JP2014007691A - Imaging device, image transmission method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently transmit image data in consideration of power consumption.SOLUTION: An imaging device 1 comprises: a first determination unit 108b which determines whether image data is recorded in a recording medium M in association with transmission request information, while a power supply unit 111 does not supply power to an imaging unit 103; a second start control unit 108c which, when it is determined that the image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, controls the power supply unit to supply power to a radio processing unit 107 and also controls the radio processing unit to start searching for an external apparatus that is a transmission destination of the image data; and a transmission control unit 108e which, when it is determined that the external apparatus as the transmission destination is found, acquires the image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording medium, and controls the radio processing unit to transmit the image data to the external apparatus.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging apparatus, an image transmission method, and a program.

  Conventionally, a digital camera having a wireless communication function and transmitting captured image data to an external server is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-23566

  However, in the case of the above-mentioned patent document 1, when transmitting image data, the user needs to perform a predetermined operation, and the work related to the transmission process is complicated. In addition, when the image data is automatically transmitted at a predetermined timing, it is necessary to constantly supply power to at least the wireless communication unit, and there is a problem that the amount of power consumed increases.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device, an image transmission method, and a program that can efficiently transmit image data in consideration of power consumption.

In order to solve the above problems, an imaging apparatus according to the present invention provides:
Recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other, power supply means for supplying power, and predetermined operation of the operation means by the user Based on the first start control means for starting the power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means, and the transmission request to the recording means in a state in which no power is supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means A first determination unit that determines whether image data is recorded in association with information, and a case in which the first determination unit determines that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information. , Start power supply from the power supply means to the wireless communication means and search for an external device to which the image data is transmitted by the wireless communication means Second start control means for determining, second determination means for determining whether or not the external device as the transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless communication means, and the external device as the transmission destination by the second determination means A transmission control unit that acquires image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording unit and transmits the image data to the external device by the wireless communication unit. It is characterized by having prepared.

The image transmission method according to the present invention includes:
A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply An image transmission method using an imaging apparatus including a power supply unit that supplies power to the imaging unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by a user; and A process for determining whether or not image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information in the recording means in a state where no power is supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means; and corresponding to the transmission request information In addition, when it is determined that image data is recorded, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the wireless communication means A process for starting a search for an external device that is the transmission destination of the image data, a process for determining whether or not the external device that is the transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless communication unit, and the transmission destination A process of acquiring image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording unit and transmitting the external device to the external device by the wireless communication unit when it is determined that an external device has been found. It is characterized by including.

The program according to the present invention is
A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply A first start control unit configured to start power supply from the power supply unit to the imaging unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by a user. From the first determination means, the first determination means determines whether or not image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information in the recording means in a state where power is not supplied to the imaging means from When it is determined that image data is recorded in association with transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means. A second start control unit that starts searching for an external device that is the transmission destination of the image data by the wireless communication unit, and determines whether or not the external device that is the transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless communication unit Second determination means, and when the second determination means determines that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, obtains image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording means, It is characterized by functioning as transmission control means for transmitting the external device by the wireless communication means.

  According to the present invention, image data can be efficiently transmitted in consideration of power consumption.

1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an imaging system according to a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the imaging device which comprises the imaging system of FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to image transmission processing by the imaging system of FIG. 1. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the imaging device which comprises the imaging system of Embodiment 2 to which this invention is applied. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to image transmission processing by the imaging system of FIG. 4. 6 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the image transmission process of FIG. 5.

  Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[Embodiment 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an imaging system 100 according to the first embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the imaging system 100 according to the first embodiment includes an imaging device 1 (see FIG. 2) and a server 2. The imaging device 1 and the server 2 are connected via an access point AP and a communication network N. Are connected to each other so that they can communicate with each other.

First, the server 2 will be described.
For example, the server 2 constitutes an external recording device registered in advance by a user for recording image data. That is, the server 2 is composed of, for example, a content server that can publish image data uploaded via the communication network N, and records the image data uploaded to the server 2.
Specifically, for example, the server 2 is not illustrated, but a central control unit that controls each unit of the server 2 main body and a communication processing unit for information communication with an external device (for example, the imaging device 1 or the like). And an image recording unit for recording image data transmitted from an external device.

Next, the imaging device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the imaging apparatus 1 included in the imaging system 100 according to the first embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the imaging apparatus 1 includes a central control unit 101, a memory 102, an imaging unit 103, an image data processing unit 104, a recording medium control unit 105, an operation input unit 106, and a wireless processing unit. 107, an operation control unit 108, a display unit 109, a time measuring unit 110, and a power supply unit 111.
In addition, the central control unit 101, the memory 102, the imaging unit 103, the image data processing unit 104, the recording medium control unit 105, the wireless processing unit 107, the operation control unit 108, the display unit 109, the timing unit 110, and the power supply unit 111 are connected to the bus. Connected via line 112.

  The central control unit 101 controls each unit of the imaging device 1. Specifically, although not shown, the central control unit 101 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a ROM (Read Only Memory), and includes various processing programs for the imaging apparatus 1 (illustrated). Various control operations are performed according to (omitted).

  The memory 102 is constituted by, for example, a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like, and temporarily stores data processed by each unit of the imaging apparatus 1 in addition to the central control unit 101.

  The imaging unit 103 constitutes an imaging unit that images a subject. Specifically, the imaging unit 103 includes a lens unit 103a, an electronic imaging unit 103b, and an imaging control unit 103c.

