JP4085552B2 - Electronic still camera - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an electronic still camera that includes an imaging unit that photoelectrically converts an incident optical image and outputs image data, and a storage unit that stores data based on the image data obtained by the imaging unit.
[0002]
[Prior art]
An electronic still camera is an image sensor such as a charge-coupled devices (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) that converts an optical image into pixels and stores the data in a storage unit. ing. The digital data stored in the storage means is printed by a color printer or the like.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
An electronic still camera is useful in terms of immediacy of image output and easy post-shooting image processing. However, the complexity of image output operations using a personal computer or printer is expensive, including these devices. It is a problem that it is expensive, and further simplification of operation and cost reduction are desired.
[0004]
By the way, in the camera field using photographic film, it is called a film with a lens (a clear camera, a single use camera), and a film is loaded in advance. A type of camera has been released. This type of camera eliminates the need for loading and unloading of film, which was done by the user with conventional cameras, and the processing such as printing is performed in a laboratory, which reduces the labor of the user and the price is very low. It is easy to use.
[0005]
On the other hand, in the electronic still camera, as one means for realizing simplification of printing, etc. and lowering the price, the photographed electronic camera can be collected once at a print shop and reused, that is, reused. We believe there is a way to keep prices low by selling as a premise. By this method, the user can also bring the print request to the print shop and reduce the effort for the user to create the print. In order to realize such a method, it is important that the electronic still camera is surely returned to the print shop and can be reused after inspection and adjustment of the returned electronic still camera.
[0006]
However, with the current electronic still camera, it is possible to continue shooting freely, and it is difficult to reduce the price on the premise of reflux.
[0007]
The present invention is to provide a low-cost electronic still camera suitable for such a method.
[0008]
By the way, as a storage means of a conventional electronic still camera, a nonvolatile memory or the like in which 1-bit data is stored in a minimum storage unit is used. For this reason, when the imaged data of one pixel is converted into multiple values (three or more values), for example, 8 bits, the data must be divided into 8 cells and stored. For this reason, the storage means is increased in size, and with the recent increase in image quality, the storage capacity becomes enormous, resulting in an increase in cost of the photoelectric conversion device. Furthermore, in order to multi-value the image data of one pixel photoelectrically converted by the image pickup means, it is necessary to convert the output signal of the image pickup means into digital data. For this reason, an A / D converter or the like is required. As a result, the cost is further increased, and the power consumption is increased and the size is increased. On the other hand, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 8-288495 proposes a storage means capable of recording analog data. In recent years, there has been proposed a method for storing multi-valued data in the minimum memory unit. By using these storage means, the above-described problems can be solved. However, since these storage units require time to store the image data, there is a problem that the cycle time until the next processing, for example, photographing, becomes long.
[0009]
In addition, the electronic still camera is inconvenient for the subject because it is difficult to know that the shooting has been completed.
[0010]
  An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic still camera that can store image data as an analog or multi-valued image and that has an improved processing speed.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  UpOfThe problem is solved by the following configuration.
[0056]
1. An imaging unit that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in units of pixels, and multivalued image data based on the imaged image data that can store multivalues in a minimum storage unit. An electronic still camera having storage means for storing, having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and imaging an analog value obtained by the imaging means The storage of the multi-value image data based on the image data is performed by outputting the multi-value image data of one pixel to one of the storage means from any one of the output terminals, and the minimum value in the storage means An electronic still camera characterized in that storing in units is sequentially performed by switching by the switching means.
2. Imaging means that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in pixel units; analog value image data that can store analog values in minimum storage units; and based on the imaged image data An electronic still camera having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and an analog value obtained by the imaging means. Analog image data based on the captured image data is output from one of the output terminals to one of the storage means, and the minimum value in the storage means is output from one of the output terminals. An electronic still camera characterized in that storing in units is sequentially performed by switching by the switching means.
3. 2. The electronic still camera according to 1, wherein the storage means and the output terminals are provided in a number corresponding to the number of colors of the filter.
4). 3. The electronic still camera according to 2, wherein the storage means and the output terminals are provided in a number corresponding to the number of colors of the filter.
5. An imaging unit that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in units of pixels, and multivalued image data based on the imaged image data that can store multivalues in a minimum storage unit. An electronic still camera having storage means for storing, having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and imaging an analog value obtained by the imaging means The storage of the multi-value image data based on the image data is performed by outputting the multi-value image data of several pixels to one of the storage means from any one of the output terminals, and the minimum value in the storage means The electronic still camera is characterized in that storing in units is divided into upper bits and lower bits and is sequentially switched by the switching means.
6). Imaging means that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in pixel units; analog value image data that can store analog values in minimum storage units; and based on the imaged image data An electronic still camera having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and an analog value obtained by the imaging means. Analog image data based on the captured image data, the image data having an analog value of several pixels is output from one of the output terminals to one of the storage means, and the minimum in the storage means The electronic still camera is characterized in that storing in units is divided into upper bits and lower bits and is sequentially performed by switching by the switching means.
[0065]
Here, “non-volatile” means that the memory state can be maintained for at least several days.
[0066]
  Ma"The “specific operation” is an operation or an operation procedure that is not described in the instruction manual of the photoelectric conversion device.
[0067]
  further,“Characteristic information” has an effect on a reproduced image using image data, and is a characteristic possessed by a single unit or a combination of components constituting the photoelectric conversion device (“reproduction” means display, “Influencing”, such as prints, includes essentials that must be present and things that may be for improvement).
