetermined operation.

(S2) is a release switch that is turned on by the second press (deeper than the first press) of the release button.
When C) receives a signal changing from the "■(" level to the rLJ level by turning on this switch), it executes a release routine and performs exposure control and subsequent control of film winding, etc. (S3 ) is ON when the exposure is completed.
The exposure completion switch is turned off by a charging mechanism (not shown) during film winding. (S4) is
When the I-frame winding is completed, the switch is turned ON and released, and is turned OFF by a mechanism (not shown). (S5) is a back cover close detection switch that turns on when the camera back cover is closed.
L, When a signal that changes from rHJ level to rLJ level due to this ON is input to the microcomputer (μC), the microcomputer (μC) executes the URA MON interrupt routine described later and performs predetermined control. . (S6) is a film detection switch that detects the presence or absence of film. It consists of a film suppressing piece and turns off when the film is wound around the spool. (Su).

(Sd) is an up/down switch, and when you want to move up or down the information you want to change, you can turn the information up or down by turning it on along with the switch for the information you want to change. .

Next, the operation of the camera is explained by the microcomputer (μ
This will be explained with reference to the flowchart of C).

<Battery replacement> When the battery is replaced and a new battery is loaded into the camera, rLJ is connected to the reset terminal (RE) of the microcomputer (μC) through the reset resistor (RR) and capacitor (CR).
When a signal that changes from the level to the rHJ level is input, the microcomputer (μC) executes the flowchart shown in FIG.

First, the microcontroller (μC) resets all internal registers and flags, and outputs the output terminal (0) and port (OP
) to the rLJ level (#5.#lO).

Next, the data stored in the E2FROM is loaded into an internal register (#15). This data loading is performed by executing the subroutine shown in Figure 3. Before explaining this subroutine, we will explain the E2FROM First, about the address and the data entered in this address.
The explanation will be based on the table. In addition, the microcontroller used (
μC) and E"FROM have an 8-bit configuration.

Table 1 First, at address "00" of E"FROM, the total number of release operations is input in units of 10,000, and (bO, bl, b2) = (0, 0, 0).

(1,0,0), (0,1,OXt, 1.OX☆,☆,
In 1), if the total number of releases is N, each N≦10,000.

10,000<N≦20,000, 20,000<N≦30,000, 30,000<N≦40,000.

N>40,000. This is used to alleviate the memory limitations of rewriting the total number of releases due to the limit on the number of rewrites of E2FROM or rewriting the number of film shots taken. Specifically, the number of rewrites is guaranteed to be 10,000 times. The unit of rewriting is detected using the above bits, and if it is detected that 10,000 rewritings have been performed, the rewriting byte (address) is changed. The contents of the lower 8 bits of the total number of releases are to be stored in addresses (OI), (11), (21), and (31). memory for address (11) for more than 10,000 but less than 20,000, and memory for address (11) for more than 20,000 and less than 30,000.
21) memory, address (3
1) memory is used. Address (02), (12)
, (22), and (32) show the top 8 in terms of total number of releases.
The contents of the bits are memorized and the addresses (01), (
11), (21), and (31), respectively, and are used as a 16-bit configuration, and the memory addresses used for the total number of releases are (01), (11),
This corresponds to (21) and (31). Address (03), (
13), (23), and (33) store the number of film sheets that have been photographed, and as described above, can be used depending on the total number of times of release. Address (04) stores the film sensitivity. Since the film sensitivity is changed (rewritten) less often, no spare bytes are provided.

Returning to the flowchart, the flow of the subroutine for reading data from E"FROM shown in FIGS. 3(1) and (II) will be explained.

First, the microcomputer (μC) prohibits all interruptions to this flow during data reading so that the data does not become incorrect data (#100). Next, set the address rOJ of the data to be read and execute a subroutine to read data from E8FROM (#I05.#110
). This subroutine is shown in FIG. 3 (II) and explained. First, the data of the set address (currently address 0 is set) is output to the address bus, and
Set the read mode (as viewed from the microcontroller) by setting the signal to "I(") level (#255), set the chip enable terminal (CE) to "I(" level) (#260), and set E'
It is latched that the PROM is in the data read mode of the above address. E'Pr (OM internally decodes the latched address and stores the data (D
A) is output to the data bus, and the microcomputer (μC) manually inputs this data (DA) (#265). In this flowchart, the microcomputer (μC) outputs the chip enable signal (CE) and immediately inputs the data (DA) manually. However, if the processing speed of the microcomputer (μC) is fast, the chip enable signal After outputting (GE), a time waiting step may be provided. Data (D
After inputting A), the microcomputer (μC) sets the chip enable signal (CE) to "L" level to finish reading 1 byte of data (#270), and returns (3rd step).
Proceed to step #115 in Figure (1)). Next, in step #115, this data (DA) is output to the register (0), the bt and bo of the data are determined, and the E'Pr (E'Pr) where the data of the total number of releases and the number of film shots taken is stored in memory. Detect the address of OM.

