JP4940111B2 - Imaging apparatus and image recording method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device and an image recording method, and more particularly to an imaging device and an image recording method having a function of storing and recording a plurality of image data in one image file.

  Patent Document 1 discloses that in an electronic endoscope system, still image data and external input image data (X-ray digital image data or digital image data indicating biological information) are stored in a single file. .

Patent Document 2 discloses a method and system for electronically integrating hybrid mail.
JP 2006-198002 (0027 to 0029, FIG. 2) JP-T-2006-505835

  When storing and recording a plurality of image data shot by a shooting device in one image file (hereinafter referred to as a multi-picture file (MP file)), a load is imposed on the image processing circuit of the shooting device for MP file generation processing. There is a problem that processing of the photographing apparatus becomes slow and it takes time until other processing becomes possible after the image photographing operation is completed. The above Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not focus on the load caused by the generation of such an image file.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and can reduce the load caused by processing for generating an image file in which a plurality of image data is stored, and can speed up the processing at the time of image capturing. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image capturing device and an image recording method for the image file.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, a photographing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs an image, and an image recording unit that records the images photographed by the photographing unit as individual image files one by one. A multi-picture file generating unit that generates a multi-picture file that stores images included in a plurality of individual image files, and an individual image stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording unit A designation unit that designates an image file; an operation unit that receives an operation input from a user; and when the operation input from the operation unit is not detected for a predetermined time, the multi-picture file generation unit is controlled to perform the designation Control means for generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified by the means. And wherein the Rukoto.

  According to the first aspect, after an image is captured, when an operation input is not performed for a predetermined time, an image file (multi-picture file) generation process for storing a plurality of image data is performed. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the load caused by the multi-picture file generation process, and to speed up the process at the time of shooting an image.

  An imaging apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention includes an imaging unit that captures an image, an image recording unit that records each image captured by the imaging unit as an individual image file, and a plurality of individual image files. Multi-picture file generating means for generating a multi-picture file for storing an included image; designation means for designating an individual image file to be stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording means; , An operation mode switching unit that switches an operation mode between an imaging mode in which an image is captured by the imaging unit, an operation mode other than the imaging mode, and an operation mode other than the imaging mode. , Controlling the multi-picture file generation means to specify the individual designated by the designation means Characterized in that it comprises a control means for generating a multi-picture files from the image file.

  According to the second aspect, when the operation mode is switched to an operation mode other than the shooting mode, the generation process of the image file (multi-picture file) storing a plurality of image data is performed. It is possible to reduce the load caused by the picture file generation process, and to speed up the process at the time of taking an image.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect, the photographing apparatus further includes display means for reproducing and displaying the image photographed by the photographing means, and the operation mode switching means is configured to display the image by the photographing means. When the operation mode is switched to the playback mode, the control unit switches the operation mode between a shooting mode for shooting the image and a playback mode for reproducing and displaying an image by the display unit. The file generating means is controlled to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified by the specifying means.

  According to the third aspect, when the operation mode is switched to the playback mode, the generation process of the image file (multi-picture file) storing a plurality of image data is performed. The load due to the processing can be reduced, and the processing at the time of capturing an image can be speeded up.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photographing device for photographing an image, an image recording means for recording the images photographed by the photographing means one by one as individual image files, and a plurality of individual image files. Multi-picture file generating means for generating a multi-picture file for storing an included image; designation means for designating an individual image file to be stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording means; A power control unit that accepts a power on / off switching instruction and performs power on / off switching, and the multi-picture file generation unit when the power control unit accepts an instruction to switch the power off The multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation means. To generate Le, characterized in that it comprises a control means for turning off the power supply after completion of generation of the multi-picture files.

  According to the fourth aspect, since the generation process of the image file (multi-picture file) storing a plurality of image data is performed when the power is turned off, the load caused by the generation process of the multi-picture file can be reduced. The processing at the time of taking an image can be speeded up.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photographing apparatus for photographing an image, an image recording means for recording the images photographed by the photographing means one by one as individual image files, and a plurality of individual image files. Multi-picture file generating means for generating a multi-picture file for storing an included image; designation means for designating an individual image file to be stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording means; A multi-picture file generation instruction means for receiving an instruction to execute a multi-picture file generation process for generating a multi-picture file from an individual image file specified by the specifying means; and an input of an instruction to execute the multi-picture file generation process. If accepted, the multi-picture file By controlling the deposition unit, characterized in that it comprises a control means for generating a multi-picture file from the specified individual image files by said designating means.

  According to the fifth aspect, since the user can instruct execution of the multi-picture file generation process at a desired timing, the load due to the multi-picture file generation process can be reduced, and the image can be captured. The processing in can be speeded up.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a photographing device for photographing an image, an image recording means for recording the images photographed by the photographing means one by one as individual image files, and a plurality of individual image files. Multi-picture file generating means for generating a multi-picture file for storing an included image; designation means for designating an individual image file to be stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording means; When transmitting the individual image file recorded in the image recording unit to another image recording device and the individual image file specified by the specifying unit via the image transmitting unit, Controlling the multi-picture file generating means to determine whether the individual image file specified by the specifying means Control means for generating a multi-picture file; and transmission control means for transmitting a multi-picture file generated from the individual image file specified by the specifying means to the image recording apparatus via the image recording means. It is characterized by.

