JP2003244524A - Imaging device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To switch operation modes easily and unfailingly, when switching the operation mode of an imaging device with multiple operation modes, by minimizing the number of operation components, and simplifying the operation method. <P>SOLUTION: The imaging device comprises at least a still image recording mode for recording still images, a moving image recording mode for recording moving images, and a power switch to instruct the power application. When the device is operating in the still image recording mode, the recording mode is switched from the still image recording mode to the moving image recording mode, by manipulating the power switch in the direction of the power application. When the device is operating in the moving image recording mode, the recording mode is switched from the moving image recording mode to the still image recording mode by manipulating the power switch in the direction of the power application. Thus, the operation mode can be switched, by manipulating the power switch in the direction of the power application. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus, and more particularly to a plurality of operations such as a recording mode for storing captured image data in a recording medium and a reproduction mode for displaying image data stored in the recording medium. The present invention relates to an imaging device having a mode.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image pickup apparatus having a plurality of operation modes such as a recording mode for storing picked-up image data in a recording medium and a reproduction mode for displaying image data stored in the recording medium has already been put on the market. ing.

When switching the operation mode, these image pickup apparatuses are provided with a dial for mode switching, which is provided separately from the power switch and is assigned with one position for each operation mode, or with a slide switch. The operation mode is switched by operating the operation mode, operating the operation mode switching button, displaying the operation mode switching menu, and selecting the operation mode from the menu. .

[0004]

In the conventional image pickup apparatus having a plurality of operation modes as described above, it is necessary to prepare a dedicated operating member for switching the operation modes, which leads to an increase in the cost of the image pickup apparatus. Was there.

Further, there are problems that the operation method becomes difficult to understand due to the increase in the number of operation members, and that it is difficult to confirm the positions of dials and switches in a dark place. In addition, a dial-type operation mode changeover switch having a plurality of rotation positions is used.
For an image pickup device in which the power switch is in the OFF position, the power may be accidentally turned off when the operation mode is switched. In such a case, it takes time until the power is turned on again, and there is a problem that a photo opportunity is missed.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and in switching the operation mode of an image pickup apparatus having a plurality of operation modes, the number of operation members is minimized and the operation method is simplified. It is an object of the present invention to enable easy and reliable switching of operation modes.

[0007]

An image pickup apparatus of the present invention has at least a still image recording mode for recording a still image and a moving image recording mode for recording a moving image, and has a switch for instructing power-on. In the image pickup apparatus, the recording mode currently in operation is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction.
Another feature of the present invention is that in an image pickup apparatus having at least a still image recording mode for recording a still image and a moving image recording mode for recording a moving image, and including a switch for instructing power-on. By operating the switch in the power-on direction while operating in the still image recording mode, the recording mode is switched to the moving image recording mode, and the switch is turned in the power-on direction during operation in the moving image recording mode. It is characterized in that the recording mode is switched to the still image recording mode by operation. Another feature of the present invention is that, when the recording mode is switched from the still image recording mode to the moving image recording mode, a storage unit is provided for storing the type of the still image recording mode before the switching. When the recording mode is switched from the moving image recording mode to the still image recording mode, the recording mode is switched to the still image recording mode of the type stored in the storage means. Another feature of the present invention is that in an image pickup apparatus having a recording mode for recording an image and a reproduction mode for displaying the recorded image, the image pickup apparatus having a switch for instructing power-on. By operating the switch in the power-on direction while operating in the mode, the operation mode is switched to the playback mode, and by operating the switch in the power-on direction while operating in the playback mode, the recording is performed. The feature is that the operation mode is switched to the mode. Further, another feature of the present invention is that when the operation mode is switched from the recording mode to the reproduction mode, a storage unit for storing the type of the recording mode before the switching is provided, and the recording mode is changed from the reproduction mode to the recording mode. When the operation mode is switched to the mode, the operation mode is switched to the recording mode of the type stored in the storage means. Further, another feature of the present invention is that it has a plurality of operation modes, a switch for instructing power-on is provided, and the operation mode is one of the plurality of operation modes. In an imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the operation mode that is switched next time each time the switch is operated in the power-on direction. Is selected in a fixed order from the plurality of operation modes. Another feature of the present invention is that a switching order setting means is provided for setting the order of switching the operation modes when the operation modes are switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction. It has a feature. Another feature of the present invention is to provide a switching operation mode designating unit for designating an operation mode that is a candidate for switching when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction. It is characterized by that. Further, another feature of the present invention is that it has a plurality of operation modes, a switch for instructing power-on is provided, and while operating in one of the plurality of operation modes,
When switching the operation mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction in an imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes by operating the switch in the power-on direction To
It is characterized in that an operation mode selecting means for selecting an operation mode to be switched is provided according to a time for holding the switch in the power-on direction. Another feature of the present invention is that when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the operation mode corresponding to the time for holding the switch in the power-on direction is specified. The operation mode designating means is provided. Another feature of the present invention is that when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the operation mode corresponding to the time for holding the switch in the power-on direction is set to an icon, a character, or the like. The operation mode display control means for displaying the operation mode is provided so that the user can select the operation mode while confirming the next operation mode on the display screen before actually switching the operation mode. Further, another feature of the present invention is that it has a plurality of operation modes, a switch for instructing power-on is provided, and while operating in one of the plurality of operation modes,
When switching the operation mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction in an imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes by operating the switch in the power-on direction To
It is characterized in that an operation mode selecting means for selecting an operation mode to be switched is provided according to the number of times the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction without leaving the switch for a predetermined time or longer. In addition, other features of the present invention include:
When switching the operation mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction, an operation mode for designating an operation mode corresponding to the number of times the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction without leaving the switch for a certain time or more. The feature is that a designating means is provided. Another feature of the present invention is that when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction without leaving a certain time or more. The operation mode display control means for displaying the operation mode corresponding to the number of times with icons, characters, etc. is provided, and the operation mode is selected while the user confirms the next operation mode on the display screen before actually switching the operation mode. The feature is that it is possible.