[0068]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Embodiments of an electronic still camera to which the present invention is applied will be described below.
(First embodiment)
  First, firstOn the secondA first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an electronic still camera.
[0069]
The imaging means has an optical lens as a main configuration, and can be configured using various filters, stops, and the like. In the present embodiment, the optical lens 11 is used, and means for forming a subject image (optical image) on a CCD 15 described later. The focus drive circuit 12 drives the optical lens 11 so as to form an optical image on the light receiving surface of the CCD 15, and is constituted by, for example, a stepping motor, and changes the position of the optical lens 11 relative to the CCD 15. In addition, various types of motors and elastic members that can move lenses can be used.
[0070]
The diaphragm 13 is a member that adjusts the amount of light incident on the CCD 15, and is configured by, for example, an auto iris. The aperture driving circuit 14 drives the aperture 13 to change the optical aperture value in order to obtain appropriate exposure.
[0071]
The CCD 15 is an imaging unit that photoelectrically converts an optical image formed on the light receiving surface by the optical lens 11 and outputs analog imaged image data in units of pixels. As the imaging means, various image sensors such as a C-MOS sensor can be applied in addition to the CCD. Outputting analog captured image data in units of pixels means photoelectric conversion for each of a plurality of light receiving elements provided on the light receiving surface of the CCD 15, in other words, dividing an optical image into a plurality of pixels, Outputting analog value data for each pixel. The CCD drive circuit 16 which is one embodiment of the shutter means is a means for driving the CCD 15 and causes the light receiving element of the CCD 15 to accumulate charges for a predetermined time (electronic shutter operation), and then transfer pulses to the CCD 15. As a result, the CCD 15 outputs the captured image data of the analog value in units of pixels to the pre-process circuit 17 at the subsequent stage based on the transfer pulse.
[0072]
The preprocess circuit 17 is a circuit that performs analog processing on analog imaged image data output from the CCD 15, and here, a CDS 171 that performs CDS (correlated double sampling) processing to remove noise and a dynamic range expansion. AGC 172 that performs gain adjustment such as logarithmic conversion, logarithmic conversion, and gradation processing of about 1 / 2.5th power. The A / D converter 18 is means for converting the analog value image data analog-processed by the preprocess circuit 17 into digital value image data (A / D conversion), preferably multi-value image data. Convert to
[0073]
The signal processing circuit 19 performs luminance processing and color processing on the digital value image data A / D converted by the A / D converter 18 to provide a digital video signal (for example, a luminance signal (Y) and a color difference signal). (Image data represented by digital (multi-value) composed of (Cr, Cb)). The digital video signal processed by the signal processing circuit 19 is output to a memory controller 21 described later.
[0074]
The display unit 20 can display various types of information (for example, drive information and operation information such as white balance information, number-of-shooting information, and operation mode information) by exchanging data and controlling with a main microcomputer 27 described later.
[0075]
The memory controller 21 is a control means for controlling a frame memory 22 to be described later. The memory controller 21 stores the digital video signal output from the signal processing circuit 19 in the frame memory 22 to be described later, or conversely, the digital video signal of the frame memory 22. Is output to the signal processing circuit.
[0076]
The frame memory 22 is an image memory that temporarily stores digital video signals, and can store image data of at least one screen. As this frame memory 22, for example, VRAM, SRAM, DRAM or the like is generally used, but here, a VRAM that can operate independently of the CPU bus is used.
[0077]
The storage unit 23 is a non-volatile storage unit that can store image data and the like (can hold the storage state for at least several days). The storage unit 23 stores image data (images) under the control of the memory controller 21 that is one embodiment of the writing unit. The image data actually stored in the storage means 231 is written. As the storage means 23, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, a magneto-optical memory, or the like can be applied, but a small-sized non-volatile semiconductor memory with low power consumption is preferable. Here, an image storage unit 231 that stores stored image data and a characteristic data storage unit 232 that stores characteristic data of the electronic still camera are included. In this embodiment, the storage unit 23 is a storage unit that stores 1-bit stored image data in the minimum storage unit (cell). As will be described later, multi-valued stored image data is stored in a cell. Alternatively, storage means for storing stored image data of analog values may be used. The image storage unit 231 is a nonvolatile storage unit that stores image data temporarily stored in the frame memory 22 as stored image data, and can store stored image data for a plurality of screens. At this time, even if the main microcomputer 27 (to be described later) stores image data that has been subjected to image compression processing (for example, compression by the JPEG method or JBIG method) or the like on the image data temporarily stored in the frame memory 22. Good. In addition, the captured image data output from the CCD 15 may be stored as the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 without performing various processes.
[0078]
The characteristic data storage unit 232 is a non-volatile storage unit that stores characteristic data of the electronic still camera. This characteristic data affects the reproduced image using the image data (stored image data), and is a characteristic possessed by a single unit or a combination of each constituent means constituting the electronic still camera (“reproduction”). (Including display, print, etc., “impact” means what must be, and what may be for improvement). Specifically, the conversion characteristics of the image sensor (CCD 15), the number of pixels of the image sensor (the number of effective pixels, the total number of pixels), the color filter array of the image sensor (when outputting raw data such as RGB), the color filter of the image sensor Spectral characteristics (color characteristics), defective pixels of the image sensor (black scratches: pixels that output black signals regardless of the incident optical image, white scratches: pixels that output white signals regardless of the incident optical image) , Spectral characteristics of infrared cut filter, resolution of electronic still camera, lens aberration of imaging optical system, color balance (eg, signal level of each RGB color, deviation from reference level), fixed pattern noise (fixed appearing in reproduced image) Noise pattern), reduction in peripheral light intensity, optical black, information on imaging optical systems such as lenses, etc., and “Exif” format (JEIDA (Japan) Child Industry Development Association) has been certified as a standard in and ISO standard) ver. This is information defined in the detailed rules of 2.
