U.S. patent application number 12/071670 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-08 for electronic camera.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Satoshi Ejima, Takumi Kawahara, Tomoaki Kawamura, Toshiaki Kobayashi, Toshihisa Kuroiwa, Hirotake Nozaki, Kazuya Umeyama.
Application Number | 20090009629 12/071670 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27347153 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090009629 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ejima; Satoshi ; et
al. |
January 8, 2009 |
Electronic camera
Abstract
An electronic camera of the present invention includes: an
imaging unit capturing a subject to generate an original image; a
derivative image generating unit reducing resolution or color of
the original image to generate a derivative image for transfer; a
recording unit recording the original image and the derivative
image thereon such that the original image and the derivative image
get associated with each other; and a transfer unit transferring
the derivative image recorded on the recording unit to an external
transfer destination. In this configuration, the recording unit
finds the derivative image (original image) by referring to the
association with the original image (or derivative image), thereby
collectively managing the original image and the derivative image.
This makes it possible to prevent a user from being confused at
image management due to the original image and the derivative image
being the same image.
Inventors: |
Ejima; Satoshi;
(Setagaya-Ku, JP) ; Umeyama; Kazuya; (Edogawa-ku,
JP) ; Kawahara; Takumi; (Ichikawa-shi, JP) ;
Kuroiwa; Toshihisa; (Miura-shi, JP) ; Kobayashi;
Toshiaki; (Nishishirakawa-gun, JP) ; Nozaki;
Hirotake; (Koto-ku, JP) ; Kawamura; Tomoaki;
(Yokohama-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OLIFF & BERRIDGE, PLC
P.O. BOX 320850
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22320-4850
US
|
Assignee: |
NIKON CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
27347153 |
Appl. No.: |
12/071670 |
Filed: |
February 25, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10380328 |
Mar 13, 2003 |
|
|
|
PCT/JP02/07111 |
Jul 12, 2002 |
|
|
|
12071670 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
348/231.99 ;
386/E5.072 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 9/8227 20130101;
H04N 5/9205 20130101; H04N 9/8042 20130101; H04N 5/765 20130101;
H04N 5/907 20130101; H04N 5/772 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/231.99 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/76 20060101
H04N005/76 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 13, 2001 |
JP |
2001-213524 |
Jul 17, 2001 |
JP |
2001-216814 |
Aug 14, 2001 |
JP |
2001-245954 |
Claims
1. An electronic camera comprising: an imaging unit for capturing a
subject to generate an original image; a derivative image
generating unit for reducing resolution or color of the original
image to generate derivative image(s) which is/are used for
transfer; a recording unit for recording the original image and the
derivative image thereon such that the original image and the
derivative image get associated with each other; and a transfer
unit for transferring the derivative image recorded on said
recording unit to an external transfer destination.
Description
[0001] This is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 10/380,328
filed Mar. 13, 2003, which in turn is a National Stage of
PCT/JP02/07111 filed Jul. 12, 2002. The entire disclosure of the
prior applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an electronic camera which
generates derivative images for external transfer from captured
original images. The present invention particularly relates to an
image managing technology, an image displaying technology, and a
user interface technology for these derivative images.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0003] In recent years, the pixel density of an electronic camera
tends to increase more and more. With this increase in the pixel
density, a file space of an image generated in an electronic camera
amounts to 1 Mbyte or more even after compression.
[0004] Images generated in an electronic camera are outputted to a
personal computer, a printer, a mass memory unit, a cellular phone,
a digital photograph server on the Internet, and so on when
necessary.
[0005] When an image of, for example, 1 Mbyte or more per frame is
transferred to such external transfer destinations, a problem of a
long transfer time arises.
[0006] Further, for example, a cellular phone or the like handles
images with an extremely lower pixel density compared with that of
images handled by a personal computer, a printer, and the like.
Therefore, in a case where an image with substantially the same
pixel density as images used with a personal computer or a printer
is transferred to a cellular phone, the cellular phone cannot
receive the image because the image data exceeds its data capacity,
resulting in data loss.
[0007] For the purpose of solving this problem, the inventor of the
present application has come up with an idea that a derivative
image with a reduced data size is generated when necessary in an
electronic camera to use the derivative image for external
transfer.
[0008] In this case, however, the derivative image and its original
image from which the derivative image is generated both exist in a
recording unit of the electronic camera.
[0009] This consequently doubles the number of images to be managed
in the electronic camera, and there arises a problem that
management of images in the electronic camera may be complexed to a
great extent.
[0010] In particular, since these original image and derivative
image are the same image, a user has a difficulty in clearly
distinguishing the original image and the derivative image on the
small monitor screen of the electronic camera and in accurately
selecting from the two. As a result, the user may mistakenly
transfer the original image instead of the derivative image or vice
versa to the exterior.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In view of solving the above-described problems, it is an
object of the present invention to provide a technology for
appropriately managing derivative images which are generated for
use of external transfer.
[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
image displaying technology for distinguishing between an original
image and a derivative image with ease.
[0013] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a user interface technology which achieves an easy and
accurate discrimination operation on an image to be
transferred.