First, if it is determined in step #120 that (bl, bO) = r00J, as explained in Table 1, the number of rewrites (
Since N) is less than 10,000 times, the addressing variable R1 is set to 1 in step #125. cbt.

bO) -401J (#130), 10,000 times N≦2
Since the number of times is 11,000,000, Jtl is 11 (#135), (bl
, bo) = rlOJ (#135), 20,000 times N≦
Since it is 30,000 times, set R1 to 21 (#145), (eyes, bo
)=rlI”, then R
Set 1 to 31 (#l50). This addressing variable R
1 indicates the address where the lower 8 bits of data of the total number of releases are stored. Next, register specification variable R
2 as "B"(#155), set the address to R1 (#160), and first read the lower 8 bits of the total number of releases from the E!PROM (#165).
), this data DA is stored in the register (
memory (#170). Then, add “bi” to the addressing variable R1 and set it as a new R1 #17
5) Add "l" to the register specification variable R2 and set it as a new R2 (#180), and repeat until R2 becomes "4"(#185) to obtain the data of the upper 8 bits of the total number of releases. is read from E″FROM and stored in register (2), and the data of the number of film shots taken is read into E″F.
The data is read from the ROM and stored in the respective registers (3) (#160 to #185). Next, the microcomputer (μC) should set address R1 to "4" in order to read the sensitivity data of the remaining films from E''FROM #190
), read the data (#195), and read the internal register (4
) after memorizing this data (DA) (#200)
, permit interrupts and return (#205). This completes reading into the E″FROMF10M data.

When this reading is completed, the microcomputer (μC) proceeds to step #20 in Fig. 2 and checks whether either the shooting preparation switch (Sl) or the film sensitivity change switch (SISO) (S A) is turned on. Determine whether or not.

When both switches are OFF, the end flag (E
NDF) is set (#25),
If it is set, the process returns to step #20, and if it is not set, the power supply transistor (Tri) and the DC
- To turn off the DC converter, the terminal (Off), (03
) to the rLJ level (#30, 35). Then, the end flag (ENDF) is set, all displays are turned off, and the process returns to step #20 (#40.#42).

In step #20, if either the shooting preparation switch (Sl) or the film sensitivity change switch (SISO) is turned on, the process advances to step #45, where the end flag (E N D F ) is reset, and then the timer is turned on. Reset and start (#50). This timer is a hard timer built into a microcomputer (μC) and is used to maintain power. Reset and start the timer and power supply transistor (Trl)
To turn on the terminal (ON), set it to the “I(” level) (#
55). Next, set the terminal (03) to the “January level” and set the DC
-Turn on the DC converter (#60), and even if the power supply voltage drops, a constant voltage will be applied to the microcomputer (μC) and E”FR.
Make sure the OM is powered. Then, it is determined whether the film sensitivity change switch (SISO) is turned on (#65), and if it is turned on, the film sensitivity change (I
Proceed to the SO change) subroutine (#!70).

<ISO change> This ISO change subroutine is shown in Fig. 4 (1) and explained. First, the contents stored in the SV register (SvR) are read out, this is set as Sv (#300), and this value is displayed. Output to device. The display device (DISP) is
Among the displays shown in FIG. 4 (II), the film sensitivity is displayed using only "ISO day, day, roll"(#305). Note that this Sv is displayed as an apex value. Next, the microcomputer (μC) switches the film sensitivity change switch (srs
o) is ON (#310), and if it is ON, determine whether either the up switch (Su) or the down switch (Sd) is ON (#310).
315° #325), and when the up switch (Su) is ON, 0.5 is added to the film sensitivity (Sv).
is added (#320), and when the down switch (Sd) is turned on, 0.5 is subtracted from the film sensitivity (Sv) to obtain a new film sensitivity (Sv) (#330).

The process then proceeds to step #335, waits for a certain period of time to avoid continuous changes, and then returns to step #305.

If neither the up switch (Su) nor the down switch (Sd) is turned on, the process returns from step #325 to step #305, this flow is repeated, and the film sensitivity is displayed. In step #31O,
The microcontroller (μC) controls the film sensitivity change switch (SIS).
When detecting that the SV register (O) is turned off, the SV register (
Film sensitivity (SvR) stored in memory (SvR)
Determine whether the changed film sensitivity (Sv) and the changed film sensitivity (Sv) are equal or not (#340). If they are equal, return to the flow; if not, the changed film sensitivity (Sv)
In order to write ``Sv'' to E''FROM, the process advances to the ISO writing subroutine (#345) and returns after writing is completed.In this way, the changed film sensitivity (Sv
) and the film sensitivity (SVR) stored in E"FROM are equal, by not writing to E"FROM and reducing the number of writes, E2PRO
The limit on the number of writes for M can be effectively dealt with.

Next, to explain the ISO writing subroutine shown in Figure 5, first change the changed film sensitivity (Sv) to SV
E”Pr to be memorized and written to the register (SvR)
Set the address of tOM to "4", set the contents (SvR) of the SV register (SvR) in the data output register, and proceed to the write subroutine (#365).
Returns after writing is completed.

Fig. 6 shows the above-mentioned old-load subroutine. First, the microcontroller (μC) prohibits data destruction by prohibiting interrupts that occur during writing (#
400). Then connect the write/read terminal (W-R) to rL.
Set it to J level (#405), set it to write mode, and output the data at the address "4" set above (#410
．． #415). Next, set the depth enable (CE) to r.
Set to HJ level and start writing to E2PROM (#420.#425). During writing, E"FROM is connected to rH from Write Busy terminal (W-[3u).
J level is output, and when writing is completed, rLJ level is output. The microcomputer (μC) recognizes this termination signal as rLJ.
Wait until the signal reaches rLJ level (#430), and when this signal is detected, set the chip enable to rLJ level #435
), outputs write mode end to E'PrLOM, enables interrupt, and returns (#435). In addition, the above W
If the device does not have a rite Busy terminal (W-Bu), the time required for writing may be measured and the device may wait for this amount of time.