  According to the sixth aspect, since a multi-picture file is generated when an image is transmitted to another image recording apparatus, it is possible to reduce a load due to the generation process of the multi-picture file in the shooting mode. It is possible to increase the processing speed when taking an image. Furthermore, according to the sixth aspect, images related to a transmission target image can be stored in a multi-picture file and transmitted in a batch, so that it is possible to save time and effort for searching a transmission target image. In addition, the communication load can be reduced as compared with the case of transferring a plurality of image files.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the first to sixth aspects, the imaging device generates a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit, and then the individual image from the image recording unit. An image erasing unit for erasing the file is further provided.

  An image recording method according to an eighth aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording images one by one as individual image files in the image recording means, and a plurality of individual image files recorded in the image recording means. When the operation input from the operation means for receiving the operation input from the user and the specifying step for specifying the individual image file for storing the image included in the individual image file in one multi-picture file and the operation input from the user is not detected for a predetermined time, A multi-picture file generation step of generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified in the specifying step.

  An image recording method according to a ninth aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording images captured by an imaging unit that captures an image one by one as individual image files in the image recording unit, and recording in the image recording unit A designation step for designating an individual image file for storing the images included in the plurality of individual image files in one multi-picture file, and a photographing mode for photographing an image by the photographing means; An operation mode switching step of switching an operation mode between operation modes other than the shooting mode, and a multi-picture from the individual image file specified in the specifying step when the operation mode is switched to an operation mode other than the shooting mode. And a multi-picture file generation step for generating a file.

  An image recording method according to a tenth aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording images captured by an imaging unit that captures images one by one as individual image files in the image recording unit, and recording in the image recording unit A designation step for designating an individual image file for storing the images included in the plurality of individual image files in one multi-picture file, and a photographing mode for photographing an image by the photographing means; A multi-picture for generating a multi-picture file from an individual image file designated in the designation step when the operation mode is switched between a reproduction mode for reproducing and displaying the image, and the operation mode is switched to the reproduction mode. And a file generation step.

  An image recording method according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording images one by one as individual image files in the image recording means, and a plurality of individual image files recorded in the image recording means. Specified in the specifying step when an instruction to specify an individual image file for storing an image included in the individual image file in one multi-picture file and an instruction to turn off the power of the image recording means are received. And a multi-picture file generating step of generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file and turning off the power after completion of the generation of the multi-picture file.

  An image recording method according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention includes an image recording step of recording images one by one as individual image files in the image recording means, and a plurality of individual image files recorded in the image recording means. A designation step for designating an individual image file for storing an image included in the individual image file in one multi-picture file, and when the individual image file recorded in the image recording means is transmitted to another image recording device. A multi-picture file generating step for generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified in the specifying step, and a transmitting step for transmitting the multi-picture file generated in the multi-picture file generating step to the other image recording device It is characterized by providing.

  The image recording method according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the image recording method according to any of the eighth to twelfth aspects, wherein after the multi-picture file is generated from the individual image file designated in the designation step, the individual image recording means An image erasing step for erasing the image file is further provided.

  According to the present invention, the operation mode is set to an operation mode other than the image capture mode (for example, the playback mode, for example, when the operation input is not performed for a predetermined period of time). ), The image file (multi-picture file) for storing a plurality of image data is generated when the power is turned off and the image is transmitted to another image recording device). The load due to the file generation process can be reduced, and the processing at the time of image capture can be speeded up.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a photographing apparatus and an image recording method according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an imaging apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a compound eye camera) according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the compound eye camera 10 is a compound eye camera including two photographing units 12R and 12L. Two or more photographing units 12 may be provided.

  The compound-eye camera 10 uses a plurality of image data (for example, a parallax image for stereoscopic display (three-dimensional display) and a plurality of images for generating a panoramic image) captured by the plurality of imaging units 12R and 12L as one recording image. It can be recorded as a file (multi-picture file). In addition, the compound eye camera 10 can record a plurality of frames of image data captured during bracket shooting, moving image shooting, or continuous shooting as a single recording image file (multi-picture file).

  A main CPU 14 (hereinafter referred to as CPU 14) controls the overall operation of the compound eye camera 10 according to a predetermined control program based on an input from the operation unit 16.

  A ROM 24, an EEPROM 26, and a work memory 28 are connected to the CPU 14 via a system bus 22. The ROM 24 stores a control program executed by the CPU 14 and various data necessary for control. The EEPROM 26 stores various setting information relating to the operation of the compound eye camera 10 such as user setting information. The work memory 28 includes a calculation work area for the CPU 14 and a temporary storage area for image data.

  The operation unit 16 is a means for the user to perform various operation inputs, and includes a power / mode switch, a mode dial, a release switch, a cross key, a zoom button, a MENU / OK button, a DISP button, and a BACK button. . The operation display unit 18 is a means for displaying the result of the operation input from the operation unit 16 and includes, for example, a liquid crystal panel or a light emitting diode (LED).

  The power / mode switch is means for switching on / off the power of the compound eye camera 10 and switching the operation mode (playback mode and photographing mode) of the compound eye camera 10. When the power / mode switch is turned on, power supply from the power supply circuit 20 to each part of the compound eye camera 10 is started, and various operations of the compound eye camera 10 are started. When the power / mode switch is turned off, the supply of power from the power supply circuit 20 to each part of the compound eye camera 10 is stopped.