[0079]
The characteristic data stored in the characteristic data storage unit 232 is stored at the time of assembling the electronic still camera, or image data obtained by imaging a special chart with the electronic still camera under predetermined conditions, and further analyzing the image data The characteristic data is stored after assembly (which may be performed by the user, or may be performed by a manufacturer or a laboratory). Further, this characteristic data is output at the same time when the image data stored in the image storage unit 231 is output to the outside of the electronic still camera by the transmission means 24 to be described later. It can be used to perform image processing on the output stored image data on a personal computer.
[0080]
Note that the image storage unit 231 and the characteristic data storage unit 232 may be independent storage units, but may have a configuration in which an area inside one storage unit is divided.
[0081]
The transmission unit 24 outputs data stored in the storage unit 23 outside the electronic still camera (stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 and / or characteristic data stored in the characteristic data storage unit 232), and It is a means for transmitting and receiving data to which a control signal from an external device (for example, a printer) is input. As the transmission means, a device that transmits and receives signals wirelessly using infrared rays or radio waves, a device that transmits and receives signals via wires by connecting a cable, and the like can be applied. Here, a connector (modular connector) 241 and an IR transmission / reception 242 are provided. The connector 241 is configured to be connected to a communication line of a laboratory or an input / output cable of an external device. The IR transmission / reception 242 can be transmitted / received to / from an external device by infrared rays or radio waves. The transmission means 24 (each of the connector 241 and the IR transmission / reception 242) of this embodiment is a means having both transmission and reception functions, but the transmission and reception functions are shared by the connector 241 and the IR transmission / reception 242 respectively. It is good also as composition to do.
[0082]
The operation unit 25 is an external input means provided on the outer surface of the electronic still camera (or a surface exposed to the outside when the outer cover is opened) and can be directly operated by the user. A touch sensor or the like that detects the occurrence can be applied. In the present embodiment, the operation unit 25 includes a release switch (hereinafter, release SW) 251, a power switch (hereinafter, power SW) 252, an erase switch (hereinafter, erase SW) 253, which are examples of release means. ing. The release SW 251 instructs image recording (stores stored image data in the image storage unit 231), and various types such as buttons, touch sensors, and pressure sensitive switches can be applied. The power SW 252 turns on / off the power of the electronic still camera. The erase SW 253 instructs to erase the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231. Various switches such as buttons, touch sensors, and pressure sensitive switches can be applied to each switch. In the present embodiment, there is no switch for reading out stored image data stored in the storage means 23 to the outside of the electronic still camera.
[0083]
The sub-microcomputer 26 controls the operation of the operation unit 25 by the user, such as recording, power on / off, and data erasing, that is, controls the man-machine interface. Communicate (information exchange).
[0084]
The main microcomputer 27 is a control unit that mainly controls the photographing and recording sequences. The focus driving circuit 12, the aperture driving circuit 14, the CCD driving circuit 16, the preprocess driving circuit 17, the signal processing circuit 19, the display unit 20, and the memory It controls the controller 21, the frame memory 22, the storage means 23 and the like. The main microcomputer 27 communicates information (information exchange) with the sub-microcomputer 26 as necessary.
[0085]
28 is a power supply, and various batteries can be applied.
[0086]
The power supply unit 29 supplies power to each circuit and each means described above in response to an instruction from the sub-microcomputer 26 that has received an instruction from the power SW 252 or the like.
[0087]
The number of shots detection means 30 detects the number of shots taken with an electronic still camera. In FIG. 1, the number-of-photographing number detection unit 30 is described as a separate circuit independently, but it may be incorporated as software in the main microcomputer 27, the sub-microcomputer 26, or other storage unit. Of course. The number of shots is detected by counting the number of stored image data stored in the storage unit 23. In addition, the number of shots can also be detected by counting the number of times the release SW 251 has been operated (contact operation, push-down operation, etc.) and the number of times a shutter charge operation to be described later has been performed.
[0088]
The control means 31 receives information on the number of shots from the number-of-shots detection means 30, and when the number of shots exceeds the set number, storage based on a new captured image is prohibited, that is, the set number is reached. Then, it is a control means which prohibits the memory | storage based on a new picked-up image. In FIG. 1, the control means 31 is described as a separate circuit independently, but it goes without saying that the control means 31 may be incorporated as software in the main microcomputer 27, the sub-microcomputer 26, or other storage means. is there. In the present embodiment, the operation of writing stored image data to the storage means 23 by the memory controller 21 that is a writing means is prohibited.
[0089]
In addition, as control by the control means 31 for prohibiting storage based on a new captured image, a configuration for prohibiting a write operation by the memory controller 21 regardless of an operation of the release SW 251 and a pressing operation of the release SW 251 are included. It is good also as a structure which interrupts | blocks and the power supply from the power supply 28 to each circuit is interrupted | blocked. When the power supply from the power supply 28 is cut off, the main microcomputer 27 that has received a signal from the number-of-photographing number detection means 30 issues a command to the power supply unit 29 to cut off the power supply (stop the power supply). The power supply may be cut off for all circuits and means that supply power, but the CCD 15, the CCD drive circuit 16 that is the drive means, the memory controller 21, or the storage means 23 may be used. It is good also as a structure which interrupts | blocks the power supply to at least 1 of these.