This completes the ISO change subroutine.

Preparation for Shooting> At step #65 in FIG. 2, if the film sensitivity change switch (SIso) is not turned on, the process advances to the subroutine for preparation for shooting (81ON).

This subroutine is shown in FIG. 7 and explained. The microcomputer (μC) controls the photometry circuit (LMC) and lens circuit (LEC), which are driven by turning on the power supply transistor (Trl).
), respectively input the aperture photometric value (Bvo) and the lens-specific aperture value (Avo) (#450° #455).

Next, check whether the film is loaded or not #46
0), if loaded, film present flag (FILF
) is set (#465), and if it is not loaded, the flag (FILF) is reset (#470).

Then, read out the film sensitivity (SvR) stored in the SV register (SvR) (#475), and calculate the specified exposure from the above-mentioned aperture metering value (Bvo), lens aperture value (AyO), and film sensitivity (Sv). Deeds (#4
80), the shutter speed, control aperture value, and number of film shots obtained through this calculation are sent to the display device CDl5P), and the rTv
Display "E day rollo, Av day day day, day day" and return (#490).

Returning to Figure 2, when the microcomputer (μC) finishes the ISO change or 5ION subroutine (#70.#75), either the shooting preparation switch (St) or the film sensitivity change switch (SISO) is turned ON. (#80) If either one is turned on, the process returns to step #45 and repeats the routine.

If both switches (S 1 ) and (SI SO) are OFF, it is determined whether the timer started in step #50 has elapsed for 10 seconds (#85),
If 10 seconds have elapsed, proceed to step #30 and process the end of shooting; if 10 seconds have not elapsed, return to step #55, repeat the routine, and wait for the shutter release. Next, press the release switch ( When S2) is turned on, the microcomputer (μC) performs the control process for photographing shown in FIG.

First of all, the microcontroller (μC) uses the battery replacement interrupt BATIN
Interruptions other than T are prohibited (#500), and the release operation and exposure are controlled (#505). Exposure control is performed by sending a running start signal for the front curtain (first curtain) and rear curtain (second curtain) of the focal plane shutter to the exposure control circuit. When the exposure is completed (#510→#5
12), the exposure completion switch (S3) indicating this is ONt.
,, the microcomputer (μC) turns on this switch (S3)
When a signal is input, the address “0” in the microcontroller (μC)
” bit b2 of the register is 1, that is, the number of rewrites (N)
Determine whether or not the number of times has exceeded 40,000 (#512),
If it is set, it is assumed that the subsequent data will not be trusted even if the contents of E"FROM are rewritten, and the process proceeds to step #570, the film winding subroutine, without rewriting. This subroutine will be described later. “When the microcontroller (μC) is not in the internal release count lower counter (CNTRI), “
1"(#515), and this value is "0", that is, the lower 8
Check whether there is a carry from bit #520
), if there is a carry, the upper counter (CNT
R2) is added (#525).Then, the process proceeds to the address change subroutine (#530) that specifies the address to be changed depending on the degree of writing. Even when the lower counter (CNTRI) is not "0" Proceed to address change subroutine.

FIG. 9 shows this address change subroutine, and to explain it, the microcomputer (μC) determines whether the contents of the upper and lower counters (CNTR2, CNTRI) are 10,000 or less, and if the contents are 10,000 or less, If there is, set the addressing variable R1 indicating the address for writing the total number of releases to “
Set to BI and return (#600 to #605).

If the content of the counter (denoted as N) is 10,000 and N≦20,000, the microcomputer (μC) executes the steps starting from step #615. In step #615, the bits (bo, bl) indicating the total number of releases are set to (0,0
).

(0,0), the first total number of releases exceeding 10,000 times, that is, IO,001 times, sets the bits (bo, bl) to (Oj), and sets the data transfer register. In other words, set the data of (bo, bl) = (0, 1), set the address of E"Pr (OM) to "0", proceed to the write subroutine, and write this (#
620~#635).

Next, address designation variable R for writing the total number of releases.
1 for l! and return (#640). Even if the above message (bO,bl)=(0,0)"i? is not found, the process proceeds to step #640 and the same process is performed. 10,000, if N≦40,000, then 1 above.
10,000 <N≦20,000, the same processing is performed. If the counter content is 20,000 and N≦30,000, then the bit content (bO, b 1
) = (0, I ), and (0, 1)
In that case, if it exceeds 20,000, set this as (1,0),
Set the address to "0", proceed to the write subroutine, write to the E"PROM, set the addressing variable R1 to "2 bit", and return (#650~
675). If the bits (bO, b 1 ) = (0, 1), set the addressing variable R1 to "2bit" and return.Similarly, the counter (CNTRlXCNTR2
) is 30,000〈N≦40,000, then bit (bO, b
Determine whether the contents of l) are (i, o), and calculate (1゜0
), the above bits (bO, b
l) to (1, 1), set the address to "0", and proceed to the write subroutine to write to E"PnOM (#685 to #705). Then, the address setting variable R
Set 1 to 31” and return 1 (#710).

