U.S. patent application number 09/842084 was filed with the patent office on 2001-08-23 for information processing apparatus and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Ejima, Satoshi, Hamamura, Akihiko.
Application Number | 20010016113 09/842084 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27458510 |
Filed Date | 2001-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010016113 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ejima, Satoshi ; et
al. |
August 23, 2001 |
Information processing apparatus and method
Abstract
An information processing method and apparatus reproduces
predetermined information from a variety of information recorded
by, for example, an electronic camera. The information may be
reproduced in a predetermined order and with predetermined
reproduction time. Reproduction information, for use during
reproduction, is generated based on recording information.
Reproduction times may be changed by changing a WAIT time between
reproduction of each recording unit. A slide show mode may be
selected after a series of information are recorded. If information
is not being presently recorded in the electronic camera, all of
the information previously recorded may be displayed as the slide
show. Also, new information may be recorded even under unexpected
conditions, for example. Information to be reproduced may be set
during slide show mode by changing the order of reproduction if
necessary. The new information is recognized as different
information from the information that is set during the slide show
mode. Thus, if information is reproduced during the slide show
mode, the new information is not reproduced.
Inventors: |
Ejima, Satoshi; (Tokyo-to,
JP) ; Hamamura, Akihiko; (Chiba-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OLIFF & BERRIDGE, PLC
P.O. Box 19928
Alexandria
VA
22320
US
|
Assignee: |
NIKON CORPORATION
|
Family ID: |
27458510 |
Appl. No.: |
09/842084 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09842084 |
Apr 26, 2001 |
|
|
|
08972679 |
Nov 18, 1997 |
|
|
|
60052923 |
Jul 11, 1997 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
386/240 ;
348/E5.042; 348/E5.047; 386/E5.072 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11B 2220/61 20130101;
G11B 27/105 20130101; G11B 27/322 20130101; G11B 27/034 20130101;
H04N 5/232411 20180801; H04N 2101/00 20130101; H04N 5/232933
20180801; H04N 2201/3225 20130101; G11B 27/34 20130101; H04N 9/8227
20130101; H04N 5/772 20130101; H04N 9/8047 20130101; H04N 2201/3264
20130101; G11B 27/031 20130101; H04N 21/47 20130101; H04N 5/232939
20180801; H04N 5/907 20130101; H04N 2201/3242 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
386/96 ; 386/98;
386/117 |
International
Class: |
H04N 005/76; H04N
005/225 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Feb 10, 1997 |
JP |
9-026513 |
Jun 20, 1997 |
JP |
9-163898 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An information processing apparatus that reproduces information
stored as recording units, each recording unit including at least
one of image information, memo information and sound information,
the information processing apparatus comprising: storage means for
storing the recording units; recording unit selection means for
selecting at least one recording unit from among the recording
units stored in the storage means; reproduction order setting means
for setting a reproduction order of a plurality of the recording
units selected by the recording unit selection means; reproduction
time setting means for setting a reproduction time for each of the
recording units set by the reproduction order setting means;
reading means for reading the recording units from the storage
means based on the order set by the reproduction order setting
means; and reproduction means for reproducing information contained
in each recording unit read by the reading means, in accordance
with the reproduction time set by the reproduction time setting
means.
2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
further comprising an information selection means for selecting the
information to be reproduced from all the information contained in
each recording unit selected by the recording unit selection means;
and wherein the reproduction means selects only information
selected by the information selection means from among all the
information contained in each selected recording unit.
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein the reproduction time setting means sets the reproduction
time of each recording unit based on the type of information to be
reproduced from the recording unit.
4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein when sound information is included as information to be
reproduced in the recording unit selected by the recording unit
selection means, the reproduction time setting means sets a value
of the reproduction time by adding a predetermined time to the time
required to reproduce the sound information.
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3,
wherein when sound information is not included as information to be
reproduced in the recording unit selected by the recording unit
selection means, the reproduction time setting means sets a
predetermined time as the reproduction time.
6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
further comprising changing means for changing the reproduction
time set by the reproduction time setting means.
7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein when the image information includes multiple frames of
continuously photographed images, the reproduction time setting
means sets the reproduction time of each frame based on frame rate
at the time of shooting.
8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1,
wherein the image information includes multiple frames of
continuously photographed images, the apparatus further comprising
frame selection means for selecting at least a predetermined frame
to be reproduced from the continuously photographed images.
9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein the frame selection means selects all the frames of the
continuously photographed images when the continuously photographed
images include sound information.
10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the images that are continuously photographed include
sound information and there is at least one frame that is not
selected by the frame selection means, the reproduction means
reproduces a frame which either proceeds or follows the at least
one frame which is not selected in place of the frame which is not
selected.
11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8,
wherein when the images that are continuously photographed include
sound information and there is at least one frame that is not
selected by the frame selection means, the reproduction means does
not reproduce a frame but reproduces only sound in place of the
frame which is not selected
12. An information processing apparatus that reproduces information
stored as recording units, each recording unit including at least
one of image information, memo information and sound information,
said information processing apparatus comprising: generation means
for generating a reproduction group including at least one
recording unit; setting means for setting a reproduction order of
each recording unit contained in the reproduction group;
designation means for designating a desired reproduction group;
reproduction means for reproducing each recording unit contained in
the reproduction group designated by the designation means, the
reproduction means reproducing each recording unit based on the
reproduction order set by the setting means; and prohibition means
for prohibiting reproduction of recording units that are not
contained in the reproduction group designated by the designation
means.
13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12,
further comprising resetting means for resetting the reproduction
group generated by the generation means.
14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12,
further comprising dissolution means for dissolving the
reproduction group generated by the generation means.
15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14,
wherein the reproduction means reproduces the recording units based
on the order in which the recording units were recorded when all
the reproduction groups are dissolved by said dissolution
means.
16. An information processing apparatus comprising: a memory that
stores recording units, each recording unit including at least one
of image information, memo information and sound information; a
recording unit selector that selects at least one recording unit
from among the recording units stored in the memory; a reproduction
order setting device that sets a reproduction order of a plurality
of the recording units selected by the recording unit selector; and
a controller coupled to the memory, the recording unit selector and
to the reproduction order setting device to set a reproduction time
for each of the recording units set by the reproduction order
setting device, and to control reading of the recording units from
the memory based on the order set by the reproduction order setting
device and reproduction of the information contained in each
recording unit in accordance with the set reproduction time.
17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16,
further comprising an information selector coupled to the
controller to select the information to be reproduced from all the
information contained in each recording unit selected by the
recording unit selector; and wherein the controller reproduces only
information selected by the information selector from among all the
information contained in each selected recording unit.
18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16,
wherein the controller sets the reproduction time of each recording
unit based on the type of information to be reproduced from the
recording unit.
19. The information processing apparatus according to claim 18,
wherein when sound information is included as information to be
reproduced in the recording unit selected by the recording unit
selector, the controller sets a value of the reproduction time by
adding a predetermined time to the time required to reproduce the
sound information.
20. The information processing apparatus according to claim 18,
wherein when sound information is not included as information to be
reproduced in the recording unit selected by the recording unit
selector, the controller sets a predetermined time as the
reproduction time.
21. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16,
further comprising a changing device coupled to the controller to
change the reproduction time set by the controller.
22. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16,
wherein the apparatus is a digital camera.
23. The information processing apparatus according to claim 22,
wherein the digital camera includes: a photoelectric converter
through which the image information is input to the memory; a touch
tablet through which the memo information is input to the memory;
and at least one microphone through which the sound information is
input to the memory.
24. An information processing apparatus that reproduces information
stored as recording units, each recording unit including at least
one of image information, memo information and sound information,
said information processing apparatus comprising: a reproduction
group generator that generates at least one reproduction group
including at least one recording unit; a setting device that sets a
reproduction order of each recording unit contained in the at least
one reproduction group; a designator that designates a desired
reproduction group; and a controller coupled to the reproduction
group generator, the setting device and to the designator to
reproduce each recording unit contained in the reproduction group
designated by the designator, the controller reproducing each
recording unit based on the set reproduction order, and prohibiting
reproduction of recording units that are not contained in the
designated reproduction group.
25. The information processing apparatus according to claim 24,
further comprising a resetting device coupled to the controller to
reset the at least one reproduction group generated by the
reproduction group generator.
26. The information processing apparatus according to claim 24,
further comprising a dissolution command device coupled to the
controller to dissolve the reproduction group generated by the
controller.
27. The information processing apparatus according to claim 26,
wherein the controller reproduces the recording units based on the
order in which the recording units were recorded when all the
reproduction groups have been dissolved.
28. A method of controlling an information processing apparatus
that reproduces information stored as recording units, each
recording unit including at least one of image information, memo
information and sound information, the method comprising the steps
of: selecting at least one recording unit from among a plurality of
recording units stored in memory; setting a reproduction order of a
plurality of the selected recording units; setting a reproduction
time for each of the selected and ordered recording units; reading
the recording units from the memory based on the set reproduction
order; and reproducing information contained in each recording
unit, in accordance with the set reproduction time.
29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising: selecting
the information to be reproduced from all the information contained
in each selected recording unit; and wherein the reproducing step
reproduces only the selected information from among all the
information contained in each selected recording unit.
30. The method according to claim 28, wherein the reproduction time
setting step includes setting the reproduction time of each
recording unit based on the type of information to be reproduced
from the recording unit.
31. The method according to claim 30, wherein when sound
information is included as information to be reproduced in the
selected recording unit, the reproduction time setting step
includes setting a value of the reproduction time by adding a
predetermined time to the time required to reproduce the sound
information.
32. The method according to claim 30, wherein when sound
information is not included as information to be reproduced in the
selected recording unit, the reproduction time setting step
includes setting a predetermined time as the reproduction time.
33. The method according to claim 28, wherein when the image
information includes multiple frames of continuously photographed
images, the reproduction time setting step includes setting the
reproduction time of each frame based on frame rate at the time of
shooting.
34. The method according to claim 28, wherein when the image
information includes multiple frames of continuously photographed
images, further comprising the step of selecting at least a
predetermined frame to be reproduced from the continuously
photographed images.
35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the frame selecting
step selects all the frames of the continuously photographed images
when the continuously photographed images include sound
information.
36. The method according to claim 34, wherein when the images that
are continuously photographed include sound information and there
is at least one frame that is not selected by the frame selection
means, the reproducing step reproduces a frame which either
proceeds or follows the at least one frame which is not selected in
place of the frame which is not selected.
37. The method according to claim 34, wherein when the images that
are continuously photographed include sound information and there
is at least one frame that is not selected in the frame selecting
step, the reproducing step does not reproduce a frame but
reproduces only sound in place of the frame which is not
selected.
38. A method of controlling an information processing apparatus
that reproduces information stored as recording units, each
recording unit including at least one of image information, memo
information and sound information, the method comprising the steps
of: generating at least one reproduction group including at least
one recording unit; setting a reproduction order of each recording
unit contained in the at least one reproduction group; designating
a desired reproduction group; reproducing each recording unit
contained in the designated reproduction group based on the set
reproduction order; and prohibiting reproduction of recording units
that are not contained in the designated reproduction group.
39. The method according to claim 38, further comprising resetting
the contents of the generated reproduction group.
40. The method according to claim 38, further comprising dissolving
the generated reproduction group.
41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the reproducing step
reproduces the recording units based on the order in which the
recording units were recorded when all the reproduction groups are
dissolved.
