JP2001066675A - Camera and strobe device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent breakage and melting of a strobe light emitting device and its peripheral members due to heat generation of the strobe light emitting device while suppressing current consumption as much as possible without increasing size and cost. Is intended to prevent deformation and discoloration of the exterior member and not to require the photographer to perform unnecessary and unpleasant operations. SOLUTION: A time measuring means (# 104) for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by a strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission schedule, and a time interval measured by the time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. An integrating means (# 106) for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined that the threshold value is greater than or equal to a threshold value (YES in # 107);
The release operation is prohibited for a certain period of time (# 108 to # 11).
0) operation control means.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an improvement in a camera and a strobe device having means for controlling strobe light emission.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a strobe device used for strobe shooting when a subject to be photographed is darkened due to backlight or when a subject to be shot is darkened before shooting, or a flash device of this type. Cameras with built-in flash devices are widely used. Also,
In order to improve usability, a flash device or a camera with a built-in flash device, which makes it possible to shorten the charging time of the flash and shorten the release time lag of photographing, has been widely used.

On the other hand, in consideration of portability in recent years, quite small strobe devices or cameras have been proposed. In addition, the strobe light emitting unit equipped there has a light guide structure for condensing light in order to increase the luminous efficiency, and the luminous efficiency is increased by reducing the diameter of the Xe (xenon) tube. In addition, there have been proposals of smaller reflectors.

[0004] Although these strobe devices or cameras are very small, they have almost all of the conventional functions and can be quickly charged to emit a predetermined amount of emitted light with an appropriate light distribution. Very convenient.

However, in these strobe devices or cameras, when strobe light emission or strobe photographing is performed frequently, Xe is generated due to heat generation of strobe parts or the like.
The tube may be ruptured, discolored or deteriorated, the light condensing optical system such as the light guide or the Fresnel lens may be discolored or melted, or the strobe parts such as the oscillation transformer may generate heat or smoke. Further, the external temperature also rises due to heat generation of these parts, which may cause discomfort to the user and may cause deformation, discoloration, etc. of the exterior. These problems can be affected more quickly as the strobe charging time becomes shorter, and as the size of the strobe becomes smaller, there is no space for heat radiation or the distance between components is not sufficient. It was getting easier.

To cope with these measures, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 60-218
Japanese Patent Publication No. 800 discloses a method of detecting the temperature of a heat source of a strobe device, and prohibiting strobe charging and light emission when the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0007] In Japanese Patent Publication No. 22717/1990,
A strobe device such as an endoscope that constantly performs a charging operation so as to be charged to a predetermined value when the power is turned on, and performs an adding operation to a certain integrated value by strobe charging, and also performs a subtraction as time passes. However, there is disclosed a method of prohibiting a strobe charging operation when this exceeds a predetermined value.

Further, there has been proposed a camera which turns off the main switch (sets the camera in a collapsed state) once flash photography is performed a predetermined number of times or more while the main switch is on.

[0009]

However, in JP-A-60-218800, since the temperature of the heat source of the strobe device is detected, it is necessary to dispose a thermometer near the heat source. Instead, it hindered miniaturization. Also, the more accurately you measure the temperature, the closer you need to place it near the heat source,
Problems such as leakage of the high voltage portion also occurred. Furthermore, if there are multiple heating sources, they must be installed at each location, which is not only space-intensive, but also the preparation of the processing circuits and the costs involved are quite expensive. . Further, the actual calorific value and the actual melting of the parts may not correspond exactly. Furthermore,
When the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature, strobe charging is prohibited and light emission is prohibited. However, what happens when a shooting operation is performed at that time is not considered.

In Japanese Patent Publication No. 1-2717, a strobe device such as an endoscope which constantly performs a charging operation so as to charge to a predetermined value when the power is turned on is added to a certain integrated value by strobe charging. The operation is performed, and the subtraction is performed in accordance with the passage of time. If the subtraction exceeds a predetermined value, the method of prohibiting the strobe charging operation is performed. Therefore, the above operation is always performed, and the current is continuously consumed. There was a problem. Further, since only flash charging is prohibited, no consideration is given to the case where a flash emission signal is generated in a state where flash charging is not completed. Similarly, the case where the flash mode was changed and the shooting was performed when the flash charging was prohibited was not considered.

Further, in a camera in which the main switch is turned on and flash photography is performed a predetermined number of times or more, the main switch is turned off once (the camera is collapsed) even if the flash photography interval is short. Even if it is long, if the flash photography is performed more than a predetermined number of times uniformly, the lens barrel will be in a collapsed state. Also, the photographer was sometimes confused without knowing why he suddenly collapsed.

(Object of the Invention) An object of the present invention is to increase the size,
Without incurring high cost, while suppressing current consumption as much as possible, it is possible to prevent breakage and melting of the strobe light emitting means and its peripheral members due to heat generation of the strobe light emitting means and deformation and discoloration of the exterior member, and Another object of the present invention is to provide a camera and a strobe device that do not force a photographer to perform unnecessarily unpleasant operations.

[0013]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a time measuring device for measuring a time interval between a previous flash emission by a flash emission unit and a current flash emission schedule. Means, an integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the time measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time, and a constant value when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. A camera or a strobe device having operation control means for prohibiting a time and release operation.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 2 or 28 is characterized in that the time measuring means for measuring the time interval between the previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and the current strobe light emission, and the time An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time, and a release for a fixed time when the integrated value exceeds a predetermined threshold value; Operation control means for prohibiting the operation, and when the integrated value is equal to or more than the predetermined threshold value, a fixed time for prohibiting the release operation is set to a longer time as the integrated value is larger, in accordance with the integrated value. And a camera or a strobe device having setting means for performing the setting.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 3 or 29 is characterized in that a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the last strobe light emission by the strobe light emission means and the current strobe light emission, and the time An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time, and an operation of prohibiting a release operation for a fixed time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a camera or a strobe device including a control unit and a setting unit that sets a larger value as the predetermined value as the time interval is shorter according to the measured time interval.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 12 or 38 is characterized in that a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a flash light emission two times before and a previous flash light emission by a flash light emitting means, and the time measurement means An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time; and a strobe light emitting means provided by the strobe light emitting means when the integrated value exceeds a threshold value. Or a strobe device having strobe light emission control means for prohibiting the operation.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 13 or 39 is characterized in that a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the last strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and the current strobe light emission; An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the measuring means is determined to be shorter than the predetermined time; and a strobe light emitting means provided by the strobe light emitting means when the integrated value exceeds a threshold value. Or a strobe device having strobe light emission control means for prohibiting the operation.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 15 or 41 is characterized in that the time measuring means for measuring the time interval between the previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and the current strobe light emission; An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time, and, if the integrated value is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, for a fixed time, A strobe light emission control unit for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emission unit, and, if the integrated value is equal to or more than the predetermined threshold value, a predetermined time for prohibiting the light emission in accordance with the integrated value is set to a larger value. A camera or a strobe device having setting means for setting a long time.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 16 or 42 is characterized in that a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emission means and the current strobe light emission, Integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time; and a strobe for prohibiting strobe light emission for a certain time if the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a camera or a flash device including: a light emission control unit; and a setting unit configured to set a larger value as the predetermined value as the time interval is shorter according to the measured time interval.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a strobe light emitting means and a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled. An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the time interval measured by the time measuring means is determined to be shorter than a predetermined time; and a predetermined time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. And a strobe light emission control means for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emission means.

[0021]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on illustrated embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of a main part of a camera according to each embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a temperature detection circuit for detecting an ambient temperature of a camera or a strobe device; Is a setting device for performing settings such as a release lock operation, a light emission prohibiting operation, and performing or not performing a warning display, 3 is a display device that performs the warning display and the like,
Reference numeral 4 denotes a time measuring circuit for measuring the interval of the strobe light emission or for measuring the previous and current flash times and calculating the interval, 5 an integrating circuit for integrating values under predetermined conditions described later, 6 a camera or A control circuit for controlling the strobe device; 7, a power supply voltage detecting circuit for detecting a power supply voltage of the camera or the strobe device; 8, a photographing device for executing a photographing operation; 9, a strobe GNo, for detecting and setting a strobe GNo (guide number); A setting / detection circuit, 10 is a flash charging circuit, 11 is a flash emission circuit, and 12 is a flash emission inhibition circuit.

In the above configuration, the time measuring circuit 4, the integrating circuit 5, and the control circuit 6 may be configured by a CPU to perform time measurement, calculation, and control.
Further, in each embodiment of the present invention, a camera including all the components in FIG. 1 is assumed, but a camera including some of these components may be used, The temperature detection circuit 1, the setting device 2, the display device 3, the power supply voltage detection circuit 7 and the like in addition to the photographing device 8 may be a strobe device provided on the camera side. Alternatively, a strobe device including only some of these components may be used. In the strobe device, each of the above-described components is connected to the camera-side control circuit even if the components are connected to the camera-side by a connector, and the camera-side control circuit is connected to each of the components. Is also good.

(First Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera constructed as shown in FIG. 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. .

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 101). If it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, distance measurement, strobe charging, and focusing for photographing (#) 102). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 10).
3). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 as determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read, and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (corresponding substantially to the flash emission time) are read. The difference is calculated to determine the strobe light emission interval (# 104). Then, this value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 105). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to integration, so the integration circuit 5 A predetermined value N [2] is integrated with the integrated value C of (# 10).
6). If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] in step # 105, this integration operation is not performed.

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] of the integrated value (# 10).
7). If it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit 6
Activates the timer and starts counting (# 10
8). Then, is the release switch turned off (#
109) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 110). If the release switch is turned off in step # 109, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is performed (# 11).
1) Next, when the strobe light is emitted (# 11)
2) Then, the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 113), and thereafter, a photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, imprinting a date, and winding up one frame is executed (# 114).