[0090]
Here, the operation of the electronic still camera will be described. First, the user who is a photographer operates the power SW 252 of the operation unit 25 to turn on the power. The electronic still camera enters a standby state after various initializations. The user determines an object using an optical viewfinder (not shown) and presses release SW 251. Under the control of the main microcomputer 27 that has received the signal from the release SW 251, the optical lens 11 is driven by the focus driving circuit 12 and the diaphragm 13 is driven by the diaphragm driving circuit 14 to form an optical image on the light receiving surface of the CCD 15. . Then, the CCD 15 operated by the CCD driving circuit 16 accumulates charges based on the optical information (optical image) for a predetermined time (shutter operation) to perform imaging, photoelectrically convert the pixel unit, and convert the analog value for each pixel. Output captured image data. The output analog imaged image data is subjected to analog processing by the preprocess circuit 17, A / D converted by the A / D converter 18, and then processed by the signal processing circuit 19. And temporarily stored in the frame memory 22. Thereafter, the frame memory 22 data is transferred as stored image data to the image storage unit 231 to store the stored image data. Each time the stored image data is stored in the storage unit 23, the number of photographed images is counted by the number of image sensing means 30, and information on the number of photographed images is sent to the control means 31.
[0091]
By repeating the above operation a plurality of times, stored image data for a plurality of screens is stored in the image storage unit 231.
[0092]
When shooting is repeated and the number of shots detected by the number detection unit 30 reaches the predetermined number N, the control unit 31 issues a command to the memory controller 21 and thereafter prohibits storage of stored image data in the storage unit 23. . Therefore, the user cannot shoot more than N images. Note that when the storage is prohibited, the image cannot be stored even if the release SW 251 is operated.
[0093]
As described above, when the storage of a new image is prohibited (cannot be stored), the user brings the electronic still camera to a predetermined print store, prints based on the stored image data in the storage unit 23, and the like. I do.
[0094]
In addition, in order to notify the user that the storage of new images is prohibited, the display unit 20 displays more images such as “No more images can be captured” or “The number of images to be set has been completed”. It is possible to display a message indicating that it cannot be performed, or to instruct to bring it into the print store such as “Please print at a nearby print store” or “Take it to the print store”. The display means is not limited to the display unit 20 and may include another display means.
[0095]
In the electronic still camera according to the present embodiment, in addition to a configuration in which a new image cannot be stored beyond the predetermined number, it is stored in the image storage unit 231 outside the electronic still camera by the user who is a photographer. The stored image data cannot be read out.
[0096]
Specifically, in order to make it impossible for the user to read image data, the operation unit 25 may be provided with no switch for reading as described above. Alternatively, mode transition information input to the electronic still camera is obtained from outside the electronic still camera, and preferably, only when it is obtained, the mode is shifted to the reading mode, or an operation provided in the electronic still camera (operation unit 25). Transition to the reading mode by a specific operation of the member (operation or operation procedure not described in the instruction manual attached when the electronic still camera is purchased), or the electronic still camera has a predetermined shape An engaged portion (which may be a specially shaped connector 241) that can be engaged with a member is provided, and a configuration is made such that the read mode is entered when the engaged portion engages with a member of a predetermined shape. Also good.
[0097]
In this embodiment, even if the stored image data cannot be read by the user as described above, it is stored in the image storage unit 231 outside the electronic still camera only by a printing company such as a laboratory. The stored image data can be read out.
[0098]
Specifically, in order to make it possible for a printing company such as a laboratory to read out stored image data without being able to be performed by a user, it is based on a control signal input from an external device to an electronic still camera via the transmission means 24. The stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 can be read out preferably only on the basis. In this case, the control signal input from the external device is a control signal known only by a printing company such as a laboratory, and is preferably an encrypted signal.
[0099]
In addition, in order to make it possible for a printing company such as a lab to read out stored image data without being able to be used by a user, a specific operation (this operation is not known to the user and the lab or the like prints). This is a predetermined operation known to the trader and is an operation or a procedure of operation not described in the instruction manual), for example, by simultaneously pressing the power SW 252 and the release SW 251 and the like. It may be configured so that the stored image data is actually output.
[0100]
The stored image data that is read when the stored image data is read by a printing company such as a laboratory is preferably encrypted data.
[0101]
With the configuration described above, it is not possible to store a predetermined number of images or more and to output stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 outside the electronic still camera. For a user who does not need to learn complicated operations and is unfamiliar with handling because he / she is free from the work, the electronic still camera only needs to take a predetermined number of images, and is easy to handle.
[0102]
Furthermore, when the number of sheets set by the electronic still camera is imaged and printed, it is necessary to bring it to a printing company such as a laboratory. Therefore, the electronic still camera can be returned and collected more efficiently, and the price of the electronic still camera itself can be reduced by allowing the electronic still camera that has been brought in to be photographed again in a laboratory or the like. This is preferable.