  The mode dial is an operation means for switching the shooting mode of the compound-eye camera 10, and is a panorama shooting mode for shooting a panoramic image according to a setting position of the mode dial, and a 2D still image for shooting a two-dimensional still image. The shooting mode is switched between a shooting mode, a 2D moving image shooting mode for shooting a 2D moving image, a 3D still image shooting mode for shooting a 3D still image, and a 3D moving image shooting mode for shooting a 3D moving image. When the shooting mode is set to the panorama shooting mode, a flag indicating the panorama shooting mode is set in the shooting mode management flag 30. When the shooting mode is set to the 2D still image shooting mode or the 2D moving image shooting mode, a flag indicating the 2D mode for shooting a two-dimensional image is set in the shooting mode management flag 30. When the shooting mode is set to the 3D still image shooting mode or the 3D moving image shooting mode, the shooting mode management flag 30 is set with a flag indicating that it is a 3D mode for shooting a three-dimensional image. The CPU 14 refers to the shooting mode management flag 30 to determine the shooting mode setting.

  The release switch is composed of a two-stage stroke type switch composed of so-called “half-press” and “full-press”. When the release switch is pressed halfway in still image shooting mode, shooting preparation processing (for example, AE (Automatic Exposure) processing, AF (Auto Focus) processing, AWB (Automatic White Balance)) (Balance) processing) is performed, and when the release switch is fully pressed, still image shooting / recording processing is performed. In the moving image shooting mode, moving image shooting starts when the release switch is fully pressed, and moving image shooting ends when the release switch is fully pressed again. Note that a release switch for still image shooting and a release switch for moving image shooting may be provided separately.

  The cross key is an operating means that can be pressed in four directions, up, down, left, and right, and a function is assigned to the button in each direction according to the operation mode of the compound eye camera 10. For example, in the shooting mode, a function for switching the macro function on / off is assigned to the left button, and a function for switching the flash mode is assigned to the right button. In the shooting mode, a function for changing the brightness of the image display unit 50 is assigned to the upper button, and a function for switching the self-timer on / off is assigned to the lower button. In the playback mode, the frame advance function is assigned to the left button, and the frame return function is assigned to the right button. In the playback mode, a function for changing the brightness of the image display unit 50 is assigned to the upper button, and a function for deleting the image being played back is assigned to the lower button. Further, at the time of various settings, a function for moving the cursor displayed on the image display unit 50 in the direction of each button is assigned.

  The zoom button is an operation means for performing a zooming operation of the photographing units 12R and 12L, and includes a zoom tele button for instructing zooming to the telephoto side and a zoom wide button for instructing zooming to the wide angle side. .

  The MENU / OK button is used to call a menu screen (MENU function), and is used to confirm selection contents, execute a process, etc. (OK function), and has a function assigned according to the setting state of the compound eye camera 10. Can be switched. On the menu screen, the MENU / OK button indicates, for example, image quality adjustment such as exposure value, hue, photographing sensitivity, number of recorded pixels, setting of a self-timer, switching of photometric method, whether to use digital zoom, etc. All the adjustment items that have are set. The compound eye camera 10 operates according to the conditions set on this menu screen.

  The DISP button is used for inputting an instruction for switching the display contents of the image display unit 50, and the BACK button is used for inputting an instruction for canceling the input operation.

  The image display unit 50 includes, for example, a display device including a color liquid crystal panel, and functions as an image display unit for displaying captured images, and also functions as a GUI during various settings. The image display unit 50 functions as an electronic viewfinder for confirming the angle of view in the shooting mode. Note that the image display unit 50 can display a three-dimensional image (3D image).

  The vertical / horizontal shooting detection circuit 32 includes, for example, a sensor for detecting the orientation of the compound eye camera 10, and inputs the detection result of the orientation of the compound eye camera 10 to the CPU 14. The CPU 14 switches between vertical shooting and horizontal shooting when the compound-eye camera 10 is oriented.

  Next, the photographing function of the compound eye camera 10 will be described. In FIG. 1, the respective parts in the photographing units 12R and 12L are distinguished from each other by adding symbols R and L. However, since the functions of the respective units are substantially the same, in the following description, the symbols R and L are referred to. The description is omitted.

  The photographing lens 60 includes a zoom lens, a focus lens, and a diaphragm. The zoom lens and the focus lens move back and forth along the optical axis (LR and LL in the drawing) of each photographing unit. The CPU 14 performs zooming by controlling the position of the zoom lens by controlling the driving of a zoom actuator (not shown) via the photometry / ranging CPU 80, and controls the driving of the focus actuator via the photometry / ranging CPU 80. Thus, focusing is performed by controlling the position of the focus lens. Further, the CPU 14 controls the aperture amount (aperture value) of the diaphragm 46 by controlling the driving of the diaphragm actuator via the photometry / ranging CPU 80, and controls the amount of light incident on the image sensor 62.

  When shooting a plurality of images in the panoramic shooting mode or the 3D mode, the CPU 14 drives the shooting lenses 60R and 60L of the shooting units 12R and 12L in synchronization. That is, the photographing lenses 60R and 60L are always set to the same focal length (zoom magnification). In addition, the aperture is adjusted so that the same incident light amount (aperture value) is always obtained. Further, in the 3D mode, focus adjustment is performed so that the same subject is always in focus.