According to the first embodiment, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. The release is locked only when the calorific value is accumulated by performing the integration (# 109 → # 1 until the fixed time T [4] elapses).
10 → # 109 is repeated), so that the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and no deformation or discoloration of the exterior occurs.

If the photographing interval is longer than a predetermined time T [4], these release locks are not locked.
Such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, so that the photographer does not need to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Further, since only the time P1 at which the flash was fired last time and the time P2 at which the current flash is fired are measured to measure the strobe light emission interval, only a clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that time, so that a large amount of power is consumed. Consumption can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In this embodiment, the above control is performed in conjunction with the release operation and the shooting preparation operation. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this control before the actual shutter control. In addition, the difference between the previous emission time and the current emission time is calculated to measure the light emission interval, but the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. In addition, each parameter T in the flowchart is
[1], N [2], C [3], T [4], and the like can obtain the same effect regardless of whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit. Further, immediately after waiting for a certain period of time in steps # 108 to # 110, the process immediately shifts to the shooting operation. Here, it is determined again whether or not the release switch is fully pressed, and when the release switch is fully pressed, the shooting operation is performed. Can obtain the same effect.

(Second Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the second embodiment, the same effect as described above is obtained by changing the fixed time T [4] which is the release lock time according to the threshold value C [3].

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 201). Here, if it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 202). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is to perform strobe light emission (# 203). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 204), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 204).
This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (#
205), if the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined amount N [2] is integrated into the threshold value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 20).
6). If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] in step # 205, this integration operation is not performed. Thereafter, first, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 1 (# 207). Here, if the current integrated value C is smaller than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 1, the photographing operation of step # 219 is performed without performing the processing of steps # 208 to # 218.

If it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 1, then the current integrated value C and the predetermined threshold value C [3] are determined. 2 (# 208). If the integrated value C is smaller than a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, C [3] 2>C> C [3] 1, so that the threshold value C [3] ] At a fixed time T [4] 1 corresponding to 1 (# 21
0). Then, is the release switch turned off (#
211) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] 1 (# 212). If the release switch is turned off in step # 211, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If the release switch has been on all the time (# 212), the predetermined time T
[4] Release lock state until 1 elapses.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 208 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, the current integrated value C is similarly set in advance. A comparison is made with the threshold value C [3] 3, and the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n-1 and smaller than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n, (# 209), the threshold value C [3] n-
The timer is started at a predetermined time T [4] n-1 corresponding to 1 (# 213). Then, the release switch is turned off (# 214) or the timer is set for a predetermined time T.
[4] It is determined whether n-1 has been reached (# 215). If the release switch is turned off in step # 214, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the process ends without performing subsequent operations. When the release switch is on all the time (# 215)
In this case, the release lock state is established until a predetermined time T [4] n-1 has elapsed.

If it is determined in step # 209 that the current integrated value C is larger than a predetermined threshold value C [3] n, a predetermined time corresponding to the threshold value C [3] n is determined. The timer is started at T [4] n (# 21
6). Then, is the release switch turned off (#
217) or the timer is set to a certain time T [4] n (T
[4] n>...> T [4] 1) (# 218)
Is determined. If the release switch is turned off in step # 217, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If the release switch is kept on (# 217), the release lock state is established until a certain time T [4] n elapses.

Steps # 212, # 215, and # 21
If a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed at 8, a series of photographing operations such as shutter control, flash emission, and winding up of one frame are executed (# 219). Then, when the strobe light is emitted (# 220), the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 221), and a series of operations is ended.

According to the second embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured and measured without directly installing a thermometer or the like which hinders downsizing of the strobe device in the space near the Xe tube or the strobe component. The release is locked when the heat generation amount is integrated only by the integration (# 207 to # 218).
It does not cause melting, the external temperature does not rise so much, and there is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

In addition, since the release lock time T [4] is finely determined according to the threshold value C [3], such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. Needless to say, the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Further, since only the last emission time and the current emission time are measured to measure the strobe emission interval, only a clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In the second embodiment, the above control is performed in conjunction with the release operation and the photographing preparation operation. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this control before the actual shutter control. In addition, the difference between the previous emission time and the current emission time is calculated to measure the light emission interval, but the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. The parameters T [1], N [2], C [3], T [4] and the like in the flowchart are the same whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit. The effect of can be obtained.

Steps # 212, # 215, # 2
The process immediately shifts to the photographing operation after waiting for a predetermined time at 18, but the same effect can be obtained even if the release switch is fully pressed again and the photographing operation is performed when the release switch is fully pressed again. be able to. Although the current flash emission time is stored after the photographing operation is completed in this flowchart, the same effect can be obtained by storing this time immediately after the flash as shown in the flowchart of FIG.

(Third Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of a camera according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the third embodiment, the reference value T [1] of the strobe light emission interval is used.
The integrated value N [1] to be added is changed according to
It is intended to obtain the same effect as in the first embodiment.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 301). Here, when it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and performs photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 302). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is to perform strobe light emission (# 303). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 304), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 304).
This value is first compared with a predetermined time T [1] 1 (# 305). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] 1, heat accumulates due to accumulation, so that the accumulation circuit is used. The predetermined amount N [2] 1 is added to the threshold value C of 5 (# 306). If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] 1 in step # 305, the light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [1] 2 (# 307), and the strobe is longer than T [1] 2. If the light emission interval is short, heat accumulates due to the integration, so the threshold C of the integration circuit 5 is set to a predetermined amount N
[2] Integrate 2 (# 308). If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] 2 in step # 307, the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and T [1] n
If the strobe emission interval is shorter than (# 309),
Since heat accumulates due to the integration, a predetermined amount N [2] n (N [2] n <N [2] n-1 <
... <N [2] 2 <N [2] 1) (# 31)
0). If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] n in step # 309, this integration operation is not performed. Here, it is assumed that the relationship of T [1] 1 <T [1] 2 <... <T [1] n-1 <T [1] n holds.

Thereafter, steps # 306, # 308, #
The current integrated value C calculated at 310 is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 311). Here, when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit activates the timer and starts counting (# 312). And
Whether the release switch has been turned off (# 313) or whether the timer has reached a certain time T [4] (# 314)
Is determined. If the release switch is turned off in step # 313, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is executed (# 315), and when the flash is emitted next (# 316). ) And the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 317).
Photographing operation 2 such as imprinting a date and winding one frame is performed (# 318).

According to the third embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. The release is locked only when the heat generation amount is integrated by the integration (# 304 to # 314).
It does not cause melting, the external temperature does not rise so much, and there is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

Further, since the integrated value changes depending on the interval of the strobe light emission, it is possible to adjust the integrated value more precisely to the actual one, and it is not necessary to make the photographer feel uncomfortable more than necessary.

Further, only the time of the last emission and the time of the current emission are measured for measuring the strobe emission interval, and only the clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that a large power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In the third embodiment, the above control is performed in conjunction with the release operation and the shooting preparation operation. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this control before the actual shutter control. In addition, the difference between the previous emission time and the current emission time is calculated to measure the light emission interval, but the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. The parameters T [1], N [2], C [3], T [4] and the like in the flowchart are the same whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit. The effect can be obtained.

In step # 314, the process immediately shifts to the photographing operation after waiting for a predetermined time. Here, it is determined again whether or not the release switch is fully pressed. If the release switch is fully pressed, the photographing operation is performed. Can obtain the same effect.

(Fourth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of a camera according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the fourth embodiment, the strobe light emission interval is set to a predetermined time T.
Longer than [5] (if the heat is dissipated longer than the heat does not adversely affect the flash-related parts)
, The integrated value is reset.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 401). Here, if it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 402). In this series of photographing preparatory operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is to perform strobe light emission (# 403). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 404), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 404).
This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (#
405) If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined amount N [2] is integrated into the threshold value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 40).
6).

In step # 405, T [1]
If the light emission interval is longer than this, the integration operation is not performed, and the flash light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [5] (# 407). If the light emission interval is long, the integrated value C is cleared to zero (initialization) (# 408).

Thereafter, a comparison is made between the current integrated value C and a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 409). Here, when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit activates the timer and starts counting (# 410). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off (# 411) or the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 412). If the release switch is turned off in step # 411, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is performed (# 413), and when the flash is emitted next (# 414). ), The time at that time is stored in P1 (# 415), and thereafter, a photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, and winding one frame is performed (#).
416).

According to the fourth embodiment described above, the light emitting interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like directly in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in the space, which prevents the downsizing of the strobe device. The release is locked when the heat generation amount is integrated only by the integration (# 411, # 412).
It does not cause melting, the external temperature does not rise so much, and there is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

When the strobe light emission interval is a predetermined time T
[5] If opened above, the integrated value is cleared to zero (# 4
08), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, and there is less opportunity for the release lock to be always kept on if there is time, which is unpleasant for the photographer more than necessary. You don't have to worry about it.

Further, since only the time of the last emission and the time of the current emission are measured for measuring the strobe emission interval, only the clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In the fourth embodiment, the above control is performed in conjunction with the release operation and the shooting preparation operation. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this control before the actual shutter control. In addition, the difference between the previous emission time and the current emission time is calculated to measure the light emission interval, but the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. The parameters T [1], N [2], C [3], T [4] and the like in the flowchart are the same whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit. The effect of can be obtained.

In step # 411 to step # 412, the process immediately shifts to the photographing operation after waiting for a certain period of time. Here, it is determined again whether or not the release switch is fully pressed.
The same effect can be obtained by performing a shooting operation when the button is fully pressed.

(Fifth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the fifth embodiment, the strobe light emission interval is set to the reference value T [5].
If it is longer, the integrated value is subtracted by a predetermined amount n [6].