[0008]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Next, an embodiment of an image pickup apparatus of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of an image pickup device according to the present invention. In FIG. 1, 100 is an imaging device. 1
0 is a taking lens, 12 is a shutter having an aperture function,
Reference numeral 14 is an image pickup device for converting an optical image into an electric signal, and 16 is an A / D converter for converting an analog signal output of the image pickup device 14 into a digital signal.

Reference numeral 18 denotes an image pickup device 14, an A / D converter 16,
A timing generation circuit that supplies a clock signal and a control signal to the D / A converter 26, and is controlled by the memory control circuit 22 and the system control circuit 50.

An image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined pixel interpolation processing and color conversion processing on the data from the A / D converter 16 or the data from the memory control circuit 22. Further, in the image processing circuit 20, a predetermined calculation process is performed using the captured image data, and the system control circuit 50 controls the exposure control unit 40 and the distance measurement control unit 42 based on the obtained calculation result. TTL (through the
Lens (method) AF (auto focus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, and EF (flash pre-flash) processing are performed.

Further, the image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the imaged image data, and also performs TTL AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the obtained arithmetic result.

A memory control circuit 22 includes an A / D converter 16, a timing generation circuit 18, an image processing circuit 20,
Image display memory 24, D / A converter 26, memory 30,
The compression / expansion circuit 32 is controlled.

The data of the A / D converter 16 is passed through the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22, or the data of the A / D converter 16 is passed directly through the memory control circuit 22, and the image display memory 24 or the memory is displayed. Written in 30.

Reference numeral 24 is an image display memory, 26 is a D / A converter, and 28 is an image display section composed of a TFT LCD or the like. The image data for display written in the image display memory 24 is D.
The image is displayed on the image display unit 28 via the / A converter 26. The electronic viewfinder function can be realized by sequentially displaying the captured image data using the image display unit 28.

Further, the image display unit 28 can arbitrarily turn on / off the display according to an instruction from the system control circuit 50, and when the display is turned off, the power consumption of the image pickup apparatus 100 is significantly reduced. can do.

Reference numeral 30 is a memory for storing the photographed still images and moving images, and has a storage capacity sufficient to store a predetermined number of still images and moving images for a predetermined time. This makes it possible to write a large amount of images in the memory 30 at high speed even in continuous shooting or panoramic shooting in which a plurality of still images are continuously shot. The memory 30 can also be used as a work area of the system control circuit 50.

32 is an adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT)
A compression / decompression circuit for compressing / decompressing image data by, for example, reading the image stored in the memory 30 and performing compression processing or decompression processing, and processing-completed data to the memory 3
Write to 0.