[0103]
By the way, stored image data for a plurality of screens are stored in the image storage unit 231. If there is unnecessary stored image data, the user operates the delete SW 253 to delete unnecessary stored image data. It can be performed. When the stored image data is erased, the number of photographed images already detected by the photographed number detection means 30 is reduced by the number of erased images. Therefore, it is possible to photograph again up to the predetermined number N for the number of erased sheets. This erasure can be performed on any screen (stored image data) among the screens that have been shot (stored in the image storage unit 231).
[0104]
Here, when the release SW 251 is pressed, temporary image data is stored in the frame memory 22 and then transferred to the image storage unit 231 to be stored as stored image data. However, when the release SW 251 is pressed. The data obtained by imaging with the CCD 15 may be stored in the image storage unit 231 without going through the frame memory 22. In this case, it is not necessary to provide the frame memory 22.
[0105]
Further, a shutter (mechanical shutter) that is a light shielding means may be provided between the subject and the CCD 15. When the shutter is in an open state, an optical image can be incident on the CCD 15 (a diaphragm action can be made depending on the degree of opening at this time), and when the shutter is in a closed state, light is not incident on the CCD 15 (that is, in a light shielding state). The open state and the closed state are displaceably provided, and are controlled by the main microcomputer 27 based on the pressing of the release SW 251. This shutter may also be used as the diaphragm 13. Further, in order to obtain a driving force necessary for the shutter operation, a charging unit that performs a charging operation from the outside of the electronic still camera body (a user performs a charging operation) may be provided. This charging means can be formed of a dial, button, lever, etc. that can be operated by the user, and a member that can obtain a driving force according to this, and a driving force required for the shutter operation according to the user's operation. Is charged. As a member that can obtain the driving force, a structure using an elastic member such as a spring or a spring may be used. Then, when the set number of images is photographed, the charging means may be deactivated, for example, by locking and not moving, thereby prohibiting new photographing beyond the set number.
[0106]
In addition, the electronic still camera according to the present embodiment is configured to prohibit the storage of new images exceeding a predetermined number, but at the same time, the user's operation cancels the storage prohibition state. In the operation, it is more preferable that a new image cannot be stored beyond the set number. In the present embodiment, the configuration may be such that the user cannot change the number information of the number detection means 30 to 0 or to decrease it. Specifically, the control information input to the electronic still camera is obtained from outside the electronic still camera, and preferably, the prohibition is canceled only when it is obtained. Alternatively, the electronic still camera itself (the operation unit 25) is not provided with an operation member for canceling the prohibition, or a specific operation of the operation member provided in the electronic still camera (the operation unit 25) is purchased. Engagement part (special shape) that can cancel the prohibition of memory by an operation or procedure of operation that is not described in the attached instruction manual, or can be engaged with a member of a predetermined shape in an electronic still camera Connector 241) may be provided, and the prohibition may be released by engaging the engaged portion with a member having a predetermined shape.
[0107]
As described above, even if the prohibition of storage cannot be canceled by the user as described above, the prohibition can be canceled by a printing company such as a laboratory.
[0108]
Specifically, in order to make it possible for a printing company such as a laboratory to cancel the prohibition of storage without a user, based on a control signal input from an external device to an electronic still camera via the transmission means 24 However, it is preferable to adopt a configuration in which the prohibition of storage is canceled only on the basis of this. In this case, the control signal input from the external device is a control signal known only by a printing company such as a laboratory, and is preferably an encrypted signal.
[0109]
In addition, in order to make it possible for a printing company such as a lab to cancel the prohibition of memory when the user cannot do this, the operation unit 25 is operated by a specific operation (this operation is not known to the user and the printing such as the lab is not performed. This is a predetermined operation that is known to the trader and is not described in the instruction manual. For example, by simultaneously pressing the power SW 252 and the release SW 251, storage is prohibited. It is good also as a structure canceled.
[0110]
With the configuration described above, the electronic still camera returned and collected by the user can be reused by allowing the printing company such as a lab to shoot and store it in the storage means 31 again. With this configuration, the number of shots for the user is limited, but since it can be used again by an operation in a laboratory or the like, an electronic still camera can be provided at a low price.
[0111]
  Although the optical finder has been described as an example for confirming the subject, an image display unit may be provided instead of or in combination with the optical finder. The image display part should just be a member which can display an image based on image signals, such as a liquid crystal. When this is used, the captured image data obtained by the CCD 15 is subjected to analog processing by the preprocessing circuit 17, A / D conversion by the A / D converter 18, and then luminance processing and color processing are performed by the signal processing circuit 19. The digital video signal is sent to the image display unit to display the image. The user confirms the subject in the displayed image and presses release SW 251.
(Second Embodiment)
  next,A second embodiment will be described. Since it is basically the same as that of the first embodiment described above, details are omitted, and different points will be mainly described below.
[0112]
The electronic still camera in the present embodiment cannot change the stored image data in the electronic still camera by a user who is a photographer, in addition to the configuration in which a new image cannot be stored beyond the predetermined number in the first embodiment. Specifically, it is configured so that it cannot be erased or overwritten. That is, the stored image data cannot be overwritten or erased by a user operation.