42. A recording medium that stores a computer-readable control
program having instructions that are executable by a controller of
an information processing apparatus that reproduces information
stored as recording units, each recording unit including at least
one of image information, memo information and sound information,
to perform the steps of: selecting at least one recording unit from
among a plurality of recording units stored in memory; setting a
reproduction order of a plurality of the selected recording units;
setting a reproduction time for each of the selected and ordered
recording units; reading the recording units from the memory based
on the set reproduction order; and reproducing information
contained in each recording unit, in accordance with the set
reproduction time.
43. A recording medium that stores a computer-readable control
program having instructions that are executable by a controller of
an information processing apparatus that reproduces information
stored as recording units, each recording unit including at least
one of image information, memo information and sound information,
to perform the steps of: generating at least one reproduction group
including at least one recording unit; setting a reproduction order
of each recording unit contained in the at least one reproduction
group; designating a desired reproduction group; reproducing each
recording unit contained in the designated reproduction group based
on the set reproduction order; and prohibiting reproduction of
recording units that are not contained in the designated
reproduction group.
Description
RELATED PROVISIONAL APPLICATION
[0001] This nonprovisional application claims the benefit of
Provisional Application No. 60-052923 filed Jul. 11, 1997.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0002] The disclosures of the following priority applications are
herein incorporated by reference: Japanese Patent Application No.
9-026513, filed Feb. 10, 1997, and Japanese Patent Application No.
9-163898, filed Jun. 20, 1997.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of Invention
[0004] The invention relates to an information processing
apparatus. In particular, the invention relates to an information
processing apparatus which reproduces or records information in
recording units. The information in each recording unit includes at
least one of image information of a photographed object, input memo
information such as a line-drawing, and sound information input
through a microphone.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Art
[0006] In a conventional electronic camera, images are photographed
and are reproduced. The images are reproduced at a predetermined
time interval according to the order in which the images were
recorded. As a result, a conventional electronic camera has a
problem since the order of reproduction of the photographed images
cannot be arbitrarily set. Also, there is another problem that the
predetermined time interval for reproduction of each individual
image cannot be arbitrarily set.
[0007] However, with progress in recent years concerning
integration and mounting technology of semiconductor devices,
electronic cameras capable of recording information such as sound
and memos, in addition to images of objects, are developing. With
such electronic cameras, simultaneous recording of various types of
information is possible. As a result, the time wasted in
reproducing unnecessary information could be reduced by selecting
and reproducing only desired information. Such information is
selected from among all the information that is recorded
simultaneously. Such desired information might include image
information, for example. However, conventional electronic cameras
do not provide such capability. As a result, it is impossible to
selectively reproduce information arbitrarily.
[0008] Another problem with the conventional electronic camera is
that it may be necessary for the user to make a presentation using
photographed images, i.e. "necessary" images to the presentation.
This may be accomplished, for example, by connecting an electronic
camera to a large CRT monitor, for example. However the user might
shoot a new image for some reason, after shooting the necessary
images using the electronic camera. However, the newly photographed
image will then be reproduced along with the "necessary" images of
the presentation. This results in reproduction of unrelated
images.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In view of the problems described above, it is an object of
the invention to provide the capability to selectively reproduce
desired information and to vary the reproduction time of each
information. It is also an object of the invention to provide the
capability to reproduce information recorded by an electronic
camera, for example, in a desired order.
[0010] In accordance with the invention, an information processing
apparatus includes a memory for storing recording units. A
recording unit selection unit is provided for selecting a recording
unit for reproduction, from among all the recording units stored in
the memory. A reproduction order setting unit sets the reproduction
order of the plurality of recording units which are selected by the
recording unit selection unit. A reproduction time setting unit
sets the reproduction time for each of the recording units, which
are set by the reproduction order setting unit. A reading unit
reads the recording unit from the memory based on the order set by
the reproduction order setting unit. A reproduction unit reproduces
information contained in the recording unit which is read by the
reading unit based on the set reproduction time for that recording
unit. The reproduction time is set by the reproduction time setting
unit.
[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, it is a
further object of the invention to prevent the unnecessary
reproduction of an image even when a new image is photographed
after recording necessary images. Such attribute is useful when
making a presentation using an electronic camera, for example.
[0012] According to this further aspect of the invention, the
information processing apparatus includes a generation unit for
generating a reproduction group including at least one recording
unit, a setting unit for setting the reproduction order of each
recording unit contained in the reproduction group, a designation
unit for designating a desired reproduction group, and a
reproduction unit for reproducing recording units, based on the
reproduction order set by the setting unit. Each recording unit
contained in the designated reproduction group is reproduced. A
prohibition unit prohibits the reproduction of recording units
which are not contained in the reproduction group designated by the
designation unit.
[0013] The invention also relates to methods of controlling
information processing apparatus as detailed above and to a
recording medium that stores a computer-readable control program
including instructions that are executable by a controller of an
information processing apparatus to function as detailed above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other aspects and advantages of the invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description of
preferred embodiments when taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate
like elements and wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an electronic camera
in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a back perspective view of the electronic camera
shown in FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a back perspective view of the electronic camera
with the LCD cover closed in accordance with the invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the interior of
electronic camera shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2;
[0019] FIGS. 5(a)-(c) show a relationship between the position of
the LCD cover, the power source switch and the LCD switch in
accordance with the invention;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the electronic camera shown in
FIG. 1 and FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 7 shows a thinning process of pixels during L mode in
accordance with the invention;
[0022] FIG. 8 shows a thinning process of pixels during H mode in
accordance with the invention;
[0023] FIG. 9 shows an example of a display screen of the
electronic camera shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 in accordance with the
invention;
[0024] FIG. 10 shows an example of a display screen initially
displayed after turning on the electric power source in the
electronic camera shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 11 shows an example of a display screen displaying an
image in accordance with the invention;
[0026] FIG. 12 shows an example of a menu screen displayed when the
menu key is pressed in the example shown in FIG. 11 in accordance
with the invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 shows an example of a display screen displayed when
the "slide show" is selected in the menu screen of FIG. 12 in
accordance with the invention;
[0028] FIG. 14 shows an information storage configuration which
corresponds to the example shown in FIG. 13 in a memory card in
accordance with the invention;
[0029] FIGS. 15(a)-(b) show examples of data structures of
recording information and reproduction information, respectively,
in accordance with the invention;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing an example of a process for
generating reproduction information from recording information in
accordance with the invention;
[0031] FIG. 17 shows an example of a display including reproduction
information containing continuously photographed images in
accordance with the invention;
[0032] FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of a process
executed when the execution key is pressed in the display screen of
FIG. 13 or FIG. 17 in accordance with the invention;
[0033] FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an example of a process for
setting the order in which information is reproduced using the
process of FIG. 18 in accordance with the invention;
[0034] FIG. 20 shows an example of a display when changing the
reproduction order in accordance with the invention;
[0035] FIG. 21 shows an example of another display when changing
the reproduction order in accordance with the invention;
[0036] FIG. 22 is a flow chart showing an example of a process for
setting reproduction time of information reproduced by the process
of FIG. 18 in accordance with the invention;
[0037] FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing an example of a process for
setting types of information to be reproduced by the process of
FIG. 18 in accordance with the invention;
[0038] FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing an example of a process for
changing the process shown in FIG. 23 to correspond to a continuous
photographed image with sound in accordance with the invention;
[0039] FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing an example of a process
executed when the power source is turned on for the first time in
an electronic camera in accordance with a second embodiment of the
invention;
[0040] FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing the process in step S135 in
FIG. 25 in accordance with the second embodiment of the
invention;
[0041] FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing the process in step S136 in
FIG. 25 in accordance with the second embodiment of the
invention;
[0042] FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing the process in step S138 in
FIG. 25 in accordance with the second embodiment of the
invention;
[0043] FIG. 29 shows an arrangement of a header generated through
the process of FIG. 26 in accordance with the second embodiment of
the invention;
[0044] FIG. 30 shows an example of a screen displayed on the LCD as
a result of the process shown in FIG. 27 in accordance with the
second embodiment of the invention;
[0045] FIG. 31 shows an example of a display when a new image is
photographed after the display shown in FIG. 30 in accordance with
the second embodiment of the invention; and
[0046] FIG. 32 shows another example of a display screen displayed
when the menu key is operated in accordance with the second
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0047] While the invention will hereinafter be described in
connection with preferred embodiments thereof, it will be
understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those
embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all
alternatives, modifications and equivalents that may be included
within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.
[0048] For a general understanding of the features of the
invention, reference is made to the drawings. In the drawings, like
reference numerals have been used throughout to designate like
elements.
[0049] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views showing examples of an
arrangement of an embodiment of an electronic camera in accordance
with the invention. In the electronic camera of the embodiment of
the invention, the surface facing the object is defined as the X1
face and the surface facing the user when an object is photographed
is defined as the X2 face. On the top edge portion of the X1 face
are positioned a viewfinder 2, which is used to verify the shooting
range of the object, and a shooting lens 3, which takes in the
optical image of the object. A light emitting unit 4, i.e. a strobe
which emits light to illuminate an object, is also provided on the
top edge portion of the X1 face.
[0050] Also, a photometry device 16 is located on the X1 face and
measures light during operation of a red-eye reducing LED 15 to
reduce red eye by emitting light before causing the strobe 4 to
emit light. CCD 20, as shown in FIG. 4, is stopped during
photometry when the strobe 4 emits light. A colorimetry device 17
measures color temperature during the time when operation of CCD 20
is stopped.
[0051] Additionally, a top portion of the X2 face corresponds to
the top portion of the X1 face, on which the viewfinder 2, the
control lens 3 and the light emitting unit 4 are formed. The
viewfinder 2 and a speaker 5, which outputs sound recorded in the
electronic camera 1, are provided on the X2 face. Also, the LCD 6
and the operation keys 7 are provided on the X2 face, and are
positioned vertically below the viewfinder 2, the shooting lens 3,
the light emitting unit 4 and the speaker 5. On the surface of the
LCD 6, a touch tablet 6A is arranged. The touch tablet 6A outputs
position data corresponding to the position designated by a
touching operation using a pen type pointing device, explained
hereinafter. The touch tablet 6A is made of transparent material
such as glass or resin. The user may view an image displayed on the
LCD 6, which is formed beneath the touch tablet 6A, through the
touch tablet 6A.
[0052] The control keys 7 are operated to reproduce and display
recorded data on the LCD 6. Using the control keys, the user inputs
control commands to the CPU 39, which in turn controls the
recording unit selection unit, the reproduction order setting unit,
the reproduction time setting unit, the reading unit, the
information selection unit, the alteration unit, and frame
selection unit, to be described below.
[0053] The menu key 7A is operated to display the menu screen on
the LCD 6. An execution key 7B is operated to reproduce recorded
information selected by the user. A clear key 7C is operated to
delete recorded information. A cancel key 7D is operated to
interrupt the reproduction process of recorded information. The
scroll key 7E is operated to scroll the screen vertically when
recorded information is displayed on LCD 6 as a table.
[0054] An LCD cover 14 is provided on the X2 face to freely slide
over and protect the LCD 6 when it is not in use. When moved
vertically upward, the LCD cover 14 covers the LCD 6 and touch
tablet 6A as shown in FIG. 3. When the LCD cover is moved
vertically downward, the LCD 6 and the touch tablet 6A are exposed.
Also, a power switch 11, described below, is arranged on the Y2
face, as shown in FIG. 2, and is switched to an ON position by an
arm member 14A of the LCD cover 14.