Reference numeral 40 denotes an exposure control means for controlling the shutter 12 having a diaphragm function, which also has a flash light control function in cooperation with the flash 48.
Reference numeral 42 is a distance measurement control means for controlling the focusing of the taking lens 10, 44 is a zoom control means for controlling the zooming of the taking lens 10, and 46 is a protection means 102 which is a barrier.
It is a barrier control means for controlling the operation of.

Reference numeral 48 denotes a flash, which also has an AF auxiliary light projection function and a flash light control function. Exposure control means 4
0, the distance measurement control unit 42 is controlled by using the TTL method, and the system control circuit 50 causes the exposure control unit 40 and the distance measurement control unit 42 to operate based on the calculation result of the captured image data calculated by the image processing circuit 20. Control against.
Reference numeral 50 is a system control circuit that controls the entire imaging apparatus 100, and 52 is a memory that stores constants, variables, programs, etc. for the operation of the system control circuit 50.

Reference numeral 54 denotes a display unit such as a liquid crystal display device and a speaker for displaying an operating state, a message and the like by using characters, images, voices and the like according to the execution of the program in the system control circuit 50, and the image pickup device 100. A single or multiple locations are installed near the operation part of the device for easy visual confirmation.
It is composed of a combination of LED, sound generator, etc. Further, the display unit 54 has some of its functions installed in the optical finder 104.

Of the display contents of the display section 54, those displayed on the LCD or the like include operation mode display, single shot / continuous shooting display, self-timer display, compression ratio display,
Recording pixel count display, recording count display, remaining image count display,
Shutter speed display, aperture value display, exposure compensation display,
Flash display, red-eye reduction display, macro shooting display, buzzer setting display, clock battery remaining amount display, battery remaining amount display, error display, information display with multiple digits, recording medium 200
And 210 detachable status display, communication I / F operation display, date
There is a time display.

Of the display contents of the display section 54, those displayed in the optical viewfinder 104 include operation mode display, focus display, camera shake warning display, flash charge display, shutter speed display, aperture value display, and exposure. There is a correction display, etc. Reference numeral 56 is an electrically erasable / recordable non-volatile memory, for example, an EEPROM or the like is used.

Reference numerals 60, 62, 64 and 70 are operation means for inputting various operation instructions of the system control circuit 50, and are a single or a plurality of switches, dials, touch panels, pointing by visual axis detection, voice recognition devices, and the like. It is composed of a combination of. Here, a specific description of these operating means will be given.

Reference numeral 60 is a power switch for turning on the power.
In addition to being able to disconnect, by operating this switch in the power-on direction with the power turned on, automatic still image shooting mode, manual still image shooting mode, panoramic shooting mode, movie shooting mode, playback mode, multi-screen playback -Each function mode such as erase mode and PC connection mode can be switched.

Reference numeral 62 denotes a shutter switch SW1, which is turned on during operation of a shutter button (not shown), and is AF (auto focus) processing, AE (auto exposure) processing, AWB (auto white balance) processing, EF (flash pre-flash).
Instruct to start operation such as processing.

Reference numeral 64 denotes a shutter switch SW2, which is turned on when the operation of a shutter button (not shown) is completed, and the image sensor 1
2 is an exposure process for writing image data in the memory 30 via the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22 through the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 22; a development process using calculation in the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22; The image data is read out from the storage medium, compressed by the compression / expansion circuit 32, and recorded on the recording medium 20.
0 or 210 is instructed to start the operation of a series of processes of recording the image data.

Reference numeral 70 denotes an operation unit including various buttons and a touch panel, such as a menu button, a set button, a macro button, a multi-screen playback page break button, a flash setting button, a single shooting / continuous shooting / self-timer switching button, and menu movement + (Plus) button, Menu move- (Minus) button, Playback image move + (Plus) button, Playback image- (Minus) button, Shooting image quality selection button, Exposure compensation button, Date / time setting button, Image display ON / OFF There are buttons and quick review ON / OFF buttons.

Reference numeral 80 is a power supply control means, which is a battery detection circuit, DC
-It is composed of a DC converter, a switch circuit that switches the blocks to be energized, and the like, detects whether or not a battery is installed, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level, and based on the detection result and the instruction from the system control circuit 50, the DC- It controls the DC converter and supplies the required voltage to each unit including the recording medium for the required period.