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 501). Here, when it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 502). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 503). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU 13 as a whole is read (# 504), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 50).
4). This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 505). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to accumulation, so that the accumulation circuit 5 is activated. A predetermined amount N [2] is added to the threshold value C (#
506).

In step # 505, T [1]
If the light emission interval is longer than this, the integration operation is not performed, and the flash light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [5] (# 507), and the flash light emission is longer than T [5]. If the interval is long, the integrated value C is subtracted by a value n [6] corresponding to the predetermined time T [5] (# 50).
8).

Thereafter, a comparison is made between the current integrated value C and a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 509). Here, if it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit activates the timer and starts counting (# 510). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off (# 511) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 512). If the release switch is turned off in step # 511, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the process ends without performing the subsequent operation. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is executed (# 513), and when the flash is emitted next (# 514). ), The time at that time is stored in P1 (# 515), and thereafter, the photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, and winding up of one frame is performed (#).
516).

According to the fifth embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. The release is locked only when the calorific value is accumulated only by integrating (# 511, # 512).
It does not cause melting, the external temperature does not rise so much, and there is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

Further, the strobe light emission interval is a predetermined time T
[5] If it is opened above, the integrated value is subtracted according to the time (P1-P2 time) or T [5] which is the determination time (# 508). Such a state is unlikely to occur, and the chance of the release lock being constantly kept is reduced over time, so that the photographer does not need to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Further, only the time of the last emission and the time of the current emission are measured for measuring the strobe emission interval, and only the clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In the fifth embodiment, the above control is performed in conjunction with the release operation and the photographing preparation operation. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this control before the actual shutter control. In addition, the difference between the previous emission time and the current emission time is calculated to measure the light emission interval, but the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. The parameters T [1], N [2], C [3], T [4] and the like in the flowchart are the same whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit. The effect of can be obtained.

(Sixth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the sixth embodiment, a warning is displayed during the release lock period when the integrated value exceeds a predetermined amount C [3].

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 601). Here, if it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and performs photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 602). In a series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 603). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 604), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 604).
This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (#
605) If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to the accumulation, so that a predetermined amount N [2] is integrated into the threshold value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 60).
6).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 607). Here, if it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit 6 activates the timer to start counting (# 608), and the display device. 3 to start a warning display to indicate that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 6).
09). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off (# 610) or the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 611). If the release switch is turned off in step # 610, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the warning display is stopped without performing the subsequent operation, and the process ends. When a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, a signal is sent to the display device 3 again (# 612).
At the same time, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is performed (# 613). When the flash emission is performed next (# 614), the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 615). , Then shutter control, date imprint,
The photographing operation 2 such as winding one frame is executed (# 616).

According to the sixth embodiment, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. Since the release is locked when the calorific value is accumulated only by integrating (# 611), the external temperature does not rise so much without causing breakage or melting of the flash-related parts. There is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

Further, since a warning is displayed at the time of release lock for strobe heat generation (# 609 to # 612),
The photographer can determine why this is happening,
After a short wait, you will know that you will be able to shoot again. Also, if this display is the same as the strobe charging display, it can be operated with the same feeling as normal camera operation, and it is very easy to understand even for photographers who are not familiar with the camera. Become.

Further, only the time of the last emission and the time of the current emission are measured to measure the strobe emission interval, and only the clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

The present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In the sixth embodiment, the contents of the warning display are not particularly specified, but the warning display may be a light-emitting body such as an LED or a liquid crystal display body such as an LCD. A similar effect can be obtained regardless of whether the sound is a sound, a voice, or a sound or vibration.

(Seventh Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the seventh embodiment, the release lock is activated, a warning is displayed, the operation is stopped, or the photographer is allowed to freely select the flash according to the setting information from the setting device 2 during the continuous flash emission. It is.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 701). Here, if it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing for photographing (# 702). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 703). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 704), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 704).
This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (#
705) If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined amount N [2] is integrated into the threshold value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 70).
6).

Thereafter, a comparison is made between the current integrated value C and a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 707). If it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the setting information is read from the setting device 3 (# 708), and the setting information is determined. (# 709). Mode 1 in which warning display and release lock are not performed when only a specific number of images are taken
If set to, the process proceeds to step # 724.
When the mode 2 in which both the warning display and the release lock are performed is set, the process proceeds to step # 710, and the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start counting (# 710).
At the same time, a signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display for indicating that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 711). Then, the release switch is turned off (# 712), or the timer is set for a predetermined time T.
It is determined whether [4] has been reached (# 713). Step #
If the release switch is turned off at 712,
That is, if the release switch is released within the heat release waiting time, the warning display is stopped without performing the subsequent operation, and the process ends. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, a signal is sent to the display device 3 again to stop the warning display (# 714).

If the mode is set to the mode 3 in which only the warning is displayed without releasing the lock in step # 709, the process proceeds to step # 715, and the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start the counting ( At the same time as # 715), a signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display for indicating that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 716). Then, the release switch is fully pressed (# 717) or the timer is set for a predetermined time T [4].
Is determined (# 718). Step # 717
If the release switch is fully depressed, that is, if photographing is desired, the process proceeds to step # 719 even if the predetermined time has not elapsed. Then, if the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed (YES in # 718), or if the process has proceeded from step # 717, a signal is sent to the display device 3 again to stop the warning display ( # 719).

Step # 714 or step #
After the end of step 719, the flow shifts to step # 724 to determine whether or not the release switch has been turned off. If the release switch has been turned off, this flow ends. If it has been turned on, it has been determined whether or not the release switch has been fully pressed (# 725). If it has not been fully pressed, the process returns to step # 724. If it has been fully pressed, the process proceeds to step # 720. Then, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as the shutter opening control is performed (# 72).
0), when the strobe light is emitted (# 721), the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 722), and thereafter, the photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, one frame winding, etc.
Is executed (# 723).

According to the seventh embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without directly installing a thermometer or the like which hinders downsizing of the strobe device in the space near the Xe tube or the strobe component. Since the release is locked when the calorific value is integrated only by the integration (# 713 or # 718), the external temperature is also increased without causing breakage or melting of the flash-related parts. Also, no deformation or discoloration of the exterior occurs.

Further, since the contents can be set by the photographer himself (# 708), the contents can be used in a state more suited to the photographing scene, and emergency situations can be dealt with. You don't have to worry about it.

(Eighth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the eighth embodiment, if the shutter is released when the flash emission interval is within a predetermined time during the protection operation of the flash heating,
The mode is switched from flash photography to AE (auto exposure) photography.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 801). Here, if it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, and focusing for photographing (# 802). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 803). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 804), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 804). This value is first compared with a predetermined time T [1] 1 (# 805). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] 1, heat accumulates due to integration, so that the integration circuit The predetermined amount N [2] 1 is added to the threshold value C of 5 (# 806). If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] 1 in step # 805, the light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [1] 2 (# 807), and the strobe is longer than T [1] 2. If the light emission interval is short, heat accumulates due to the integration, so the threshold C of the integration circuit 5 is set to a predetermined amount N
[2] Integrate 2 (# 808).

If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] 2 in step # 808, the same processing is performed.
Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] n (# 809), heat accumulates due to the integration, so that the integrated value C of the integrating means 5 becomes a predetermined amount N
[2] Integrate n (# 810). If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] n in step # 809, this integration operation is not performed. Here, it is assumed that the relationship of T [1] 1 <T [1] 2 <... <T [1] n-1 <T [1] n holds.

Thereafter, steps # 806, # 808, #
The current integrated value C calculated in 810 is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 1 (# 811). If it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 1, then the current integrated value C is compared with the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2. Perform comparison (# 8
12). If the integrated value C is smaller than a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, C [3] 2>C> C [3] 1, so that the threshold value C [3] ], A timer is started at a fixed time T [4] 1 corresponding to 1 (# 82).
0). Then, is the release switch fully pressed (#
821) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] 1 (# 822). If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 821, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat release, the process proceeds to step # 827.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 812 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, the current integrated value C is similarly set in advance. A comparison with the integrated value C [3] 3 is performed, and the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated to obtain the current integrated value C
Is larger than the predetermined threshold C [3] n-1 and smaller than the predetermined threshold C [3] n (# 813), the threshold C [3] The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] n-1 corresponding to n-1 (# 817). Then, the release switch is fully pressed (# 818), or the timer is set for a predetermined time T.
[4] It is determined whether n-1 has been reached (# 819). If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 818, that is, if you want to take a picture within the waiting time for heat release,
Proceed to step # 827. If it is determined in step # 813 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n, the threshold value C [3] n is set to Corresponding fixed time T
[4] The timer is started at n (# 814). Then, is the release switch fully pressed (# 815)
Alternatively, whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] n (# 8)
16) is determined. If the release switch is turned off in step # 815, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat release, the process proceeds to step # 827.

Steps # 816, # 819, # 82
If the predetermined time has elapsed with the release switch turned off in step 2, the process proceeds to step # 828, where it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off. If the release switch has been turned off, this flow ends. Is turned on, it is determined whether the release switch is fully pressed next (# 82).
9) If it is not fully pressed, the process returns to step # 828. If it is fully pressed, the process proceeds to step # 823.
Then, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is performed (# 823), the flash emission is performed at a predetermined timing (# 824), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 825). A photographing operation 2 such as control, imprinting a date, and winding one frame is executed (# 82).
6).

If a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is pressed in step # 804, or in steps # 815, # 818, and # 821, switching from flash photography to normal AE photography without using flash is performed. In response to this, a series of photographing operations such as shutter control, flash emission, and winding of one frame are executed (# 827).

According to the eighth embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. When the calorific value is integrated only by integration, it is configured to wait for a predetermined time or switch to AE imaging (# 816, # 819, # 822).
It does not cause breakage or melting of the strobe-related parts, does not raise the external temperature so much, and does not cause deformation, discoloration, etc. of the exterior.