  The flash light emitting unit 76 is constituted by, for example, a discharge tube (xenon tube), and emits light as necessary when photographing a dark subject or in backlight. The charge / light emission control unit 78 includes a main capacitor for supplying a current for causing the flash light emission unit 76 to emit light. The CPU 14 transmits a flash emission command to the photometry / ranging CPU 80, and performs charge control of the main capacitor, discharge (light emission) timing of the flash light emission unit 76, control of the discharge time, and the like. Note that a light emitting diode may be used as the flash light emitting unit 76.

  The imaging unit 12 captures a distance light emitting element 86 (for example, a light emitting diode) for irradiating the subject with light, and an image of the subject irradiated with light by the distance light emitting element 86 (range measurement image). A distance image sensor 84.

  The photometry / ranging CPU 80 causes the distance light emitting element 86 to emit light at a predetermined timing based on a command from the CPU 14 and controls the distance image pickup element 84 to photograph a distance measuring image.

  The distance measurement image captured by the distance image sensor 84 is converted into digital data by the A / D converter 96 and input to the distance information processing circuit 98.

  The distance information processing circuit 98 uses the distance measurement image acquired from the distance image sensor 84 and, based on the principle of so-called triangular distance measurement, between the subject photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L and the compound eye camera 10. The distance (subject distance) is calculated. The subject distance calculated by the distance information processing circuit 98 is recorded in the distance information recording circuit 100.

  As a method of calculating the subject distance, the flight time of light from when the light emitting element for distance 86 emits light until the light emitted by the light emitting element for distance 86 is reflected by the subject and reaches the imaging element for distance 84 is used. A TOF (Time of Flight) method for calculating the subject distance from the (delay time) and the speed of light may be used.

  The photographing unit 12 includes an interval / convergence angle driving circuit 88 and an interval / convergence angle detection circuit 90.

  The interval / convergence angle driving circuits 88R and 88L drive the imaging units 12R and 12L, respectively. The CPU 14 operates the interval / convergence angle driving circuits 88R and 88L via the interval / convergence angle control circuit 92 to adjust the interval and the convergence angle between the photographing lenses 60R and 60L.

  The interval / convergence angle detection circuits 90R and 90L include means for transmitting and receiving radio waves, for example. The CPU 14 operates the interval / convergence angle detection circuits 90R and 90L via the interval / convergence angle control circuit 92 to transmit and receive radio waves, thereby measuring the interval and the convergence angle between the photographing lenses 60R and 60L. . The measurement results of the interval between the photographing lenses 60R and 60L and the convergence angle are stored in the lens interval / convergence angle storage circuit 102.

  The image sensor 62 is constituted by a color CCD solid-state image sensor, for example. A large number of photodiodes are two-dimensionally arranged on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 62, and color filters of three primary colors (R, G, B) are arranged in a predetermined arrangement in each photodiode. The optical image of the subject formed on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 62 by the photographing lens 60 is converted into signal charges corresponding to the amount of incident light by the photodiode. The signal charge accumulated in each photodiode is sequentially read out from the image sensor 62 as a voltage signal (R, G, B signal) corresponding to the signal charge based on a drive pulse given from the TG 64 according to a command from the CPU 14. The image sensor 62 has an electronic shutter function, and the exposure time (shutter speed) is controlled by controlling the charge accumulation time in the photodiode.

  As the image sensor 62, an image sensor other than a CCD such as a CMOS sensor may be used.

  The analog signal processing unit 66 outputs a correlated double sampling circuit (CDS), R, G, and B signals for removing reset noise (low frequency) included in the R, G, and B signals output from the image sensor 62. An AGS circuit for amplifying and controlling to a certain level is included. Analog R, G, B signals output from the image sensor 62 are subjected to correlated double sampling processing and amplified by an analog signal processing unit 66. Analog R, G, B signals output from the analog signal processing unit 66 are converted into digital R, G, B signals by an A / D converter 68 and input to an image input controller (buffer memory) 70. The

  The digital signal processing unit 72 includes a synchronization circuit (a processing circuit that converts a color signal into a simultaneous expression by interpolating a spatial shift of the color signal associated with a color filter array of a single CCD), a white balance adjustment circuit, a gradation A conversion processing circuit (gamma correction circuit), a contour correction circuit, a luminance / color difference signal generation circuit, and the like are included. The digital R, G, and B signals input to the image input controller 70 are subjected to predetermined processing such as synchronization processing, white balance adjustment, gradation conversion, and contour correction by the digital signal processing unit 72. It is converted into a Y / C signal composed of a luminance signal (Y signal) and a color difference signal (Cr, Cb signal).

  When a live view image (through image) is displayed on the image display unit 50, the Y / C signal generated in the digital signal processing unit 72 is sequentially supplied to the buffer memory 44. The display controller 42 reads out the Y / C signal supplied to the buffer memory 44 and outputs it to the YC-RGB converter 46. The YC-RGB converter 46 converts the Y / C signal input from the display controller 42 into R, G, and B signals and outputs them to the image display unit 50 via the driver 48. As a result, a through image is displayed on the image display unit 50.

  In the playback mode, after the last image file (last recorded image file) recorded on the memory card 40 is read and decompressed to an uncompressed Y / C signal by the compression / decompression processing unit 74 Are input to the buffer memory 44. The display controller 42 reads out the Y / C signal supplied to the buffer memory 44 and outputs it to the YC-RGB converter 46. The YC-RGB converter 46 converts the Y / C signal input from the display controller 42 into R, G, and B signals and outputs them to the image display unit 50 via the driver 48. As a result, the image file recorded in the memory card 40 is displayed on the image display unit 50.