[0055] A microphone 8 to collect sound and an earphone jack 9, to
which an earphone may be connected (not shown), are provided on the
Z face. The Z face is the top surface of the electronic camera 1. A
release switch 10, which is operated to photograph an object, and a
continuous shooting mode switch 13, which is operated to switch to
a continuous shooting mode, is provided on the left side surface as
shown in FIG. 1, i.e. the Y1 face. The release switch 10 and the
continuous shooting mode switch 13 are arranged vertically below
the viewfinder 2, the shooting lens 3 and the light emitting unit
4, which are provided in the top edge section of the X1 face.
[0056] A recording switch 12, operated to record sound, and a power
switch 11 are provided on the left surface as shown in FIG. 2, i.e.
the Y2 face. The Y2 faces opposite the Y1 face. Similar to the
release switch 10 and the continuous shooting mode switch 13
described above, the recording switch 12 and the power switch 11
are arranged vertically below the viewfinder 2, the shooting lens 3
and the light emitting unit 4, which are provided on the top edge
portion of the X1 face. Additionally, the recording switch 12 and
the release switch 10, on the Y1 face, are formed at essentially
the same height. As a result, a user does not feel any difference
when the camera is either held in the right hand or the left
hand.
[0057] The height of the recording switch 12 and the release switch
10 may be varied to prevent erroneous pressing of a switch arranged
on an opposite side of a switch intended to be pressed. That is,
erroneous pressing can result when one switch is pressed and the
user's fingers holding the opposite side surface, to offset the
pressing force of the switch, inadvertently presses a switch.
[0058] The continuous shooting mode switch 13 is used when the user
decides whether to shoot one frame or several frames of an object
when the release switch 10 is pressed. For example, if the
indicator of the continuous shooting mode switch 13 is positioned
at "S", i.e. when the switch is changed to the S mode, and the
release switch 10 is pressed, the camera shoots only one frame.
[0059] Additionally, if the indicator of the continuous shooting
mode switch 13 is positioned at "L", i.e. when the switch is
changed to the L mode, and the release switch 10 is pressed, the
camera shoots eight frames per second for as long as the release
switch 10 is pressed. Specifically, the low speed continuous
shooting mode is enabled.
[0060] Further, if the indicator of the continuous shooting mode
switch 13 is positioned at "H", i.e. when the switch is changed to
the H mode, and the release switch 10 is pressed, the camera shoots
30 frames per second as long as the release switch 10 is pressed.
Specifically, the high speed continuous shooting mode is
enabled.
[0061] A description of the internal components of the electronic
camera 1 is set forth below. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing
an example of the internal components of the electronic camera
shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The CCD 20 is provided adjacent the X2
face behind the shooting lens 3. The optical image of an object
imaged through the shooting lens 3 is photoelectrically converted
to electric (image) signals by the CCD 20.
[0062] The display device 26 in the viewfinder is arranged inside
the vision screen of the viewfinder 2. The display device 26
displays conditions of the camera including settings, for example,
of various functions for the user who views an object through the
viewfinder 2. Four cylindrical batteries 21, for example AA dry
cell batteries, are placed side by side vertically below the LCD 6.
Electric power stored in the batteries 21 is supplied to components
of the camera. Additionally, a condenser 22 is provided below the
LCD 6 and next to the batteries 21 to accumulate electric charge
used to cause the light emitting unit 4 to flash.
[0063] Various control circuits are formed on the circuit board 23
to control each part of the electronic camera 1. Also, a removable
memory card 24 is provided between the circuit board 23, the LCD 6
and the batteries 21. As a result, various information input into
the electronic camera 1 is recorded in a preassigned area of the
memory card 24.
[0064] The LCD switch 25, arranged adjacent to the power source
switch 11, is turned on only when a plunger thereof is pressed. The
LCD switch 25 is switched to the ON-state, in conjunction with the
power source switch 11, by an arm member 14A mounted on the LCD
cover 14 when the LCD cover 14 is moved vertically downward as
shown in FIG. 5(a).
[0065] Also, if the LCD cover 14 is moved vertically upward, the
power source switch 11 may be operated by the user independently of
the LCD switch 25. For example, if the LCD cover 14 is closed and
the electronic camera 1 is not used, the power source switch 11 and
the LCD switch 25 are positioned in OFF mode as shown in FIG. 5(b).
In this mode, if the user switches the power source switch 11 to ON
mode as shown in FIG. 5(c), the power source switch 11 will be
positioned in the ON mode, but the LCD switch 25 will continue to
be in the OFF mode. Alternatively, the power source switch 11 and
the LCD switch 25 may be positioned in the OFF mode, as shown in
FIG. 5(b). In this condition, if the LCD cover 14 is opened, the
power source switch 11 and the LCD switch 25 will be moved to the
ON mode, as shown in FIG. 5(a). Then, when the LCD cover 14 is
closed, only the LCD switch 25 will move to the OFF mode as, shown
in FIG. 5(c).
[0066] With the arrangement of the present embodiment, the memory
card 24 is constructed to be removable. However, a memory in which
various information can be recorded may also be provided on the
circuit board 23. Also, various information recorded on the memory,
for example the memory card 24, may be output to an external
personal computer, for example, using an interface 48.
[0067] The internal electronic components of the electronic camera
1 of the present embodiment are further described hereinafter, with
reference to the block diagram of FIG. 6. The CCD 20, which
includes a plurality of pixels, photoelectrically converts an
optical image formed on each pixel into an electric (image) signal.
The digital signal processor, a reproduction unit hereinafter
referred to as the DSP 33, supplies a CCD horizontal driving pulse
to the CCD 20. The DSP 33 also controls the CCD driving circuit 34
so as to supply a CCD vertical driving pulse to the CCD 20.
[0068] The image processing unit 31 is controlled by the CPU 39 so
as to sample image signals photoelectrically converted by the CCD
20 with predetermined timing, and to amplify the sampled signals to
a predetermined level. The analog/digital conversion circuit,
hereinafter referred to as the A/D conversion circuit 32, digitizes
image signals sampled by the image processing unit 31 and supplies
them to the DSP 33.
[0069] The DSP 33 controls the buffer memory 36 and the data bus
connected to the memory card 24 in such a manner so as to
temporarily store the image data, which is supplied from the A/D
conversion circuit 32, in the buffer memory 36; to read the image
data stored in the buffer memory 36; and to record the image data
in the memory card 24. Also, the DSP 33 controls the frame memory
35 so as to store image data which is supplied by the A/D
conversion circuit 32. Further, the DSP 33 causes the image data to
be displayed on LCD 6, inputs the shooting image data from the
memory card 24, decompresses the shooting image data, and then
stores the decompressed shooting image data in the frame memory 35,
and thereafter displays the decompressed shooting image data on the
LCD 6.
[0070] Also, the DSP 33 repeatedly operates the CCD 20 by adjusting
the exposure time, i.e. the exposure value, until the exposure
level of CCD 20 reaches an appropriate level. Then, the electronic
camera 1 initiates further operations. Thereafter, the DSP 33 first
operates the photometry circuit 51 and then computes an initial
value of exposure time of the CCD 20. Such exposure time
corresponds to the level of light detected by the photometry device
16. As a result, adjustment of the exposure time for the CCD 20 may
be accomplished in a short period of time.
[0071] In addition, the DSP 33 executes time management for data
input/output when recording on the memory card 24 and when storing
decompressed image data on the buffer memory 36. The buffer memory
36 is used to accommodate the difference between the data
input/output speed of the memory card 24 and the CPU 39 and the DSP
33 processing speeds.
[0072] The microphone 8 inputs sound information, i.e. gathers
sound and outputs the sound information to the A/D and D/A
conversion circuit 42. The A/D and D/A conversion circuit 42
converts the analog signals to digital signals and then outputs the
digital signals to the CPU 39. As a result, sound data supplied by
the CPU 39 is changed to analog signals. The sound signal, which
has been changed to analog signals, is output to the speaker 5.
[0073] The photometry device 16 measures the level of light of an
object to be photographed and its surroundings. The results of the
measurement are output to the photometry circuit 51. The photometry
circuit 51 executes a predetermined operation on the analog
signals. Specifically, the measurement results, input from the
photometry device 16, are converted to digital signals. The digital
signals are output to the CPU 39.
[0074] The color measuring (colorimetry) device 17 measures the
color temperature of the object and its surroundings. The results
of the measurement are output to the colorimetry circuit 52. The
colorimetry circuit 52 executes a predetermined operation on the
analog signals. Specifically, the color measurement results input
from the colorimetry device 17 are converted to digital signals.
The digital signals are output to the CPU 39.
[0075] The timer 45 has an internal clock circuit which outputs
data corresponding to current time (time and date) to the CPU
39.
[0076] The stop driving circuit 53 sets the diameter of the
aperture stop 54 to a predetermined value. The stop 54 is arranged
between the shooting lens 3 and the CCD 20 and changes the size of
the aperture depending on the level of light passing from the
shooting lens 3 to the CCD 20. The CPU 39 stops operation of the
photometry circuit 51 and the colorimetry circuit 52 when the LCD
cover 14 is open, and performs operation of the photometry circuit
51 and the colorimetry circuit 52 when the LCD cover 14 is closed.
The CPU also stops operation of the CCD 20, for example, the
electronic shutter operation, until the release switch 10 is
positioned in half-depressed mode, i.e. the state in which a first
control process is executed.
[0077] The CPU 39 receives results of light measurement from the
photometry device 16, and also receives the color measurement
results of the colorimetry device 17. This is accomplished by the
CPU controlling the photometry circuit 51 and the colorimetry
circuit 52 when operation of the CCD 20 is stopped.
[0078] Also, the CPU 39 is made to compute a white balance
adjustment value corresponding to the color temperature supplied
from the colorimetry circuit 52. This computation is done using a
predetermined table. The white balance value is supplied to the
image processing unit 31. More specifically, when the LCD cover 14
is closed, the LCD 6 is not used as an electronic viewfinder. As a
result, operation of the CCD 20 is stopped. The CCD 20 consumes a
large amount of electrical power. However, by stopping operation of
the CCD 20 as described above, the power of the batteries 21 may be
conserved.
[0079] Also, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, the image processing
unit 31 is controlled in such a manner that various processes are
not executed by the image processing unit 31 until the release
switch 10 is operated, specifically, until the release switch 10 is
positioned in the half-depressed mode.
[0080] Also, when the LCD cover 14 is closed, the stop driving
circuit 53 is controlled in such a manner that the stop driving
circuit 53 does not execute certain operations until the release
switch 10 is operated, i.e. until the release switch 10 is
positioned in the half-depressed mode. Such operations may include,
for example, changing the diameter of the aperture stop 54.
[0081] Additionally, at the user's discretion, the CPU 39 causes
the strobe 4 to flash. This is done by controlling the strobe
driving circuit 37. Also at the user's discretion, the CPU 39
causes the red eye reduction LED 15 to flash prior to causing the
strobe 4 to flash by controlling the red eye reduction LED driving
circuit 38. In such situation, the CPU 39 prevents the strobe 4
from flashing when the LCD cover 14 is open, i.e. when the
electronic viewfinder is used. In such manner, an object may be
photographed while an image is displayed on the electronic
viewfinder.
[0082] The CPU 39 records information concerning the date of
shooting as image data header information. Such information is
stored in the shooting image recording area of memory card 24 based
on the date data input from the timer 45. In other words, shooting
date data is attached to shooting image data recorded in the
shooting image recording area of memory card 24. Additionally, the
CPU 39 temporarily records, digitizes and compresses sound data to
the buffer memory 36. The CPU then records the sound data in the
sound recording area of the memory card 24. Also, data concerning
the recording date is simultaneously recorded in the sound
recording area of the memory card 24 as sound data header
information.
[0083] The CPU 39 executes an auto focus operation by controlling
the lens driving circuit 30 and by moving the shooting lens 3.