If the user wishes to take a picture within the waiting time for heat radiation, the user can release the shutter as it is, and the photographing mode can be automatically switched from the flash photography to the AE photography. Can do things.

Note that the present invention is not limited to this flowchart. Although AE photography is suddenly performed when the process proceeds to step # 827, the same effect can be obtained by displaying a warning and notifying the photographer here.

The time interval between the previous flash and the current flash is measured as the flash flash time interval. The time interval between the previous flash and the previous flash is measured, and the subsequent operation is controlled based on the comparison result. However, almost the same effect can be obtained.

(Ninth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of a camera according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the ninth embodiment of the present invention, in the camera or the strobe device of the concept of FIG.
If it is longer than [5], the integrated value is reset.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation by using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 901). Here, when it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing for photographing (# 902). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 903). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 904), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 904).
This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (#
905) If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined value N [2] is integrated with the integrated value C of the integrating circuit 5 (# 90).
6).

In step # 905, T [1]
If the light emission interval is longer than this, the integration operation is not performed, and the flash emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [5] (# 907).
If the flash emission interval is longer than this, the integrated value C is cleared to zero (# 908).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 909). Here, when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control means activates the timer to start counting (# 910), and the display device 3 A signal is sent to start a warning display (for example, a strobe emission prohibition display or the like) indicating that AE shooting will be performed when the release is immediately performed due to heat generation (# 91).
1). Then, is the release switch fully pressed (#
912) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 913). If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 912, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat release, the warning display is stopped (not shown in the flow) and the process proceeds to step # 919. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is half-pressed (YES in # 913), a signal is sent to the display device 3 again to stop the warning display (# 914), and it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off. (# 920) Then, if it is off, this flow is ended. If it is on, it is determined whether the release switch has been fully pressed (# 921), and if it has not been fully pressed, the process returns to step # 920. If the button has been fully pressed, the process proceeds to step # 915. And
The photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as the shutter opening control is performed (# 915). When the flash is emitted next (# 916), the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 91).
7) Then, a photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, winding up of one frame, etc. is executed (# 918).

Step # 903 or # 912
If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is pressed in step, switching from flash photography to normal AE photography without using flash is performed, and shutter control and shutter control are performed accordingly.
A series of photographing operations such as strobe light emission and single frame winding are executed (# 919).

According to the ninth embodiment described above, the light emission interval of the strobe can be measured without installing a thermometer or the like which hinders the miniaturization of the strobe device in the space directly near the Xe tube or the strobe component. Only by integrating, when the calorific value is integrated, a predetermined time is waited or the mode is switched to AE photographing (# 919), so that the external temperature rises considerably without causing breakage or melting of the flash-related parts. It does not cause deformation and discoloration of the exterior.

Further, the strobe light emission interval is a predetermined time T
[5] If it is opened more than 0, the integrated value is cleared to zero (# 9).
08), except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, such a state is unlikely to occur, and if there is time, the chance of switching from flash photography to AE photography is reduced, and the photographer feels uncomfortable more than necessary. You don't have to.

Further, since a warning is displayed during the period of the strobe heating (# 911), the photographer can determine why such a situation is occurring, and if a short wait is made, the photographing can be resumed. You can know. Further, if this display is the same as that of prohibiting strobe light emission, it is very easy for a photographer who is not familiar with the camera to determine whether the current photographing is AE photographing or FA photographing. Become.

(Tenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of a camera according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the tenth embodiment, in the camera or the strobe device of the concept of FIG. 9, when the strobe light emission interval is longer than the predetermined time T [5], the integrated value is subtracted by the value n [6]. Things.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 1001). Here, when it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and
Photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, and focusing for photographing are performed (# 1002). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 100).
3). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1004), and the previous flash emission time P1 is determined.
And the current flash emission time P2 (corresponding to approximately the flash emission time) to calculate the flash emission interval (#
1004). Then, this value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 1005). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to accumulation, so that the accumulation means is used. The predetermined value N [2] is added to the integrated value C of 5
Are integrated (# 1006).

If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] in step # 1005, this integration operation is not performed, and the flash emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [5]. (# 1007) If the strobe light emission interval is longer than T [5], the integrated value C is set to the time T
Subtract the value n [6] corresponding to [5] (# 100
8).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 1 (# 1009). If it is determined that the current integrated value C is greater than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 1, then the current integrated value C is compared with the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2. Perform comparison (# 1
010). Here, if the integrated value C is smaller than a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, then C [3] 2>C> C [3] 1. ], The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] 1 corresponding to 1 (# 101
8). Then, is the release switch fully pressed (#
1019) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] 1 (# 1020). If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 1019, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat release, step # 1
025.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 1010 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, the current integrated value C is similarly set to the predetermined value. Comparison with the threshold value C [3] 3 is performed, and the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n-1 and smaller than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n, (# 1011), this threshold value C [3]
The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] n-1 corresponding to n-1 (# 1015). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been fully pressed (# 1016) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] n-1 (# 1017). If it is determined in step # 1016 that the release switch has been fully pressed, that is, if it is desired to take a picture within the waiting time for heat release, the process proceeds to step # 1025.

If it is determined in step # 1011 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n, the constant value corresponding to the threshold value C [3] n is determined. Start the timer at time T [4] n (# 1
012). Then, the release switch is fully pressed (# 1013), or the timer is set for a predetermined time T [4] n.
Is determined (# 1014). Step # 10
If the release switch is turned off in step 13, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat release, the process proceeds to step # 1025.

Steps # 1014, # 1017, #
If it is determined in step 1020 that the release switch has been pressed and the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step # 1026 to determine whether or not the release switch has been turned off. It is determined whether the release switch has been fully pressed (# 1027). If the release switch has not been fully pressed, the process returns to step # 1026. If the release switch has been fully pressed, the process proceeds to step # 1021. Then, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as the shutter opening control is performed (# 1021), the flash emission is performed at a predetermined timing (# 1022), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 10).
23) Then, a photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, and winding up of one frame is executed (# 1024).

If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 1003 or # 1013, # 1016, and # 1019, switching from flash photography to normal AE photography without using flash is performed, and shutter control is performed accordingly. , A series of photographing operations such as flash emission, winding up of one frame, etc. are executed (# 1025).

According to the tenth embodiment described above, a thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to space constraints is used.
Instead of directly installing near a tube or a strobe component, the strobe light emission interval is only measured and integrated, and when the calorific value is integrated, it waits for a predetermined time or switches to AE photography (# 1014, # 1017, # 10
20), the breakage and melting of the strobe-related parts are not caused, the external temperature is not so increased, and no deformation or discoloration of the exterior is caused.

Further, the strobe light emission interval is a predetermined time T
[5] If the opening is longer than this, the integrated value is subtracted in accordance with the time (# 1008), so that such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, and if there is time, the flash photography starts. Opportunities to switch to AE shooting are reduced,
You do not need to make the photographer feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

(Eleventh Embodiment) The operation of the main part of the camera according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the eleventh embodiment of the present invention, in the camera or the strobe device of the concept of FIG. 9, a release lock, a warning display, a stop operation, and the like are performed according to the setting information by the setting device 2 at the time of continuous strobe light emission. , Which can be freely selected by the photographer.

First, the control circuit 6 detects whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation using a release switch (not shown) or the like (# 1101). Here, when it is determined that the release operation has been performed, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and
A shooting preparation operation such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, and focusing for shooting is performed (# 1102). In this series of photographing preparation operations, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 110).
3). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1104), and the previous flash emission time P1 is determined.
And the current flash emission time P2 (corresponding to approximately the flash emission time) to calculate the flash emission interval (#
1104). This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 1105). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to accumulation, so that the accumulation means 5 The predetermined value N [2] is added to the integrated value C of
Are integrated (# 1106).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 1107). If it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the setting information is read from the setting device 2 (# 1108), and the setting information is determined (# 1108). # 1109). Here, if the mode 1 in which the warning display and the release lock are not performed is set, for example, when only a specific number of images are taken, the process proceeds to step # 1120. If the mode 2 in which both the warning display and the release lock are performed is set, the process proceeds to step # 1110, and the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start counting (# 1).
At the same time, a signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display for indicating that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 1111). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been turned off (# 1112) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 1113). If the release switch is turned off in step # 1112, that is, if the release switch is released within the waiting time for heat release, the warning display is stopped without performing the subsequent operation, and the process ends. When a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, the display device 3 is again displayed.
To stop the warning display (# 1114).

If the mode 3 in which only a warning is displayed without releasing the lock in step # 1109 is set, the process proceeds to step # 1115, and the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start counting ( # 1115)
At the same time, a signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display for indicating that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 1116). Then, it is determined whether the release switch has been fully pressed (# 1117) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 1118). If the release switch is fully pressed in step # 1117, that is, if photographing is desired, the process proceeds to step # 1124 even if the predetermined time has not elapsed. If the predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed (YES in # 1118), a signal is sent to the display device 3 again to stop the warning display (# 1119).

Step # 1114 or # 111
After the operation of Step 9 is completed, the flow shifts to step # 1125 to determine whether or not the release switch has been turned off. If the release switch has been turned off, this flow ends. If it has been turned on, it has been determined whether the release switch has been fully pressed next. (# 1126) If it is not fully pressed, the process returns to step # 1125. If it is fully pressed, the process proceeds to step # 1120. Then, the photographing operation 1 before the flash emission such as shutter opening control is performed (# 1120). When the flash emission is performed (# 1121), the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 11).
22) Then, a photographing operation 2 such as shutter control, date imprinting, and one-frame winding is executed (# 1123).