The lens unit 103a includes a plurality of lenses such as a zoom lens and a focus lens, for example.
The electronic imaging unit 103b is composed of, for example, an image sensor such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS), and converts an optical image that has passed through various lenses of the lens unit 103a into a two-dimensional image signal. To do.
Although illustration is omitted, the imaging unit 103 may include an aperture that adjusts the amount of light passing through the lens unit 103a.

  The imaging control unit 103 c controls subject imaging by the imaging unit 103. That is, the imaging control unit 103c includes a timing generator, a driver, and the like, although not illustrated. The imaging control unit 103c scans and drives the electronic imaging unit 103b with a timing generator and a driver, and converts the optical image formed by the lens unit 103a into a two-dimensional image signal with the electronic imaging unit 103b at predetermined intervals. The frame image is read out from the imaging area of the electronic imaging unit 103b for each screen and output to the image data processing unit 104.

The image data processing unit 104 generates image data of the subject. Specifically, the image data processing unit 104 appropriately adjusts the gain for each color component of RGB with respect to the analog value signal of the frame image transferred from the electronic imaging unit 103b, and then uses a sample hold circuit (not shown). Sample and hold, convert to digital data by an A / D converter (not shown), perform color process processing including pixel interpolation processing and γ correction processing by a color process circuit (not shown), and then a digital luminance signal Y and color difference signals Cb and Cr (YUV data) are generated.
Further, the image data processing unit 104 compresses the YUV data of the subject according to a predetermined encoding method (for example, JPEG format, motion JPEG format, MPEG format, etc.) and outputs the compressed data to the recording medium control unit 105. In addition, the image data processing unit 104 reproduces and displays an image by using a predetermined encoding corresponding to image data of a still image or a moving image related to a display target read from the recording medium M by the recording medium control unit 105. The data is decoded according to the method and output to the display control unit 109b. At this time, the image data processing unit 104 reduces the read image data to a predetermined size (for example, VGA or QVGA size) based on the display resolution of the display panel 109a, for example, and outputs it to the display control unit 109b. You may do it.

The recording medium control unit 105 is configured so that the recording medium M is detachable, and controls reading of data from the loaded recording medium M and writing of data to the recording medium M.
That is, the recording medium control unit 105 stores the image data for recording encoded in a predetermined compression format (for example, JPEG format) by the encoding unit (not shown) of the image data processing unit 104 on the recording medium M. In the recording area. Further, the recording medium control unit 105 reads out image data to be processed in an image transmission process (described later) from the recording medium M and outputs the image data to the wireless processing unit 107.

The recording medium M is constituted by, for example, a nonvolatile memory (flash memory). The recording medium (recording means) M records the captured image data in the image recording table T in association with a transmission request flag for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device (for example, the server 2). Yes.
That is, the image recording table T records the image data captured by the imaging unit 103 and generated by the image data processing unit 104 in association with the transmission request flag indicating the presence / absence of a transmission request instruction.
The transmission request flag represents, for example, “1” when the transmission request is made to the server 2 and “0” when the transmission request is not made to the server 2. For example, the transmission request flag “1” is set in association with image data that has not been transmitted to the server 2 yet, and the transmission request flag “0” is associated with image data that has already been transmitted to the server 2. Is set. That is, the transmission request information includes information indicating that the associated image data has not been transmitted to the server 2 yet.
Here, whether or not the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data depends on the date and time when the image data is captured by the image capturing unit 103 and the date and time sequentially counted by the time measuring unit 110 after the image data is captured. Is determined based on the comparison result with. That is, the date and time (previous transmission date and time) measured by the time measuring unit 110 when the wireless processing unit 107 and the server 2 were connected and image data was transmitted last time is stored in a predetermined storage unit (for example, the memory 102 or the like). The recording medium control unit 105 compares the previous transmission date and time with the imaging date and time when the image data was captured by the imaging unit 103, and the imaging date and time of the image data is later than the previous transmission date and time. It is determined whether or not there is. Then, the recording medium control unit 105 automatically sets a transmission request flag “1” for image data whose imaging date / time is after the previous transmission date / time.
As described above, the transmission request information is set based on a comparison result between the imaging date and time when the image data is captured by the imaging unit 103 and the date and time sequentially counted by the timing unit 110 after the image data is captured. It contains information.

  The operation input unit 106 is for performing a predetermined operation of the imaging apparatus 1, and includes, for example, a power button 106a for turning on / off the power of the apparatus main body, a shutter button (not shown) for instructing imaging of a subject, A selection determination button (not shown) related to an instruction to select an imaging mode, a function, etc., a zoom button (not shown) related to a zoom amount adjustment instruction, and the like are provided. Then, the operation input unit 106 outputs a predetermined operation signal to the central control unit 101 in accordance with the operation of each button.

The wireless processing unit 107 performs predetermined wireless communication with the access point AP, and controls communication of information with an external device such as the server 2 connected via the communication network N.
That is, the wireless processing unit 107 constitutes a wireless communication unit that communicates via a predetermined wireless communication line, and includes, for example, a wireless LAN module. Specifically, the wireless processing unit 107 includes a communication antenna 107a and an AP search unit 107b.
The wireless processing unit 107 may be, for example, a configuration built in the recording medium M, or a configuration in which the wireless processing unit 107 is connected to the apparatus main body via a predetermined interface (for example, USB (Universal Serial Bus)). It may be.