Also, the CPU changes the aperture diameter of the stop 54 by
controlling the stop driving circuit 53. Stop 54 is arranged
between the shooting lens 3 and the CCD 20. The CPU 39 displays
settings of various operations, for example, on the display device
26 inside the viewfinder 2. Such display is accomplished by the CPU
controlling the display circuit 40 inside the viewfinder 2.
[0084] The CPU 39 may exchange predetermined data with a
predetermined external apparatus (not shown) using an interface
(I/F) 48. Also, the CPU 39 receives signals from the control keys 7
and processes such signals appropriately. Also, a position on the
touch tablet 6A may be pressed by the pen 41, i.e. a pen type
pointing member. As a result, the user may operate the recording
unit selection unit, the reproduction order setting unit, the
reproduction time setting unit, the information selection unit, the
alteration unit, and the frame selection unit, to be described
below.
[0085] To input a memo (line drawing data), the CPU 39 inputs the
X-Y coordinates of the position of the touch tablet 6A being
pressed. The CPU accumulates the coordinate data in the buffer
memory 36. Additionally, the CPU 39 records line drawing
information, which is accumulated in the buffer memory 36, in the
line drawing information recording area of the memory card 24
together with header information. The header information includes
line drawing information input date.
[0086] Next, various operations of the electronic camera 1 in
accordance with the present embodiment will be explained. First,
operation of the electronic viewfinder in the LCD 6 in accordance
with the present apparatus will be described.
[0087] When the user half-depresses the release switch 10, the DSP
33 determines whether the LCD cover 14 is open. This determination
is based on the value of a signal input from the CPU 39 indicative
of the status of the LCD switch 25. If the LCD cover 14 is
determined to be closed, operation of the electronic viewfinder is
not executed. In this case, the DSP 33 stops the process until the
release switch 10 is operated.
[0088] Also, if the LCD cover 14 is closed, the operation of the
electronic viewfinder is not executed. As a result, the CPU 39
stops operation of the CCD 20, the image processing unit 31 and the
stop driving circuit 53. Additionally, the CPU 39 causes the
operation of the photometry circuit 51 and the colorimetry circuit
52 when stopping the CCD 20. In addition, the CPU supplies the
measurement results to the image processing unit 31. The image
processing unit 31 uses the values of the measurement results to
control the white balance and the brightness value. Also, if the
release switch 10 is operated, the CPU 39 operates the CCD 20 and
the stop driving circuit 53.
[0089] Alternatively, if the LCD cover 14 is open, the CCD 20
executes the electronic shutter operation using a predetermined
exposure time for each predetermined time interval and executes
photoelectric conversion of the image of the object. The image is
input by the shooting lens 3. The CCD then outputs the resulting
image signals to the image processing unit 31. The image processing
unit 31 controls the white balance and brightness value and
executes a predetermined process on the image signals. The image
processing unit 31 then outputs the image signals to the A/D
conversion circuit 32. Under these circumstances, if the CCD 20 is
operating, the image processing unit 31 uses an adjusted value. The
adjusted value is computed by the CPU and is based on the output
from the CCD 20. The adjusted value is used for controlling white
balance and brightness values.
[0090] Further, the A/D conversion circuit 32 converts the image
signal, an analog signal, into image data, which is a digital
signal. The A/D conversion circuit 32 then outputs the image data
to the DSP 33. The DSP 33 outputs the image data to the frame
memory 35 and causes the LCD 6 to display an image corresponding to
the image data. In this manner, in the electronic camera 1, the CCD
20 operates the electronic shutter at a predetermined time interval
when the LCD cover 14 is open. Also, the CCD 20 executes operation
of the electronic viewfinder by periodically converting the signal
output from CCD 20 into image data. The CCD 20 then outputs the
image data to the frame memory 35 and continuously displays the
image of the object on LCD 6.
[0091] If the LCD cover 14 is closed as described above, electronic
viewfinder operation is not executed. Also, operation of CCD 20,
the image processing unit 31, and the stop driving circuit 53 are
stopped to conserve energy.
[0092] Hereinafter, shooting of an object using the present
apparatus is described. First, the continuous shooting mode switch
13, provided on the Y1 face may be switched to the S-mode, i.e. the
mode in which only one frame is photographed. This mode will now be
explained. First, power is introduced into the electronic camera 1
by switching the power source switch 11 shown in FIG. 11 to the
"ON" position. The process of shooting an object begins when the
release switch 10, provided on the Y1 face is pressed. This is done
after verifying the object with the viewfinder 2. Then, if the LCD
cover 14 is closed, the CPU 39 resumes operation of the CCD 20, the
image processing unit 31 and the stop driving circuit 53 when the
release switch 10 is in half-depressed status. The process of
shooting the object is started by the CPU when the release switch
10 reaches the fully depressed status, i.e. the state in which a
second control process is executed.
[0093] The image of the object being observed through the
viewfinder 2 is input by the shooting lens 3 and forms an image on
the CCD 20, which has a plurality of pixels. The image formed on
the CCD 20 is photoelectrically converted into an image signal by
each pixel, and is sampled by the image processing unit 31. The
image signal which is sampled by the image processing unit 31 is
output to the A/D conversion circuit 32 where it is digitized.
Then, the signal is output to the DSP 33.
[0094] The DSP 33, after outputting the image temporarily to the
buffer memory 36, reads the image data from the buffer memory 36
and compresses the image data using the JPEG (joint photographic
experts group) method. This method is a combination of discrete
cosine transformation, quantization, and Huffman encoding. The DSP
33 then records the image data in the shooting image recording area
of memory card 24. Then, the shooting date data is recorded in the
shooting image recording area of memory card 24 as header
information of shooting image data.
[0095] If the continuous shooting mode switch 13 is switched to the
S-mode, only one frame is photographed. Further shooting does not
take place even if the release switch 10 remains pressed. Also, if
the release switch 10 is continuously pressed, the photographed
image is displayed on the LCD when the LCD cover 14 is open.
[0096] Further, when the continuous shooting mode switch 13 is
switched to the L-mode, 8 frames per second are continuously
photographed. In this case, power is introduced into the electronic
camera 1 by switching the power source switch 11 to the "ON"
position. The process of shooting an object begins when the release
switch 10, provided on the Y1 face, is pressed. If the LCD cover 14
is closed, the CPU 39 starts operation of the CCD 20, the image
processing unit 31 and the stop driving circuit 53 when the release
switch 10 is in half-depressed status. The CPU begins the shooting
process of the object when the release switch 10 reaches the fully
depressed position.
[0097] The photographed image of the object being observed through
the viewfinder 2 is collected by the shooting lens 3 and forms an
image on the CCD 20. The photo image formed on the CCD 20 is
photoelectrically converted into an image signal by each pixel, and
is sampled by the image processing unit 31 at a rate of 8 times per
second. Further, the image processing unit 31 ignores or thins out
three-fourths of the pixels of the (electrical) image signals of
all of the pixels in the CCD 20.
[0098] To explain, the image processing unit 31, as shown in FIG.
7, divides the pixels in the CCD 20 into areas composed of
2.times.2 pixel areas, i.e. 4 pixels. The image signal of one
pixel, which is arranged on a predetermined location in each area,
is sampled and the remaining 3 pixels are thinned out or ignored.
For example, at the time of the first sampling (the first frame),
pixel a located on the left upper corner is sampled, and the other
pixels b, c and d are thinned out or ignored. At the time of the
second sampling (the second frame), the pixel b located on the
right upper corner is sampled, and the other pixels a, c and d are
ignored. Likewise, during the third and the fourth sampling, pixels
c and d, which are respectively located at the left lower corner
and the right lower corner are sampled, and the rest are thinned
out. Thus, each pixel is selected for sampling once every four
frames.
[0099] The image signals, i.e. the image signals of one-fourth of
all the pixels in the CCD 20 that are sampled by the image
processing unit 31, are supplied to the A/D conversion circuit 32.
At the A/D conversion circuit 32, the image signals are digitized
and output to the DSP 33.
[0100] The DSP 33 outputs the image temporarily to the buffer
memory 36. The DSP 33 then reads the image data from the buffer
memory 36, compresses the image data using the JPEG method, and
records the digitized and compressed shooting image data in the
shooting image area of the memory card 24. At this time, the
shooting date data is recorded in the shooting image area of the
memory card 24 as the header information of shooting image
data.
[0101] Thirdly, when the continuous shooting mode switch 13 is
switched to the H-mode, 30 frames per second are photographed.
Power is introduced into the electronic camera 1 by switching the
power source switch 11 to the "ON" position. The process of
shooting an object begins when release switch 10, provided on the
Y1 face, is pressed. In this case, if the LCD cover 14 is closed,
the CPU 39 starts operation of the CCD 20, the image processing
unit 31 and the stop driving circuit 53 when the release switch 10
is in the half-depressed position. The CPU 39 begins the shooting
process of the object when the release switch 10 is moved to the
fully depressed position.
[0102] The optical image of the object observed through the
viewfinder 2 is collected by the shooting lens 3 and is imaged onto
the CCD 20. The optical image of the object, imaged onto the CCD
20, is photoelectrically converted to an image signal by each pixel
and is sampled at a rate of 30 times per second by the image
processing unit 31. At this time, the image processing unit 31
thins out or ignores eight-ninths of the pixels producing
electrical image signals among all the pixels in the CCD 20.
[0103] In other words, the image processing unit 31 divides the
pixels in the CCD 20, which are arranged in a matrix, into areas
including 3.times.3 pixels, i.e., 9 pixels, as shown in FIG. 8.
Further, the image processing unit 31 samples, at a rate of 30
times per second, the image signal of one pixel arranged in a
predetermined position in each area. The remaining 8 pixels are
ignored or thinned out. For example with reference to FIG. 8, at
the time of the first sampling (the first frame), pixel a, which is
located on the left upper corner of each area, is sampled. The
other pixels b through i are ignored. During the second sampling
(the second frame), the pixel b, located on the right of a, is
sampled, and other pixels a and c through i are ignored. Likewise,
during the third, the fourth and each subsequent sampling, the
pixel c, the pixel d, etc. are sampled, respectively, and the rest
are ignored. Thus, each pixel is sampled once every nine
frames.
[0104] The image signals that are sampled by the image processing
unit 31, i.e. the image signals of one-ninth of all the pixels in
CCD 20, are output to the A/D conversion circuit 32 where they are
digitized and output to the DSP 33. The DSP 33 outputs the image
temporarily to the buffer memory 36. The DSP then reads the image
data, compresses the image data using the JPEG method, and records
the digitized and compressed image shooting data to the shooting
image recording area of the memory card 24.
[0105] In this situation, the object may be illuminated, if
necessary, by operating the strobe 4. However, when the LCD cover
14 is open, or when the LCD 6 executes the electronic viewfinder
operation, the CPU 39 prevents the strobe 4 from flashing.
[0106] The operation in which two dimensional information, i.e. pen
input information, is input using the touch tablet 6A is described
hereinafter. When the touch tablet 6A is pressed by the tip of pen
41, the X-Y coordinates of the contact point is input to the CPU
39. These X-Y coordinates are stored in the buffer memory 36. The
CPU 39 writes address data to the frame memory 35. The address data
corresponds to each point of the X-Y coordinates. Then, a line
drawing corresponding to contact points of the pen 41 is displayed
on X-Y coordinates in the LCD 6.