  Next, image capturing and recording processing will be described. In the 2D mode, a recording image is shot by a predetermined one shooting unit (for example, 12R). In the 2D mode, an image photographed by the photographing unit 12R is compressed by the compression / decompression processing unit 74R. The compressed image data is recorded on the memory card 40 as an image file in a predetermined format via the memory controller 34 and the interface unit (I / F) 38. For example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) for still images, MPEG2 or MPEG4 for moving images, and H.264. It is recorded as a compressed image file conforming to the H.264 standard.

  In the 3D mode, images are captured in synchronization by the imaging units 12R and 12L. In the 3D mode, AF processing and AE processing are performed based on an image signal acquired by one of the imaging units 12R and 12L. In the 3D mode, the two viewpoint images captured by the imaging units 12R and 12L are compressed by the compression / decompression processing units 74R and 74L, stored in one multi-picture file, and recorded on the memory card 40. The 3D image file stores subject distance information, the interval between the photographing lenses 60R and 60L, and information on the convergence angle, as well as the compressed image data of the two viewpoints.

  Next, recording processing of an image shot in the panoramic shooting mode will be described. In the panorama shooting mode, two viewpoint images are shot in synchronization by the shooting units 12R and 12L. In the panoramic shooting mode, AF processing and AE processing are performed based on an image signal acquired by one of the imaging units 12R and 12L. In the panoramic shooting mode, image data of two viewpoints shot by the shooting units 12R and 12L are compressed by the compression / decompression processing units 74R and 74L, stored in one multi-picture file, and recorded on the memory card 40. . The panoramic image file stores representative image data, subject distance information, the interval between the photographing lenses 60R and 60L, and information on the convergence angle, as well as the compressed image data of two viewpoints.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a data structure of a multi-picture file. As shown in FIG. 2, the multi-picture file D10 includes a main image area A10 and an extended data area A12.

  In the extended data area A12, viewpoint image data (sub-image data) P (1),..., P (n) photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are stored.

  In the main image area A10, main image data (representative image data) PR selected from the sub image data P (1),..., P (n) is stored. Here, as the main image data PR, the sub image data P (1) stored at the head of the extension data area A12 is selected. In addition, when generating a multi-picture file from an image shot in the 3D mode or the panorama mode, for example, among the sub-image data P (1),..., P (n), the viewpoint position is in the middle or near the middle. The image data captured by the imaging unit on the side of the user's dominant eye (for example, the right eye in the default setting, which can be set by the user) out of the image captured by the imaging unit or the image data of the intermediate viewpoint or near the intermediate image data. You may make it select as PR. Further, when generating a multi-picture file from a plurality of bracketed images, for example, image data captured with standard exposure (appropriate exposure) may be selected as main image data PR.

  As shown in FIG. 2, SOI (Start of Image) and EOI (End of Image) in the main image data PR and each viewpoint image data P (1),. A marker indicating the end position is attached.

  Each of the main image data PR and the sub image data P (1),..., P (n) is provided with a header area (APP1).

  As shown in FIG. 2, Exif identification information, a TIFF header, an IFD (Image file directory) area (IFD0 area (0th IFD) and IFD1 area (1st IFD)) are provided in the header area of the main image data PR. Yes.

  A thumbnail image generated from the main image data PR is stored in the IFD1 area (1st IFD). In the IFD1 area (1st IFD), thumbnail images generated from the sub-image data P (1),..., P (n) in the extension data area A12 may also be stored.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the IFD0 area (0th IFD) includes an Exif IFD area, a sub-image index IFD area, and a sub-image identification IFD area.

  The Exif IFD area of the IFD0 area (0th IFD) stores extension data area presence / absence information E10 indicating whether or not the multi-picture file D10 includes the extension data area A12. In addition, storage location information (address) of the sub-image index IFD area is stored in the Exif IFD area of the IFD0 area (0th IFD).

  In addition, in the IFD0 area (0th IFD), storage location information (sub image data P (1),..., P (n) of sub image data P (1),. The sub-image identification IFD including the address indicating the position of the SOI) is stored.

  In the multi-picture file D10, since the Exif IFD area of the IFD0 area (0th IFD) includes the extended data area presence / absence information E10, the CPU 14 reads the sub-picture index IFD area and the sub-picture when reading the multi-picture file D10. The identification IFD area is read, and the extension data area A12 is read together with the main image area A10. On the other hand, in an image file including only one image data, the Exif IFD area of the IFD0 area (0th IFD) does not include the extended data area presence / absence information E10, or the image file includes the extended data area A12. Since the extended data area presence / absence information E10 includes information indicating that the image data is not present, the CPU 14 reads only one piece of image data and its header information when the image file is read.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing multi-picture file generation processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the multi-picture list (MP list) is cleared (step S10). The MP list may be cleared when the shooting mode is set to a mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file (for example, 3D mode, panoramic mode, or bracket shooting mode). It may be cleared in response to a predetermined operation input.

  Next, when the release switch is fully pressed (Yes in step S12), a plurality of image data photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are captured, and the captured images are converted into Y / C signals ( Step S14).