The communication antenna 107a transmits / receives a signal to / from an access point (fixed base station) AP existing within a wireless communication possible range via a predetermined wireless communication line such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). Specifically, the communication antenna 107a receives a beacon packet periodically transmitted from an access point AP that performs, for example, Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity; registered trademark) communication.
Here, the beacon packet includes an identification signal for identifying each access point AP (for example, ESS-ID (Extended Service Set Identifier), BSS-ID (Basic Service Set Identifier), MAC (Media Access Control) address, etc.), The received signal strength (for example, RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication)) is included.

The AP search unit 107b searches for an external device that is a transmission destination of image data.
Specifically, the AP search unit 107b searches for an access point AP that can be connected by, for example, a passive scan method or an active scan method. For example, in the case of the passive scan method, the AP search unit 107b can acquire a beacon packet received by the communication antenna 107a and can connect via the wireless processing unit 107 based on an identification signal included in the beacon packet. A specific access point AP is identified. In the case of the active scan method, the AP search unit 107b transmits a probe request via the communication antenna 107a, and specifies an access point AP that has made a probe response to the probe request as a connectable access point AP. .
Then, the AP search unit 107b identifies any one access point AP (for example, an access point having the strongest received signal strength) among a predetermined number of connectable access points AP.
As a result, the wireless processing unit 107 is in a state in which information communication is possible with the server 2 via the specified access point AP and the communication network N.

  The communication network N is a communication network constructed using, for example, a dedicated line or an existing general public line, and various line forms such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and a WAN (Wide Area Network) are applied. Is possible. The communication network N includes, for example, various communication line networks such as a telephone line network, an ISDN line network, a dedicated line, a mobile communication network, a communication satellite line, and a CATV line network, and an Internet service provider that connects them. included.

The operation control unit 108 includes a first start control unit 108a, a first determination unit 108b, a second start control unit 108c, a second determination unit 108d, and a transmission control unit 108e.
Note that each unit of the operation control unit 108 is configured by, for example, a predetermined logic circuit, but the configuration is an example and the present invention is not limited thereto.

The first start control unit 108 a starts power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103.
That is, the first start control unit 108a starts power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user as a first start control unit. Specifically, for example, when a power ON signal output from the CPU of the central control unit 101 is input when the power button 106a of the operation input unit 106 is turned ON by the user, the first start control unit 108a. Outputs to the power supply unit 111 a signal instructing application of a voltage necessary for driving each unit of the imaging unit 103 from the power supply unit 111. As a result, the power supply unit 111 starts supplying power to the imaging unit 103. At substantially the same time, power supply is started on the display panel 109a of the display unit 109, and the live view image captured by the imaging unit 103 is displayed cyclically (sequentially updated).

The first determination unit 108b determines whether image data is recorded on the recording medium M in association with the transmission request information.
That is, as the first determination, the first determination unit 108b associates the transmission request information with the recording medium M in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103 (the display unit 109 associated therewith). It is then determined whether image data is recorded. Specifically, for example, when the power button 106a of the operation input unit 106 is turned off by the user, the power unit 111 stops supplying power to the imaging unit 103 (and the display unit 109). At this time, the first determination unit 108b reads each image data from the image recording table T of the recording medium M, and determines whether or not the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data.
Note that the execution timing of the determination process is not limited as long as power is not supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103 (and the display unit 109), and the power button 106a of the operation input unit 106 is not necessarily turned off by the user. It is not limited to the point in time. For example, the first determination unit 108b may execute the above determination process when a mode in which power consumption of each unit of the apparatus main body is saved (so-called sleep mode, standby mode, etc.) is set.

The second start control unit 108 c starts power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the wireless processing unit 107 and search for an external device that is a transmission destination of image data by the wireless processing unit 107.
That is, the second start control unit 108c, as the second start control unit, performs wireless processing from the power source unit 111 when the first determination unit 108b determines that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information. The power supply to the unit 107 and the search for an external device that is the transmission destination of the image data by the wireless processing unit 107 are started.
Specifically, when the first determination unit 108b determines that the image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” is recorded, the second start control unit 108c drives the wireless processing unit 107. A signal instructing application of a necessary voltage from the power supply unit 111 is output to the power supply unit 111. As a result, the power supply unit 111 starts supplying power to the wireless processing unit 107. In addition, the second start control unit 108c outputs an instruction to search for an external device that is a transmission destination of image data to the AP search unit 107b of the wireless processing unit 107. Accordingly, the AP search unit 107b starts searching for an access point AP that can be connected to perform information communication with the server 2 that is the transmission destination of the image data.

The second determination unit 108d determines whether or not an external device as a transmission destination has been found.
That is, the second determination unit 108d determines whether or not an external device that is a transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless processing unit 107. Specifically, since the wireless processing unit 107 performs information communication with the external server 2 via the access point AP and the communication network N, the second determination unit 108d is executed by the AP search unit 107b of the wireless processing unit 107. It is determined whether or not the server 2 as an external device serving as a transmission destination has been found depending on whether or not a connectable access point AP has been searched.

The transmission control unit 108e causes the wireless processing unit 107 to transmit the image data associated with the transmission request information to the server 2.
That is, the transmission control unit 108e, as the transmission control unit, determines the image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording medium M when the second determination unit 108d determines that an external device that is a transmission destination is found. Is acquired by the wireless processing unit 107 to the external device. Specifically, when it is determined by the second determination unit 108d that a connectable access point AP has been searched, the transmission control unit 108e controls the wireless processing unit 107 to read from the image recording table T of the recording medium M. The image data with the transmission request flag “1” is acquired, and the image data is transmitted to the server 2 as the transmission destination via the access point AP and the communication network N.