[0113]
In detail, even when the user performs an operation using an operation member (various switches) provided in the operation unit 25, the image data stored in the image storage unit 231 is not erased or overwritten. Yes. Specifically, in the first embodiment described above, when the user presses the operation unit 25, the image data of an arbitrary screen among a plurality of screens stored in the image storage unit 231 is deleted, or Although the erasure SW 254 to be overwritten is provided, the erasure SW 254 may be omitted. In addition, erasure information or overwrite information input to the electronic still camera from outside the electronic still camera is obtained, and the stored image data stored in the storage means can be erased or overwritten, or the electronic still Due to a specific operation of the operation member provided in the camera (operation unit 25) (operation or operation procedure not described in the instruction manual attached when the electronic still camera is purchased), the image storage means 231 The stored image data stored in the image storage means 231 cannot be erased or overwritten only by erasing or overwriting the stored image data, or by only operating the operation member provided in the electronic still camera. Or an electronic still camera provided with an engaged portion (which may be a specially shaped connector 241) that can be engaged with a member of a predetermined shape, By and the member of the engaged portion and a predetermined shape to engage, the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231, erase, or may be configured to override impossible.
[0114]
As described above, all the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 is configured to be erasable or not overwritten by a user, but may be configured to be erasable by a printing company such as a laboratory. . For example, based on a control signal input to the electronic still camera from an external device (outside of the electronic still camera) via the transmission unit 24, preferably, the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 is based only on the basis of the control signal. What is necessary is just to comprise so that deletion is possible. In this case, the control signal input from the external device is a control signal that is not known to the user but only known to a printing company such as a laboratory, and is preferably an encrypted signal. In addition, in order to make it possible for a printing company such as a lab to erase stored image data when the user is unable to do so, the operation unit 25 is configured to perform a specific operation (this operation is not known to the user and the lab or the like prints). For example, by pressing a plurality of specific operation members (SW) at the same time. The stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 may be configured to be erasable.
[0115]
With the configuration as described above, the user cannot erase or overwrite the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231, but it is not necessary to learn the complicated operation and is free from the work. For users who are unfamiliar with handling, the electronic still camera only needs to take an image and is easy to handle.
[0116]
Furthermore, when the number of sheets set by the electronic still camera is imaged and printed, it is necessary to bring it to a printing company such as a laboratory. Therefore, the electronic still camera can be returned and collected more efficiently, and the price of the electronic still camera itself can be reduced by enabling a predetermined number of electronic still cameras to be taken again in a laboratory or the like. This is preferable.
[0117]
In the present embodiment, the characteristic data storage unit 232 for storing the characteristic data of the electronic still camera may be provided in the storage unit 23 as in the first embodiment described above. 232 may not be provided.
[0118]
In addition, in order to enable redoing when shooting fails, among the image data stored in the image storage unit 231, the stored image data stored immediately before (of the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231) Only one screen of stored image data stored at the last time) may be configured to be erasable or overwritten. Specifically, the operation unit 25 is provided with an erasure switch SW254, and when the user presses the erasure SW254, stored image data of the screen stored last in the plurality of screens stored in the image storage unit 231. Can be erased or overwritten. That is, when the erase SW 254 is pressed, the last stored image data is erased, or when the release SW 251 is pressed after the erase SW 254 is pressed, new stored image data is stored in the storage area of the last stored image data. I try to overwrite it.
[0119]
  Therefore, if the user fails in imaging, the erasing SW 254 can perform imaging again. In addition, since the stored image data to be erased or overwritten is limited to the last stored image data, it is not necessary to perform a complicated operation for selecting an arbitrary screen among a plurality of screens. For users who are unfamiliar with handling, it is an easy-to-use electronic still camera.
(Third embodiment)
  next,A third embodiment will be described. Since it is basically the same as the first and second embodiments described above, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described below.
[0120]
The main configuration of the electronic still camera in the present embodiment is that a new image cannot be stored beyond the predetermined number in the first and second embodiments. Therefore, the configuration in which the stored image data stored in the storage means 23 described in the first and second embodiments cannot be output outside the electronic still camera, the erasure described in the second embodiment, or Does not require a configuration that cannot be overwritten.
[0121]
According to the present embodiment, by limiting the number of images taken by the electronic still camera and encouraging the user to bring it to a laboratory or the like, as a result, it is possible to supply the electronic still camera at a low price.
[0122]
In order to further promote the circulation, the power supply 28 preferably has the following configuration. In the case where the power source 28 is a battery, an open / close control means is provided in addition to the battery storage unit and the battery storage unit cover corresponding thereto. The opening / closing control means has control software stored in the main microcomputer 27 or the sub-microcomputer 26 and a lock mechanism that locks or releases the battery housing cover under this control. The lock mechanism is configured so that it cannot be released by the operation of the user who is the photographer and the battery cannot be taken out. And it is comprised so that it may open only in printing companies, such as a laboratory. Specifically, in order to configure the printer such as a laboratory that can not be opened by the user, it is preferable based on the open / close control signal input from the external device to the electronic still camera via the transmission means 24. It is only necessary that the battery housing cover is unlocked based on the above. Alternatively, the electronic still camera is provided with an engaged portion (which may be a specially shaped connector 241) that can be engaged with a member having a predetermined shape, and the engaged member is engaged with the member having the predetermined shape to lock the electronic still camera. Can be released. As a result, battery replacement by the user is prohibited.
[0123]
When the power supply 28 is rechargeable and the electronic still camera has a charging terminal, the charging terminal cover is provided, and the opening and closing control of the charging terminal cover that performs the same configuration and operation as the above battery storage cover example is provided. Means may be provided. Thereby, charging of the power supply by the user is prohibited.