Reference numeral 82 is a connector, 84 is a connector, 86 is a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a NiCd battery,
It is a power source that consists of a secondary battery such as NiMH battery and Li battery, and an AC adapter.

Reference numerals 90 and 94 denote interfaces with recording media such as memory cards and hard disks, and 92 and 96.
Is a connector for connecting to a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk, and 98 is a recording medium attachment / detachment detecting means for detecting whether or not the recording medium 200 or 210 is attached to the connector 92 and / or the connector 96.

It should be noted that the present embodiment is described as having two systems of interfaces and connectors for attaching recording media. Of course, the interface and the connector for attaching the recording medium may have a single or a plurality of systems. Further, the interface and the connector of different standards may be combined and provided. As the interface and the connector, those conforming to the standards such as PCMCIA card and CF (Compact Flash (R)) card may be used.

In addition, interfaces 90 and 94,
When the connectors 92 and 96 are configured by using a standard such as a PCMCIA card or a CF (Compact Flash (R)) card, a LAN card, a modem card, a U card
By connecting various communication cards such as SB cards, IEEE1394 cards, P1284 cards, SCSI cards, communication cards such as PHS, etc., image data and image data can be attached to other computer and peripheral devices such as printers. Management information can be transferred to each other. Reference numeral 102 denotes the imaging device 100.
By covering the image pickup unit including the lens 10, the protective unit is a barrier that prevents the image pickup unit from being soiled or damaged.

Reference numeral 104 denotes an optical finder, which enables photographing by using only the optical finder without using the electronic finder function of the image display unit 28. In the optical viewfinder 104, some functions of the display unit 54, such as focus display, camera shake warning display, flash charge display, shutter speed display,
Aperture value display, exposure compensation display, etc. are installed.

110 is a communication means, such as RS232C, USB, IEEE
It has various communication functions such as 1394, P1284, SCSI, modem, LAN, and wireless communication. Reference numeral 112 denotes a connector for connecting the image pickup apparatus 100 to another device by the communication unit 110 or an antenna in the case of wireless communication.

Reference numeral 200 is a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium 200 includes a recording unit 202 including a semiconductor memory and a magnetic disk, an interface 204 with the image capturing apparatus 100, and a connector 206 for connecting to the image capturing apparatus 100.

Reference numeral 210 is a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium 210 includes a recording unit 212 including a semiconductor memory and a magnetic disk, an interface 214 with the imaging device 100, and a connector 216 for connecting to the imaging device 100.

The operation of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of a main routine for explaining the operation procedure of the image pickup apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. The operation of the image pickup apparatus 100 will be described below with reference to FIG. If the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction (step S101), the system control circuit 5
0 executes a predetermined initialization process (step S102),
The operation mode is read from the non-volatile memory 56 (step S103).

Next, the system control circuit 50 determines the read operation mode (step S104), executes the operation mode 1 process (step S105) if the operation mode is 1, and the operation mode if the operation mode is 2. 2 processing (step S106) is executed, and if the operation mode is 3, operation mode 3 processing (step S107) is executed. here,
If the power switch 60 is not operated (step S10)
8, step S111) and the process returns to step S104.

On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S108 is that the power switch 60 has been operated in the direction to turn off the power, the current operation mode is stored in the non-volatile memory 56 (step S109), and a predetermined termination process is executed. After performing (step S110), the process ends.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S111, if the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction, after executing the operation mode switching process (step S112),
It returns to step S104.

3 to 9 are flowcharts for explaining the detailed procedure in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG. FIG. 3 is a detailed flowchart for alternately switching between the still image recording mode for recording a still image and the moving image recording mode for recording a moving image in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG.

The system control circuit 50 determines the current operation mode (step S113), and switches the operation mode to the moving image recording mode if the current operation mode is the still image recording mode according to the determined operation mode. (Step S114).

On the other hand, if the current operation mode is the moving image recording mode, the operation mode is switched to the still image recording mode (step S115). Accordingly, by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction during operation, it becomes possible to easily switch the operation mode between the still image recording mode and the moving image recording mode.

FIG. 4 shows a still image recording mode for recording a still image in the operation mode switching process (step S112) shown in FIG. 2 when there are a plurality of types such as an automatic mode, a manual mode, and a panorama mode. 7 is a flowchart illustrating detailed contents when the image recording mode and the moving image recording mode for recording a moving image are alternately switched.

