JP2009077305A - Imaging apparatus and imaging control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging device and an imaging control method capable of classifying images at the time of imaging and easily reproducing and appreciating images for each event.
When a power source of an image pickup apparatus is turned on and an operation mode of the image pickup apparatus is set to an image pickup mode, a current time is acquired from a built-in clock (step S90), and a schedule corresponding to the current time is obtained. It is determined whether information is registered (step S92). If schedule information corresponding to the current time is not registered (No in step S92), the root folder of the external memory 102 is set as the recording folder (step S94). On the other hand, when the schedule information corresponding to the current time is registered (Yes in step S92), the folder corresponding to the schedule information is set as the recording folder (step S96).
[Selection] FIG.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus and an imaging control method, and more particularly to an imaging apparatus and an imaging control method suitable for image file classification and management.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 has a schedule function capable of inputting a scheduled time and a schedule and a camera function, and displays a schedule when image data taken at the scheduled time exists. An information device is disclosed in which the image data is retrieved when the mark is marked and the mark is operated.

Patent Document 2 discloses an image processing apparatus that classifies images into virtual folders based on predetermined conditions such as date / time information, location information, or event information attached to an image during or after imaging.
JP 2004-178607 A JP 2007-58792 A

  The technique described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that when the number of images in the memory card becomes enormous, it takes time to search and it is difficult to find a desired image at high speed.

  In the technique described in Patent Document 2, in order to classify images based on event information, it is necessary to add event information to individual images after imaging. However, usually, a plurality of events are often assembled in one day, and there is a problem that the operation becomes troublesome when the number of events and images becomes enormous.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging control method that can classify images at the time of imaging, and that can easily reproduce and appreciate images for each event. And

  In order to solve the above problem, an imaging apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, an image recording unit that records an image captured by the imaging unit, and input of schedule information. Corresponding to the schedule information, a schedule input means for accepting, a recording means for recording the schedule information input by the schedule input means, a folder creation means for creating a folder associated with the schedule information in the image recording means, and the schedule information Determining means for determining whether or not a schedule to be performed is in progress, and recording control means for setting a recording destination folder of an image captured while the schedule is in progress to a folder associated with the schedule information. Features.

  According to the first aspect, since an image captured during the progress of the schedule can be recorded in the recording folder associated with the schedule information, the management of the schedule information and the images is facilitated.

  The imaging apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is the imaging apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the schedule information input means includes schedule information including at least one piece of information among a planned name, a planned date and time, and a planned location. It is characterized by accepting input.

  The imaging apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is the imaging apparatus according to the first or second aspect, further comprising imaging condition input means for inputting imaging conditions when an image is taken by the imaging means while the schedule is in progress. The recording means records the schedule information and the imaging conditions in association with each other.

  According to the third aspect, imaging condition settings suitable for the schedule can be registered in advance.

  The imaging device according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the third aspect, the imaging condition setting means sets at least one condition of an image size, the number of pixels, and an image quality. .

  The imaging apparatus according to the fifth aspect of the present invention relates to the schedule information when the determination unit determines that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress in the third or fourth aspect. It is further characterized by further comprising imaging condition setting means for setting the recorded imaging conditions.

  According to the fifth aspect, since the image can be taken under the setting of the imaging condition preset by the user while the schedule is in progress, it is possible to prevent forgetting the setting of the imaging condition.

  In the imaging device according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect, when the imaging condition setting unit determines that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress by the determination unit, The imaging condition recorded in association with the schedule information is set, and the setting change of the imaging condition is prohibited.

  According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to prevent the imaging condition from being erroneously changed while the schedule is in progress.

  The image pickup apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention further comprises display means for displaying the image recorded in the image recording means together with images in the same folder as the image in the first to sixth aspects. It is characterized by.

  According to the seventh aspect, since the image recorded in the image recording means can be used for browsing by the user on a schedule basis, it is possible to further simplify the browsing management of the image.

  The imaging apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the imaging device according to the seventh aspect, wherein the input for accepting an instruction input for frame advance or frame return of the image displayed on the display means is performed according to the order of the date and time when the image was captured. And when the frame advance instruction is input, the display unit displays an image in a folder in which the latest image is recorded among images older than the image displayed on the display unit. Display control for displaying on the display means an image in a folder in which the oldest image is recorded among images newer than the image displayed on the display means when the frame return instruction is input And a means.

  According to the eighth aspect, since display images can be switched in units of folders, image browsing management can be further simplified.

  The image pickup apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the seventh or eighth aspect, the display control means displays the image in the folder on the display means as a slide show.

  According to the ninth aspect, it is possible to simplify the operation when browsing images on a schedule basis, and to further simplify the browsing management of images.

  An imaging control method according to a tenth aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording an image captured by an imaging unit that captures an image in an image recording unit, a schedule input step of receiving input of schedule information, and the schedule A recording step for recording the schedule information input in the input step, a folder creation step for creating a folder associated with the schedule information in the image recording means, and whether a schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress A determination step of determining, and a recording control step of setting a folder of a recording destination of an image captured while the schedule is in progress as a folder associated with the schedule information.