[0124]
As the storage means 23, it is possible to use a storage means that can be attached to and detached from the electronic still camera main body. In this case, a cover for a storage means storage section for storing the storage means is provided, and the battery described above is used. A storage unit lid opening / closing control unit that performs the same configuration and operation as the storage lid example may be provided. As a result, removal and replacement of the storage means by the user is prohibited.
[0125]
  With the above configuration, an electronic still camera with a limited function on the premise of recirculation is provided, and an electronic still camera that can be used at a lower price can be provided.
(Fourth embodiment)
  next,A fourth embodiment will be described. Since it is basically the same as the first to third embodiments described above, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described below.
[0126]
In the present embodiment, as a method for promoting circulation, the electronic still camera is lent to the user, in other words, rented. This will be described below with reference to FIG.
[0127]
First, a rental shop, a print shop, or the like lends the electronic still camera with the limited number of shots described in the first to third embodiments to a user (S1). Using the lent electronic still camera, the user takes an image. When the number of images taken here reaches a predetermined number, it becomes impossible to take images as described above (S2). When the user takes the electronic still camera that has already been taken to a rental shop, a print shop, or a print shop different from the rental shop, the electronic still camera is collected (S3). The rental shop and the print shop print out the recorded image from the returned electronic still camera (S4). This print is handed over to the customer (S5).
[0128]
The collected electronic still camera is lent again and used, and the electronic still camera is efficiently recirculated.
[0129]
There are various methods for obtaining prints, such as a silver salt photographic method, an ink jet method, and a thermal transfer method, any of which may be used.
[0130]
In S4 and S5, instead of printing out, the image information taken on another recording medium may be copied, and the medium on which the image information is copied may be transferred to the user. Other recording media include semiconductor storage media such as IC cards, magnetic recording media such as floppy disks, and magneto-optical recording media such as MO.
[0131]
At this time, it is preferable that the electronic still camera be provided with means for storing information related to the rental, because the management at the rental store becomes easier. Examples of information on lending include a lending date, information on a borrower, a scheduled return date, information (name or ID) on a lending store, a lending period, and the like. These pieces of information may be stored in the frame memory 22 or may be stored by providing a separate memory.
[0132]
By storing information related to lending in the electronic still camera, return processing such as identification of the lending electronic still camera and identification of the lending person is facilitated when returning at the store side.
[0133]
Further, if the information is configured so that it can be displayed on the electronic still camera side, it is possible to provide a user-friendly camera in which the user can easily confirm the return date, the return store, and the like.
[0134]
With the above configuration, the electronic still camera can be recirculated more reliably and efficiently, and a low-cost electronic still camera can be provided.
(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment to which the invention described in claims 42 to 48 is applied will be described. Since it is basically the same as the first to third embodiments described above, detailed description thereof will be omitted, and different points will be mainly described below.
[0135]
In the first to third embodiments described above, the storage unit 23 (particularly the image storage unit 231) of the electronic still camera has a nonvolatile memory in which 1-bit data is stored in the minimum storage unit (cell). It was used. Therefore, when one pixel data (analog image data) captured by the CCD 15 is converted into multiple values (three or more values) by the A / D converter 18, for example, multi-valued to 8 bits, eight cells are used. I had to divide it into memory. For this reason, the storage means 23 is increased in size, and with the recent increase in image quality, the storage capacity becomes enormous, resulting in an increase in cost of the electronic still camera. In order to solve this, non-volatile storage means capable of storing multivalued or analog value data (in a minimum storage unit) in one cell is used as the storage means 23. As a result, the analog value data for one pixel output from the CCD 15 is converted into analog value data or A / D converted by the A / D converter 18 to obtain multi-value digital value data. The image storage unit 231 can be stored in one cell, and the image storage unit 231 can be reduced in size and the number of captured images can be increased. However, on the other hand, non-volatile storage means that can store multi-value or analog value data in one cell has a slower data writing speed than storage means for writing digital data (binary digital data). There's a problem. Therefore, in this embodiment, a configuration for improving the writing speed when using a non-volatile storage means capable of writing analog or multi-value data will be described.
[0136]
First, a case where multivalued digital value data is stored will be described. The multivalued digital data converted by the A / D converter 18 is stored in the image storage means 23 through the signal processing circuit 19 and controlled by the memory controller 21. In the present embodiment, a plurality of storage means 23 are provided. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG. In this example, two storage means 231 (241, 242) and delay means (401, 402) are provided in the preceding stage. The delay means outputs the input multi-valued digital data with a delayed timing, and a sample hold circuit, a sequence process (software) for performing a delay process, or the like can be used. The multi-valued digital value data sequentially processed by the signal processing circuit 19 is an example of a delay unit provided in the preceding stage of the storage units 241 and 242 according to an instruction from the memory controller 21. The signals are sequentially and alternately stored in the circuits 401 and 402. Thereafter, it is stored in an image storage unit corresponding to each sample and hold circuit. With this configuration, the time required for writing can be shortened, and as a result, from photographing to data storage, that is, the photographing cycle can be shortened. FIG. 3 is an example in which the color filter of the image sensor has BGR three colors. Three image storage units are provided according to the number of colors of the filter. In this example, the signal processing circuit 18 is omitted, and the R, G, B image signals converted into multivalued digital data by the A / D converter 18 are the R, G, B colors. The images are sequentially output every time and are sequentially stored in the image storage units 251, 252, and 253 through the sample hold circuits 411, 412, and 413 corresponding to the respective colors in accordance with instructions from the memory controller 21.