If the bits (bo, bl) are not (1, O), the addressing variable R1 is set to 3 bits and the process returns. If the contents of the counter (CNTRI) and (cNTr12) exceed 40,000, the microcomputer (μC) address 0 pin) (b
O, bl, b2) are set to (0, 0, 1), warning display data is output to the display device, and the data is set to "4"(#715 to #725). and the address “
0” and transfer the bits (bO, b
1, b2), sets the addressing variable R1 to 3 bits, and returns.This warning is issued to have the camera inspected at a service station, assuming that 40,000 release operations have been performed. This number is not limited to 40,000 times, but may be tens of thousands of times, and if it is 50,000 or more, the memory for release rewriting of E"FROM may be increased accordingly. .

Returning to Figure 8, the microcomputer (μC) sets the address designation variable R1 in the address register, first sets the contents of the lower counter (CNTRI) as data, proceeds to the writing subroutine, and writes the data ( #535
~545). Next, add “bi” to the above address specification variable R1 to make it the address of E” FROM for the upper bit, set this in the address register, set the contents of the upper counter (CNTR2) as data, and write. Proceed to the subroutine and write data (#550 to #5
65).

After rewriting the data, the microcomputer (μC) performs film winding processing (#570).

Film Winding> The winding subroutine is shown in FIG. First, the microcomputer (
μC) outputs a signal to turn on the winding motor (M) from the terminal (02) to the winding circuit (MOD) by disabling interrupts other than the back cover and battery replacement interrupt (BATMNT) (#750.# 755).

Then, it waits for the winding to be completed (#760), and when the winding completion switch (S4) is turned on, this is detected and a signal to stop the motor is output (#765). Next, a flag (FILF') indicates whether or not there is film.
is set or not (#770), and if it is set, bit b of address (0) in the microcontroller
2 is “B” (#773). If there is no film, or if the E2PROM has been rewritten more than 40,000 times (N) (b2=1), shoot the film as shown below. Do not rewrite the number of completed films, allow interrupts, and return (#772).If there is film and the number of times has not exceeded 40,000, step #775
1 is added to the variable NR indicating the number of shot films, and "2" is added to the address designating variable R1 to obtain the address for writing the number of shot films (#780). Then, set the address specification variable IRI, set the data NR, proceed to the write subroutine (#795), write the number of exposed films to the E2PROM, and return (#790).
~#795).

Close the back cover> Next, the microcomputer (μC) shown in Figures 11 and 12 shows the operation of the camera when the back cover changes from the open state to the closed state.
This will be explained with reference to the flowchart.

When the back cover is closed, the back cover close detection switch (S5) turns O.
When a signal that changes from the "I" level to the "L" level is input to the microcomputer (μC), the microcomputer (μC)
) executes the back cover ON writing routine shown in FIG. 1I. First, the microcomputer (μC) performs step #80
At 0, the film is wrapped around the device i (spool).
If a film is loaded, it is assumed that the back cover has been opened by mistake, and the process proceeds to step #815 without performing initial loading. Initial load (initial winding) if no film is loaded
The process proceeds to the subroutine (#805).

This initial load subroutine is shown in Figure 12,
To explain, first, the microcomputer (μC) sets the variable indicating the number of exposed films NR to "0", and then starts the winding motor (M).
Outputs a signal to turn ON and starts winding (#9
00. #905). Wait until the winding is completed in step #91O, and when the winding is completed, the above variable NR is set to "
The above winding operation is repeated until the variable NR becomes 3 (#915, #92 (7). Then, when the variable NR is 3, that is, the initial winding is completed, the winding motor (M) is stopped. Then, the variable NR is reset to "0" and the process returns (#925.#930).

Returning to Figure 1t, when the microcomputer (μC) completes the initial load process (#805), it should determine whether the film is loaded (#810), and if it is loaded, it should set the flag (FrLF). #815), and detects whether the film is a DX film whose film sensitivity is formed by an electrical pattern on the container (#825).

This detection can be performed using a well-known method, specifically, for example, by determining whether at least one of the lower two bits indicating the film sensitivity is electrically connected to a common terminal on the film container. Film or DX used
When it is film, the film sensitivity Sv is automatically read and data indicating this value is output to the display device (#830, #840). Note that when no film is loaded, the film flag (FILF) is reset (#820). Also, if no film is loaded, or if it is not a DX film even if it is loaded, the film sensitivity (SvR) stored in the register will be set to SvR.
v (#835), and outputs this value to the display device to display it (#835.#840). Next, the memorized film speed (SvR) and the above film speed (
Sv), and if they are not the same, proceed to the ISO writing subroutine (#850) and write the film sensitivity (Sv) to E"PrtOM (#845. #850). If they are the same, step # Skip 850 and get E”F
Proceed to step #855 without writing to ROM,
It is determined whether the end flag (ENDF) is set, and if it is set, the process returns to the SA routine, and if it is not set, the process returns to the step before the interrupt.

Next, the battery voltage drops and the microcomputer (μC), E2PR
When the voltage is slightly higher than the voltage that causes the OM and other circuits to malfunction, a signal indicating this is input from the battery check circuit (BC) to the microcomputer (μC), and the microcomputer (μC) Execute the BATINT routine shown in the figure. The microcomputer (μC) sets all output terminals to the rLJ level and stops (#950). Stop here refers to control to stop the clock.