  In the imaging control method according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the tenth aspect, in the schedule information input step, the schedule information includes at least one piece of information among a planned name, a planned date and time, and a planned location. It is characterized by accepting the input.

  The imaging control method according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the imaging control method according to the tenth or eleventh aspect, wherein an imaging condition input step of inputting an imaging condition when an image is captured by the imaging means while the schedule is in progress. And a step of recording the schedule information and the imaging condition in association with each other.

  An imaging control method according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the above twelfth aspect, in the imaging condition setting step, at least one condition of image size, number of pixels and image quality is set. To do.

  The imaging control method according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the imaging control method according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect, when it is determined in the determination step that a schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress, It is further characterized by further comprising an imaging condition setting step for setting the imaging conditions recorded in association with each other.

  The imaging control method according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the imaging control method according to the twelfth or thirteenth aspect, when the determination step determines that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress, The method further includes a step of setting the imaging conditions recorded in association with each other and prohibiting the setting change of the imaging conditions.

  In the imaging control method according to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the tenth to fifteenth aspects, the display step of displaying the image recorded in the image recording means on the display means together with images in the same folder as the image. Is further provided.

  The imaging control method according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the imaging control method according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein an instruction input for frame advance or frame return of the image displayed on the display means is accepted in accordance with the order of the date and time when the image was captured. When the input step and the frame advance instruction are input, an image in a folder in which the latest image is recorded among images older than the image displayed on the display unit is displayed on the display unit. On the other hand, when the instruction to return the frame is input, the display unit displays an image in the folder in which the oldest image is recorded among images newer than the image displayed on the display unit. And a control step.

  The imaging control method according to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the sixteenth or seventeenth aspect, images in the folder are displayed in a slideshow on the display means.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to record an image captured while a schedule is in progress in a recording folder associated with the schedule information, so that the management of the schedule information and the images is facilitated. Further, according to the present invention, since the image recorded in the image recording means can be provided for the user's browsing on a schedule basis, the browsing management of the image can be further simplified.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of an imaging apparatus and an imaging control method according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[Configuration of imaging device]
FIG. 1 is an external view (a top view, a rear view, a side view, and a front view) showing an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The imaging device 10 is an electronic camera having functions for recording and reproducing still images and moving images. As shown in FIG. 1, a power switch 12 and a release switch 14 are provided on the upper surface of the imaging apparatus 10. On the rear surface of the imaging apparatus 10, a finder 16, an operation mode changeover switch 18, a zoom switch 20, a monitor 22, a multi-screen display button 24, a menu button 26, a display button 28, a multi-function switch 30 and a delete button 32 are provided. Yes. A flash light emitting unit 34, a finder window 36, and a lens 38 are provided on the front surface of the imaging apparatus 10.

  The power switch 12 is an operation means for switching the power of the imaging apparatus 10 on and off.

  The release switch 14 is an operation means for inputting an instruction to start imaging, and is composed of a two-stroke switch having an S1 switch that is turned on when half-pressed and an S2 switch that is turned on when fully pressed. The imaging apparatus 10 performs automatic focus adjustment (AF processing) and automatic exposure control (AE processing) while the release switch 14 is half-pressed (S1 on), and is fully pressed (S2 on) after further pressing halfway. Execute imaging.

  The operation mode changeover switch 18 is an operation unit for switching the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 between an imaging mode for capturing an image and a reproduction mode for reproducing and displaying an image. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the operation mode changeover switch 18 is a slide type switch.

  The zoom switch 20 (wide (W) switch and tele (T) switch) is a switch for setting the zoom position.

  The monitor 22 is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) capable of color display. In addition to the liquid crystal display, other types of display devices such as organic EL (electro-luminescence) can be used as the monitor 22. The monitor 22 displays a live view image (through image) in the imaging mode and is used as an electronic viewfinder for checking the angle of view, and in the reproduction mode, the captured image and an external memory attached to the imaging device 10 are used. The reproduced image read from (102 in FIG. 2) is displayed. Further, selection of various menus and setting of various setting items in each menu are also performed using the display screen of the monitor 22. Further, the monitor 22 displays the number of frames that can be captured (the number of frames that can be captured for a movie), the playback frame number, flash emission on / off, macro mode on / off, recording quality (quality) display, and pixel count display. Etc. are also displayed.

  The multi-screen display button 24 is an operation means for inputting a multi-screen display instruction on the screen of the monitor 22.

  The menu button 26 is an operation means for inputting an instruction to display a menu on the screen of the monitor 22.

  The display button (DISP button) 28 is a button for switching the display on the monitor 22. In the imaging mode, each time the display button 28 is pressed, the presence or absence of icon display or OSD display indicating imaging conditions and the like and the presence or absence of framing guide display are switched. In the playback mode, each time the display button 28 is pressed, the presence or absence of icon display or OSD display indicating imaging conditions and the like is switched.