If the release switch is fully depressed in step # 1103 or step # 1117, a normal A which does not use the flash from the flash photography is used.
The mode is switched to E shooting, and a series of shooting operations such as shutter control, strobe light emission, and winding of one frame are executed in response to the shooting (# 1124).

According to the eleventh embodiment described above, a thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to space constraints is used.
Instead of directly installing near a tube or a strobe component, the strobe light emission interval is only measured and integrated, and when the calorific value is integrated, it waits for a predetermined time or switches to AE photography (# 1113, # 1118, # 11
24) There is no breakage or melting of the flash-related parts, the external temperature does not rise so much, and no deformation or discoloration of the exterior occurs.

Further, since the contents can be set by the photographer himself (# 1108), the contents can be used in a state more suited to the photographing scene, and emergency situations can be dealt with. You don't have to worry about it.

(Twelfth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of a camera according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the twelfth embodiment, the parameter is changed according to GNo.

In the twelfth embodiment, the following processing is added to the processing block of the photographing preparation operation in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and performs photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like for photographing (# 1201). Thereafter, the GNo to be fired this time is obtained by the strobe GNo setting / detection circuit 9 (# 1202). Based on the GNo, the flash firing interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C
[3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], reset time / subtraction time T [5] of integrated value,
Set parameters such as the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value (#
1203).

According to the twelfth embodiment described above, similarly to the above embodiments, there is no need to directly install a thermometer or the like that hinders downsizing of the strobe device near the Xe tube or the strobe component in space. Since the emission interval of the strobe is measured and integrated, the release lock or emission inhibition and AE photographing are performed when the amount of heat generation is integrated, so that the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted. The external temperature does not rise so much, and the exterior does not deform or discolor.

Further, since the parameters are set finely according to the GNo (# 1203), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. Opportunities are reduced, so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Note that the present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In this flowchart, the parameter setting by GNo is performed during the shooting preparation operation.
The same effect can be obtained by performing this immediately after the current light emission and using the parameter for the next release. In addition, this parameter is used to shorten the strobe light emission interval comparison value T [1], increase the integrated value N [2], or change the integrated value N [2] as it is when GNo increases. The same effect can be obtained by reducing the comparison value C [3] or increasing the release lock or the strobe light emission inhibition time T [4].

(Thirteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the thirteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the thirteenth embodiment, the parameters are changed according to the power supply voltage of the camera or the strobe device.

In the thirteenth embodiment, the following processing is added to the processing block of the photographing preparation operation in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 and performs photographing preparation operations such as voltage check for photographing, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like (# 1301). Thereafter, the current power supply voltage (battery consumption level, etc.) is obtained by the power supply voltage detection circuit 7 (# 1302). Based on the power supply voltage, the strobe light emission interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C
[3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], integrated value reset time / subtraction time T [5],
Set parameters such as the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value (#
1303).

According to the thirteenth embodiment, as in the above-described embodiments, a thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized is directly installed in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in terms of space. Instead, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only. When the amount of heat generation is integrated, the release lock or emission inhibition is performed, and AE shooting is performed. ,
The external temperature does not rise so much, and the exterior does not deform or discolor.

Further, since the parameters are finely set according to the power supply voltage (# 1304), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. These differences are reduced by reflecting the slight change in the amount of heat generated by the strobe charging, so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable more than necessary.

The setting of this parameter reflects the fact that when the power supply voltage decreases, the internal resistance of the battery increases and a large current cannot flow, so that the strobe light emission interval comparison value T [1] is increased. Or the integrated value N [2] is reduced, the integrated value comparison value C [3] is increased while the integrated value N [2] remains unchanged, or the release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4] is shortened. The same effect can be obtained.

(Fourteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the fourteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the fourteenth embodiment, parameters are changed according to the ambient temperature of a camera or a strobe device.

In the fourteenth embodiment, the following processing is added to the processing block of the photographing preparation operation in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check for photographing, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like (# 1401). After that, the temperature detection circuit 1
Then, the ambient temperature of the camera or the strobe device is obtained (# 1402). Based on the ambient temperature, the flash emission interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C
[3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], reset time / subtraction time T [5] of integrated value,
Set parameters such as the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value (#
1403).

According to the fourteenth embodiment described above, similarly to the above-described embodiments, a thermometer or the like which hinders downsizing of the strobe device can be directly installed in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in terms of space. There is no need to release or lock the flash when the calorific value is integrated, simply by measuring and integrating the flash emission interval and correcting for the ambient temperature.
Since the photographing is performed, the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and the exterior does not deform or discolor.

Further, since the parameters are set finely according to the ambient temperature (# 1403), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. These opportunities are reduced by reflecting subtle changes in the amount of heat, so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

It should be noted that the setting of this parameter may be such that when the ambient temperature increases, the strobe emission interval comparison value T [1] is shortened, the integrated value N [2] is increased, or the integrated value N [2] is increased. [2] is the integrated value comparison value C [3] as it is
The same effect can be obtained by reducing the shutter speed or increasing the release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4].

(Fifteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the fifteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the fifteenth embodiment, a strobe device or the like is configured to transmit a release lock instruction signal to the camera when a strobe light emission interval is within a predetermined time during a strobe heat generation protection operation and the shutter is released. It is.

First, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation, whether or not a start signal has been transmitted from the camera body, or whether or not the photographer has performed a start operation on the strobe device side. Is determined (# 1501).
Here, if it is determined that the camera body has been activated or the strobe device has been activated, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the camera body to acquire information on the camera body / various parameters and acquire information on the current shooting preparation operation. (# 15
02). The control circuit 6 acquires data from the camera side.
Determines whether the photographing is performed by flash emission or not (# 1503). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1504), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 1504). This value is first compared with a predetermined time T [1] 1 (# 1505).
If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than [1] 1, heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined value N [2] 1 is integrated with the integrated value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 1506).

In step # 1505, T
If the light emission interval is longer than [1] 1, it is compared with a predetermined time T [1] 2 (# 1507),
If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] 2, heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined value N [2] 2 is integrated with the integrated value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 1508).
If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] 2 in step # 1507, the same processing is performed. Thereafter, this operation is repeated, and when the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] n (# 1509), heat accumulates due to integration, so that a predetermined value N [2] n is added to the integrated value C of the integrating circuit 5. Integrate (# 1510). In step # 1509, T [1] n
If the light emission interval is longer than the light emission interval, this integration operation is not performed. Here, it is assumed that the relationship of T [1] 1 <T [1] 2 <... <T [1] n-1 <T [1] n holds.

Thereafter, the above steps # 1506 and # 15
08 and # 1510, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 1 (# 1).
511). The current integrated value C is a predetermined threshold value C
If it is determined that it is larger than [3] 1, then the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2 (# 1512). If the integrated value C is smaller than a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, C [3] 2>C> C [3] 1, so that the threshold value C [3] ], The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] 1 corresponding to 1 (# 152
0). Then, it is determined whether a command to fully press the release switch comes from the camera body side (# 1521) or whether the timer reaches a predetermined time T [4] 1 (# 1522). If it is determined in step # 1521 that a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body side, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1526.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 1512 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, the current integrated value C is similarly set to the predetermined value. Comparison with the threshold value C [3] 3 is performed, and the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold C [3] n-1 and smaller than the predetermined threshold C [3] n, ( # 1513), the threshold value C [3] n-1
The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] n-1 corresponding to (# 1517). Then, a command that the release switch is fully pressed comes from the camera body (# 151).
8) Alternatively, it is determined whether the timer has reached the predetermined time T [4] n-1 (# 1519). If it is determined in step # 1518 that a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body, that is, if it is desired to take a picture within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1526. If it is determined that the integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] n, the timer is set to a predetermined time T [4] n corresponding to the threshold value C [3] n. It is started (# 1514). Then, a command is received from the camera body that the release switch is fully pressed (# 1515), or the timer is set for a predetermined time T.
[4] It is determined whether n has been reached (# 1516). If it is determined in step # 1515 that a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body side, that is, if it is desired to take a photograph within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1526.

Steps # 1516, # 1519, #
If a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving a command to fully press the release switch from the camera body at 1522, the camera waits for a strobe light emission command from the camera body (# 15).
23) When a strobe light emission command comes, strobe light emission is performed at that timing (# 1524), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 1525).

Steps # 1515, # 1518, #
When a command to press the release switch fully is received from the camera body in 1521, an instruction signal for performing release lock is transmitted to the camera (# 1526).

According to the fifteenth embodiment described above, a thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to space constraints is used.
Instead of directly installing near the tube or strobe parts, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only, and when the heat generation is integrated, the release lock signal is transmitted to the camera for a predetermined time. Therefore (# 1526), the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and the exterior does not deform, discolor, etc.

If the light emission interval is longer than a predetermined time T [1], these release locks are not locked (YES in # 1516, YES in # 1522). Such a state is unlikely to occur, so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Further, since only the last emission time and the present emission time are measured for measuring the strobe emission interval, only a clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is required. Can be prevented.

Note that the present invention is not limited to this flowchart. Although the difference between the previous and current light emission times was calculated to measure the light emission interval, the same effect can be obtained by using a series of timers dedicated to low power consumption. Further, each parameter T [1],
N [2], C [3], T [4], and the like can obtain the same effect regardless of whether they are fixed values in the control circuit 6 or values externally written in the memory circuit.

(Sixteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the sixteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the sixteenth embodiment, the integrated value is reset when the flash emission interval is longer than a predetermined time T [5] in the camera or the flash device of the concept of FIG.

First, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation, whether or not a start signal has been transmitted from the camera body, or whether or not the photographer has performed a start operation of the strobe device. A determination is made (# 1601). Here, if it is determined that the camera body has been activated or the strobe device has been activated, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the camera body to acquire information on the camera body / various parameters and acquire information on the current shooting preparation operation. (# 160
2). By acquiring the data from the camera side, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographing is performed by flash emission (# 1603). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1604), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 1604). This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 1605).
If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than that, heat accumulates due to the integration, so that the integrated value C
[2] is integrated (# 1606).