The display unit 109 includes a display panel 109a and a display control unit 109b.
The display panel 109a displays an image in the display area. Examples of the display panel 109a include a liquid crystal display panel and an organic EL display panel. However, the display panel 109a is an example and is not limited thereto.

  The display control unit 109b performs control to display a predetermined image on the display screen of the display panel 109a based on image data of a predetermined size read from the recording medium M and decoded by the image data processing unit 104. Specifically, the display control unit 109b includes a VRAM (Video Random Access Memory), a VRAM controller, a digital video encoder, and the like. The digital video encoder then transmits the luminance signal Y and the color difference signals Cb and Cr decoded by the image data processing unit 104 and stored in the VRAM (not shown) from the VRAM via the VRAM controller to a predetermined reproduction frame rate ( For example, at 10 fps), a video signal is generated based on these data and output to the display unit 109.

The timer 110 measures the current time.
That is, the time measuring unit 110 constitutes a time measuring unit that measures the current time, and includes, for example, a timer, a time measuring circuit (not shown), and the like. Specifically, the timekeeping unit 110 measures the current time to acquire time information, specifies a calendar such as a date and a day of the week based on the time information, and outputs the calendar to the memory 102.

The power supply unit 111 supplies power to each unit constituting the apparatus main body.
That is, the power supply unit 111 constitutes power supply means for supplying power, and includes various types of rechargeable batteries (for example, lithium ion batteries, nickel / hydrogen rechargeable batteries, etc.). That is, the power supply unit 111 has a power supply capacity that can be supplied to the maximum limited to a predetermined amount.

Next, image transmission processing by the imaging system 100 of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to image transmission processing by the imaging system 100.

  In the image transmission process described below, the image data by the imaging unit 103 is not later than the date and time (previous transmission date and time) when the wireless processing unit 107 of the imaging device 1 and the server 2 were connected and the image data was transmitted last time. , The transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data recorded in the image recording table T with the imaging date and time after the previous transmission date and time.

As shown in FIG. 3, in the imaging apparatus 1, has the CPU of the central control unit 101 input a power-on instruction (ON instruction) corresponding to an ON operation of the power button 106 a of the operation input unit 106 by the user? It is determined whether or not (step S1).
If it is determined that a power-on instruction (ON instruction) has been input (step S1; YES), the CPU of the central control unit 101 outputs a power-on signal to the first start control unit 108a of the operation control unit 108. When the power ON signal is input, the first start control unit 108a outputs a signal instructing application of a voltage necessary for driving each unit of the apparatus main body such as the imaging unit 103 from the power supply unit 111. Output to. When the signal is input, the power supply unit 111 starts power supply to each unit of the apparatus main body including the display unit 109 (step S2).
Thereafter, when a desired operation is instructed based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, the CPU of the central control unit 101 controls each unit of the apparatus main body to execute the desired operation (step S3). ).
If it is determined in step S1 that a power-on instruction (ON instruction) has not been input (step S1; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 returns the process to step S1 and performs the above determination process. Are repeatedly executed at a predetermined timing (step S1).

Thereafter, the CPU of the central control unit 101 determines whether or not a power-off instruction (OFF instruction) corresponding to an OFF operation of the power button 106a of the operation input unit 106 by the user has been input (step S4).
Here, if it is determined that the power-off instruction (OFF instruction) has not been input (step S4; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 returns the process to step S2, and the power supply unit 111 controls the apparatus main body. The state where power is supplied to each unit is maintained.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that a power-off instruction (OFF instruction) has been input (step S4; YES), after the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103 is stopped, the first determination unit 108b Then, each image data recorded in the image recording table T of the recording medium M is read and acquired (step S5), and it is determined whether there is image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” (step S5). Step S6). Note that the read image data is temporarily stored in the memory 102.
Here, if it is determined that there is image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” (step S6; YES), the second start control unit 108c determines the voltage necessary for driving the wireless processing unit 107. A signal instructing application from the power supply unit 111 is output to the power supply unit 111. When the signal is input, the power supply unit 111 stops supplying power to each unit other than the wireless processing unit 107 and starts supplying power only to the wireless processing unit 107 (step S7).
Subsequently, the second start control unit 108c outputs a search instruction for an external device that is a transmission destination of image data to the AP search unit 107b of the wireless processing unit 107, and the AP search unit 107b receives the search instruction. When input, for example, an access point AP that can be connected by a passive scan method or an active scan method is searched (step S8).

Thereafter, the second determination unit 108d determines whether or not a connectable access point AP has been found by the search by the AP search unit 107b (step S9).
Here, if it is determined that a connectable access point AP has not been found (step S9; NO), the second determination unit 108d returns the process to step S8, and performs the search process and the determination process described above in a predetermined manner. It is repeatedly executed at a timing (for example, every 10 minutes) (step S9).
That is, the search for the connectable access point AP and the determination of whether or not the access point AP is found are repeatedly executed at a predetermined timing (for example, every 10 minutes). There is no need to supply.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S9 that a connectable access point AP has been found (step S9; YES), the transmission control unit 108e controls the wireless processing unit 107 to transmit a transmission request flag “ The image data with “1” is acquired, and the image data is transmitted to the server 2 as the transmission destination via the access point AP and the communication network N (step S10).
In the server 2, when the transmitted image data is received by the communication processing unit, the image recording unit records the image data in a predetermined recording area under the control of the central control unit (step S11). ).