<Second Example> Next, a second example will be shown. In the above embodiment, the total number of releases is always written to both the upper 8 bits and the lower 8 bits, but even though the upper 8 bits are changed only once every 256 times, it is a processing problem to rewrite them every time. The time becomes longer and the current consumption (711 power) increases,
Furthermore, due to the limit on the number of rewrites, multiple spare memories are required within the E''PROM.The purpose of this modification is to eliminate these drawbacks, and the upper 8 bits are the contents of these 8 bits. I made it so that it is rewritten only when .

In this embodiment, the contents of the E'PrtOM memory were changed in accordance with the change, which is shown in Table 2, and only the changes will be explained.

First, the upper 8 bits of data indicating the total number of shutter releases are stored at address "00" of E"FROM. In this case, as mentioned above, rewriting occurs once every 256 times, so even if you count up to 40,000 times, for example, 40,000/2
Rewriting is performed only 56=156.25 times (156 times), and spare bytes are not required to limit the number of rewrites (10,000 times).

Other changes include the removal of the E"FROM addresses (02, 12, 22, 32) and the removal of the address (00) shown in Table 1.
This is because an attempt was made to determine the total number of releases based on the top 8 bits of the total number of releases. Changes to the microcomputer (μC) flowchart for executing these steps are shown in FIGS. 14 to 16.

FIG. 14 of Table 2 is a modification of step #15 shown in FIG. First, in step #1000, all interrupts are prohibited and the E'PROM address is set to "OO" (
#1005). Then, the content DA corresponding to this address is read from the E"F ROM, and this is sent to the microcomputer (
Set the address of the register in μC to “0” (#
1010. #1015).

The content of this counter (CNTR2) is decoded, and when this value is 39 or less (9984 times), the addressing variable R1 is set to "BI(#1020.#1025)", and similarly the content of the counter (CNTR2) is 78 or less (9984 times). 19968 times), set the addressing variable R1 to “l bi(#1030, #10
35), the contents of the counter (CNTR2) are 117 or less (
29952 times), set address designation failure R1 to “2 bit (#
1040. #1045), if the content of the counter (CNTR2) is 156 or less (39936 times), set address designation failure R1 to "3 bits"(#1047.#1050) and proceed to step #1055. If the number exceeds 156, the display device CD displays data that displays a warning that the E2PROM rewriting limit has been exceeded.
15P) and proceed to step #1090 without rewriting E"FROM. The following is almost the same as Fig. 3 (1), except for changing the contents of E"FROM memory. No, step # corresponding to step #175
At 1075, the address is changed to R1-R1+2, and furthermore, at step #1090, which corresponds to step #180, the address is changed to "4".

FIG. 15 is a modification of the release routine shown in FIG. First, the microcomputer (μC) prohibits interrupts other than DATINT and performs exposure control (#1150.
#1155). When the exposure control is completed (if the counter (CNTR2) of the top 8 pits of #1160 people exceeds 156, data is output to display a warning that the number of rewrites of E''FROM has been exceeded, and the film winding is started. Proceed to the subroutine (#1170→#1240).If the above counter (CNTr(2)) is 156 or less, add "bi" to the lower 8 bits of the counter (CNTRI),
It is determined whether this value is "0", that is, a carry to the higher order has been performed (#1175.#lm80). This value is “0”
Assuming that a carry has been carried out, add "bi" to the upper 8-bit counter (CNTR2) and convert
Set it in the ROM output register, set the address "0" in the address register, proceed to the write subroutine, write to the E2PROM, and proceed to step #l 205 (#l l 85 to # 1200
).

If the above counter (CNTRI) is not “0”, no carry has been performed, so the upper 8 bits are changed and B
”Proceed to step #I2O3 without rewriting FROM.

Next, the microcontroller uses the upper 8-bit counter (CNTR2)
Check the content of the counter, and if this content is 39 or less, set addressing variable R1 to "I" (step #[205, #1
210), if this content is less than or equal to 78, address specification variable R
1 as "It" (steps #1215, #1220), and if this content is 117 or less, address designation variable R1 is set as "2bi" (steps #1225, #1230), and this content is 11
If it exceeds 7, set the addressing variable Rt to "3 bits" (step #1235), set the lower 8 bits of data and address rtt in the E2PROM output register, write, and proceed to winding (#1245). ~
# l 260).

FIG. 16 shows a subroutine that performs this winding process, but instead of step #773 shown in FIG. At this time, proceed to step #1130, and enter the number of shot films E″F.
Rewrite to ROM, and if the number exceeds 156, step #! The process advances to step 355, and the E''FROM is not rewritten.The rest is the same as in FIG. 1O.

Third Embodiment In the third embodiment shown below, the timing of writing the total number of releases and the number of exposed films to E"FROM is
This is done at the timing of the 0FF (start of second curtain travel) of the second curtain of the shutter. The reason for this is that from the start of the second act to the end of exposure (second act completion),
Since there is no need to perform any camera control and there is free time, this time is used to write data into the E2PROM to perform sequence control more efficiently. This is especially effective during continuous shooting.

FIG. 17 shows a flowchart in that case.

It is shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a modification of FIG. 15. When the release operation begins, the microcomputer first prohibits interruptions to this flow other than BATINT (#1150), and then the exposure control circuit (
A E C,) is controlled to perform the release operation (operation up to the start of exposure such as mirror up) (#1151') (this can be done by timer control or by providing a switch that detects the completion of mirror up. It is okay to control the operation, then set the first curtain of the focal plane shutter to 0FFt, (1 curtain travel starts X# l l 52')
, Exposure time elapsed? 6 (nl153°), 9. m, +(”
)I? 'r'oA(') mki hill start (#1154°).