In step # 1605, T
If the light emission interval is longer than [1], this integration operation is not performed, and the flash light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [5] (# 1607).
If the strobe light emission interval is longer than [5], the integrated value C is cleared to zero (# 1608).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] (# 1609). Here, when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3], the control circuit activates the timer to start counting (# 1610), and the display device 3 A signal is sent to start a warning display to indicate that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 1
611). Then, it is determined whether a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body (# 1612) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 1613). In step # 1612, when a command to fully press the release switch is received from the camera body side, that is, when shooting is desired within the waiting time for heat radiation, a warning display stop signal is transmitted, and then step # 1618 Move to.

In step # 1613, if a predetermined time has elapsed without an instruction from the camera body to fully press the release switch, a signal is sent to the display device 3 to release the shutter due to heat generation. The warning display for indicating that the operation is being performed is stopped (# 1614). The camera waits for a strobe light emission command from the camera body (# 1615). When the strobe light emission command comes, strobe light emission is performed at that timing (# 1616), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 1617).

When a command to fully press the release switch is received from the camera body in steps # 1603 and # 1612, an instruction signal for performing release lock is transmitted to the camera (# 1618).

According to the sixteenth embodiment described above, the thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to the space is replaced by the Xe.
Instead of directly installing near the tube or strobe parts, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only, and when the heat generation is integrated, the release lock signal is transmitted to the camera for a predetermined time. Therefore (# 1618), the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and the exterior does not deform or discolor.

Further, the strobe emission interval is a predetermined time T
[5] If it is opened more than 0, the integrated value is cleared to zero (# 1
608), such a situation is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, and the opportunity to transmit the release lock signal to the camera side is reduced if the time is longer, which makes the photographer uncomfortable unnecessarily You do not have to do it.

(Seventeenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera according to the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the first embodiment of the present invention, in the camera or the strobe device of the concept of FIG. 16, the release lock at the time of continuous flashing of the strobe light, a warning display, or the stop of the operation is performed according to the setting information by the setting device 2. , Which can be freely selected by the photographer.

First, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation, whether or not a start signal has been transmitted from the camera body, or whether or not the photographer has performed a start operation on the strobe device side. Is determined (# 1701).
If it is determined that the camera body has been activated or the strobe device has been operated, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the camera body to acquire information on the camera body / various parameters and information on the current shooting preparation operation. (# 17)
02). The control circuit 6 acquires data from the camera side.
Determines whether the photographing is performed by flash emission or not (# 1703). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1704), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 1704). This value is compared with a predetermined time T [1] (# 1705). If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1], heat accumulates due to integration, so that the integration of the integration circuit 5 is performed. A predetermined amount N
[2] is integrated (# 1706).

Thereafter, the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined integrated value C [3] (# 1707). Here, if it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined integrated value C [3], then the setting information is read from the setting device 2 (# 1708) and the setting information is determined (# 1709). Here, when the mode 1 in which the warning display and the release lock are not performed is set, for example, when only a specific number of images are taken, the process proceeds to step # 1720. When the mode 2 in which the warning display and the release lock are also performed is set, the process proceeds to step # 1710, and the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start the counting (# 17).
Along with 10), a signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display for indicating that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 1711). Then, a command that the release switch is fully pressed is received from the camera body side (# 1712), or the timer is set for a predetermined time T.
It is determined whether [4] has been reached (# 1713). If it is determined in step # 1712 that the release switch has been fully pressed from the camera body, that is, if it is desired to take a picture within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1714, where a signal is sent to the display circuit 3 again. Is sent to stop the warning display (# 1714).

If it is determined in step # 1709 that the mode 3 is such that only the warning is displayed without releasing the release lock, the process proceeds to step # 1715, where the control circuit 6 operates the timer to start counting (# 1715). ), A signal is sent to the display device 3 to start a warning display to indicate that the release lock has been applied due to heat generation (# 1716). Then, is there a command from the camera body that the release switch is fully depressed (# 1717) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] (# 171)?
8) is determined. When a command to fully press the release switch is received from the camera body side in step # 1717, that is, when an image is to be taken within the waiting time for heat release,
The process moves to step # 1714. When a predetermined time has elapsed while the release switch is being pressed, a signal is sent to the display device 3 again to stop the warning display (# 17).
19).

After the operation of step # 1707 or steps # 1714 and # 1719 is completed, step # 1 is executed.
The flow shifts to 720, and waits for a strobe light emission command from the camera body (# 1720). When the strobe light emission command comes, strobe light emission is performed at that timing (# 1721), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 1722).

When a command to fully press the release switch is received from the camera body in steps # 1703 and # 1717, an instruction signal for performing release lock is transmitted to the camera (# 1723).

According to the seventeenth embodiment described above, a thermometer or the like that prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to space limitations is used.
Instead of directly installing near the tube or strobe parts, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only, and when the heat generation is integrated, the release lock signal is transmitted to the camera for a predetermined time. Therefore (# 1723), the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and no deformation or discoloration of the exterior occurs.

Further, since the contents can be set by the photographer himself (# 1708), the contents can be used in a state more suitable for the photographing scene, and emergency situations can be dealt with. You don't have to worry about it.

(Eighteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the eighteenth embodiment, a strobe light emission instructing signal is transmitted to the camera in a strobe device or the like when a strobe light emission interval is within a predetermined time during a strobe heat generation protection operation and the shutter is released. Things.

First, the control circuit 6 determines whether or not the photographer has performed a release operation, whether or not a start signal has been transmitted from the camera body, or whether or not the photographer has performed a start operation on the strobe device side. Is determined (# 1801).
Here, if it is determined that the camera body has been activated or the strobe device has been activated, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the camera body to acquire information on the camera body / various parameters and acquire information on the current shooting preparation operation. (# 18)
02). The control circuit 6 acquires data from the camera side.
Determines whether the photographing is performed with flash emission or not (# 1803). In the case of flash photography, the current time P2 determined by the time measurement circuit 4 or the CPU as a whole is read (# 1804), and the previous flash emission time P1 and the current flash emission time P2 (almost the flash emission time) Is calculated, and a flash emission interval is obtained (# 1804). This value is first compared with a predetermined time T [1] 1 (# 1805).
[1] If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than 1, heat accumulates due to the integration, so the integrated value C
Is multiplied by a predetermined value N [2] 1 (# 1806).

If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] 1 in step # 1805, the light emission interval is compared with a predetermined time T [1] 2 (# 1807).
If the strobe light emission interval is shorter than [1] 2, heat accumulates due to the integration, so that a predetermined value N [2] 2 is integrated with the integrated value C of the integration circuit 5 (# 1808). If the light emission interval is larger than T [1] 1 in step # 1507, the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when the strobe light emission interval is shorter than T [1] n (#
In step 1809), a predetermined value N [2] n is added to the integrated value C of the integrating circuit 5 since heat accumulates due to the integration (#
1810). If the light emission interval is longer than T [1] n in step # 1809, this integration operation is not performed. Here, it is assumed that the relationship of T [1] 1 <T [1] 2 <... <T [1] n-1 <T [1] n holds.

Thereafter, steps # 1806 and # 180
8, a comparison is made between the current integrated value C calculated in # 1810 and a predetermined threshold value C [3] 1 (# 18)
11). The current integrated value C is a predetermined threshold value C
If it is determined that it is larger than [3] 1, then the current integrated value C is compared with a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2 (# 1812). If the integrated value C is smaller than a predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, C [3] 2>C> C [3] 1. 3] The timer is started at a fixed time T [4] 1 corresponding to 1 (# 182
0). Then, it is determined whether a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body (# 1821) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] 1 (# 1822). If a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body in step # 1821, that is, if it is desired to take a picture within the waiting time for heat release, step #
Move to 1826.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step # 1812 that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold value C [3] 2, the current integrated value C is similarly determined in advance. A comparison is made with the threshold value C [3] 3, and the same processing is performed. Hereinafter, this operation is repeated, and when it is determined that the current integrated value C is larger than the predetermined threshold C [3] n-1 and smaller than the predetermined threshold C [3] n, (# 1813), the timer is started at a fixed time T [4] n-1 corresponding to the threshold value C [3] n-1 (# 1817). Then, a command that the release switch is fully pressed comes from the camera body side (# 181).
8) Alternatively, it is determined whether the timer has reached the predetermined time T [4] n-1 (# 1819). If it is determined in step # 1818 that a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body side, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1826.

If it is determined in step # 1813 that the current integrated value C is larger than a predetermined threshold value C [3] n, a constant corresponding to the threshold value C [3] n- The timer is started at time T [4] n- (# 181
4). Then, it is determined whether a command to fully press the release switch comes from the camera body (# 1815) or whether the timer has reached a predetermined time T [4] n- (# 1816). If it is determined in step # 1815 that a command to fully press the release switch has been received from the camera body side, that is, if it is desired to take an image within the waiting time for heat radiation, the process proceeds to step # 1826.

Steps # 1816, # 1819, #
If a predetermined time has passed without a command to fully press the release switch from the camera body at 1822,
Wait for a flash emission command from the camera body (# 182
3) When a strobe light emission command comes, strobe light emission is performed at that timing (# 1824), and the time at that time is stored in P1 (# 1825).

Steps # 1815, # 1818, #
When a command to fully press the release switch is received from the camera body in 1821, a strobe light emission prohibition instruction signal is transmitted to the camera (# 1826).