[0107] As described above, since the touch tablet 6A is formed of
transparent material, the user is able to view points that are
displayed on the LCD 6, i.e. the points being pressed by the tip of
the pen 41. Thus, it appears that input is made by the pen directly
onto the LCD 6. Further, when the pen 41 is moved on the touch
tablet 6A, a line tracing the motion of the pen 41 is displayed on
the LCD 6. Also, if the pen 41 is moved intermittently on the touch
tablet 6A, a dotted line, tracing the motion of the pen 41, is
displayed on the LCD 6. In this a manner, line drawing information
of desired letters and drawings, for example, can be input to the
touch tablet 6A, and in turn displayed on the LCD 6.
[0108] Further, the line drawing information may be input by the
pen 41 when the image obtained from shooting is already displayed
on the LCD 6. In such a case, the line drawing information is
synthesized (combined) with the shooting image information by the
frame memory 35 and are displayed on the LCD 6 together.
[0109] Also, by using a predetermined pallet, the user is able to
choose the color of the line drawing to be displayed on the LCD 6.
Color choices may be black, white, red, blue and others. The
execution key 7B, of the control keys 7, may be pressed after line
drawing information is input to the touch tablet 6A by the pen 41.
As a result, the line drawing information accumulated in the buffer
memory 36 is supplied along with the header information regarding
input date to the memo information recording area of the memory
card 24. This information is recorded in the memory card 24. In
this situation, the line drawing information recorded in the memo
information recording area of the memory card 24 includes
compressed information.
[0110] The line drawing information input using the touch tablet 6A
may include information with a high spatial frequency content. As a
result, if the aforementioned JPEG method is used to compress the
line drawing image, the compression efficiency is poor. Since the
amount of information does not decrease, the required time for
compression and decompression becomes longer. In addition,
compression using the JPEG method is lossey compression. As a
result, such method is not suitable for compression of line drawing
information containing small amounts of information. This is due to
gathering and smearing resulting from missing information and
becomes noticeable when information is decompressed and displayed
on the LCD 6.
[0111] Therefore, in the arrangement of the present embodiment,
line drawing information is compressed using the run-length method.
Such method is used in facsimile machines, for example. The
run-length method scans the line drawing screen in the horizontal
direction. The line drawing information is compressed by encoding
each continuous length of information for each color, such as
black, white, red and blue. Each continuous length of
non-information, i.e. where there is no pen input is also encoded.
By using the run-length method, line drawing information is
compressed to a minimum amount of information. Also, control of
missing information becomes possible, even when compressed line
drawing information is decompressed. Also, if the amount of
information is relatively small, it is possible to set the
arrangement to prevent the line drawing information from being
compressed.
[0112] As described above, if the line drawing information is input
using the pen when a photographed image is already displayed on the
LCD 6, the pen input is synthesized with the photographed image
information in the frame memory 35. The synthesized image of the
photographed image and line drawing is displayed on the LCD 6. The
shooting image data and the line drawing information may be
respectively recorded in the shooting image recording area and the
memo information recording area of the memory card 24.
Specifically, the two types of information may be recorded
separately. As a result, the user may delete one of the two images,
e.g., the line drawing, from the synthesized photographed image and
line drawing image. This also allows further compression of
information of each image using separate compression methods.
[0113] When data is recorded in the sound recording area, the
shooting image recording area, or the line-drawing information
recording area, a predetermined display is displayed on the LCD 6
as shown in FIG. 9.
[0114] In the display screen of the LCD 6 shown in FIG. 9, the
recording date of information, for example Aug. 25, 1995, is
displayed in the bottom section of the screen. Also, the recording
time of the information, recorded on that recording date, is
displayed on the left-most side of the screen. A thumbnail image
may be displayed to the right of the recording time. The thumbnail
image is formed by ignoring or thinning out, i.e. reducing, bit map
data corresponding to shooting image data recorded in the memory
card 24. Thus, the entry (recording unit) for which a thumbnail
image is displayed includes shooting image information. In other
words, information recorded, i.e. input, at "10:16" and "10:21"
includes shooting image information. However, information recorded
at "10:05", "10:28", "10:54" and "13:10" does not include image
information.
[0115] Also, a memo icon may be displayed on the right of the
recording time and indicates that memo information is recorded as
line drawing information. Also, a sound icon may be displayed on
the right of the thumbnail image display area indicating that sound
information is recorded.
[0116] In this situation, the information displayed on the same
line in the same screen is recorded at the same time. Hereinafter,
a unit of information composed of shooting images, memo and/or
sounds that are recorded at the same time will be referred to as a
"recording unit". Further, the number contained in brackets
displayed on the right side of the sound icon indicates the
reproduction time of each recording unit.
[0117] The user can select and designate information to be
reproduced. Specifically, the user presses, with the tip of pen 41,
any part of the thumbnail image or icon of the desired information
in the LCD 6, as shown in FIG. 9. The selected information is then
reproduced by pressing, with the tip of the pen 41, the execution
key 7B as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 9.
[0118] For example, if the sound icon for the time "10:05", as
shown FIG. 9, is pressed by the pen 41, the CPU 39 reads sound data
corresponding to the selected recording date "10:05" from the
memory card 24. The CPU 39 then decompresses the sound data and
then supplies the sound data to the A/D and D/A conversion circuit
42. The A/D and D/A conversion circuit 42 converts the data to
analog signals, and then reproduces the sound through the speaker
5.
[0119] When reproducing shooting image data, which is recorded in
the memory card 24, the user selects the information by pressing
the desired thumbnail image with the tip of the pen 41. The user
then reproduces the selected information by pressing the execution
key 7B. In other words, the CPU 39 instructs the DSP 33 to read the
shooting image data corresponding to the selected image shooting
date from the memory card 24. The DSP 33 decompresses the shooting
image data, i.e. the compressed shooting data, which is read from
the memory card 24. The CPU 39 then accumulates the shooting image
data as bit map data in the frame memory 35 and displays the data
on the LCD 6.
[0120] An image photographed in the S-mode is displayed as a still
image on the LCD 6. The still image is reproduced from image
signals of all of the pixels in the CCD 20. An image photographed
in the L-mode is continuously displayed (as a moving picture) on
the LCD 6 at a rate of 8 frames per second. In this case, the
number of pixels actually displayed in each frame is one-fourth of
all of the pixels in the CCD 20.
[0121] Human vision is sensitive to the deterioration of still
image resolution. As a result, the user may easily detect thinning
of pixels in a still image. However, in the L-mode, the shooting
speed is increased and images are reproduced at a rate of 8 frames
per second. Thus, the number of pixels in each frame is one-fourth
of the number of pixels of the CCD 20. However, the amount of
information per unit time doubles compared to the still image since
the human eyes view images at a rate of 8 frames per second.
[0122] In other words, if the number of pixels for one frame of an
image which is photographed in the S-mode were 1, then the number
of pixels for one frame of an image photographed in the L-mode
would become one-fourth. When the still image that is photographed
in S-mode is displayed on the LCD 6, the amount of information
entering the human eye per one second is 1=(number of pixels
1).times.(number of frames 1). Alternatively, when an image
photographed in the L-mode is displayed on the LCD 6, the amount of
information viewed by the human eye per second is 2=(number of
pixels 1/4).times.(number of frames 8). In other words, twice as
much information is viewed by the human eye as compared to the
still image. Thus, even if the number of pixels in one frame is
reduced to one-fourth, the user is still able to view the
reproduced images without much deterioration of the image quality
during reproduction.
[0123] Additionally, in the arrangement of the present embodiment,
a different sampling is executed for each frame. The sampled pixels
are displayed on the LCD 6. As a result, an after-image effect of
the human eye occurs. Thus, the user may be able to view the image
photographed in the L-mode and displayed on the LCD 6 without
noticing much deterioration of the image quality, even when
three-fourths of the pixels are thinned out per one frame.
[0124] Also, an image photographed in the H-mode is displayed on
the LCD 6 at a rate of 30 frames per second. Thus, the number of
pixels displayed in each frame is one-ninth of the total number of
the pixels of the CCD 20. However, for the same reasons as in the
case of the L-mode, the user can view the image photographed in the
H-mode and displayed on the LCD 6 without noticing much
deterioration of image quality.
[0125] In the present embodiment, when an object is photographed in
either the L-mode or the H-mode, the image processing unit 31 thins
out or ignores the pixels in the CCD 20 in such a manner that the
user does not notice much deterioration of the image quality during
reproduction. Further, the load on DSP 33 and the CCD drive circuit
34 is reduced enabling low speed and low power operation of these
units. Additionally, the apparatus provides operation at low cost
and low energy consumption.
[0126] All the information in a recording unit may be reproduced.
Specifically, all the information contained in a recording unit may
be reproduced by selecting the recording time of the desired
recording unit, and then operating the execution key 7B.
[0127] Also, in the present embodiment, the input date of each
information is attached as header information to various
information, i.e. data, which is recorded in the memory card 24.
The user may select and reproduce the desired information from the
date data displayed on LCD 6, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0128] In the arrangement of the present embodiment, the order of
reproduction of recorded information may be pre-set. Specifically,
a mode is provided in which information is reproduced according to
the input order, i.e. a slide show mode. The slide show mode is
described hereinafter.
[0129] When the LCD cover 14 of the electronic camera 1 is opened,
the power source switch 11 is turned on. As a result, the display
shown in FIG. 10 may appear on the LCD 6. In this display example,
the current time and date, "FRI JAN 3, 1997 22:10:32", appears at
the very top of the screen. Below this, the current remaining
battery charge (100%) is displayed. Further down, the current
remaining memory capacity is displayed (100%). Even further down,
the number of shootable images, i.e; pictures, (65), the amount of
audio recordable time (1013 seconds), and the number of recordable
sets (39 sets) of simultaneous image and sound recording are
displayed.
[0130] Additionally, when the "OK" key displayed on the right
bottom corner of the screen is pressed with the pen 41, the image
that is currently being input is displayed on the LCD 6, as shown
in FIG. 11. With this display screen, if the menu key 7A, located
at the left lower corner of the figure is pressed by the pen 41,
the menu screen shown in FIG. 12 is displayed. In the display
example of FIG. 12, the menu includes a "recording" mode, a
"playback" mode, a "slide show" mode, and a "setup" (a
configuration setting) mode, in order from the top of the display.
The desired mode is attained by selecting a desired item on the
menu using the pen 41.
[0131] Now, suppose the slide show mode, the third item, is
selected using the pen 41. As a result, the setting screen of the
slide show mode shown in FIG. 13 is displayed. With this display
screen, the numbers displayed at the left edge of the screen
indicate the reproduction order when the slide show is executed.
The numbers on the right of the reproduction order numbers
designate the order in which the information was recorded.
Proceeding further to the right are a memo icon, thumbnail images,
sound icons, and the reproduction times. These features are the
same as explained with reference to FIG. 9.
[0132] Additionally, the "REPEAT [ 1] CYCLE" is displayed at the
lower part of the screen and indicates the number of repeats, i.e.
the reproduction frequency, of the slide show. In this example, all
the information is reproduced only once. If "2" is set for the
reproduction frequency, the same reproduction process is repeated
after all the specified information is reproduced once, i.e. a
first time.
[0133] The decrement keys (70, 71) and the increment keys (72, 73)
displayed at the bottom of the screen are used when the
reproduction order is changed. The keys decrement (decrease) or
increment (increase) the value being displayed. In this case, the
decrement key 71 and the increment key 72 respectively decrease and
increase the value by 1. However, the decrement key 70 and the
increment key 73 respectively decrease and increase the value by
5.
[0134] The positive-negative reverse display, i.e., highlighting
for example, of the first "reproduction order" in the first line
indicates that reproduction begins with this reproduction
information. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, the reproduction
order of the reproduction information which is reproduced last may
also be highlighted. In this manner, the starting and finishing
position of reproduction may be set arbitrarily.