Next, write the total number of releases to E"FROM (#1
After performing steps I70 to #1255X (explanation omitted), in step #1400, the number of exposed films is written to the E"FROM. Then, wait for the completion of exposure (the completion of the second curtain run), and when the exposure is completed, the film is wound. control and proceed to the SA routine (#1403, #1406, #1410
．． #1413. #1420).

FIG. 18 shows a subroutine for rewriting the number of exposed films. This is the film winding routine part (#13) of the flowchart for updating the number of film sheets shown in FIG.
00 to #1315), and the corresponding step numbers are given and redundant explanations will be omitted.

<Fourth Example> In the fourth example shown below, instead of writing the total number of releases each time, a certain number of times is taken as one unit, and the number of times in this unit is written. I decided to go. By doing this, spare bytes are eliminated, current consumption is minimized, and the time required for this (writing E'PI"tOM) is shortened.

However, in this case, when the battery is removed, the microcomputer (μ
Since the total number of releases stored in the register in C) is erased, the number of releases that do not reach 1 unit is canceled and becomes "0", and this erased number of releases is an error from the correct total number of releases. However, 1
Since the number of times the battery is converted within 10,000 shots is known, this is not a large error. For example, if the number of releases per unit is "5" and a new battery is inserted, the number of shots that can be taken with this battery is 500 (20 with a 24-exposure film).
If we assume that out of 10,000 shots, the battery will be replaced 20 times, and the average number of shots canceled when replacing the battery is 2.5, then 20 x 2.5 = 50 will be the error within 10,000 shots. amount, with an error of only 0.5%.

In this fourth example, E
``The changes to the FROM address and its contents are the lower 8-bit spare byte addresses (11) and (21) of the total number of releases compared to Table 2.

The difference is that (31) and the memory required for it are deleted, but other than that, they are the same.

Figures 19 to 21 show the microcomputer (μ
A flowchart of C) is shown. Figures 19 to 21 are
This corresponds to FIGS. 14 to 16 showing the third embodiment, respectively.

First, referring to FIG. 19, the microcomputer (μC) disables all interrupts (#2000) and steps #2005.
~In step #2030, the data of the upper 8 bits and lower 8 bits of the addresses rOJ and rlJ stored in the E2PROM are read out, and the data are stored in the predetermined registers rOJ,
rlJ (hereinafter these registers will be referred to as counters (CNTR2XCNTR1)).

Now, if the number of releases per unit mentioned above is "5", then
The number of releases per month is 10,000 when the value of the registers (counter (CNTR1), (CN'l'R2)) is 2000.
It's time.

The microcomputer (μC) decodes the contents of the counter, and when the value is less than "24", the value of the counter is less than 2,000 (less than 10,000 times), so it sets the addressing variable R1 to " 3” (#2035→#2040),
When the decoded value of the counter above is "44" or less, the value content of the counter is less than 4,000 (less than 20,000 times), so the addressing variable r'tl is set to "13"(#20
45 → #2050), the decoded value of the above counter is “6”
4” or less, the counter value is 6,000 or less (3
(less than 1,000,000 times), the address designation failure R1 is “23
"(#2055-#2060), when the decoded value of the counter above is "84" or less, the counter value is less than 8,000 (40,000 times or less), so the addressing variable R1 is set to "33". , set each (#2085), E
"Read the data DA (number of films) from FROM (#2090), store this in a predetermined register (R2) (#2095), and proceed to step #2100. When the content of the above counter is 8,000 (40,000 times) ), output the warning display data to the display device and proceed to step #2100.
Proceed to (#2097). Next, the microcontroller (μC) sets the address to "4", reads the data from E"FROM, and stores it in a designated register (#2100).
~#2110). Then, set the variable K to 0 to count one unit, enable interrupts, and return (#21
15. #2220).

Next, the flowchart shown in FIG. 20 corresponds to the flowchart shown in FIG. 15, and the change is that step #1170 in FIG.
After this step, three steps for determining whether the number of releases has reached l units are added, and steps #1205 to #1235 are replaced with step #23.
20 to #2350, and step #1250 was changed to step #2355. Starting from the top, in this fourth embodiment, writing is performed once after the release has been performed five times, so the counter contents are 8,000 or less (
40,000 times), and if it exceeds 8,000 times, a warning is displayed (#2358).

If it does not exceed 8,000, add 1 to the variable K for determining 1 unit and create a new K (#2305), which becomes "5".
It is determined whether it has become (#2310).

If this variable K is less than 5, proceed to the winding subroutine to perform winding processing without writing E"Pr(OM) (#2360). If variable K becomes "5", set it to "0". (#235+) and writes to the E2FROM (#2311 to #2316).

As mentioned above, since writing is performed once when the total number of releases is 5, the contents of the counter in units of 10,000 times are changed, and this counter (CNTR1, CN
When the decoded value of TR2) is “24” or less, address specification variable R1 is set to “3” (#2320-#2325),
When the decoded value of the Kono counter (CNTr (1, cNTR2) is “44” or less, the addressing variable R1 is set to “13”.
“(#2330-#2335), this counter (CN
When the decoded value of TR1, CNTR2) is “64” or less, address specification variable R1 is set to “23” (#2340→#
2345), this counter (CNTR1, CNTrt2
) exceeds "64", the addressing variable R1 is set to "33"(#2350). Note that this addressing variable R1 is equal to E, which is the number of exposed film sheets.
"This is the address of FROM. After setting the address specification variable R1, the lower 8-bit counter (CNTrtl
), please set the data #2352) and the address “
(#2355), proceeds to the write routine, and writes the set data to E2FROM (#235).
7) Execute the post-write winding subroutine (#2360).