The system control circuit 50 determines the current operation mode (step S116), and if the current operation mode is the still image recording mode according to the result of the determination, the type of the current still image recording mode is non-volatile. The data is stored in the memory 56 (step S117), and the operation mode is switched to the moving image recording mode (step S118).

On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S116 is that the current operation mode is the moving image recording mode, the type of still image recording mode stored in the non-volatile memory 56 is read (step S119), and the operation mode is read. To a different type of still image recording mode (step S12)
0).

Thus, by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction during operation, it is possible to easily switch the operation mode between a plurality of types of still image recording mode and moving image recording mode. Becomes At this time, the switching of the types of the still image recording modes will be performed separately.

FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed procedure for alternately switching the recording mode for recording an image and the reproduction mode for reproducing an image recorded in the recording mode in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG. It is a flowchart.

The system control circuit 50 determines the current operation mode (step S121), and switches the operation mode to the reproduction mode if the current operation mode is the recording mode according to the result of the determination (step S122). If the current operation mode is the reproduction mode, the operation mode is switched to the recording mode (step S123).

Thus, by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction during operation, it is possible to easily switch the operation mode between the recording mode and the reproduction mode.

FIG. 6 shows a plurality of types such as a still image recording mode for recording a still image and a moving image recording mode for recording a moving image in the recording mode for recording an image in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG. If there is
6 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed procedure for alternately switching a recording mode and a reproduction mode for reproducing an image recorded in the recording mode.

The system control circuit 50 determines the current operation mode (step S124), and according to the result of the determination, if the current operation mode is the recording mode, the type of the current recording mode is set in the nonvolatile memory 56. (Step S125), and the operation mode is switched to the reproduction mode (step S126).

On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S124 is that the current operation mode is the reproduction mode, the nonvolatile memory 5
The type of the recording mode stored in 6 is read (step S127), and the operation mode is switched to the type of the read recording mode (step S128).

Thus, by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction during operation, it is possible to easily switch the operation mode between the recording mode and the reproduction mode of a plurality of types. At this time, switching of the type of recording mode is performed separately.

FIG. 7 shows switching between the still image recording mode for recording a still image, the moving image recording mode for recording a moving image, and the reproduction mode for reproducing a recorded image in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a detailed procedure of the above.

The system control circuit 50 determines the current operation mode (step S129), and switches the operation mode to the moving image recording mode if the current operation mode is the still image recording mode (step S129). Step S13
0) If the current operation mode is the moving image recording mode, the operation mode is switched to the reproduction mode (step S
131). Further, if the current operation mode is the reproduction mode, the operation mode is switched to the still image recording mode (step S132).

Thus, by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction during operation, it becomes possible to easily switch the operation mode among a plurality of operation modes. Here, the order of switching the operation modes may be a fixed order or may be arbitrarily set by the user.

Further, the candidates of the operation mode to be switched are
It does not matter if the user can arbitrarily set it.
Further, the operation modes to be switched are not limited to three types, and may be more or less than that.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart for explaining a detailed procedure for selecting an operation mode to be switched in the operation mode switching process (step S112) of FIG. 2 depending on the time period in which the power switch 60 is held in the power-on direction.

The system control circuit 50 includes a power switch 6
The time during which 0 is held in the power-on direction is counted (step S133, step S134). as a result,
It is determined whether the holding time is shorter than the predetermined time t1 (step S135), and if it is shorter, the operation mode is switched to the still image recording mode (step S136).

On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S135 is that the holding time is longer than the predetermined time t1, step S135
In step 137, it is determined whether the holding time is shorter than the predetermined time t2. If the result of this determination is that it is short, the operation mode is switched to the moving image recording mode (step S13).
8).

If the holding time is longer than the predetermined time t2 as a result of the determination in step S137, the operation mode is switched to the reproduction mode (step S139).

The operation mode with respect to the time when the power switch 60 is held in the power-on direction may be fixed or may be arbitrarily set by the user. Further, the combination of the operation modes with respect to the time for which the power switch 60 is held in the power-on direction may be changed according to the current operation mode. Further, the time for holding the power switch 60 in the power-on direction may be a fixed value or may be arbitrarily set by the user.