[0135] FIG. 14 shows a configuration for storing information in the
memory card 24 with respect to recording information described in
conjunction with FIG. 13. In this example, the image (shooting
image 1) displayed on the first line of FIG. 13 is stored first in
the memory card 24. Then the sound (sound 1), which is also
displayed in the first line of FIG. 13, is stored. Thereafter in
order, the sound 2 (sound in the second line), the shooting image 2
(the shooting image in the third line), the sound 3 (sound in the
third line), the memo 1 (the memo in the fourth line), and the
shooting image 3 (image in the fourth line) are stored.
[0136] In this manner, the recorded information is sequentially
recorded in the memory card 24. Note, the information is recorded
in the memory card in the order of recording. However, in reality,
information is recorded in a random order in an empty area of the
memory card 24. FIG. 15(a) shows recording information for which
information recorded is mutually associated with the date of
recording. In other words, information items which are recorded
simultaneously are treated as the same recording unit. Further, the
information contained in each recording unit is designated by the
recording information.
[0137] The recording order displayed in FIG. 15(a) corresponds to
the recording order, which is displayed second from the left in
FIG. 13, and indicates the order in which each recording unit was
recorded. The "shooting image No." indicates the number of the
shooting image contained in the recording unit, i.e. shooting image
1 shown in FIG. 14, for example. Similarly, the "memo No."
indicates the memo number (memo 1 shown in FIG. 14, for example).
Similarly, the "sound No." indicates the sound number (sound 1
shown in FIG. 14, for example). Further, the continuously
photographed information indicates whether the image included in
the recording unit includes a continuous image. If it does include
a continuous image, the order in which the image is photographed is
indicated. In this case, such recording information is recorded in
a predetermined area of the memory card 24.
[0138] Further, FIG. 15(b) shows "reproduction information" which
includes information necessary to reproduce each recording unit.
Compared to the recording information, the "reproduction order" and
"WAIT" are added to result in the reproduction information. Such
reproduction order corresponds to the reproduction order that is
displayed on the left side as shown in FIG. 13 and indicates the
order in which the recording unit is to be reproduced. Further,
WAIT indicates completion of reproduction of the recording unit and
the waiting time required until the generation of the next
information, i.e. the WAIT time. The reproduction information is
also recorded in a predetermined area in the memory card 24.
[0139] FIG. 16 shows an example of a process for creating the
"reproduction information" shown in FIG. 15(b), based on the
"recording information" shown in FIG. 15(a). This process is
executed in the menu screen of FIG. 12 when the slide show mode is
selected. When the process is executed, in step S1 the CPU 39
initializes the variable i, which counts the number of times the
CPU 39 processes, to 1. Then, the CPU 39 moves to step S2 and reads
the ith recording information from the memory card 24.
[0140] At the next step S3, the CPU 39 stores the ith reproduction
information to the memory card 24. In other words, because part of
the reproduction information is duplicated by the recording
information, the duplicated part is copied to the predetermined
area in the memory card 24. In this case, a default command
dictates that the reproduction order is the same as the recording
order. Thus, the recording order is copied, without any change, in
the area where the reproduction order is stored.
[0141] In step S4, the CPU 39 determines whether sound information
is contained in the ith recording unit. As a result, if the CPU 39
determines that the sound information is contained in the recording
unit (Yes), the CPU 39 moves to step S6. Otherwise (No), the CPU 39
moves to step S5.
[0142] At step S5, the CPU 39 determines whether a continuously
photographed image is contained in the recording unit. In other
words, because sound information is determined not to be contained
in the recording unit (No) at step S4, the recording unit contains
either shooting image information, memo information or both. Thus,
at step S5, the CPU 39 compares the image information with the
"continuously photographed information" recording information,
illustrated in FIG. 15, and determines whether the image
information is continuously photographed. As a result, if the image
information is determined to be continuously photographed (YES),
the CPU 39 moves to step S8. In step S8, the CPU stores the
reciprocal of the frame rate (the display time per one frame) in
WAIT, and moves to step S11. However, if the image information is
determined not to be continuously photographed (NO), the CPU 39
stores 2 (seconds), which is a default value, in WAIT and moves to
step S11.
[0143] Alternatively, if sound information is determined to be
contained (YES) at step S4, the CPU 39 moves to step S6. At step
S6, the CPU 39 refers to the sound No. to read the header
information of the sound information. The CPU then determines
whether the reproduction time is less than 2 seconds. As a result,
if the reproduction time of the sound information is determined to
be less than 2 seconds (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S9. In step
S9, the CPU stores the value 2 (seconds) minus the sound
reproduction time in WAIT, i.e. sets a value so the total sound
reproduction time and WAIT is 2 seconds. The CPU then moves to step
S13. Alternatively, if the sound reproduction time is determined to
be 2 seconds or more (NO), the CPU 39 substitutes 0 into WAIT and
moves to step S11.
[0144] At step S11, the value of WAIT is stored to the last digits
of the reproduction information already stored in the memory card
24. Then, the CPU 39 increments the value of the variable i by 1 in
step S12 and moves to step S13. In step S13, the CPU 39 determines
whether a recording unit still remains. As a result, if a recording
unit is determined to remain (YES), the CPU 39 returns to step S2
and repeats the same process as before. Alternatively, if a
recording unit is determined not to remain (NO), the CPU 39 moves
to step S14. In step S14, an extra empty reproduction information
is stored in the memory card 24. Then the process is ended. The
reason for recording empty reproduction information is explained
hereinafter.
[0145] In the process described above, values are set as the
reproduction order which are the same as the recording order. Also,
the WAIT time is set according to the type of information contained
in the recording unit. Further, if sound information is included in
the recording information, and the reproduction time of the sound
information is 2 seconds or more, the WAIT time is set as 0
seconds. If the reproduction time of the sound is less than 2
seconds, the difference from 2 seconds is set as the WAIT time.
Thus, the total reproduction time becomes 2 seconds.
[0146] In this case, the display example shown in FIG. 13 is an
example of reproduction information, created as described above,
and displayed on the screen in ascending reproduction order.
Further, the reproduction time displayed at the right side of the
figure represents reproduction time including the WAIT time. Thus,
for a recording unit which includes only images, for example
recording units positioned along the bottom edge in FIG. 13, the
reproduction time becomes 2 seconds, which is set as the WAIT
time.
[0147] Further, if sound information is not included, for example
the recording unit is composed of image information only, and if
image information is not a continuously photographed image, 2
seconds is set as the WAIT time. However, if the image information
is a continuously photographed image, the reproduction time of each
frame is set as the WAIT time. For example, FIG. 17 shows a display
of two continuously photographed images not containing sound. These
images are photographed at a frame rate of 1 frame/second. In this
case, 1 second= (1/1) is set as WAIT. Thus, "1" is displayed as the
reproduction time as shown in FIG. 17. In this example, the "C"
displayed on the left of the thumbnail images indicates that the
image is a continuously photographed image.
[0148] In the process described above, if the reproduction time of
the sound is less than 2 seconds, the difference is set for the
WAIT. However, 0 seconds is set for the value of WAIT when the
reproduction time is 2 seconds or more. Further, the WAIT time may
always be set as 2 seconds in the case of sound information,
similar to the case of image information.
[0149] Next, a process of reproducing information using the slide
show mode and based on the reproduction information created above
will be described. FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of
such a process. The process is executed by pressing the execution
key 7B at the lower right of the screen with the pen 41, as shown
in the example of FIG. 13. When this process is executed, in step
S30, the CPU 39 initializes the variable i, representing the number
of times the process is repeated, to be 1. The CPU 39 then moves to
step S31 and reads the reproduction information having i as the
reproduction order from the memory card 24.
[0150] In step S32, the CPU 39 determines whether a shooting image
is included, i.e. contained, in the reproduction information whose
reproduction order is ith. As a result, if a shooting image is
determined to be included (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S33 and
instructs the DSP 33 to read the appropriate image data from the
memory card 24, and refers to the image No. of the reproduction
information. The DSP 33 decompresses the shooting image data, i.e.
the compressed shooting image data, read from the memory card 24.
The data is accumulated in the frame memory 35 as bit map data,
which is then displayed in the LCD 6.
[0151] Alternatively, if the CPU 39 determines, in step S32, that
the shooting image is not contained in the reproduction information
(NO), the CPU 39 skips the process of S33 and moves to step S34. In
step S34, the CPU 39 determines whether memo information is
contained in the reproduction information whose reproduction order
is ith. As a result, if memo information is determined to be
contained in the reproduction information (YES), the CPU 39 moves
to step S35. Then, the CPU instructs the DSP 33 to read the
appropriate image data from memory card 24, with reference to the
memo No. of the reproduction information. Then, similar processes
as those described with reference to the aforementioned image data
are executed. As a result, the memo information is reproduced.
[0152] Alternatively, if memo information is determined not to have
been contained in the reproduction information (NO) in step S34,
the CPU 39 skips the process of step S35 and moves to step S36. In
step S36, the CPU 39 determines whether sound information is
contained in the reproduction unit whose reproduction order is ith.
As a result, if sound information is contained in the reproduction
unit (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S37. In S37, the CPU compares
the sound No., reads the appropriate sound data from the memory
card 24, decompresses the sound data, and supplies the decompressed
data to the A/D and D/A conversion circuit 42. The A/D and D/A
conversion circuit 42 converts the supplied sound data into analog
data and reproduces the data using the speaker 5.
[0153] Alternatively, if sound information is determined not to
have been contained in the reproduction information, the CPU 39
skips the process in step S37 and moves to step S38. In step S38,
the WAIT process is executed. In other words, the CPU 39 reads the
WAIT value of the reproduction information and interrupts the
process for a period of time which corresponds to the WAIT value.
For example, if WAIT=2, a pause of 2 seconds is inserted after
completion of information reproduction.
[0154] In the subsequent step S39, the variable i is incremented by
1 and the CPU 39 determines whether reproduction information, whose
reproduction order is ith, exists. As a result, if the reproduction
information whose reproduction order is ith is determined to exist
(YES), the CPU 39 returns to step S31 and processes similar to
those described above are repeated. If the reproduction information
is determined not to exist (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S41. In
step S41, the variable "Repeat", i.e. the number of times
reproduction is to be repeated, is input from "REPEAT [1] CYCLE",
is displayed in the lower section of FIG. 13, and is decremented by
1. The CPU 39 then moves to step S42.
[0155] In step S42, the CPU 39 determines whether the value of the
variable "Repeat" is 0. As a result, if the value of the variable
Repeat is determined not to be 0 (NO), the CPU 39 returns to step
S30 and processes similar to those described above are repeated. If
the value of Repeat is determined to be 0 (YES), the CPU 39 ends
the process.
[0156] In the process described above, the recording unit is
reproduced one by one in an order set in the slide show mode.
Further, after each recording unit is reproduced, a pause for a
period of time equivalent to the value in WAIT is inserted. Thus,
the distinction between each recording unit is clear. This provides
time for viewing images in a situation in which the information
includes only images.
[0157] In the arrangement of the embodiment above, images
reproduced in the LCD 6 are displayed and sound is reproduced by
the speaker 5. However, images and the sound may be reproduced by
an external monitor connected through a video jack and an audio
jack (not shown). Thus, if a cable is connected to a video jack,
the LCD display may be stopped to prevent wasting of the
battery.
[0158] Additionally, if the increment key 72 is pressed when the
number of repetitions of reproduction, displayed in the lower
section of FIG. 13, is changed to 999, "E" is displayed. This
designates that reproduction will be continuously repeated.