[0137]
Next, an example using storage means for storing analog value data will be described. In the case of analog value data, there is no need for A / D conversion, and the A / D converter 18 becomes unnecessary. Further, the signal processing circuit 19 that performs color conversion processing or the like may be omitted. Therefore, analog image data is output from the preprocess circuit 17 and stored in the image storage unit. The configurations of the sample hold circuit and the image storage unit are the same as those in FIGS. 2 to 3 described above, and are similarly stored according to instructions from the memory controller 21.
[0138]
In the present embodiment, the analog value data for one pixel obtained by the CCD 15 is A / D converted by the A / D converter 18 to obtain multivalued digital data, and then 1 of the image storage unit 231. It is stored in one cell. Further, a plurality of pixels of multi-value digital data may be collectively stored in one cell of the image storage unit 231. For example, multi-values that can be stored in one cell are divided into an upper part and a lower part, and multi-value digital data for one pixel is stored in each. Specifically, assuming that 8-bit digital data can be stored in one cell of the image storage unit 231, it is divided into upper 4 bits and lower 4 bits, and one pixel of analog data obtained by the CCD 15 is obtained. Multi-value (4 bit) digital data based on the above is stored. That is, the digital data based on the two pixels obtained by the CCD 15 is synthesized into the upper and lower levels and stored in one cell.
[0139]
In this way, by storing multi-value data based on the analog value data of each pixel obtained by the CCD 15 in one cell of the image storage unit 231, it is possible to store data at a higher density. As a result, not only the number of images can be increased, but also the image storage unit 231 and the electronic still camera can be reduced in size and price can be reduced.
[0140]
In the present embodiment, a characteristic data storage unit 232 for storing characteristic data of the electronic still camera may be provided in the storage unit 23 as in the first embodiment described above (in this case, The characteristic data storage unit 232 preferably stores characteristic data as multivalued digital data as the same semiconductor element as the image storage unit 231. However, the characteristic data storage unit 232 and the image storage unit 231 may be different semiconductor elements. However, the characteristic data storage unit 232 may not be provided. In the present embodiment, the stored image data stored in the image storage unit 231 by the user cannot be read out as in the first embodiment described above, but may be provided in a readable manner. . Further, in the present embodiment, as in the second embodiment described above, it is impossible for the user to erase the stored image data in the image storage unit 231, or as in the second embodiment described above. In addition, although it may be provided that only the last stored image data can be erased by the user, the present invention is not limited to this.
[0141]
【The invention's effect】
  As detailed above,According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic still camera that can reduce the size of the storage means, is inexpensive, and has improved shooting cycle time.
[0142]
According to the invention described in claims 42, 44, 47, and 48, it is possible to provide an electronic still camera that can reduce the size of the storage means, is inexpensive, and has improved shooting cycle time.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an electronic still camera according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of storage means of the electronic still camera of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of storage means of the electronic still camera of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image recording / playback service method using the electronic still camera of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
11 Optical lens (imaging means)
15 CCD (imaging means)
18 A / D converter
23 Memory means
231 Image storage unit
232 Characteristic data storage
25 Operation unit
28 Power supply
29 Power supply unit
30 Number of shots detection means
31 Control means
401, 402, 411, 412, 413 Sample hold circuit

Claims (6)

The incident optical information by photoelectric conversion imaging means for outputting the image data of the analog value in units of pixels, and can store multivalued a minimum unit of storage, multi negative image data based on captured image data an electronic still camera having a storage means for storing, with a plurality chromatic said storage means, a delay means and switching means comprising a plurality of output terminals, the analog value obtained by the image pickup means The storage of the multi-value image data based on the captured image data is output from one of the output terminals to one of the storage means, and the storage means stores the multi-value image data of one pixel. An electronic still camera , wherein storing in the minimum unit is sequentially performed by switching by the switching means . Imaging means that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in units of pixels; analog value image data that can store analog values in minimum storage units; and based on the imaged image data An electronic still camera having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and an analog value obtained by the imaging means. Analog image data based on the captured image data is output from one of the output terminals to one of the storage means, and the minimum value in the storage means is output from one of the output terminals. An electronic still camera characterized in that storing in units is sequentially performed by switching by the switching means. 2. The electronic still camera according to claim 1, wherein the storage means and the output terminals are provided in a number corresponding to the number of colors of the filter. The electronic still camera according to claim 2, wherein the storage means and the output terminals are provided in a number corresponding to the number of colors of the filter. An imaging unit that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in units of pixels, and multivalued image data based on the imaged image data that can store multivalues in a minimum storage unit. An electronic still camera having storage means for storing, having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and imaging an analog value obtained by the imaging means The storage of the multi-value image data based on the image data is performed by outputting the multi-value image data of several pixels to one of the storage means from any one of the output terminals, and the minimum value in the storage means The electronic still camera is characterized in that storing in units is divided into upper bits and lower bits and is sequentially switched by the switching means. Imaging means that photoelectrically converts incident optical information and outputs analog imaged image data in pixel units; analog value image data that can store analog values in minimum storage units; and based on the imaged image data An electronic still camera having a plurality of storage means, a delay means and a switching means having a plurality of output terminals, and an analog value obtained by the imaging means. Analog image data based on the captured image data, the image data having an analog value of several pixels is output from one of the output terminals to one of the storage means, and the minimum in the storage means The electronic still camera is characterized in that storing in units is divided into upper bits and lower bits and is sequentially switched by the switching means.

Images