According to the eighteenth embodiment described above, a thermometer or the like that prevents the strobe device from being downsized due to space limitations is provided by Xe.
Without installing directly near the tube or strobe parts, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only. When the calorific value is integrated, the strobe emission inhibition signal is transmitted to the camera for a predetermined period of time. The side switches from release lock or strobe shooting to AE shooting, so that the strobe-related parts are not damaged or melted, the external temperature does not rise so much, and there is no deformation or discoloration of the exterior. .

If the light emission interval is longer than a predetermined time T [1], these release locks are not established (#
1816, # 1819, and # 1822), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more, and the photographer does not need to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Further, since only the last emission time and the current emission time are measured to measure the strobe emission interval, only a clock operation with very low current consumption is required during that period, so that significant power consumption is achieved. Can be prevented.

(Nineteenth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the nineteenth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

In the nineteenth embodiment, the following processing is added to the processing block for data acquisition on the camera side in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing circuit 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, and focusing for photographing (# 1901). Thereafter, the GNo to be fired this time is obtained by the strobe GNo setting / detection circuit 9 (# 1902). Based on the GNo, the flash firing interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C
[3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], reset time / subtraction time T [5] of integrated value,
Set parameters such as the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value (#
1903).

According to the nineteenth embodiment described above, similarly to the fifteenth embodiment and the like, a thermometer or the like for preventing the strobe device from being downsized is directly provided in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in a space. Without installation, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only, and when the heat generation is integrated, the release lock or emission inhibition is performed, and AE shooting is performed. Without inviting, the external temperature does not rise so much,
There is no discoloration.

Further, since the parameters are set finely according to the GNo (# 1903), such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. Opportunities are reduced, so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

Note that the present invention is not limited to this flowchart. In this flowchart, the parameter setting by GNo is performed during data acquisition on the camera side. However, the same effect can be obtained by performing this immediately after the current flash and using the parameter at the next release. it can. This parameter is set to a predetermined time T which is a target of the strobe light emission time interval when the GNo becomes large.
[1] may be shortened, the predetermined value N [2] may be increased,
Even if the predetermined value N [2] is kept as it is, the threshold value C [3], which is the comparison value of the integrated value, is reduced, or the fixed time T [4], which is the release lock or strobe light emission prohibition time, is lengthened. The same effect can be obtained.

(Twentieth Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the twentieth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the twentieth embodiment, the parameters are changed according to the power supply voltage of the camera or the strobe device.

In the twentieth embodiment, the following processing is added to the camera-side data acquisition processing block in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is, the control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check for photographing, exposure, strobe charging, focusing and the like (# 2001). Thereafter, the current power supply voltage (battery consumption level, etc.) is obtained by the power supply voltage detection circuit 7 (# 2002). Based on the power supply voltage, the strobe light emission interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C [3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], integrated value reset time Parameters such as the subtraction time T [5] and the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value are set (# 2003).

According to the twentieth embodiment described above, similarly to the fifteenth embodiment and the like, a thermometer or the like which prevents the strobe device from being downsized is directly provided in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in a space. Without installation, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated only, and when the heat generation is integrated, the release lock or emission inhibition is performed, and AE shooting is performed. Without inviting, the external temperature does not rise so much,
There is no discoloration.

Further, since the parameters are finely set according to the power supply voltage, such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. Since the number of such occasions is reduced by reflecting the subtle change in the calorific value, the photographer does not need to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

The setting of this parameter reflects the fact that when the power supply voltage decreases, the internal resistance of the battery increases and a large current cannot flow, and the predetermined time T which is the object of the strobe light emission time interval is set. [1] can be shortened,
The predetermined value N [2] is increased, the threshold value C [3], which is a comparison value of the integrated value, is decreased while the predetermined value N [2] is kept as it is, or a fixed time which is a release lock or strobe light emission prohibition time. Even if T [4] is lengthened, the same effect can be obtained.

(Twenty-First Embodiment) Next, the operation of the main part of the camera system according to the twenty-first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the twenty-first embodiment, the parameters are changed according to the ambient temperature of a camera or a strobe device.

In the twenty-first embodiment, the following processing is added to the processing block of the shooting preparation operation in the flowcharts of FIGS. That is,
The control circuit 6 sends a command to the photographing device 8 to perform photographing preparation operations such as voltage check, exposure, strobe charging, and focusing for photographing (# 2101). Thereafter, the ambient temperature of the camera or the strobe device is obtained by the temperature detection circuit 1 (# 2102). Based on the ambient temperature, the strobe light emission interval comparison value T [1], integrated value N [2], integrated value comparison value C [3], release lock or strobe light emission inhibition time T [4], integrated value reset time・ Subtraction time T
Parameters such as [5] and the subtraction amount n [6] of the integrated value are set (# 2103).

According to the twenty-first embodiment, as in the fifteenth embodiment and the like, a thermometer or the like for preventing the strobe device from being downsized is directly provided in the vicinity of the Xe tube or the strobe component in space. Without setting, the flash emission interval is measured and integrated, and the correction is made only at the ambient temperature. When the calorific value is integrated, the release lock or emission inhibition and AE shooting are performed. It does not cause breakage or melting of related parts, does not raise the external temperature so much, and does not cause deformation or discoloration of the exterior.

Further, since the parameters are set finely according to the ambient temperature, such a state is unlikely to occur except in the case of continuous shooting of a plurality of images or more. Reflecting the changes will reduce those opportunities so that the photographer does not have to feel uncomfortable unnecessarily.

It should be noted that the setting of this parameter may be such that when the ambient temperature increases, the predetermined time T [1], which is the object of the strobe light emission time interval, is shortened or the predetermined value N
[2] may be increased, or the threshold value C [3], which is a comparison value of the integrated value, may be decreased while the predetermined value N [2] remains unchanged.
The same effect can be obtained even if the fixed time T [4], which is the release lock or strobe light emission prohibition time, is increased.

Although the operation of each embodiment has been described above, the present invention is not limited to each of the embodiments, and a plurality of these embodiments may be combined ( For example, the second and third embodiments are combined to form an embodiment), and similar effects can be obtained.

[0187]

As described above, according to the present invention,
While minimizing current consumption as much as possible without increasing the size and cost, it is possible to prevent breakage and melting of the strobe light emitting device and its peripheral members due to heat generated by the strobe light emitting device, and also prevent deformation and discoloration of the exterior member. In addition, it is possible to provide a camera or a strobe device that does not force the photographer to perform an unnecessarily unpleasant operation.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of a main part of a camera according to each embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of the camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a main part of a camera according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera system according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera system according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of the camera system according to the seventeenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of the camera system according to the eighteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of the camera system according to the nineteenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of a camera system according to a twentieth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an operation of a main part of the camera system according to the twenty-first embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Temperature detection circuit 2 Setting device 3 Display device 4 Time measurement circuit 5 Integration circuit 6 Control circuit 7 Power supply voltage detection circuit 8 Imaging device 9 Strobe GNo setting / detection circuit 10 Strobe charging circuit 11 Strobe light emission circuit 12 Strobe light emission inhibition circuit

Claims (51)