Furthermore, the operation mode after switching is simply displayed on the image display unit 28 or the display unit 54 by using icons, characters, LEDs, etc., according to the time the power switch 60 is held in the power-on direction. This makes it possible to notify the user in advance of the operation mode to be switched before actually switching the operation mode. Also,
The operation modes to be switched are not limited to three types, and may be more or less than that.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart for explaining a detailed procedure for selecting an operation mode to be switched depending on the number of times the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction. The system control circuit 50 sets the power switch 60 for a predetermined time t.
The number of continuous operation in the power-on direction without counting 3 is counted (step S140, step S141,
Step S142, Step S143, Step S14
4).

As a result, if it is determined that the number of operations is one (step S145), the operation mode is switched to the still image recording mode (step S146), and if it is determined that the number of operations is two (step S147), the operation mode is changed to a moving image. The recording mode is switched to (step S148). Furthermore, if it is determined that the number of operations is three or more (step S149),
Switching the operation mode to the reproduction mode (step S15)
0).

The operation mode for the number of times the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction may be fixed or may be arbitrarily set by the user. Further, the combination of the operation modes with respect to the number of times the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction may be changed according to the current operation mode. Further, the number of times the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction may be a fixed value or may be arbitrarily set by the user.

Further, depending on the number of times the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction, the operation mode after switching is displayed by the image display unit 28 or the display unit 5 using icons, characters, LEDs or the like.
It is also possible to notify the user in advance of the operation mode to be switched before the operation mode is actually switched by simply displaying the operation mode in FIG. Further, the operation modes to be switched are not limited to three types, and may be more or less than that.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to easily switch the operation mode by operating the power switch in the power-on direction while the image pickup apparatus is operating. Further, it is possible to minimize the number of operation members required for switching the operation mode of the image pickup apparatus.

In the description of the embodiments, all the operation modes are switched by operating the power switch 60 in the power-on direction, but in the presence of many operation modes, the operation mode is changed quickly. If you want to switch to a specific operation mode such as playback mode or video recording mode,
There is of course no problem even if a mode switch dedicated to a specific mode is separately provided and the operation mode is switched to a specific operation mode by operating the dedicated mode switch.

Even in this case, the operation mode before switching to the specific operation mode is stored in the nonvolatile memory 56, and the dedicated mode switch is operated again or the power switch 60 is operated in the power-on direction. It is possible to switch to the stored operation mode.

(Other Embodiments of the Present Invention) The present invention may be applied to a system including a plurality of devices or an apparatus including a single device.

Further, the functions of the above-described embodiments are implemented by a computer in an apparatus or system connected to the various devices so that the various devices are operated so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Computer program (CPU or MP) of the system or device is supplied.
Those implemented by operating the above various devices according to the program stored in U) are also included in the scope of the present invention.

Further, in this case, the program code itself of the software realizes the function of the above-described embodiment, and the program code itself and means for supplying the program code to the computer, for example, such program. The storage medium storing the code constitutes the present invention. A storage medium for storing the program code is, for example, a flexible disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-R.
An OM, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM or the like can be used.

Further, the computer executes the supplied program code so that not only the functions described in the above embodiments are realized, but also the OS (operating system) in which the program code is operating in the computer. Needless to say, the program code is also included in the embodiments of the present invention when the functions shown in the above embodiments are implemented jointly by other application software or the like.

Further, after the supplied program code is stored in the memory provided in the function expansion board of the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion board or function expansion unit is instructed based on the instruction of the program code. The present invention also includes a case where the CPU or the like included in the above performs some or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

[0077]

As described above, according to the present invention, the still image recording mode and the moving image recording mode can be switched by the operation of the switch for instructing the power-on. The transition between the recording modes can be performed quickly and easily, the operability can be significantly improved, and the number of switches can be reduced, so that the imaging device can be downsized and the operability can be improved.
A remarkable effect can be obtained in cost reduction. In addition, the operation mode can be selected according to the operation state of the switch, such as the operation mode corresponding to the number of times the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction can be specified in advance without leaving the switch for a certain period of time or more. Is effective in improving. Further, before actually switching the operation mode, the operation mode can be selected while confirming the operation mode to be switched next.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration block diagram of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a main routine of the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of an operation mode switching routine according to the present embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