  Next, predetermined processing (for example, reduction and thinning processing) is performed on each image data captured in step S14, and a thumbnail image corresponding to each image data is created (step S16). Each image data is compressed (step S18), and an Exif format image file is created and recorded in the memory card 40 (step S20). In step S20, a thumbnail image is stored in the header area of each image file.

  Next, the file name of the image file created in step S20 is written in the multi-picture list (MP list) (step S22).

  FIG. 4 shows an example of the MP list. As shown in FIG. 4, the file name or path of an image file taken in the mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file is written in the MP list. As shown in FIG. 4, the file name of the main image file selected from the sub-image files is written at the head. This MP list is recorded in the work memory 28 or the memory card 40, for example.

  Next, when the shooting of a predetermined number of images is completed (Yes in step S24), and no operation input from the operation unit 16 is detected for a predetermined time (Yes in step S26), the multi-picture file generation process starts. (Steps S28 to S36).

  In the multi-picture file generation process, first, a pointer is set at the head of the MP list (step S28). Then, after the image file indicated by the pointer is read from the memory card 40 and expanded in the work memory 28 (step S32), the pointer moves down by one in the MP list (step S34).

  Next, when the process from step S30 to step S34 is repeated and all the image files written in the MP list are read (No in step S30), the read image files are integrated and shown in FIG. A multi-picture file is generated (step S36). Note that the image file and the MP list may be deleted from the memory card 40 when the recording of the multi-picture file generated in step S36 is completed.

  According to the present embodiment, when an operation input is not performed for a predetermined time after shooting an image, an image file (multi-picture file) generation process for storing a plurality of image data is performed. The load caused by the multi-picture file generation process can be reduced, and the processing at the time of image shooting can be speeded up.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing multi-picture file generation processing according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the multi-picture list (MP list) is cleared (step S50). The MP list may be cleared when the shooting mode is set to a mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file (for example, 3D mode, panoramic mode, or bracket shooting mode). It may be cleared in response to a predetermined operation input.

  Next, when the release switch is fully pressed (Yes in step S52), a plurality of pieces of image data photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are captured, and the captured images are converted into Y / C signals ( Step S54).

  Next, predetermined processing (for example, reduction and thinning processing) is performed on each image data captured in step S54, and a thumbnail image corresponding to each image data is created (step S56). Each image data is compressed (step S58), and an Exif format image file is created and recorded in the memory card 40 (step S60). In step S60, the thumbnail image is stored in the header area of each image file.

  Next, the file name of the sub-image file created in step S60 is written into the multi-picture list (MP list) (step S62).

  When the operation mode of the compound eye camera 10 is switched to the playback mode (Yes in step S64), it is determined whether or not the MP list is read and an image file (MP conversion target file) to be a multi-picture file is in the memory card 40. (Step S66). If there is a file to be converted to MP (Yes in step S66), multi-picture file generation processing is started (steps S68 to S76).

  In the multi-picture file generation process, first, a pointer is set at the head of the MP list (step S68). Then, after the image file pointed to by the pointer is read from the memory card 40 and expanded in the work memory 28 (step S72), the pointer moves down by one in the MP list (step S74).

  Next, when the processes from step S70 to step S74 are repeated and all the image files written in the MP list are read (No in step S70), the read image files are integrated and shown in FIG. A multi-picture file is generated (step S76). Note that the image file and the MP list may be deleted from the memory card 40 when the recording of the multi-picture file generated in step S76 is completed.

  According to the present embodiment, when the operation mode is switched to the playback mode, the generation process of the image file (multi-picture file) storing a plurality of image data is performed. The load can be reduced, and the processing at the time of capturing an image can be speeded up.

  Note that the multi-picture file generation process may be performed when the operation mode is switched to an operation mode other than the shooting mode.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing multi-picture file generation processing according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the multi-picture list (MP list) is cleared (step S80). The MP list may be cleared when the shooting mode is set to a mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file (for example, 3D mode, panoramic mode, or bracket shooting mode). It may be cleared in response to a predetermined operation input.

  Next, when the release switch is fully pressed (Yes in step S82), a plurality of image data photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are captured, and the captured images are converted into Y / C signals ( Step S84).

  Next, predetermined processing (for example, reduction and thinning processing) is performed on each image data captured in step S84, and a thumbnail image corresponding to each image data is created (step S86). Each image data is compressed (step S88), and an Exif format image file is created and recorded in the memory card 40 (step S90). In step S90, a thumbnail image is stored in the header area of each image file.

  Next, the file name of the sub-image file created in step S90 is written into the multi-picture list (MP list) (step S92).

  When it is detected that the power / mode switch of the compound eye camera 10 is turned off (Yes in step S94), the MP list is read and an image file (MP conversion target file) to be a multi-picture file is stored in the memory card 40. Is determined (step S96). If there is a file to be converted to MP (Yes in step S96), multi-picture file generation processing is started (steps S100 to S108). On the other hand, if there is no MP conversion target file (No in step S96), a power-off process is performed (step S98).

  In the multi-picture file generation process, first, a pointer is set at the head of the MP list (step S100). Then, after the image file pointed to by the pointer is read from the memory card 40 and expanded in the work memory 28 (step S104), the pointer moves down by one in the MP list (step S106).