  The multifunction switch 30 includes a cross key 30A and an enter button 30B. The cross key 30A is a multi-function operation unit capable of inputting instructions in four directions, up, down, left, and right, and selects a menu item from a menu screen displayed on the monitor 22 when the menu button 26 is pressed, It functions as an operation button for instructing selection of various setting items. Selection of a menu item or the like by the cross key 30A is confirmed by pressing the center determination button 30B. The button above the cross key 30A functions as a button for switching on / off of flash emission in the imaging mode. The button below the cross key 30A functions as a button for switching on / off of the macro function (close-up function) in the imaging mode. The left and right buttons of the cross key 30A function as a one-frame backward button and a one-frame forward button, respectively, in the playback mode.

  The delete button 32 is an operation means for inputting an instruction to delete an image being reproduced and displayed on the monitor 22 in the reproduction mode.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the imaging apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. A central processing unit (CPU) 50 is connected to each part of the image pickup apparatus 10 via a bus 52, and controls the operation of the entire image pickup apparatus 10 according to a predetermined program, as well as automatic exposure (AE) calculation and automatic focus adjustment. Various calculations such as (AF) calculation and white balance (WB) adjustment calculation are executed. The built-in clock 82 measures the date and time. The battery 124 is, for example, a secondary battery, and supplies operating power to each unit of the imaging device 10. The battery remaining amount detection unit 126 detects the remaining amount of the battery 124. The remaining battery level detected by the remaining battery level detection unit 126 is displayed on the monitor 22.

  The operation unit 54 includes the power switch 12, the release switch 14, the operation mode changeover switch 18, the zoom switch 20, the multi-screen display button 24, the menu button 26, the display button 28, the multi-function switch 30 and the delete button 32 shown in FIG. And a signal corresponding to the operation from the user is input to the CPU 50. The CPU 50 controls each circuit of the imaging device 10 based on an input signal from the operation unit 54, for example, lens driving control, imaging operation control, image processing control, image recording control, reproduction control, and display control of the monitor 22. Etc.

  The speaker 112 is a device for outputting sound, and reproduces and outputs various operation sounds of the imaging device 10 and sound signals recorded in the external memory 102. The microphone 114 is a device for inputting sound, and is used, for example, for recording sound and voice memos during moving image capturing. The audio input / output circuit 110 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal output to the speaker 112 and the audio signal input from the microphone 114 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50.

  The imaging apparatus 10 includes a communication interface unit (communication I / F) 104 as communication means for connecting to a personal computer or other external devices. When the imaging apparatus 10 is connected to the external device 106 via the communication I / F 104, data can be transmitted to and received from the external device 106. As a communication method between the imaging apparatus 10 and the external device 106, for example, USB, IEEE1394, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or the like can be adopted.

  Next, the imaging function of the imaging device 10 will be described. When the operation mode of the image capturing apparatus 10 is switched to the image capturing mode by the mode switch 18, an image can be captured.

  The optical system 56 (including the lens 38 of FIG. 1) includes a zoom lens, a focus lens, and a diaphragm. When the CPU 50 detects that the zoom switch 20 is operated by the user, the CPU 50 calculates the zooming direction (tele side or wide side) and the zoom lens movement target position (zoom target position). Then, the CPU 50 outputs a control signal to the zoom motor 72 to drive the zoom cam 70 and move the zoom lens to the zoom target position. The position information of the zoom lens is detected by a sensor (not shown), encoded by the zoom encoder 76, and transmitted to the CPU 50. The CPU 50 outputs a control signal to the AF motor driver 80 to drive the AF motor and move the focus lens. The position information of the focus lens is detected by a sensor (not shown), encoded by the focus encoder 74, and transmitted to the CPU 50. The CPU 18 outputs a control signal to the iris motor driver 78 to drive the iris motor to control the aperture value.

  The light that has passed through the optical system 56 is imaged on a light receiving surface of an image sensor 58 (hereinafter referred to as CCD 58). In the present embodiment, the CCD is used as the image sensor, but another type of image sensor (for example, CMOS) may be used.

  A large number of light receiving elements (photodiodes) are two-dimensionally arranged on the light receiving surface of the CCD 58, and a subject image formed on the light receiving surface of the CCD 58 has a signal charge corresponding to the amount of incident light by each light receiving element. Is converted to Each light receiving element is provided with color filters of three primary colors (R, G, B). The signal charges accumulated in each light receiving element are sequentially read out as analog image signals (R, G, B signals) corresponding to the signal charges in accordance with instructions from the CPU 50.

  The analog image signal read from the CCD 58 is subjected to sampling hold (correlated double sampling processing) by the CDS analog decoder 60 to cancel the noise component, and then the white balance level is adjusted by the white balance amplifier 62. The CPU 50 calculates the average integrated value for each color of the analog image signal acquired from each divided area of the CCD 58, and determines the light source type of the imaging environment based on the average integrated value for each color. Then, the CPU 50 controls the gain in the white balance amplifier 62 by controlling the electronic volume (EVR) 84 according to the light source type.

  The analog image signal output from the white balance amplifier 62 is input to the gamma correction processing unit 64 and subjected to gamma correction, and then subjected to dot sequentialization by the dot sequential circuit 66 (the color associated with the color filter array of the single CCD). Processing for interpolating the spatial deviation of the signals and converting the color signals into simultaneous equations). The dot sequential analog image signal output from the dot sequential circuit 66 is converted into a digital image signal by the A / D converter 68 and stored in the main memory 88 via the memory controller 86.