10 Shooting lens 12 shutters 14 Image sensor 16 A / D converter 18 Timing generation circuit 20 Image processing circuit 22 Memory control circuit 24 image display memory 26D / A converter 28 Image display section 30 memory 32 image compression / decompression circuit 40 exposure control means 42 Distance measurement control means 44 Zoom control means 46 Barrier control means 48 flash 50 system control circuit 52 memory 54 display 56 Non-volatile memory 60 power switch 62 shutter switch 64 shutter switch 70 Operation unit 80 Power supply control means 82 connector 84 connector 86 power supply means 90 interface 92 connector 94 interface 96 connector 98 recording medium attachment / detachment detection means 100 imaging device 102 means of protection 104 Optical viewfinder 110 Communication means 112 connector (antenna) 200 recording media 202 recording unit 204 interface 206 connector 210 recording medium 212 recording section 214 interface 216 connector

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A still image recording mode for recording a still image,
In an imaging device having at least a moving image recording mode for recording a moving image and having a switch for instructing power-on, by operating the switch in a power-on direction, the currently operating recording mode is switched. An imaging device characterized by the above. 2. A still image recording mode for recording a still image,
In an imaging device having at least a moving image recording mode for recording a moving image and including a switch for instructing power-on, by operating the switch in a power-on direction while operating in the still image recording mode, The recording mode is switched to the moving image recording mode, and the recording mode is switched to the still image recording mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction while operating in the moving image recording mode. Imaging device. 3. When the recording mode is switched from the still image recording mode to the moving image recording mode, a storage unit for storing the type of the still image recording mode before the switching is provided, and the still image recording mode is switched to the still image recording mode. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the recording mode is switched to the image recording mode, the recording mode is switched to the still image recording mode of the type stored in the storage means. 4. An imaging apparatus having a recording mode for recording an image and a reproduction mode for displaying the recorded image, and comprising a switch for instructing power-on, wherein the power source is in operation during the recording mode. The operation mode is switched to the reproduction mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction, and the operation mode is switched to the recording mode by operating the switch in the power-on direction while operating in the reproduction mode. An imaging device characterized by the above. 5. When the operation mode is switched from the recording mode to the reproduction mode, a storage unit for storing the type of the recording mode before the switching is provided, and when the operation mode is switched from the reproduction mode to the recording mode. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the operation mode is switched to a recording mode of the type stored in the storage means. 6. A switch having a plurality of operation modes and for instructing power-on, wherein the switch is operated in a power-on direction while operating in one of the plurality of operation modes. Thus, in the imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes, each time the switch is operated in the power-on direction, the operation mode to be switched next is the plurality of operation modes. An image pickup apparatus, characterized in that it is selected from a certain order. 7. The switching order setting means for setting the switching order of the operation modes when the operation modes are switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, and further comprising: Imaging device. 8. A switching operation mode designating unit for designating an operation mode which is a candidate for switching when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in a power-on direction. The imaging device according to 6. 9. A switch having a plurality of operation modes and for instructing power-on, wherein the switch is operated in a power-on direction while operating in one of the plurality of operation modes. Thus, in the imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes, the switch is held in the power-on direction when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction. An image pickup apparatus comprising: an operation mode selection unit that selects an operation mode to be switched in accordance with a time period. 10. An operation mode designating means for designating an operation mode corresponding to a time for holding the switch in the power-on direction when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein 11. An operation mode display control for simply displaying an operation mode corresponding to a time for holding the switch in the power-on direction by icons or characters when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction. 11. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising means for enabling the user to select the operation mode while confirming the operation mode to be changed next on the display screen before actually changing the operation mode. . 12. A switch having a plurality of operation modes and for instructing power-on, wherein the switch is operated in a power-on direction while operating in one of the plurality of operation modes. Thus, in the imaging device in which the operation mode is switched to another operation mode among the plurality of operation modes, when the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the power switch is operated for a certain time or more. An image pickup apparatus comprising: an operation mode selection unit that selects an operation mode to be switched in accordance with the number of times of continuous operation in the power-on direction without leaving an empty space. 13. When the operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, the operation mode corresponding to the number of times the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction without leaving the switch for a certain time or more is specified. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising an operation mode designating unit for performing the operation. 14. When an operation mode is switched by operating the switch in the power-on direction, an operation mode corresponding to the number of times the switch is continuously operated in the power-on direction without leaving the switch for a certain time or longer is set. The operation mode display control means for displaying the operation mode with characters or characters is provided so that the user can select the operation mode while confirming the next operation mode on the display screen before actually switching the operation mode. Claim 1
The imaging device according to item 3.