  Next, when the process from step S102 to step S104 is repeated and all the image files written in the MP list are read (No in step S102), the read image files are integrated and shown in FIG. A multi-picture file is generated (step S108). Then, after the multi-picture file is recorded on the memory card 40, a power-off process is performed (step S110). Note that the image file and the MP list may be deleted from the memory card 40 when the recording of the multi-picture file generated in step S108 is completed.

  According to the present embodiment, since the generation process of the image file (multi-picture file) storing a plurality of image data is performed when the power is turned off, the load due to the generation process of the multi-picture file can be reduced. It is possible to increase the processing speed when taking an image.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an imaging apparatus (compound eye camera) according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the compound eye camera 10 according to the present embodiment further includes an MP button 52 for inputting an instruction to execute a process for generating a multi-picture file from an image file recorded on the memory card 40.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing multi-picture file generation processing according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the multi-picture list (MP list) is cleared (step S120). The MP list may be cleared when the shooting mode is set to a mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file (for example, 3D mode, panoramic mode, or bracket shooting mode). It may be cleared in response to a predetermined operation input.

  Next, when the release switch is fully pressed (Yes in step S122), a plurality of pieces of image data photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are captured, and the captured images are converted into Y / C signals ( Step S124).

  Next, predetermined processing (for example, reduction and thinning processing) is performed on each image data captured in step S124, and a thumbnail image corresponding to each image data is created (step S126). Each image data is compressed (step S128), and an Exif format image file is created and recorded in the memory card 40 (step S130). In step S130, the thumbnail image is stored in the header area of each image file.

  Next, the file name of the sub-image file created in step S130 is written into the multi-picture list (MP list) (step S132).

  If it is detected that the MP button 52 is turned on (Yes in step S134), whether the MP list is read and an image file (MP conversion target file) to be converted into a multi-picture file exists in the memory card 40. Whether or not is determined (step S136). If there is a file to be converted to MP (Yes in step S136), multi-picture file generation processing is started (steps S138 to S146).

  In the multi-picture file generation process, first, a pointer is set at the head of the MP list (step S138). Then, after the image file indicated by the pointer is read from the memory card 40 and expanded in the work memory 28 (step S142), the pointer moves down one position in the MP list (step S144).

  Next, when the process from step S140 to step S144 is repeated and all the image files written in the MP list are read (No in step S140), the read image files are integrated and shown in FIG. A multi-picture file is generated (step S146). Then, after the multi-picture file is recorded on the memory card 40, the image file described in the MP list is deleted from the memory card 40 (step S148).

  According to the present embodiment, the provision of the MP button 52 allows the user to instruct execution of multi-picture file generation processing at a desired timing, thereby reducing the load due to multi-picture file generation processing. It is possible to increase the processing speed when taking an image.

[Fifth Embodiment]
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the following description, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an imaging apparatus (compound eye camera) according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the compound eye camera 10 according to the present embodiment includes a communication interface unit (communication I / F) 54 that is connected to another device to transmit and receive data. The compound eye camera 10 transmits an image file designated by an operation input from the operation unit 16 to an image recording apparatus 200 (for example, an image recording apparatus or a television receiver). For example, USB, LAN (wired or wireless), infrared communication (IrDA, IrSimple), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used as a communication connection unit between the compound eye camera 10 and the image recording apparatus 200.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing multi-picture file generation processing according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  First, the multi-picture list (MP list) is cleared (step S150). The MP list may be cleared when the shooting mode is set to a mode for recording an image in a multi-picture file (for example, 3D mode, panoramic mode, or bracket shooting mode). It may be cleared in response to a predetermined operation input.

  Next, when the release switch is fully pressed (Yes in step S152), a plurality of pieces of image data photographed by the photographing units 12R and 12L are captured, and the captured images are converted into Y / C signals ( Step S154).

  Next, predetermined processing (for example, reduction and thinning processing) is performed on each image data captured in step S154, and a thumbnail image corresponding to each image data is created (step S156). Each image data is compressed (step S158), and an Exif format image file is created and recorded in the memory card 40 (step S160). In step S160, the thumbnail image is stored in the header area of each image file.

  Next, the file name of the sub-image file created in step S160 is written into the multi-picture list (MP list) (step S162).

  When an instruction to transmit an image file described in the MP list is input from the operation unit 16 (Yes in step S164), the MP list is read and an image file (MP conversion target file) to be a multi-picture file is stored in the memory card. It is determined whether it is within 40 (step S166). If there is a file to be converted to MP (Yes in step S166), multi-picture file generation processing is started (steps S168 to S166). On the other hand, if there is no MP conversion target file (No in step S166), the image file transmission process designated in step S164 is performed (step S178).

  In the multi-picture file generation process, first, a pointer is set at the head of the MP list (step S168). Then, after the image file designated by the pointer is read from the memory card 40 and expanded in the work memory 28 (step S172), the pointer is moved down by one in the MP list (step S174).

  Next, when the process from step S170 to step S174 is repeated and all the image files written in the MP list are read (No in step S170), the read image files are integrated and shown in FIG. A multi-picture file is generated (step S176). Then, the multi-picture file is recorded on the memory card 40 and transmitted to the image recording device 200 according to a predetermined communication protocol (step S178).

  According to the present embodiment, since a multi-picture file is generated when an image is transmitted to another image recording apparatus 200, it is possible to reduce the load caused by the generation process of the multi-picture file in the shooting mode. The processing at the time of shooting can be speeded up. Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, images related to the image to be transmitted can be stored in a multi-picture file and transmitted in a batch, so that it is possible to save time and effort for searching the image to be transmitted. As compared with the case of transferring a plurality of image files, the communication load can be reduced.