  The digital image signal stored in the main memory 88 is converted into a luminance signal (Y signal) and a color difference signal (Cr signal and Cb signal) by the YC signal creation unit 94.

  When the live view image (through image) is output to the monitor 22, the analog image signal output from the CCD 58 is subjected to predetermined processing in the CDS analog decoder 60, the white balance amplifier 62, and the gamma correction processing unit 64, and the YC signal is output. After being converted into a luminance signal and a color difference signal by the creation unit 94, it is input to the monitor driver (LCD driver) 108. The LCD driver 108 controls the monitor 22 in accordance with a control signal from the CPU 50, converts the luminance signal and color difference signal input from the YC signal creation unit 94 into a video signal for LCD output, and outputs the video signal to the monitor 22.

  When the release switch 14 is half-pressed (S1 on), the AE process and the AF process are started. In the AE process, the CPU 50 calculates an exposure value (imaging EV value) from the subject luminance detected by the division photometry, and determines an aperture value and a shutter speed according to the exposure value and a predetermined program diagram. Further, the CPU 50 sets flash emission on / off in the auto mode. In the AF process, for example, the CPU 50 moves the focus lens so that the high-frequency component of the G signal of the image signal is maximized.

  When the release switch 14 is pressed halfway (S1 on), the AE process and the AF process are performed, and then the release switch 14 is fully pressed (S2 on), the recording imaging operation starts. The image signal captured when S2 is turned on is converted into a luminance signal and a color difference signal by the YC signal generation unit 94. The luminance signal and the color difference signal are compressed by the compression / decompression processing unit 90 and then recorded in the external memory 102. For example, a still image is recorded as a JPEG format image file. For the moving image, the luminance signal and the color difference signal created by the YC signal creation unit 94 and the audio signal recorded by the microphone 114 are synchronously input to the MPEG encoder & decoder 92 and MPEG compression encoded. It is recorded as an MPEG format image file.

  The external memory 102 is a recording medium that can be attached to and detached from the imaging apparatus 10. For example, a semiconductor memory card represented by xD picture card (registered trademark) and smart media (registered trademark), a portable small hard disk, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. Various media such as a magneto-optical disk can be used. An external memory interface unit (external memory I / F) 100 performs predetermined signal conversion on an image signal transmitted / received to / from the external memory 102.

  When the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 is switched to the playback mode by the mode switch 18, the compressed data of the image file recorded in the external memory 102 is read out. When this image file is a still image file, the compressed data read from the external memory 102 is decompressed by the compression / decompression processing unit 90 into an uncompressed YC signal, and then output to the monitor 22 and displayed. If the image file is a moving image file, the compressed data read from the external memory 102 is decoded by the MPEG encoder & decoder 92 and then output to the monitor 22 for display.

  When the right or left button of the four-way controller 30A is operated during image playback (including playback of the first frame of a moving image), the image file to be played back is switched (forward frame forward / reverse frame forward). The image file at the position where the frame is advanced is read from the external memory 102 and reproduced and displayed on the monitor 22.

  When an image signal obtained by imaging with the imaging device 10 is output as an image to an external display device, the analog image signal output from the CCD 58 is output from the CDS analog decoder 60, the white balance amplifier 62, and the gamma correction processing unit 64 to a predetermined value. After the processing, the signal is input to the YC signal creation unit 94. The luminance signal and the color difference signal generated by the YC signal generation unit 94 are converted by the color conversion unit 96 so that the ratio of the luminance signal and the color difference signal is changed from 4: 4: 4 to 4: 2: 2, and then NTSC. It is converted into an NTSC video signal by the encoder 98 and output to an external display device. When the image file recorded in the external memory 102 is output as a video to an external display device, the image file read from the external memory 102 is uncompressed by the compression / decompression processing unit 90 or the MPEG encoder & decoder 92. And the color conversion unit 96 converts the ratio of the luminance signal (Y signal) and the color difference signal (Cr signal and Cb signal) from 4: 4: 4 to 4: 2: 2. The NTSC encoder 98 converts the signal into an NTSC video signal and outputs it to an external display device.

  The compression / decompression processing unit 90, the MPEG encoder & decoder 92, the YC signal creation unit 94, the color conversion unit 96, and the NTSC encoder 98 may be configured by dedicated circuits, respectively. Alternatively, a signal processing circuit such as a DSP may be provided to realize the functions of the above-described units. Further, the functions of the above units may be realized by software processing in the CPU 50.

[Schedule Management Function of Imaging Device 10]
Next, the schedule management function in the imaging device 10 will be described. The imaging apparatus 10 includes a schedule input unit 116, a spontaneous discharge information database (spontaneous discharge information DB) 120, and a remaining amount-capable image number conversion table 122.

  The schedule input unit 116 is an operation unit that receives an input operation of schedule information from the user. The schedule information input from the schedule input unit 116 is stored in the external memory 102. Here, the schedule information is, for example, planned contents, location, and scheduled date and time. The schedule information may be obtained from an external device having a schedule management function. Further, the schedule information may be stored not in the external memory 102 but in the built-in memory of the imaging device 10.