The flowchart in FIG. 21 corresponds to the flowchart shown in FIG. 16, except that step #1335 for setting the address value is deleted and step #1325 is changed to step #2360. This is the same as the flowchart.

This change is due to the fact that writing is performed once when the total number of releases is five, and the other steps will be given corresponding step numbers in FIG. 16 and their explanation will be omitted.

<Fifth Example> The fifth example shown below attempts to count the total number of releases using the number of films used. Specifically, when a film is loaded, The number of films of the film is read from the pattern electrically indicating this, and the total number of releases is normalized by this number. The number of films for this standardization is 12, and the number of Lg-calculated releases is 12, and "B" is added to the counter.In other words, in this example, the actual number of releases is not counted, but is substituted with the number of films. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the number of releases is five times as one unit;
One unit is 12 times.

Therefore, the count value for 10,000 releases is 83.
3 (actual total number of releases is 9996), and similarly, 20,000 times is 1666 (19992) as a count value.
), 30,000 times is 2499 (29988
), 40,000 times is 3332 (39984) as a count value.
). In addition, at 30,000 times, the count value is 2500.
However, if we set it to 2500, it will be between 20,000 and 10,080 times, which exceeds 10,000, so we will not use it.

The flowchart for implementing this is shown in Figures 22-2.
It is shown in Figure 5.

The flowchart in FIG. 22 corresponds to the flowchart in FIG. 19, and since the units of normalization of the number of rewrites are different, step #2035 and step #20 in FIG.
45. Step #2055゜ Change the numerical value in step #2065 to step #2400, step #2410. Steps #2420 and #2430 are changed to the count values as described above, and the other steps are given the same step numbers as in FIG. 19, and their explanation will be omitted. Note that the resetting of the variables in step #2115 in FIG. 19 is not necessary in this embodiment and is therefore omitted.

In this case, the number of films can be read in the back cover opening subroutine (see FIG. 11) which is executed when a new film is loaded and the back cover is closed.

The flowchart shown in FIG. 23 is similar to the flowchart shown in FIG.
2440) is added, and the other steps are the same as in FIG. 11, so the same step numbers are given and the explanation will be omitted. To explain this subroutine as shown in FIG. 24, the microcomputer (μC) first determines whether the force/runt value is 3332 or less (the total number of releases is approximately 40,000 or less), and if it exceeds this, Counter (CNTR1), (CNTR
2) Outputs the warning display data to the display device and returns without rewriting the contents (#2450.#245
2).

If the counter value is 3332 or less, step #24
At step 53, it is determined whether or not it is a DX film, and if it is not a DX film, the process proceeds to step #2480 to set the number of frequently used films. Currently, the most commonly used film is the 36-shot film, so assuming the number of films is 36, the counter (CNTRI) is set to "3".
Add.

However, if the number of films is 24, step #247
It is also possible to advance to 0 and add "2" to the counter, or to take the average of both to make the count value 2.5. (However, at this time, it is necessary to be able to count including a decimal point.)

When using DX film, 12-exposure film, 2
0 or 24 exposure film, 36 exposure film,
Step #2: Check whether the film has 72 exposures or not.
455. It is determined in step #2465 and step #2475, and if the number of sheets is 12, 20.24, 36, or 72, step #2460. #2470. #2
480. In #2485, the contents of the lower 8 bits of the counter (CNTRI) are set to ``2'', ``3'', and ``6''.
is added and set in another counter (CNTR3), and the process proceeds to step #2490.

In step #2490, the above two counters (CNT
The count values of R3) and (CNTRI) are compared. If the counter (CNTR3) is smaller, it is assumed that a carry has been carried out, and the upper 8 bits of the counter (CNTR3) are smaller.
Set the data obtained by adding 1 to 2) and its address "0" to the output registers, proceed to the write subroutine, and proceed to the E! Write to FROM and step #
Proceed to 2515 (#2495 to #2510). When the counter (CNTR3) is larger, the process proceeds to step #2515 without writing the upper 8 bits, and the contents of this counter (CNTR3) are written to the counter (CNTRl).
Move to.

The microcontroller (μC) has a counter CCNTR1) CCNTI.
? The count value of 2) is determined and processed as follows. In other words, when the number is 883 or less, address specification variable R1 is set to "3".
(#2520-#2525), when it is 1666 or less,
Set addressing variable R1 to “13” (#2530→#
2535), 2499 or less, address specification variable R
1 to “23” (#2540→#2545), 2499
, set addressing variable R1 to “33” (#
2540-#2550), respectively, and set the lower 8 bits of data and addressing variable R1 to the E2FROM output register, respectively (#2555.#256).
0), proceed to the write subroutine and write this data to E”
Write to PrtOM and return (#2585).

Furthermore, the points that required changes compared to the fourth embodiment are that it is no longer necessary to write the total number of releases when the exposure is completed, and that the total number of releases is normalized by the number of films; As shown in Fig. 25, the 20th
Steps #2300 to #235B in the diagram have been deleted. As shown in FIG. 26, the change by the inner palace can be handled by setting (CNTR2), (CNTr(l)≦3332) in step #2600 corresponding to step #2360 in FIG.