In the imaging apparatus 1, after the transmission of the image data in step S <b> 10, the recording medium control unit 105 displays the server 2 in the transmission request flag associated with the transmitted image data recorded in the image recording table T. “0” representing a state in which no transmission request is made is set (step S12).
After that, the second start control unit 108c outputs a signal for stopping the power supply to the wireless processing unit 107 to the power supply unit 111. When the signal is input, the power supply unit 111 supplies the power to the wireless processing unit 107. Stop (step S13), and the image transmission process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S6 that there is no image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” (step S6; NO), the second start control unit 108c sends a power supply OFF signal to the power supply unit 111. When the power supply OFF signal is input, the power supply unit 111 stops the power supply to each unit of the apparatus main body (step S14) and ends the image transmission process.

As described above, according to the imaging system 100 of the first embodiment, image data is recorded on the recording medium M in association with the transmission request information in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103. If the image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to the wireless processing unit 107 and the wireless processing unit 107 transmits image data. When a search for an external device that is a destination is started and an external device that is a transmission destination is found, image data associated with transmission request information is acquired from the recording medium M, and the external device is acquired. Since transmission is performed by the wireless processing unit 107, only when the power is not supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103, that is, for example, in a state where the power OFF is instructed. , By performing a search for an external device from the power supply unit 111 to send the image data by the power supply and the wireless processing section 107 to the radio processing unit 107, there is no need to supply continuous power supply to the radio processing unit 107. Furthermore, the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the wireless processing unit 107 can be stopped after the transmission of the image data, so that the power consumption can be suppressed.
Therefore, it is possible to efficiently transmit image data in consideration of power consumption.

Further, since the transmission request information includes information indicating that the associated image data has not yet been transmitted to the external device, the image data is determined depending on whether the image data has not yet been transmitted to the external device. It is possible to appropriately set whether or not transmission to an external device is requested.
In particular, the transmission request information can be set based on the comparison result between the date and time when the image data was captured and the date and time sequentially counted after the image data was captured. Thus, it is possible to appropriately specify whether or not transmission of the image data to the external device is requested. That is, before being connected to the server 2 via the access point AP and the communication network N, it is possible to appropriately make a transmission reservation for associating the transmission request information with the image data that has not been transmitted to the server 2. Can be automatically transmitted to the server 2.

  Note that the imaging apparatus 1 of the first embodiment includes the timing unit 110, and the imaging date and time when the image data is captured by the imaging unit 103, and the date and time sequentially counted by the timing unit 110 after imaging the image data. Although the transmission request information is set based on the comparison result, the transmission request information setting method is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

[Embodiment 2]
The imaging system according to the second embodiment will be described below.
The imaging apparatus 201 constituting the imaging system of the second embodiment is configured to be able to set transmission request information based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user.
Note that the imaging apparatus 201 according to the second embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the imaging apparatus 201 according to the first embodiment except for the details described below, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the imaging apparatus 201 constituting the imaging system according to the second embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, the operation control unit 108 of the imaging apparatus 201 according to the second embodiment includes a first start control unit 108a, a first determination unit 108b, a second start control unit 108c, and a second determination unit 108d. In addition to the transmission control unit 108e, a third determination unit 108f and a fourth determination unit 108g are provided.

The third determination unit 108f determines whether or not the transmission request information is associated with the image data and recorded on the recording medium M.
In other words, the third determination unit 108f determines, as a third determination unit, whether or not the transmission request information is associated with the image data and recorded on the recording medium M before imaging by the imaging unit 103. Specifically, for example, in a state where the imaging mode is set as the operation mode, the display control unit 109b sets “1” indicating a transmission request to the server 2 for image data to be captured in the future as a transmission request flag. Confirmation screen (not shown) is displayed on the display panel 109a. Then, based on whether or not an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, the third determination unit 108f determines the image data to be captured in the future. It is determined whether or not the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image recording table T of the recording medium M.
For example, when an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input to the central control unit 101 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, the CPU of the central control unit 101 performs control corresponding to the instruction. The signal is output to the third determination unit 108f, and the third determination unit 108f determines that the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data and recorded in the image recording table T.

The fourth determination unit 108g determines whether or not the transmission request information is associated with the image data recorded on the recording medium M.
That is, the fourth determination unit 108g determines whether transmission request information is associated when reproducing the image data recorded on the recording medium M as a fourth determination unit. Specifically, for example, in a state where the reproduction mode is set as the operation mode, the display control unit 109b sets “1” indicating a transmission request to the server 2 of the image data being reproduced and displayed in the transmission request flag. A confirmation screen as to whether or not to do so is displayed on the display panel 109a. Then, based on whether or not an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, the fourth determination unit 108 g displays the image data that is reproduced and displayed. It is determined whether or not the transmission request flag “1” is associated.
For example, when an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input to the central control unit 101 based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, the CPU of the central control unit 101 performs control corresponding to the instruction. The signal is output to the fourth determination unit 108g, and the fourth determination unit 108g determines that the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data recorded in the image recording table T.

The recording medium control unit 105 determines that the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data to be captured in the future by the third determination unit 108 f and records the image data in the image recording table T, and then the imaging unit 103 newly creates an image. When the data is imaged, the image data and the transmission request flag “1” are associated and recorded in the image recording table T of the recording medium M.
When the fourth determination unit 108g determines that the transmission request flag “1” is associated with the image data recorded in the image recording table T, the recording medium control unit 105 associates the transmission request flag “1” with the image data. 1 ”is set in association with each other.

Next, image transmission processing by the imaging system of Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.
5 and 6 are flowcharts illustrating an example of operations related to image transmission processing by the imaging system.