  The natural discharge information DB 120 stores storage characteristic data of the battery 124. Here, the storage characteristic data of the battery 124 is data indicating a temporal change in the remaining amount of the battery 124 due to natural discharge.

  The remaining amount-capable number of images conversion table 122 stores data indicating the relationship between the remaining amount of the battery 124 and the number of images that can be captured until the imaging apparatus 10 can capture an image due to a shortage of the remaining amount of the battery 124. ing. The CPU 50 detects the remaining battery level of the battery 124 by using the remaining battery level detection unit 126, and calculates the number of images that can be captured with reference to the remaining amount-capable number of images conversion table 122.

  Further, when the CPU 50 detects that schedule information is recorded in the external memory 102, the CPU 50 acquires the scheduled date and time information. Then, the CPU 50 detects the remaining battery level of the battery 124 by the remaining battery level detection unit 126, and calculates (estimates) the remaining battery level at the scheduled date and time in consideration of the spontaneous discharge up to the spontaneous discharge information DB 120. Further, the CPU 50 refers to the remaining amount-capable number of images conversion table 122 and calculates the number of images that can be captured from the remaining battery level at the scheduled date and time.

  FIG. 3 shows a schedule input screen for inputting schedule information, and FIG. 4 shows a schedule information display screen. When an operation from the schedule input unit 116 is detected, a schedule input screen shown in FIG. 3 is displayed on the monitor 22. In the schedule input screen, according to the input from the schedule input unit 116, the scheduled date and time (scheduled start and end times, travel time required to travel to the planned location), planned content (scheduled name), and location information The schedule information including is input. The movement start time and movement end time are calculated by the CPU 50 from the scheduled start time and end time, and the movement time.

  In addition, on the schedule input screen, classification (for example, information indicating schedule attributes such as in-house and out-of-office) and additional functions (setting of alarm ringing date and time, setting of secrets that require user authentication for browsing schedule information) ) Can be set.

  Furthermore, on the schedule input screen, the imaging conditions including the number of imaging pixels (for example, 3000 × 2000 pixels) and the set image quality (information indicating the compression rate of the image file, for example, FINE or NORMAL) at the scheduled date and time. Can be set. The setting content of the imaging condition is stored in the external memory 102 in association with the schedule information or as part of the schedule information. When the scheduled date and time comes, the CPU 50 sets the imaging condition of the imaging device 10 to the imaging condition set on the schedule input screen and locks it. When schedule information is input to the schedule input screen, and the OK button in FIG. 3 is selected by the cross key 30A and the pressing of the enter button 30B is detected, the schedule information is stored in the external memory 102 and registered. The schedule information stored in the external memory 102 can be viewed on a schedule browsing screen as shown in FIG. In the schedule browsing screen of FIG. 4, by selecting date and schedule information by the multifunction switch 30, browsing and editing of schedule information and browsing of images associated with the schedule information can be performed.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing processing of the imaging apparatus 10 at the time of registration of schedule information. First, the schedule name, date and place are input by the schedule input unit 116 (steps S10 to S14). When the schedule information is registered, a folder corresponding to the schedule information is created (step S16). As the name of the folder created in step S16, a combination of at least one of the input contents (for example, the name of the schedule, date and time, or place) of each item of the schedule information is set. The types and combinations of schedule information items used when creating a folder can be set in advance. For example, if the name of the plan is “athletic day”, the date and time is “October 10, 2010 9: 00-15: 00”, and the place is “AA City BB Elementary School”, as shown in FIG. A folder with the name “2010_10_10 Sports Association AA City BB Elementary School” is created. For example, if the planned name is “Nagasaki coverage”, the scheduled date and time is “July 1, 2012 8: 00-17: 00”, and the location is “Gunkanjima”, the folder name is “Nagasaki coverage 2012_7_1 If the planned name is “Company D Process Audit”, the scheduled date and time is “April 15, 2011 from 9:00 to 15:00”, and the location is “Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture” The folder name is set to “2011_4_15D company process audit”.

  Next, the schedule information registered in step S16 is associated with the created folder (step S18), and the schedule information and the schedule information and the folder are recorded in the external memory 102 (steps S20 and S22).

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the imaging apparatus 10 during the alarm set ring time. When the set alarm ringing time is reached (Yes in step S30), the imaging apparatus 10 is automatically turned on, and the scheduled name, date and location are displayed on the monitor 22 (steps S32 to S36). Then, an alarm sound (low volume) is output from the speaker 112 (step S38).

  Next, the remaining battery level is detected by the remaining battery level detection unit 126 (step S40). Based on the storage characteristic data of the battery 124 in the spontaneous discharge information DB 120, the remaining battery level at the scheduled date and time is calculated (estimated) (step S42). Based on the data indicating the relationship between the remaining battery level and the number of images that can be captured in the remaining amount-capable number conversion table 122, the number of images that can be captured at the scheduled date and time is calculated (step S44) and displayed on the monitor 22 (step S44). Step S46).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the battery 124 is currently fully charged (step S48). If the battery 124 is not fully charged (No in step S48), a warning message (for example, “the battery level is low. Therefore, please charge the battery. ”) Is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S50), and an alarm sound (high volume) is output from the speaker 112 (step S52).