Furthermore, another modified example will be shown by partially changing the fifth embodiment. In this variant, the film is
If the back cover is opened and the film is removed while the film is being wrapped around the spool, the number of film shots taken will be displayed as "0", and '0' will be changed to E'F
I'll go ahead and rewrite the ROM.

Flowcharts in that case are shown in FIGS. 27 and 28. FIG. 27 is a modification of the 5ION interrupt routine shown in FIG. 7, in which it is determined whether or not to write "0" in place of step #470 in FIG. 7 when no film is loaded. Subroutine for making judgment (#27
00).

This subroutine is shown in FIG.

The microcomputer (μC) sets a flag (FI) indicating the presence or absence of film.
LF) is set #2705),
If it is set, it is assumed that there was a film the last time this flow was executed and that there is no film this time, in other words, the film was removed midway through, and the flow of writing "0" is performed below.

First, the flag is reset (#2710). Next, it is determined whether the count value of the total number of releases counters (CNTR2, CNTR1) is 3332 or less (approximately 40,000 times) (#2715). If it is less than 3332, set the variable NR for the number of film sheets taken to be "θ"#2720), and set this data (NR) and address specification variable R1 to E"FROM.
The output data and address registers are set (#2725, #2730), and the process proceeds to the write subroutine, where this data "0" is written (#2735). As a result, even when the film is removed, it will be immediately displayed in the subsequent steps and will be written to E''FROM immediately, so even if the battery is removed at this time and a new battery is installed, the correct The number of films shot will be displayed.

In FIG. 28, if the flag is not set in step #2705, or if the predetermined number of rewrites has been exceeded in step #2715, no rewriting is performed and the process returns.

The embodiments and modifications are shown above, and among them, E2FROM
The number of times that the E
``This is a limit of FROM, and if this number of times changes due to technological improvements, the number of rewrites in the embodiments and modifications may be changed accordingly.

Further, although the total number of releases was counted up to 40,000, it goes without saying that the number may be larger or smaller than this.

Furthermore, if the release is performed at the same time as winding during initial loading, this number may also be counted as the number of releases.

Furthermore, in the embodiments and modifications, it goes without saying that the number of times the number of film shots has been rewritten may be counted (
This method would be able to more accurately detect the number of times the number of film shots has been rewritten. To do this, a microcomputer (μC) is used to count this number of times, and a 2-byte memory (counting 10,000 times) and a spare memory are provided in the E"PROM to store this count value every time it is rewritten. Just do it like this.

[Effects of the Invention] According to the present invention, in controlling the camera, necessary data is transmitted to the E"FR using the free time starting from the start of the second act.
Since the data is written in the OM, control can be performed very efficiently in terms of time, which is particularly advantageous during continuous shooting.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

Fig. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a camera according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing an interrupt routine during battery replacement, and Figs. 3 (■) and 3 (II) are E"PRO
FIG. 4 (1) is a flow chart showing the ISO change subroutine, FIG. 4 (■) is a plan view of the display device, and FIG. Flowchart showing the entire subroutine, FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the same <ISO writing subroutine, FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the shooting preparation subroutine, FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing control at shirt release, and FIG. 9 10 is a flowchart showing the address change subroutine; FIG. 1O is a flowchart showing the film winding subroutine;
The figure is a flowchart showing the control when the back cover is closed, Figure 12 is a flowchart of the initial load subroutine, and Figure 1
3 is a flowchart showing a battery interrupt, FIG. 14 is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 2 showing the second embodiment, FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a shirt release routine corresponding to FIG. 8, and FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a shirt release routine corresponding to FIG. Flowchart corresponding to FIG. 10 showing the winding subroutine, No. 17
15 is a flowchart showing the shirt release routine corresponding to FIG. 15, FIG. 18 is a flowchart of the subroutine for rewriting the number of exposed films, and FIGS.
21 are flowcharts corresponding to FIGS. 14, 15, and 16, respectively, and FIGS. 22 and 23 are flowcharts corresponding to FIGS. 19 and 11, respectively.
4 is a flowchart showing the subroutine for reading the number of film sheets, FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the routine for shirt release, FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the subroutine for winding the film, and FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing the subroutine for 5ION. FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing the "0" write determination routine. μC...Microcomputer, E2FROM...Writable/erasable ROM, St...Shooting preparation switch, S2...
・Release switch, AEC...exposure control circuit. Patent Applicant Minolta Camera Stock Agent Patent Attorney Aobai Ao and 2 others Figure 5
Figure 8 75 5E12i! 1 Page 13 In 2 Figure IH1t! f Figure 16, page 18

Claims (3)

[Claims] (1) Equipped with a focal plane shutter and a built-in microcomputer for camera control;
A camera incorporating an E^2PROM whose writing and erasing are electrically controlled by the control microcomputer includes a data creation means for creating data regarding the camera, and a detection device for detecting the start of travel of the trailing curtain of the focal plane shutter. A camera with a built-in E^2PROM, characterized in that it is provided with means for writing camera-related data into an E^2PROM in response to the output of the detection means. (2) The E^2PROM built-in camera according to claim 1, wherein the data regarding the camera is the total number of shutter releases. (3) The E^2PROM built-in camera according to claim 1, wherein the data regarding the camera is the number of film sheets taken.