[Claims] 1. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by a strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission schedule, and it is determined that a time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. 1. A camera comprising: integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time the operation is performed; and operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a predetermined time when the integrated value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. 2. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by a strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission schedule, and it is determined that a time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. An integration means for integrating a predetermined value each time the operation is performed, an operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a predetermined time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, and an operation control means for integrating the predetermined value into the predetermined threshold value. A camera that has a setting unit that sets a certain time for prohibiting the release operation in accordance with the value of the integrated value to be longer as the integrated value is larger. 3. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and the current strobe light emission, and it is determined that the time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. An integration means for integrating a predetermined value every time, an operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a fixed time when the integrated value is equal to or more than a threshold value, and a time interval shorter according to the measured time interval. Setting means for setting a large value as the predetermined value. 4. The strobe light emission prohibition time for radiating heat generated in the strobe light emitting means by repetition of strobe light emission, according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined time is a strobe light emission prohibition time. camera. 5. A time interval between the last strobe light emission measured by the time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled,
The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the predetermined time is longer than the predetermined time, the integrated value of the integrating means is initialized. 6. The time interval between the previous strobe light emission measured by the time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled is:
The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a predetermined value is subtracted from the integrated value of the integrating means when the predetermined time is longer than the predetermined time. 7. A value for subtracting an integrated value of said integrating means is:
7. The camera according to claim 6, wherein the camera is determined in accordance with a time interval between the previous flash emission measured by the time measurement unit and the current flash emission schedule. 8. The predetermined time longer than the predetermined time,
8. The method according to claim 5, wherein the heat generated by the strobe light is radiated to such an extent that the heat generated by the strobe light means does not adversely affect the strobe light means and its peripheral members. The camera according to any one of the above. 9. When the integrated value of said integrating means becomes equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value, the time interval between the previous strobe light emission measured by said time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled is set to said predetermined time. 7. The camera according to claim 4, wherein when the time is shorter than the time, a warning is displayed on the display means. 10. The camera according to claim 9, wherein the warning display on the display means is a display indicating that the flash is being charged. 11. A first mode in which a release operation is prohibited and a warning is displayed on the display means, a second mode in which a warning display is performed on the display means but the release operation is permitted,
Setting means for setting a predetermined mode among a plurality of modes including a third mode in which the release operation is not prohibited and a warning is not displayed on the display means; The camera according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a process according to the information set by the setting unit is performed when the threshold value is exceeded. 12. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the flash light emission two times before by the strobe light emitting means and the previous strobe light emission, and it is determined that the time interval measured by the time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. A camera comprising: integrating means for integrating a predetermined value every time; and strobe light emission control means for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means when the integrated value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. 13. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and the current strobe light emission, and it is determined that the time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. And a strobe light emission control means for prohibiting strobe light emission by said strobe light emission means when the integrated value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. 14. The camera according to claim 13, wherein said strobe light emission control means prohibits strobe light emission by said strobe light emission means for a predetermined time. 15. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by a strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission schedule, and it is determined that the time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. An integration means for integrating a predetermined value every time, a flash emission control means for prohibiting the flash emission by the flash emission means for a predetermined time when the integration value becomes equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value; Setting means for setting a certain period of time during which light emission is prohibited to be longer as the integrated value is larger, in accordance with a value of the integrated value when is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold value. 16. A time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by a strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission schedule, and it is determined that the time interval measured by said time measuring means is shorter than a predetermined time. Integrating means for integrating a predetermined value every time, and when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value,
A camera comprising: a strobe light emission control unit that inhibits strobe light emission for a predetermined time; and a setting unit that sets a larger value as the predetermined value in accordance with the measured time interval as the time interval becomes shorter. 17. When the time interval between the previous strobe emission and the current strobe emission measured by the time measurement unit is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration by the integration unit is performed. 17. The camera according to claim 12, wherein a value is initialized. 18. When the time interval between the previous strobe light emission measured by the time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration of the integrating means is performed. 17. The camera according to claim 12, wherein a value is subtracted from a predetermined value. 19. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the value by which the integrated value of the integrating means is subtracted is determined according to a time interval between the previous flash emission measured by the time measuring means and the current flash emission scheduled. 19. The camera according to 18. 20. When the integrated value of the integrating means is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the time interval between the previous flash emission measured by the time measuring means and the current flash emission scheduled is set to the predetermined value. 20. The camera according to claim 12, wherein a warning is displayed on the display means when the time is shorter than the time. 21. The warning display on the display means is a display indicating that a flash is being charged.
The camera according to. 22. A first mode in which strobe light emission is prohibited and a warning is displayed on the display means, a second mode in which the display means displays a warning but strobe light is allowed, and a method in which strobe light emission is not prohibited. And a setting unit for setting a predetermined mode among a plurality of modes including a third mode in which the display unit does not perform a warning display, wherein the strobe light emission control unit is configured to set the integrated value to be equal to or more than a threshold value. 22. The camera according to claim 12, wherein a process according to the information set by the setting unit is performed when the setting is performed. 23. A photographing operation is changed from strobe photographing to AE photographing when an instruction to start a release operation is given while strobe light emission is prohibited by said strobe light emission control means. Item 23. The camera according to any one of Items 12 to 22. 24. The apparatus according to claim 24, further comprising: a guide number detecting means for detecting a current strobe guide number, and based on the detected strobe guide number, a time interval between a previous strobe light emission and a current strobe light emission scheduled time interval. 24. The method according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a predetermined time, the predetermined value to be integrated by the integration means, and the fixed time, which is a time during which the strobe light emission is prohibited, is changed. Camera. 25. A power supply voltage detecting means for detecting a power supply voltage, wherein the predetermined strobe emission is compared with a time interval of a current strobe emission and a current strobe emission scheduled time according to a detected power supply voltage state. Time, the predetermined value to be integrated by the integrating means, the fixed time, which is a time during which the strobe light emission is prohibited,
Claim 1 characterized by changing at least one.
24. The camera according to any one of 23. 26. The apparatus according to claim 26, further comprising: a temperature detecting unit configured to detect an ambient temperature. The predetermined time, which is a comparison target of a time interval between a previous strobe light emission and a current strobe light emission scheduled, in accordance with the detected ambient temperature. Among the predetermined value to be integrated by the integrating means, and the certain time, which is the prohibition time of the strobe light emission,
Claim 1 characterized by changing at least one.
24. The camera according to any one of 23. 27. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is predetermined. It is characterized by having integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined to be shorter than a time, and operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a fixed time when the integrated value is equal to or more than a threshold value. Strobe device. 28. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined value. An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined that the time is shorter than a time, an operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a fixed time when the integrated value is equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value; Setting means for setting a fixed time for prohibiting the release operation in accordance with a value of the integrated value to a longer time as the integrated value is larger, in accordance with a value of the integrated value. apparatus. 29. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined time. Integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined to be shorter, operation control means for prohibiting a release operation for a fixed time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, and Setting means for setting a larger value as the predetermined time interval as the time interval is shorter. 30. The strobe light emission prohibition time for dissipating heat generated in the strobe light emitting means by repetition of strobe light emission, according to claim 27, wherein the predetermined time is a strobe light emission prohibition time. Strobe device. 31. If the time interval between the previous flash emission and the current flash emission scheduled measured by the time measurement means is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration of the integration means is performed. The strobe device according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein a value is initialized. 32. When the time interval between the previous flash emission and the current flash emission scheduled measured by the time measurement means is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration of the integration means is performed. The strobe device according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the value is subtracted by a predetermined value. 33. The apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the value by which the integrated value of said integrating means is subtracted is determined according to a time interval between the previous flash emission measured by said time measuring means and the current flash emission scheduled. The strobe device according to claim 32. 34. For a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, heat is radiated to such an extent that heat generated by the flash light emitting means generated by the flash light does not adversely affect the flash light emitting means and its peripheral members. The strobe device according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the time is a sufficient time. 35. When the integrated value of said integrating means becomes equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value, the time interval between the previous strobe emission measured by said time measuring means and the current strobe emission scheduled is set to the predetermined value. The strobe device according to any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein when the time is shorter than the time, a warning is displayed on the display means. 36. The display according to claim 33, wherein the warning display on the display means is a display indicating that the strobe is being charged.
The strobe device according to item 1. 37. A first mode in which a release operation is prohibited and a warning is displayed on the display means, a second mode in which a warning display is performed on the display means but the release operation is permitted,
Setting means for setting a predetermined mode among a plurality of modes including a third mode in which the release operation is not prohibited and a warning is not displayed on the display means; The strobe device according to any one of claims 27 to 36, wherein a process according to the information set by the setting means is performed when the threshold value is exceeded. 38. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between the last strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a previous strobe light emission, and a time interval measured by the time measuring means being a predetermined time. An accumulating means for accumulating a predetermined value each time it is determined to be shorter, and a strobe light emission control means for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. Characteristic strobe device. 39. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined value. An accumulating means for accumulating a predetermined value each time it is determined that the time is shorter than a time; and a strobe light emission control means for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means when the integrated value becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. A strobe device. 40. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined value. Integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined that the time is shorter than a time, and strobe light emission controlling means for prohibiting strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means for a predetermined time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value. A strobe device comprising: 41. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined value. An integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined that the time is shorter than a time; and a strobe light emission control for prohibiting the strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means for a fixed time when the integrated value becomes equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value. Means, and setting means for setting, when the integrated value is equal to or more than the predetermined threshold value, a fixed time for prohibiting the light emission according to a value of the integrated value to a longer time as the integrated value is larger. Characteristic strobe device. 42. A strobe light emitting means, a time measuring means for measuring a time interval between a previous strobe light emission by the strobe light emitting means and a current strobe light emission scheduled, and the time interval measured by the time measuring means is a predetermined time. Integrating means for integrating a predetermined value each time it is determined to be shorter, strobe emission control means for prohibiting strobe emission for a predetermined time when the integrated value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, and Setting means for setting a larger value as the predetermined value as the time interval becomes shorter in response thereto. 43. If the time interval between the previous strobe light emission measured by the time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration by the integration means is performed. 43. The strobe device according to claim 38, wherein a value is initialized. 44. When the time interval between the previous strobe light emission measured by the time measuring means and the current strobe light emission scheduled time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time longer than the predetermined time, the integration by the integration means is performed. 43. The flash device according to claim 38, wherein the value is subtracted by a predetermined value. 45. The apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the value by which the integrated value of said integrating means is subtracted is determined according to a time interval between the previous flash emission measured by said time measuring means and the current flash emission scheduled. 45. The strobe device according to 44. 46. When the integrated value of the integrating means becomes equal to or more than a predetermined threshold value, the time interval between the previous flash emission and the current flash emission scheduled measured by the time measuring means is equal to the predetermined time. The strobe device according to any one of claims 38 to 45, wherein a warning is displayed on the display means when the time is shorter than the time. 47. The warning display on the display means is a display indicating that a flash is being charged.
The strobe device according to item 1. 48. A first mode in which strobe light emission is prohibited and a warning is displayed on the display means, a second mode in which the display means displays a warning but flash light emission is permitted, and a strobe light emission is not prohibited. And a setting unit for setting a predetermined mode among a plurality of modes including a third mode in which the display unit does not perform a warning display, wherein the strobe light emission control unit is configured to set the integrated value to be equal to or more than a threshold value. The strobe device according to any one of claims 38 to 47, wherein a process according to information set by the setting means is performed when the setting is performed. 49. A guide number detecting means for detecting a current strobe guide number, wherein a time interval between a previous strobe light emission and a current strobe light emission scheduled time is compared based on the detected strobe guide number. 49. A method according to claim 38, wherein at least one of a predetermined time, the predetermined value integrated by the integration means, and the fixed time, which is a time during which the strobe light emission is prohibited, is changed. Strobe device. 50. A power supply voltage detecting means for detecting a power supply voltage, wherein the predetermined strobe emission is compared with a time interval of a current strobe light emission and a current strobe emission scheduled time according to a detected power supply voltage state. Time, the predetermined value to be integrated by the integration means, the fixed time, which is the strobe emission prohibition time,
39. The method of claim 38, wherein at least one is changed.
49. The strobe device according to any one of -48. 51. A temperature detecting means for detecting an ambient temperature, wherein the predetermined time to be compared with the time interval of the previous strobe light emission and the current strobe light emission scheduled time is determined according to the detected ambient temperature. Among the predetermined value to be integrated by the integrating means, and the fixed time, which is the prohibition time of the strobe light emission,
39. The method of claim 38, wherein at least one is changed.
49. The strobe device according to any one of -48.