  In the present embodiment, the processing of FIG. 7 is performed when the imaging apparatus 10 is powered on or off, so that a warning is issued so that the remaining battery level necessary for imaging is maintained at the scheduled date and time. Can do. Note that a warning message or an alarm sound may be output when the estimated value of the remaining battery level or the estimated value of the number of images that can be captured is less than or equal to a predetermined value.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the imaging apparatus 10 at the movement start time. When the movement start time is reached (Yes in step S60), the power supply of the imaging device 10 is automatically turned on, and a warning display is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S62). Then, a message indicating that the scheduled content and the movement start time have come is displayed (steps S64 and S66).

  FIG. 9 shows the display on the monitor 22 at the movement start time. As shown in FIG. 9, when the movement start time is reached, a warning display icon I12, a scheduled content, a scheduled content, and a message M14 indicating that the movement start time has been reached are displayed on the left side of the middle stage of the monitor 22. In addition, the code | symbol I10 of FIG. 9 is an icon which shows a battery remaining charge, the code | symbol M10 has set the imaging condition, and the code | symbol M12 has shown the present | current time.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the imaging apparatus 10 when the scheduled date and time comes. FIG. 11 shows the display on the monitor 22 at the scheduled date and time. When the scheduled date and time (start time) is reached (Yes in step S70), the folder associated with the schedule information (that is, the folder in which the schedule information (plan contents, etc.) is set as the folder name) is captured image. Is set to be a recording destination folder (hereinafter referred to as a recording folder), and thereafter, all images taken up to the scheduled end time are set to be recorded in the recording folder (step S72). The recording folder name is displayed on the monitor 22 (the upper left symbol M16 in FIG. 11) (step S74).

  Next, the imaging conditions including the number of pixels and the set image quality are set according to the setting of the imaging conditions stored in association with the schedule information (steps S76 and S78). Then, the setting of the imaging condition is locked, and the setting of the imaging condition cannot be changed unless the lock is manually released (step S80). The setting of the imaging condition is displayed on the monitor 22 (reference numeral M10 'on the upper right in FIG. 11) together with a lock-type icon I14 indicating that the imaging condition is locked.

  When the scheduled end time is reached (Yes in step S82), the root folder (uppermost folder in the external memory 102) of the external memory 102 is set as the recording folder (step S84). Then, the imaging condition setting is unlocked and the imaging condition can be set (step S86).

  Note that the recording folder and imaging condition lock settings are saved even when the imaging apparatus 10 is turned off before the scheduled end time, and reset when the power is turned on after the scheduled end time (in the schedule information). (Return to the state before changing the corresponding imaging condition or to the default state).

[Imaging mode]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the imaging apparatus 10 at the time of capturing an image. When the power of the imaging device 10 is turned on and the operation mode of the imaging device 10 is set to the imaging mode, the current time is acquired from the built-in clock 82 (step S90), and schedule information corresponding to the current time is registered. Is determined (step S92). If schedule information corresponding to the current time is not registered (No in step S92), the root folder of the external memory 102 is set as the recording folder (step S94). On the other hand, when the schedule information corresponding to the current time is registered (Yes in step S92), the folder corresponding to the schedule information is set as the recording folder (step S96).

  Next, when the release switch 14 is pressed (S2 is on) and an imaging instruction is input (Yes in step S98), an image is captured (step S100) and recorded (step S102). Then, the processing from step S90 to step S102 is repeated until the power switch 12 is pressed and the power of the imaging apparatus 10 is turned off (Yes in step S104).

  According to the present embodiment, since an image captured at the scheduled date and time can be recorded in the recording folder associated with the schedule information, the management of the schedule information and the images is facilitated. Also, by setting the recording folder name according to the schedule information, image management becomes easy even when the image is transferred to the external device 106. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, since an image captured at the scheduled date and time can be captured under the setting of the imaging condition set in advance by the user, forgetting to set the imaging condition can be prevented.

  In this embodiment, the recording destination folder is changed according to the schedule information in progress at the time of shooting. For example, the image file name may be set according to the schedule information, or the schedule The association between information and an image may be stored as metadata.

[Playback mode]
Next, processing for reproducing an image in the imaging apparatus 10 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating processing of the imaging apparatus 10 during image reproduction. When the operation mode of the imaging device 10 is set to the playback mode, it is determined whether or not an image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (step S110). If no image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (No in step S110), a message indicating that there is no image (for example, “no image”) is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S112).

  On the other hand, if an image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (Yes in step S110), it is determined in which folder the latest image (the last image captured or updated) is located (step S114). ). If the latest image is in a folder other than the root folder (No in step S114), images in the folder in which the latest image is recorded (hereinafter referred to as a selected folder) are displayed on the monitor 22 as a slideshow ( Step S116). In step S116, for example, a slide show is displayed in order from the newest image starting from the latest image in the selected folder. On the other hand, if the latest image is in the root folder (Yes in step S114), the latest image is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S118).