Further, if the cancel key. 7D is pressed during execution of
reproduction in the slide show mode, the CPU 39 interrupts the
reproduction process and the screen shown in FIG. 13 returns.
[0159] Furthermore, if the LCD cover 14 is closed during execution
of reproduction in the slide show mode, the apparatus may be made
to record images and sounds by immediately shifting to the
recording mode. With such an arrangement, it is possible to record
information immediately, even during reproduction. Thus, unexpected
situations may be effectively dealt with. Additionally, in the
arrangement of the embodiment described above, information recorded
is reproduced based on the order of recording. However, the
reproduction order may be changed. Such a process is described
hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 19.
[0160] The process of FIG. 19 is executed when the slide show mode
is selected. Upon execution of this process, in step S60, the CPU
39 determines whether the recording order of the recording unit
whose reproduction order is ith, i.e. the value displayed in the
second row from the left in FIG. 13, has changed. As a result, if
the recording order of the ith recording unit is determined to have
been changed (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S61. The process is
terminated if the recording order is determined not to have been
changed (END).
[0161] For example, in FIG. 20, when the "recording order" of the
first recording unit is pressed by the pen 41, the display color of
that section is highlighted, or otherwise marked, to indicate that
that particular "recording order" has been designated. Also, if the
increment key 72, which is displayed at the bottom of the screen,
is pressed only twice the recording order changes from 1 to 3 as
shown in the figure. When the recording order is changed in this
manner, the recording unit to be reproduced first (the recording
unit whose reproduction order is first) is changed with information
whose recording order is 3rd. Upon execution of such input, the CPU
determines that the decision is (YES) in step S60 and moves to step
S61.
[0162] In step S61, the CPU 39 reads the recording information,
whose recording order is the changed value, from the memory card
24. Further, the CPU 39 produces WAIT information by executing a
process similar to that explained with reference to FIG. 16. The
CPU also attaches the WAIT information to the recording information
read in step S61, and writes the resulting information on the
memory card 24 as ith reproduction information, i.e. renews the ith
reproduction information with this information.
[0163] Next, the CPU 39 moves to step S63 and determines whether
the ith reproduction information is the last information to be
reproduced. As noted above, the reproduction information is
displayed in reverse. As a result, if the ith reproduction
information is determined to be the information to be reproduced
last (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S64. However, if the ith
reproduction information is determined not to be the last
information (NO), the CPU ends the process (END).
[0164] In step S64, empty information is stored in the memory card
24 as (i+1)st reproduction information and the process is ended
(END). In other words, as shown in FIG. 21, an empty reproduction
information is displayed at the end of the setting screen of the
slide show. This is in preparation for when a reproduction item is
added. If a new item is added by changing the empty (ith)
reproduction information, an (i+1)st empty reproduction information
may be added to prepare for the situation in which another new
information is added.
[0165] In the process described above, it is possible to freely set
the order of information to be reproduced in the slide show mode.
Further, if the reproduction information is a continuously
photographed image, the order of reproduction may be reversed and
the continuously photographed image may be played in reverse so as
to execute reproduction. In this situation, the reproduction
information which is set in the manner described above is recorded
in the memory card 24. When the slide show mode is selected again,
the information is reproduced in the order which was previously
set. Further, the order set in this manner may be canceled by
pressing the clear key 7D. For example, the clear key 7D may be
pressed twice in a row so as to restore the default state.
[0166] The process of changing the reproduction time of the
"reproduction information" is described next. FIG. 22 describes an
example of the process in which the reproduction time is changed.
This process is executed when the slide show mode is selected. Upon
execution of this process, the CPU 39 determines, in step S80,
whether the reproduction time of the ith reproduction information
is changed. As a result, if the reproduction time of the ith
reproduction information is determined to have been changed (YES),
the CPU 39 moves to step S81. However, if the reproduction time is
determined not to have been changed (NO), the process is ended
(END).
[0167] Assume, for example, that with the display screen shown in
FIG. 20, "10 seconds" (the reproduction time of the reproduction
information in the first row) is designated by pressing thereupon
using the pen 41. Further, assume that the 10 seconds is changed to
12 seconds by double clicking the increment key 72. Then, the CPU
39 determines that the decision in step S80 is affirmative (YES),
and moves to step S81. In step S81, the CPU 39 determines whether
the ith reproduction information contains sound information. As a
result, if the ith reproduction information is determined to
contain sound information (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S83. If
the reproduction information is determined not to contain sound
information (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S82.
[0168] In step S82, the CPU 39 determines whether the changed
reproduction time is less than 0. As a result, if the reproduction
time is determined to be less than 0 (YES), the CPU moves to step
S85 and ends the process by substituting 0 for the variable WAIT
(END). However, if the changed reproduction time is determined to
be larger than 0 (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S84, updates the
WAIT value with the input reproduction time, and ends the process
(END). In this case, if the reproduction time is set to be 0, the
recording unit which is designated by this reproduction information
is not reproduced.
[0169] Further, in step S81, if the CPU 39 determines that the ith
reproduction information contains sound information (YES), the CPU
39 moves to step S83 and determines whether the changed
reproduction time is 0 seconds. As a result, if the reproduction
time is determined to be set at 0 seconds (YES), the CPU 39 moves
to step S88, sets the WAIT value at 0, and ends the process.
However, if the reproduction time is determined to have not been
set at 0 seconds (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S86.
[0170] In step S86, the CPU 39 determines whether the changed
reproduction time is shorter than the sound reproduction time. As a
result, if the changed reproduction time is shorter than the sound
reproduction time (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S87. In step S87,
the CPU displays a warning message such as "unable to set!" on the
LCD 6, and ends the process (END). Further, if the changed
reproduction time is longer than the sound reproduction time (NO),
the CPU 39 moves to step S88. In step S88, the CPU 39 updates the
value of WAIT. In other words, the CPU 39 sets, as the new WAIT
value, a value obtained by subtracting the sound reproduction time
from the reproduction time being input. Then, the CPU 39 ends the
process (END).
[0171] As described above, if the reproduction time of the first
row is changed from 10 seconds to 12 seconds, the CPU determines
that the decision in step S80 is YES and moves to step S81. Since
the recording unit contains sound information, the CPU determines
that the decision in step S81 is YES and moves to step S83. Since
the changed reproduction time is not 0, the CPU 39 moves to step
S86. In S86, the CPU 39 determines that the decision is NO since
the changed reproduction time is longer than the sound reproduction
time (12>10). The CPU then moves to step S88 and changes the
WAIT value. In this case, the WAIT value is set at 0 seconds as a
result of the process of step S10 in FIG. 16. Thus, the value is
further updated from 0 second to 2 seconds.
[0172] In the process described above, it becomes possible to set
the reproduction time for information which is reproduced during
the slide show mode. As a result, it becomes possible to freely set
reproduction time based on the type of information, for example.
Further, as explained above, it becomes possible to cancel
reproduction of information while keeping the reproduction
information. This is accomplished by setting the reproduction time
to be 0 seconds.
[0173] The process of selecting information to be reproduced during
the slide show mode is described next. FIG. 23 shows an example of
a process to select the information to be reproduced during the
slide show mode. In this case, the process is executed when the
slide show mode is selected. Upon execution of the process, the CPU
39 determines in step S100 whether deletion of predetermined
information in the ith reproduction information is designated. As a
result, if deletion of the predetermined information in the ith
reproduction information is determined to be designated as (YES),
the CPU 39 moves to step S101. If deletion is determined to have
not been designated (NO), the CPU 39 ends the process (END).
[0174] For example, if the sound icon (in the reproduction
information in the first row in FIG. 20) is pressed by the pen 41,
and the clear key 7C is subsequently pressed, the CPU 39 determines
that the decision in step S100 is YES. The CPU then moves to step
S101. In step S101, if designated information is deleted, the CPU
39 determines whether all the information of the ith reproduction
information is deleted. As a result, if all the information is
determined to have been deleted (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step
S105. However, if only part of the information is determined to
have been deleted (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S102.
[0175] In step S102, the CPU determines whether deletion of sound
information is designated. As a result, if deletion of sound
information is determined to have been designated (YES), the CPU 39
moves to step S103. The CPU substitutes 2 in WAIT. Note that after
deletion of the sound, only image remains. Further, note that "2"
is the default value of WAIT for image. The CPU then moves to step
S104. Also, if deletion of the sound information is determined not
to have been designated, the CPU 39 skips the process of step S103
and moves to step S104.
[0176] In step S104, the CPU 39 deletes the designated information
from the reproduction information. In other words, the CPU 39
deletes the information No. corresponding to the designated
information from the reproduction information shown in FIG. 15(b).
The CPU then ends the process (END) . Further, in step S101, if all
the information is determined to be deleted from the ith
reproduction information (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S105. In
step S105, the CPU deletes all the ith reproduction information.
The CPU 39 then moves to step S106, shifts the reproduction
information starting (i+ 1)st information forwards by 1, and ends
the process (END).
[0177] Assume a case in which deletion of the sound information of
the first row in FIG. 20 is designated. Then, the CPU 39 determines
that the decision in step S100 is YES and moves to step S101. In
this case, even after the sound information is deleted, the image
information remains. Thus, the CPU 39 determines that the decision
in step S101 is NO and moves to step S102. In step S102, deletion
of the sound information is designated. Thus, the CPU 39 determines
that the decision is YES and sets 2 for WAIT in step S103. Further,
in step S104, the sound No. of the reproduction information
described in FIG. 15(b) is deleted. As a result, the sound
information is deleted from the reproduction information in the
first row and the reproduction time is set at 2 seconds.
[0178] Further, if the clear key 7C is pressed, for example, after
designation by the pen 41 of all the information of the
reproduction information of the first row, the CPU 39 determines
that the decision in step S101 is YES. Then, all the information of
the first reproduction information is deleted in step S105. In the
following step S106, the reproduction order of the reproduction
information starting with the second row is decremented by 1. The
screen display is also scrolled upward by 1 row.
[0179] In the process described above, it is possible to properly
select and reproduce information contained in the recording unit
during the slide show mode. Further, if predetermined information
is deleted, the predetermined information is only deleted from the
reproduction information. Thus, the information itself is
maintained and is not deleted from the memory card 24. As a result,
information which has been deleted may be reproduced again during
the slide show mode.
[0180] Next, the process of deleting predetermined frames of a
continuously photographed image, continuously photographed with
sound, will be described. FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing an
example of a process to delete a predetermined frame of a
continuously photographed image, which is recorded with sound. If
some of the information (sound and/or image) is deleted, gaps may
appear in the reproduced continuously input information, causing
intermittent reproduction. Hence, the following process is
structured in such a manner that the problems described above are
prevented.
[0181] The process described in FIG. 24 is executed when the slide
show mode is selected. When the process is executed, the CPU 39
determines whether the deletion of predetermined information from
the ith information is designated. As a result, if the deletion of
the predetermined information from the ith information is
determined to have been designated (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step
S121. Alternatively, if the deletion is determined not to have been
designated (NO), the process is ended (END).
[0182] In step S121, the CPU 39 determines whether the information
designated for deletion is continuously photographed information
containing sound information. In other words, the CPU 39 compares
the continuously photographed information of the reproduction
information described in FIG. 15(b) with the sound No. The CPU
further determines whether the information designated is
continuously photographed image and if it contains sound
information. As a result, if the information designated is
determined to be of a continuously photographed image and to
contain sound information (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S123.
However, if the designated information is determined either not to
be a continuously photographed image or not to contain sound (NO),
the CPU 39 moves to S122.