  The image transmission process performed by the imaging system according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as the image transmission process performed by the imaging system 100 according to the first embodiment except for the details described below, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 5, the imaging apparatus 201 performs steps S <b> 1 to S <b> 3 in substantially the same manner as the imaging apparatus 201 of the first embodiment. In step S <b> 4, the CPU of the central control unit 101 It is determined whether or not a power-off instruction (OFF instruction) corresponding to an OFF operation of the power button 106a of the operation input unit 106 by the user has been input (step S4).
Here, if it is determined that the power-off instruction (OFF instruction) has not been input (step S4; NO), the second start control unit 108c, as shown in FIG. When the search instruction of the external device that is the transmission destination of the image data is output to the 107b, and the search instruction is input, the AP search unit 107b can be connected by, for example, a passive scan method or an active scan method. The point AP is searched (step S21).

Thereafter, the second determination unit 108d determines whether or not a connectable access point AP has been found by the search by the AP search unit 107b (step S22).
If it is determined that a connectable access point AP has not been found (step S22; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 is instructed based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user. The process is branched according to the mode (step S23). Specifically, when the instruction output from the operation input unit 106 indicates the imaging mode as the operation mode (step S23; imaging mode), the CPU of the central control unit 101 shifts the process to step S241, When the reproduction mode is instructed as the operation mode (step S23; reproduction mode), the process proceeds to step S251.

<Imaging mode>
When the imaging mode is instructed as the operation mode (step S23; imaging mode), the CPU of the central control unit 101 sets the operation mode to the imaging mode and controls each part of the apparatus main body according to the imaging mode. Then, the display control unit 109b displays on the display panel 109a a confirmation screen (not shown) as to whether or not to set the transmission request flag “1” for image data to be captured in the future, and the third determination unit 108f Based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, it is determined whether or not an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” has been input (step S241).
If it is determined in step S241 that an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” has been input (step S241; YES), a new operation by the imaging unit 103 is then performed based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user. When the image is captured (step S242), the recording medium control unit 105 associates the image data newly captured by the image capturing unit 103 and generated by the image data processing unit 104 with the transmission request flag “1”. It records on the image recording table T of the recording medium M (step S243).

Next, the CPU of the central control unit 101 determines whether or not an imaging mode end instruction (for example, a playback mode setting instruction or the like) has been input based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user (step S100). S244).
Even when it is determined in step S241 that an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” has not been input (step S241; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 issues an instruction to end the imaging mode. It is determined whether or not an input has been made (step S244).
If it is determined in step S244 that an instruction to end the imaging mode has not been input (step S244; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 returns the process to step S241 and executes each subsequent process. Control.

  If it is determined in step S241 that an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” has not been input (step S241; NO), the imaging unit 103 waits for a new image. When the image capturing unit 103 shifts and a new image is captured, the recording medium control unit 105 records the image data generated by the image data processing unit 104 in the image recording table T of the recording medium M. good.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S244 that an instruction to end the imaging mode has been input (step S244; YES), the imaging mode is ended, and the CPU of the central control unit 101, for example, uses another operation mode (for example, When an instruction for setting a reproduction mode or the like is input, each part of the apparatus main body is controlled according to the instruction.

<Playback mode>
When the playback mode is instructed as the operation mode (step S23; playback mode), the CPU of the central control unit 101 sets the operation mode to the playback mode and controls each part of the apparatus main body according to the playback mode. Then, the display control unit 109b reads out predetermined image data (for example, image data captured most recently) recorded on the recording medium M, and reproduces and displays it on the display panel 109a (step S251).

Subsequently, the display control unit 109b causes the display panel 109a to display a confirmation screen (not shown) as to whether or not to set the transmission request flag “1” for the image data being reproduced and displayed. 108g determines whether an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user (step S252).
If it is determined that an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” is input (step S252; YES), the recording medium control unit 105 adds a transmission request flag to the image data recorded in the image recording table T. “1” is set in association with each other (step S253).

Next, the CPU of the central control unit 101 determines whether or not a playback mode end instruction (for example, an imaging mode setting instruction or the like) has been input based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user (step S100). S254).
Even when it is determined in step S252 that an instruction to set the transmission request flag “1” has not been input (step S252; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 issues an instruction to end the playback mode. It is determined whether or not an input has been made (step S254).
If it is determined in step S254 that an instruction to end the playback mode has not been input (step S254; NO), the CPU of the central control unit 101 returns the process to step S251, and the display control unit 109b Predetermined image data is read out from M and reproduced and displayed on the display panel 109a (step S251).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S254 that an instruction to end the reproduction mode has been input (step S254; YES), the reproduction mode is ended, and the CPU of the central control unit 101, for example, uses another operation mode (for example, When an instruction for setting an imaging mode or the like is input, each part of the apparatus main body is controlled according to the instruction.

  When it is determined in step S22 that a connectable access point AP has been found (step S22; YES), the CPU of the central control unit 101 moves the process to step S10, and the transmission control unit 108e The wireless processing unit 107 is controlled to acquire the image data with the transmission request flag “1” from the image recording table T of the recording medium M, and transmit the image data via the access point AP and the communication network N. The data is transmitted to the previous server 2 (step S10).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that a power-off instruction (OFF instruction) has been input (step S4; YES), the CPU of the central control unit 101 is substantially similar to the imaging device 201 of the first embodiment. Under the control, each processing after step S5 is performed.
That is, when it is determined in step S6 that there is image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” (step S6; YES), the power supply unit 111 is other than the wireless processing unit 107 in step S7. The power supply to each unit is stopped, and the power supply to only the wireless processing unit 107 is started (step S7).
When it is determined in step S9 that a connectable access point AP has been found (step S9; YES), the transmission control unit 108e controls the wireless processing unit 107 to set the transmission request flag “1”. The attached image data is transmitted to the server 2 as the transmission destination via the access point AP and the communication network N (step S10).
Thereby, the image recording unit of the server 2 records the image data received by the communication processing unit in a predetermined recording area (step S11).