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing in detail the processing of the imaging apparatus 10 during image reproduction. When the operation mode of the imaging device 10 is set to the playback mode, it is determined whether or not an image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (step S120). If no image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (No in step S120), a message indicating that there is no image (for example, “no image”) is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S122).

  On the other hand, if an image file is recorded in the external memory 102 (Yes in step S120), it is determined in which folder the latest image (the last image captured or updated) is located (step S124). ). When the latest image is in a folder other than the root folder (No in step S124), images in the folder in which the latest image is recorded (hereinafter referred to as a selected folder) are displayed on the monitor 22 as a slideshow ( Step S126). In step S126, for example, a slide show is displayed in order from the newest image starting from the latest image in the selected folder.

  When the left button of the cross key 30A is detected during the slideshow display and a “return” instruction is input (Yes in step S128), the latest image among the images older than the images in the selected folder is displayed. Is determined in which folder (step S130). If the latest image among the images in the selected folder is in a folder other than the root folder (No in step S130), the images in the folder are displayed in a slide show on the monitor 22 (step S132). ). On the other hand, when the latest image in the root folder is older than the images in the selected folder (Yes in step S130), the image is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S140).

  On the other hand, when the latest image is in the root folder (Yes in step S124), the latest image is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S132). When the left button of the cross key 30A is detected while an image is displayed and a “return” instruction is input (Yes in step S136), the latest image among the images older than the displayed image is displayed. It is determined which folder is located (step S138). When the newest image in the root folder is older than the image being displayed (Yes in step S138), the image is displayed on the monitor 22 (step S140). On the other hand, when the latest image among the images being displayed is in a folder other than the root folder (No in step S138), the latest image among the images older than the image being displayed is recorded. The images in the folder are displayed as a slide show on the monitor 22 (step S126).

  FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically illustrating the operation of the imaging apparatus 10 in the playback mode. When the operation mode of the imaging apparatus 10 is set to the playback mode, the images in the folder F10 including the latest image P10 are repeatedly displayed in the order of images P10, P12, P14, P10, P12,. ) Note that a title screen T10 for displaying the folder name may be displayed before and after the image P10.

  Next, when a “return” instruction is input, the latest image P20 among the images older than the images in the folder F10 is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the image P20 is an image in the root folder.

  Next, when the “return” instruction is input, the images in the folder F30 including the latest image P30 among the images older than the image P20 are the images P30, title screen T30, images P32, P34, and image P30 in order from the newest. The title screen T30, the image P32,... Are repeatedly displayed (slideshow display).

  Next, when a “return” instruction is input, the latest image P40 among the images older than the images in the folder P30 is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the image P40 is an image in the root folder.

  Next, when a “return” instruction is input, the images in the folder F50 including the latest image P50 among the images older than the image P40 are the image P50, the title screen T50, the images P52, P54, and the image P50. The title screen T50, the image P52,... Are repeatedly displayed (slideshow display).

  Next, when a “return” instruction is input, the latest image P60 among the images older than the images in the folder P50 is displayed. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the image P60 is an image in the root folder.

  On the other hand, when pressing of the right button of the cross key 30A is detected and a “forward” instruction is input, the oldest image or the image that is newer than the currently displayed image or the image in the folder is displayed. The images in the containing folder are displayed.

  FIG. 16 shows a multi-screen display. When the multi-screen display button 24 is pressed, the multi-screen display shown in FIG. 16 is entered. In the multi-screen display, folders and images directly under the root folder are displayed as a list. In FIG. 16, the latest folder F10 is displayed on the upper left, and the image on the right is older. The display area of each folder (F10, F30, F60) is substantially the same size as the display area of the image file (P20, P40, P60), and the images in each folder are displayed in a reduced size, for example, three each with the folder name ( Thumbnails).

  According to the present embodiment, an operation of browsing an image recorded in the external memory 102 in a schedule unit is facilitated.

  Note that the imaging apparatus and the imaging control method according to the present invention apply, for example, a program that executes the above processing to an apparatus (for example, a personal computer, an electronic notebook, a PDA, or a mobile phone) that has a camera function and a display function. Can also be realized.

FIG. 1 is an external view (a top view, a rear view, a side view, and a front view) illustrating an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Schedule input screen for entering schedule information Schedule information display screen The flowchart which shows the process of the imaging device 10 at the time of registration of schedule information The figure which shows the folder tree structure in the external memory 102 The flowchart which shows the process of the imaging device 10 in the alarm setting ringing time The flowchart which shows the process of the imaging device 10 in a movement start time. Display of the monitor 22 at the movement start time The flowchart which shows the processing of the imaging device 10 when the scheduled date and time comes Display of the monitor 22 at the scheduled date and time The flowchart which shows the process of the imaging device 10 at the time of imaging of an image A flowchart showing processing of the imaging apparatus 10 at the time of image reproduction A flowchart showing in detail the processing of the imaging apparatus 10 during reproduction of an image The figure which shows typically operation | movement of the imaging device 10 at the time of reproduction | regeneration mode Multi-screen display