[0183] In step S123, the CPU 39 determines whether the designated
information is the first continuously photographed image. If the
designated information is determined to be the first continuously
photographed image, the CPU 39 moves to step S125 and registers the
second image as the first image. In other words, the CPU 39 copies
the image No. of the second reproduction information to the image
No. of the first reproduction information. The CPU then ends the
process (END).
[0184] Further, in step S123, if the CPU 39 determines that the
designated information is not the first continuously photographed
image (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S126. In step S126 the CPU
registers the (i-1)st image as the ith image. Thus, the CPU 39
updates the image No. of the ith reproduction information for which
deletion is designated with the image No. of the (i-1)st
reproduction information. The CPU 39 then ends the process (END).
As a result, information may be arbitrarily obtained out of a data
base of information recorded by an electronic camera, for example.
Also, the information may be reproduced in a predetermined order
and even in a predetermined reproduction time.
[0185] Alternatively, if the designated information is determined
not to be a continuously photographed image containing sound in
step S121, the CPU 39 moves to step S122. At S122, the CPU 39
determines whether all the information of the ith reproduction
information are to be deleted with the deletion of the designated
information. As a result, if only part of the information is
determined to be deleted (NO), the CPU 39 moves to step S128. In
step S128, the CPU deletes the designated information from the
reproduction information and finishes the process (END).
Additionally, if all the information is determined to be deleted
(YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S124. In step S124, the CPU 39
deletes all the ith reproduction information. Then, the CPU 39
moves to step S127 and shifts the reproduction information from the
(i+1)st information forward by 1. In this case, this process is
same as the process of step S106 in FIG. 23.
[0186] In the process described above, the predetermined frame may
be deleted from the continuously photographed image for which sound
is simultaneously recorded. However, the image before and after the
frame, i.e., the image immediately after the frame if the frame is
the first image, or the image immediately before the frame if the
frame is not the first image, will be reproduced in its place.
Further, the sound will be reproduced in the normal manner.
[0187] In the process described above, if the predetermined frame
is deleted in the continuously photographed image containing sound,
the image of the frame either immediately before or immediately
after the deleted frame is displayed. However, deletion of the
image may be prohibited if the continuously photographed image
contains sound, for example. Alternatively, if the predetermined
frame is deleted, only the sound may be reproduced without
reproducing the frame.
[0188] The invention is not limited to the electronic camera of the
above embodiment but may be applied to other information processing
apparatus, for example, an electronic notebook.
[0189] Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the invention will be
described.
[0190] According to another aspect of the invention, with reference
to FIG. 25, the power switch may be turned on for the first time in
the electronic camera 1. Alternatively, a memory card 24 on which
no shooting image is recorded may be mounted on the main body. In
either of these situations, the process shown in FIG. 25 will be
executed.
[0191] The process shown in FIG. 25 is for setting up a slide show.
First, the CPU 39 initializes the value of the variable N.
Specifically, at step S131 the CPU 39 assigns 0 to the recording
unit number stored in the reproduction units, described below. The
CPU then moves to step S132. At step S132, the CPU 39 determines
whether a new recording unit has been recorded. In other words, the
CPU 39 determines whether one of shooting image, memo or sound is
recorded. As a result, if a new record unit is determined to have
been recorded (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step S133. In step S133,
the CPU increments the value of the variable N, which stores the
recording unit number stored in the reproduction unit, by 1, and
moves to step S134. Also, if the new recording unit is determined
not to have been recorded at step S132 (NO), the CPU 39 moves to
step S134.
[0192] At step S134, the CPU 39 determines whether the slide show
mode is selected. The slide show is the third selection choice in
the menu screen shown in FIG. 12 which is displayed by operation of
the menu key 7A. As a result, if the slide show is determined not
to have been selected (NO), the CPU 39 returns to step S132 and
repeats the process similar to that described above. If the slide
show is determined to have been selected, the CPU 39 moves to step
S135. At step S135, a process to generate slide show data is
executed. The details of this process are described hereinafter
with reference to FIG. 26.
[0193] When the process of step S135 in FIG. 25 is executed, this
will cause the process of step S20 in FIG. 26 to be executed. In
step S20, the CPU 39 initializes the value of variable i to be 1.
This variable stores the number of times that the process is
repeated. Then CPU 39 then moves to step S21 and reads the ith
recording unit, i.e. the recording unit whose order of recording
contained in the recording unit (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step
S75. In step S75, the CPU 39 reads the memo data contained in the
recording unit from the memory card 24 and restores the original
image by decompressing the compressed data using the run length
method. The CPU further writes the reproduced data in the frame
memory 35 as bit map data and causes the memo data to be displayed
on LCD 6. The CPU 39 then moves to step S76.
[0194] In step S76, the CPU 39 determines whether sound is
contained in the recording unit read in step S71. As a result, if
sound is determined not to be contained in the recording unit (NO),
the CPU 39 moves to the process in step S78. However, if sound is
determined to be contained in the recording unit (YES), the CPU 39
moves to step 377. In step S77, the CPU 39 reads the sound data
contained in the recording unit from the memory card 24 and
decompresses the sound data. The CPU then supplies the sound data
to the A/D and D/A conversion circuit 42. The A/D and D/A
conversion circuit 42 converts the sound data supplied into analog
signals and reproduces them using speaker 5. The CPU 39 then moves
to step S78. In step S78, the wait process is executed. In other
words, the CPU 39 extracts WAIT 60E from the header and counts the
output from the timer 45 in relation to the WAIT value 60E.
Further, the CPU 39 moves to step S79 if the predetermined time
which is stored in WAIT 60E has elapsed.
[0195] In step S79, the CPU 39 increments the value of the variable
i, which stores the number of times the process is repeated, by 1.
The CPU then moves to step S90. In step S90, the CPU 39 determines
whether the value of the variable i is larger than the number N of
the recording units contained in the reproduction unit. As a
result, if the value of the variable i is determined to be smaller
than or equal to N (NO), which is the number of recording units
contained in the reproduction unit, the CPU 39 returns to step S71
and repeats the same process as mentioned before. Further, if the
value of the variable i is determined to be greater than N (YES),
which is the number of recording units contained in the
reproduction unit, the CPU 39 proceeds to the process of step S91.
In step S91, the CPU 39 decrements the value of the variable Repeat
by 1. This is the variable in which the repeat value displayed in
the fifth line in FIG. 30 is stored. Thus, the number of times the
slide show is repeated is stored. The CPU then moves to step S92.
In step S92, the CPU 39 determines whether the value of the
variable Repeat is 0. As a result, if the value of the variable
Repeat is determined not to be 0 (NO), the CPU 39 returns to step
S70 and repeats the same process as described above. If the value
of the variable Repeat is determined to be 0 (YES), the CPU 39
returns to the process of step S139 which is shown in FIG. 25. As a
result of the processes described above, all of the recording units
contained in the reproduction unit generated through the process of
step S135 in FIG. 25 will be reproduced.
[0196] With further reference to FIG. 25, the CPU 39 initializes
the value of the variable M in step S139. This variable stores the
number of recording units that are newly recorded. The CPU 39 then
moves to step S140 in FIG. 25.
[0197] In step S140, the CPU 39 determines whether a new recording
unit is recorded. As a result, if a new recording unit is
determined to have been recorded (YES), the CPU 39 moves to step
S141 and increments the value of the variable M by 1. The CPU then
moves to step S142. If the new recording unit is determined not to
have been recorded (NO), the CPU 39 moves to the process of step
S142. In step S142, the CPU 39 determines whether the slide show
mode is selected. In other words, CPU 39 determines whether "slide
show" is selected. Such selection is the third selection choice in
the menu screen shown in (FIG. 12) and is displayed by operation of
the menu key 7A. If the slide show is determined not to have been
selected (NO), the CPU 39 returns to step S140 and repeats the
process described above. However, if the slide show is determined
to have been selected, the CPU 39 moves to step S143.
[0198] In step S143, CPU 39 determines whether the default key 74,
shown in FIG. 30 is pressed. As a result, if the default key 74 is
determined to have been pressed (YES), the CPU 39 moves to the
process of step S144 and adds the number M of the newly recorded
recording units to the variable N. The variable N stores the number
of recording units contained in the reproduction unit. Then CPU 39
then returns to step S135 and repeats the same process as described
above. However, if the default key 74 is determined not to have
been pressed (NO) in step S143, the CPU 39 skips the process of
step S144 and returns to step S135. The CPU then repeats the same
process as described above.
[0199] Illustratively, information such as that shown in FIG. 14
may be stored in the memory card 24, for example. If the slide show
is executed, then the value 4 is assigned to the number N of the
recording unit. Further, suppose one new shooting image is recorded
later. In such a case, if a slide show is executed again without
the default key 74 being pressed, the value N remains 4. Thus, the
four recording units shown in FIG. 30 are reproduced successively
following the reproduction order. Further, if a slide show is
executed again after the default key 74 has been pressed, the
determination in step S143, in FIG. 25, is (YES) . Thus, the value
of (M=1) is added to the value of N in step S144. This causes the
newly photographed image to be displayed at the lower most row of
the screen as shown in FIG. 31 during the display process of step
S136. Thus, the newly photographed image may also be
reproduced.
[0200] As a result of the process described above, if a new
recording unit is recorded after the reproduction units are
structured during the slide show mode, the newly recorded recording
unit is processed in a different manner from the aforementioned
reproduction units. Thus, the reproduction unit which is set during
the slide show mode is maintained until the default key 74 is
pressed. Therefore, even if a new recording is executed, the
reproduction unit established during the slide show mode will not
be changed.
[0201] In the embodiment of the invention described above, the
number of reproduction units is one. However, a plurality of
reproduction units (or groups), for example, may be provided so as
to allow generation thereof. In addition, a plurality of slide
shows may be selected in the menu screen as shown in FIG. 32. In
this example, the slide show 1 is displayed as the third display
choice and the slide show 2 is displayed as the fourth display
choice. In such a display screen, selection of a desired slide show
enables the successive reproduction of the recording units which
are contained in the reproduction unit corresponding to the
selected slide show. In addition, the programs shown in FIGS. 16,
18, 19 and 22-28 are stored in the memory card 24. At such
location, the programs are at the user's disposal. Also, the
programs may be stored a in CD-ROM (Compact Disk-ROM) and in turn
copied onto the memory card 24. The programs also can be stored in
internal (non-removable) ROM of the camera. The programs also can
be supplied over a communications network such as the Internet
(World Wide Web).
[0202] Although the JPEG and run length encoding compression
techniques were described, other compression techniques (or no
compression at all) can be used with the invention.
[0203] Although a touch tablet with input pen were described as
structures through which selections and commands can be input, the
invention is not limited to such structure. For example, the touch
tablet can be actuable by the user's finger. Additionally,
selections and commands can be input without using a touch tablet.
For example, a cursor can be moved (e.g., via a mouse) and
selections or commands can be made by clicking.
[0204] The invention is not limited to implementation by a
programmed general purpose computer as shown in the preferred
embodiment. For example, the invention can be implemented using one
or more special purpose integrated circuit(s) (e.g., ASIC). It will
be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention can
also be implemented using one or more dedicated or programmable
integrated or other electronic circuits or devices (e.g., hardwired
electronic or logic circuits such as discrete element circuits, or
programmable logic devices such as PLDs, PLAs, PALs or the like).
In general, any device or assembly of devices on which a finite
state machine capable of implementing the flow charts shown in
FIGS. 16, 18, 19 and 22-28 can be used.
[0205] While the invention has been described in conjunction with
specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives,
modifications and variations may be apparent to those skilled in
the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the invention as
set forth herein are intended to be illustrative, not limiting.
Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.
* * * * *