  Note that the imaging apparatus according to each of the above embodiments can be provided as a program for an imaging apparatus or an image recording apparatus, for example.

1 is a block diagram showing a photographing apparatus (compound eye camera) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Diagram showing the data structure of a multi-picture file The flowchart which shows the production | generation process of the multi picture file which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention Example of multi-picture list (MP list) The flowchart which shows the production | generation process of the multi picture file which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the production | generation process of the multi picture file which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. The block diagram which shows the imaging device (compound-eye camera) which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the production | generation process of the multi picture file which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. The block diagram which shows the imaging device (compound-eye camera) which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the production | generation process of the multi picture file which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Imaging device (compound eye camera), 12 ... Imaging | photography part, 14 ... Main CPU, 16 ... Operation part, 30 ... Shooting mode management flag, 40 ... Memory card, 52 ... MP button, 54 ... Communication interface part (Communication I) / F)

Claims (14)

Photographing means for photographing an image;
Image recording means for recording images taken by the photographing means one by one as individual image files;
Multi-picture file generation means for generating a multi-picture file for storing images included in a plurality of individual image files;
Designation means for designating an individual image file to be stored in the multi-picture file from the individual image files recorded in the image recording means;
An operation means for receiving an operation input from a user;
Control means for controlling the multi-picture file generation means when the operation input from the operation means is not detected for a predetermined time, and generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation means;
An imaging apparatus comprising: An operation mode switching unit that switches an operation mode between a shooting mode in which an image is shot by the shooting unit and an operation mode other than the shooting mode;
The control unit controls the multi-picture file generation unit to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit when the operation mode is switched to an operation mode other than the shooting mode. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: And further comprising display means for reproducing and displaying the image photographed by the photographing means,
The operation mode switching means switches the operation mode between a shooting mode in which an image is taken by the shooting means and a reproduction mode in which an image is reproduced and displayed by the display means,
The control means controls the multi-picture file generating means to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified by the specifying means when the operation mode is switched to the playback mode. The photographing apparatus according to claim 2. Further comprising power control means for receiving a power on / off switching instruction and performing power on / off switching;
The control unit controls the multi-picture file generation unit to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit when receiving an instruction to turn off the power by the power source control unit. 4. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power is turned off after the generation of the multi-picture file is completed. A multi-picture file generation instruction unit that receives an input of an instruction to execute a multi-picture file generation process for generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified by the specifying unit;
The control unit controls the multi-picture file generation unit to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit when receiving an instruction to execute the multi-picture file generation process. The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the photographing apparatus is characterized in that: Image transmitting means for transmitting the individual image file recorded in the image recording means to another image recording device;
Transmission control means,
The control means controls the multi-picture file generation means when transmitting the individual image file designated by the designation means via the image transmission means, and controls the individual image file designated by the designation means. A multi-picture file from
6. The transmission control unit according to claim 1, wherein the transmission control unit causes the image recording apparatus to transmit a multi-picture file generated from the individual image file designated by the designation unit via the image recording unit. The imaging device according to claim 1.   The image erasing unit for erasing the individual image file from the image recording unit after generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit. The imaging device according to 1. An image recording step of recording images one by one as individual image files in the image recording means;
A designation step for designating an individual image file for storing images contained in a plurality of individual image files in one multi-picture file from among the individual image files recorded in the image recording means;
A multi-picture file generating step for generating a first multi-picture file from the individual image file specified in the specifying step when an operation input from an operating means for receiving an operation input from a user is not detected for a predetermined time;
An image recording method comprising: In the image recording step, images taken by the photographing means for photographing images are recorded in the image recording means as individual image files one by one,
The image recording method includes:
An operation mode switching step of switching an operation mode between an imaging mode in which an image is captured by the imaging unit and an operation mode other than the imaging mode;
A second multi-picture file generating step of generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified in the specifying step when the operation mode is switched to an operation mode other than the shooting mode;
The image recording method according to claim 8, further comprising: In the operation mode switching step, the operation mode is switched between a photographing mode for photographing an image by the photographing means and a reproduction mode for reproducing and displaying the image,
10. The multi-picture file is generated from the individual image file specified in the specifying step when the operation mode is switched to the playback mode in the second multi-picture file generating step. Image recording method. When an instruction to turn off the image recording unit is received, a multi-picture file is generated from the individual image file specified in the specifying step, and the power is turned off after the generation of the multi-picture file is completed. The image recording method according to claim 8, further comprising a multi-picture file generation step. A fourth multi-picture file that controls the multi-picture file generation unit to generate a multi-picture file from the individual image file designated by the designation unit when an input of an instruction to execute the multi-picture file generation process is received The image recording method according to claim 8, further comprising a generation step. A fifth multi-picture file generating step for generating a multi-picture file from the individual image file specified in the specifying step when transmitting the individual image file recorded in the image recording means to another image recording device;
A transmission step of transmitting the multi-picture file generated in the multi-picture file generation step to the other image recording device;
The image recording method according to claim 8, further comprising: After generating the multi-picture file from the specified individual image files in the specified process, it claims 8 13, characterized by further comprising an image erasing step of erasing the individual image files from the image recording unit 2. An image recording method according to item 1.

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