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Imaging device, 12 ... Power switch, 14 ... Release switch, 16 ... Finder, 18 ... Operation mode changeover switch, 20 ... Zoom switch, 22 ... Monitor, 24 ... Multi-screen display button, 26 ... Menu button, 28 ... Display Button 30, Multi-function switch 32, Delete button 34, Flash light emitting unit 36, Finder window, 38 Lens, 50, CPU, 52 Bus, 54 Operation unit, 56 Optical system, 58 Image sensor (CCD), 60 ... CDS analog decoder, 62 ... white balance amplifier, 64 ... gamma correction processing unit, 66 ... dot sequential circuit, 68 ... A / D converter, 70 ... zoom cam, 72 ... zoom motor, 74 ... focus Encoder 76 ... Zoom encoder 78 ... Iris motor driver 80 ... AF motored Eva, 82 ... Built-in clock, 84 ... Electronic volume (EVR), 86 ... Memory controller, 88 ... Main memory, 90 ... Compression / decompression processor, 92 ... MPEG encoder / decoder, 94 ... YC signal generator, 96 ... Color conversion , 98 ... NTSC encoder, 100 ... external memory interface unit (external memory I / F), 102 ... external memory, 104 ... communication interface unit (communication I / F), 106 ... external device, 108 ... monitor driver, 110 ... Audio input / output circuit, 112 ... speaker, 114 ... microphone, 116 ... schedule input unit, 120 ... spontaneous discharge information database (spontaneous discharge information DB), 122 ... voltage-capable number conversion table, 124 ... battery, 126 ... remaining battery Quantity detector

Claims (18)

An imaging means for capturing an image;
Image recording means for recording an image captured by the imaging means;
Schedule input means for receiving input of schedule information;
Recording means for recording schedule information input by the schedule input means;
Folder creation means for creating a folder associated with the schedule information in the image recording means;
Determining means for determining whether a schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress;
Recording control means for setting a folder of a recording destination of an image captured while the schedule is in progress to a folder associated with the schedule information;
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the schedule information input unit receives an input of schedule information including at least one information among a schedule name, a scheduled date and time, and a planned location. An imaging condition input means for inputting an imaging condition when an image is captured by the imaging means while the schedule is in progress;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit records the schedule information and the imaging condition in association with each other.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the imaging condition setting unit sets at least one of an image size, a number of pixels, and an image quality.   When the determination unit determines that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress, the image forming apparatus further includes an imaging condition setting unit configured to set an imaging condition recorded in association with the schedule information. The imaging device according to claim 3 or 4.   The imaging condition setting unit sets an imaging condition recorded in association with the schedule information when the determination unit determines that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress, and 6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a change in setting of conditions is prohibited.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying an image recorded in the image recording means together with an image in the same folder as the image. An input means for receiving an instruction input for frame advance or frame return of the image to be displayed on the display means according to the order of the date and time when the images were captured;
When the frame advance instruction is input, an image in a folder in which the latest image is recorded among images older than the image displayed on the display unit is displayed on the display unit. Display control means for displaying on the display means an image in a folder in which the oldest image is recorded among images newer than the image displayed on the display means when a return instruction is input;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising:   9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the display control unit displays an image in the folder on the display unit as a slide show. An image recording step of recording an image captured by an imaging unit that captures an image in an image recording unit;
A schedule input process for receiving input of schedule information;
A recording step of recording the schedule information input in the schedule input step;
A folder creation step of creating a folder associated with the schedule information in the image recording means;
A determination step of determining whether a schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress;
A recording control step of setting a folder of a recording destination of an image captured while the schedule is in progress to a folder associated with the schedule information;
An imaging control method comprising:   11. The imaging control method according to claim 10, wherein in the schedule information input step, an input of schedule information including at least one information among a schedule name, a scheduled date and time, and a planned location is received. An imaging condition input step for inputting imaging conditions when an image is captured by the imaging means during the progress of the schedule;
Recording the schedule information and the imaging condition in association with each other;
The imaging control method according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising:   13. The imaging control method according to claim 12, wherein, in the imaging condition setting step, at least one condition among an image size, a pixel number, and an image quality is set.   When it is determined that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress in the determination step, the image forming apparatus further includes an imaging condition setting step for setting an imaging condition recorded in association with the schedule information. The imaging control method according to claim 12 or 13.   When it is determined in the determination step that the schedule corresponding to the schedule information is in progress, the imaging condition recorded in association with the schedule information is set and the setting change of the imaging condition is prohibited. The imaging control method according to claim 12, further comprising a step.   The imaging control method according to any one of claims 10 to 15, further comprising a display step of displaying an image recorded in the image recording unit together with an image in the same folder as the image on a display unit. . An input step of receiving an instruction input for frame advance or frame return of the image to be displayed on the display unit according to the order of the date and time when the image was captured;
When the frame advance instruction is input, an image in a folder in which the latest image is recorded among images older than the image displayed on the display unit is displayed on the display unit. A display control step of displaying on the display means an image in a folder in which the oldest image is recorded among images newer than the image displayed on the display means when a return instruction is input;
The imaging control method according to claim 16, further comprising:   18. The imaging control method according to claim 16, wherein an image in the folder is displayed as a slide show on the display unit.

Images