  Note that each processing after step S12 is the same as that of the imaging apparatus 201 of the first embodiment, and a detailed description thereof is omitted.

As described above, according to the imaging system of the second embodiment, similarly to the imaging system 100 of the first embodiment, only the power is not supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the imaging unit 103, that is, for example, the power supply Only in the state in which OFF is instructed, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to the wireless processing unit 107 and searches for an external device to which the wireless processing unit 107 transmits image data. Need not be supplied. Furthermore, the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the wireless processing unit 107 can be stopped after the transmission of the image data, so that the power consumption can be suppressed. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently transmit image data in consideration of power consumption.
In particular, since the transmission request information includes information set based on a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 106 by the user, it is possible to reflect the user's intention on whether to transmit the image data to the external device. Specifically, before imaging by the imaging unit 103, it is determined whether or not the transmission request information is associated with the image data and recorded on the recording medium M, thereby transmitting the image data and the image data after imaging by the imaging unit 103. Request information can be automatically associated and recorded, and transmission request information can be set more easily. Furthermore, by determining whether or not the transmission request information is associated when reproducing the image data, it is possible to associate the transmission request information with only the image whose contents have been confirmed by the user, and the transmission request information can be set more reliably. Can be done.
That is, before being connected to the server 2 via the access point AP and the communication network N, it is possible to appropriately make a transmission reservation in which transmission request information is associated with image data desired by the user in advance, and the access point AP is connected. At this time, the image data reserved for transmission can be automatically transmitted to the server 2.

  In the image transmission process of the second embodiment, the transmission request flag “1” is set before the image is captured after the imaging mode is set, but the image is displayed on the display panel 109 a after the imaging unit 103 captures the image. The transmission request flag “1” may be set in a state where data is displayed, that is, on a so-called REC view screen.

  Further, the imaging apparatus 201 of the second embodiment includes the third determination unit 108f, and determines whether or not the transmission request information is associated with the image data and recorded on the recording medium M before imaging by the imaging unit 103. However, the third determination unit 108f is not necessarily provided. Similarly, the fourth determination unit 108g is provided, and it is determined whether or not the transmission request information is associated when reproducing the image data recorded on the recording medium M. However, the fourth determination unit 108g is not necessarily included. There is no need to prepare.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various improvements and design changes may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
For example, in the first and second embodiments, when a connectable access point AP is found, the image data associated with the transmission request flag “1” is transmitted to the server 2 as the transmission destination. However, the image data transmission method is an example and is not limited to this, and can be arbitrarily changed as appropriate. For example, when the capacities of all the image data recorded in the image recording table T and associated with the transmission request flag “1” are calculated and the calculated capacities exceed a predetermined threshold, these Image data may be transmitted.

  In addition, the configurations of the imaging devices 1 and 201 illustrated in the first and second embodiments are examples, and are not limited thereto.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the functions as the first start control means, the first determination means, the second start control means, the second determination means, and the transmission control means are controlled under the control of the central control unit 101. The first start control unit 108a, the first determination unit 108b, the second start control unit 108c, the second determination unit 108d, and the transmission control unit 108e of the operation control unit 108 are configured to be realized. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a configuration realized by executing a predetermined program or the like by the CPU of the central control unit 101 may be adopted.
That is, a program memory (not shown) that stores a program stores a program including a first start control process routine, a first determination process routine, a second start control process routine, a second determination process routine, and a transmission control process routine. Keep it. Then, the CPU of the central control unit 101 is caused to function as a first start control unit that starts power supply from the power supply unit to the imaging unit based on a predetermined operation of the operation unit by the user by the first start control processing routine. May be. Whether the image data is recorded in the recording unit in association with the transmission request information in a state where the power of the central control unit 101 is not supplied from the power supply unit to the imaging unit by the first determination processing routine. You may make it function as the 1st determination means which determines these. Further, when the second start control processing routine determines that the CPU of the central control unit 101 records image data in association with the transmission request information by the first determination unit, the power supply unit switches to the wireless communication unit. It may be made to function as a second start control means for starting a search for an external device to be a power supply to and an image data transmission destination by the wireless communication means. Further, the CPU of the central control unit 101 may function as a second determination unit that determines whether or not an external device that is a transmission destination has been found by a search by the wireless communication unit by the second determination processing routine. Further, when the transmission control processing routine determines that the CPU of the central control unit 101 has found the external device to be the transmission destination by the second determination unit, the image data associated with the transmission request information from the recording unit May be made to function as transmission control means for transmitting to the external device by wireless communication means.

  Similarly, the third determination unit and the fourth determination unit may also be realized by executing a predetermined program or the like by the CPU of the central control unit 101.

  Furthermore, as a computer-readable medium storing a program for executing each of the above processes, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory or a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM is applied in addition to a ROM or a hard disk. Is also possible. A carrier wave is also used as a medium for providing program data via a predetermined communication line.

Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and equivalents thereof.
The invention described in the scope of claims attached to the application of this application will be added below. The item numbers of the claims described in the appendix are as set forth in the claims attached to the application of this application.
[Appendix]
<Claim 1>
Wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line;
Recording means for associating and recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device;
Power supply means for supplying power;
A first start control means for starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
First determination means for determining whether image data is recorded in the recording means in association with the transmission request information in a state in which power is not supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means;
When it is determined by the first determination means that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the image data by the wireless communication means A second start control means for starting a search for an external device as a transmission destination;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the external device as the transmission destination has been found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined by the second determination unit that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit, and the external device is Transmission control means for transmitting by the wireless communication means;
An imaging apparatus comprising:
<Claim 2>
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission request information includes information indicating that the associated image data has not yet been transmitted to an external device.
<Claim 3>
It further comprises a time measuring means for measuring the current time,
The transmission request information includes information set based on a comparison result between an imaging date and time when the image data is captured by the imaging unit and a date and time sequentially counted by the timing unit after the image data is captured. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.
<Claim 4>
The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission request information includes information set based on a predetermined operation of an operation unit by a user.
<Claim 5>
A third determination unit that determines whether the transmission request information is associated with image data and recorded in the recording unit before imaging by the imaging unit;
The recording unit records the transmission request information in association with the image data captured by the imaging unit when the third determination unit determines to record the transmission request information in association with each other. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the imaging apparatus is characterized.
<Claim 6>
A fourth determination unit that determines whether to associate the transmission request information when reproducing the image data recorded in the recording unit;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the recording unit records the transmission request information in association with the image data determined to be associated with the transmission request information by the fourth determination unit.
<Claim 7>
A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply An image transmission method using an imaging device comprising a power supply means for supplying
A process of starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
A process of determining whether image data is recorded in the recording unit in association with the transmission request information in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply unit to the imaging unit;
When it is determined that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the external device that is the transmission destination of the image data by the wireless communication means Processing to start searching for
A process for determining whether or not an external device as the transmission destination has been found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit and transmitted to the external device by the wireless communication unit. Processing to
An image transmission method comprising:
<Claim 8>
A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply A computer of an imaging apparatus comprising power supply means for supplying
First start control means for starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
First determination means for determining whether image data is recorded in the recording means in association with the transmission request information in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means;
When it is determined by the first determination means that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the image data by the wireless communication means A second start control means for starting a search for an external device as a transmission destination;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the external device as the transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined by the second determination unit that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit, and the external device is Transmission control means for transmitting by the wireless communication means;
A program characterized by functioning as

100 imaging system 1, 201 imaging device 101 central control unit 103 imaging unit 106 operation input unit 107 wireless processing unit 108 operation control unit 108a first start control unit 108b first determination unit 108c second start control unit 108d second determination unit 108e Transmission control unit 108f Third determination unit 108g Fourth determination unit 110 Timekeeping unit 111 Power supply unit M Recording medium 2 Server

Claims (8)

Wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line;
Recording means for associating and recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device;
Power supply means for supplying power;
A first start control means for starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
First determination means for determining whether image data is recorded in the recording means in association with the transmission request information in a state in which power is not supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means;
When it is determined by the first determination means that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the image data by the wireless communication means A second start control means for starting a search for an external device as a transmission destination;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the external device as the transmission destination has been found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined by the second determination unit that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit, and the external device is Transmission control means for transmitting by the wireless communication means;
An imaging apparatus comprising:   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission request information includes information indicating that the associated image data has not yet been transmitted to an external device. It further comprises a time measuring means for measuring the current time,
The transmission request information includes information set based on a comparison result between an imaging date and time when the image data is captured by the imaging unit and a date and time sequentially counted by the timing unit after the image data is captured. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.   The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission request information includes information set based on a predetermined operation of an operation unit by a user. A third determination unit that determines whether the transmission request information is associated with image data and recorded in the recording unit before imaging by the imaging unit;
The recording unit records the transmission request information in association with the image data captured by the imaging unit when the third determination unit determines to record the transmission request information in association with each other. The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the imaging apparatus is characterized. A fourth determination unit that determines whether to associate the transmission request information when reproducing the image data recorded in the recording unit;
The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the recording unit records the transmission request information in association with the image data determined to be associated with the transmission request information by the fourth determination unit. A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply An image transmission method using an imaging device comprising a power supply means for supplying
A process of starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
A process of determining whether image data is recorded in the recording unit in association with the transmission request information in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply unit to the imaging unit;
When it is determined that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the external device that is the transmission destination of the image data by the wireless communication means Processing to start searching for
A process for determining whether or not an external device as the transmission destination has been found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit and transmitted to the external device by the wireless communication unit. Processing to
An image transmission method comprising: A wireless communication means for communicating via a predetermined wireless communication line; a recording means for recording image data captured by the imaging means and transmission request information for requesting transmission of the image data to an external device in association with each other; and a power supply A computer of an imaging apparatus comprising power supply means for supplying
First start control means for starting power supply from the power supply means to the imaging means based on a predetermined operation of the operation means by a user;
First determination means for determining whether image data is recorded in the recording means in association with the transmission request information in a state where power is not supplied from the power supply means to the imaging means;
When it is determined by the first determination means that image data is recorded in association with the transmission request information, the power supply means supplies power to the wireless communication means and the image data by the wireless communication means A second start control means for starting a search for an external device as a transmission destination;
Second determination means for determining whether or not the external device as the transmission destination is found by the search by the wireless communication means;
When it is determined by the second determination unit that the external device as the transmission destination has been found, the image data associated with the transmission request information is acquired from the recording unit, and the external device is Transmission control means for transmitting by the wireless communication means;
A program characterized by functioning as

Images