[0014] Hereinafter, the present invention will be explained.
(1) An electronic camera of the present invention includes: an
imaging unit for capturing a subject to generate an original image;
a derivative image generating unit for reducing resolution or color
of the original image to generate derivative image(s) for transfer;
a recording unit recording the original image and the derivative
image thereon in such a manner that the original image the
derivative image get associated with each other; and a transfer
unit transferring the derivative image recorded on the recording
unit to an external transfer destination.
[0015] With this structure, the derivative image (or original
image) can be specified by utilizing its association with its
original image (or derivative image). This can realize
comprehensive image management of the original image and the
derivative image with ease based on the original-derivative image
associations.
[0016] It is preferable that, for example, the recording unit
manages the derivative image (or original image) in the same way as
it manages its original image (or derivative image) by making use
of the associations described above. This eliminates the necessity
of separately managing the original image and the derivative
image.
(2) In another electronic camera of the present invention, the
recording unit of the electronic camera in the above description
(1) includes: a folder in which the original image is recorded; and
lower folders being under the folder hierarchically and in which
the derivative images are separately recorded depending on their
respective image sizes, in order to manage the derivative images by
size in a hierarchical manner.
[0017] Such hierarchical management enables appropriate image
management of the original image and the derivative image.
Especially, using the lower folders exclusively for storing the
derivative images can prevent a user from mistakenly storing the
original image in the lower folders, thereby enabling accurate
discrimination between the original image and the derivative image
in image management.
(3) In another electronic camera of the present invention, the
transfer unit of the electronic camera in the above description (1)
obtains information on the external transfer destination from the
external transfer destination or a user, and the derivative image
generating unit determines an image format corresponding to the
information on the external transfer destination to generate a
derivative image according to the image format.
[0018] By structuring the electronic camera in this way, it is made
possible to properly generate derivative images of the image format
suitable for the external transfer destination. This can further
eliminate the necessity of users' manually changing the image
format of the derivative image every time the external transfer
destination is changed.
(4) In another electronic camera of the present invention, the
electronic camera in the above description (1) further includes an
erase control unit for receiving an erase command for the original
image from a user. The recording unit erases the original image in
compliance with the erase command, and then retrieves and erases a
recorded derivative image which is associated with the original
image.
[0019] By structuring the electronic camera in this way, in
accordance to the erase of the original image, its corresponding
derivative image is also erased. This eliminates a disadvantage
that upon erasing an original image, the user forgets erasing its
derivative images, leaving them in the electronic camera. In
addition, from the users' point of view, they need not separately
erase the original image and its derivative image since what they
have to pay attention to is to erase the original image.
(5) In another electronic camera of the present invention, the
recording unit of the electronic camera in the above description
(1) erases a derivative image which has been transferred by the
transfer unit. Structuring the electronic camera in this way
eliminates a disadvantage that externally transferred derivative
images remain in the electronic camera. (6) Another electronic
camera of the present invention is configured such that the
electronic camera in the above description (1) additionally
includes a storage space monitoring unit for determining an
available storage space of the recording unit and finding a
shortage in the available storage space. The recording unit erases
all or a part of the derivative images when the storage space
monitoring unit finds a shortage in the available storage
space.
[0020] It is possible to prevent the accumulation of the derivative
images, thereby accordingly solving the shortage in the available
storage space.
(7) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a transfer control unit for
receiving from a user a file transfer command for the original
image, and the recording unit file-transfers the original image in
compliance with the file transfer command and retrieves, for
file-transfer, a derivative image which has been recorded in
association with original image.
[0021] Structuring the electronic camera in this way solves a
problem that the derivative image remains at its original position,
separately from the original image after the original image is
file-transferred. This also allows a user to pay attention only to
the file transfer of the original image, eliminating the necessity
for the user to perform the file transfer of the original image and
the derivative image separately.
(8) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a protect control unit for
receiving from a user a protect command for the original image, and
the recording unit sets a protect attribute on the original image
in compliance with the protect command, and retrieves a derivative
image which has been recorded in association with the original
image to set the protect attribute on this derivative image.
[0022] Structuring the electronic camera in this way solves a
problem that the derivative image without the protect attribute is
mistakenly erased even though its original image has the protect
attribute set thereon. This eliminates the necessity for the user
to set the protect attribute on the original image and the
derivative image separately, allowing the user to pay attention
only to the protect setting on the original image.
(9) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes an original image erase control
unit for receiving only an erase command for the original image
from a user, in which the recording unit erases the original image
in compliance with the erase command, and retrieves a derivative
image which has been recorded in association with the original
image, and upgrades this derivative image to the original
image.
[0023] Structuring the electronic camera in this way can prevent a
problem that the user forgets that a derivative image having no
original image remains in the electronic camera, leaving the
derivative image therein without processing it. Note that the
recording unit preferably upgrades a derivative image of the
largest image size to an original image when a plurality of
corresponding derivative images is present. Moreover, it is
preferable that the recording unit records the original image to
which the derivative image has been upgraded, in association with
remaining derivative images.
(10) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the imaging unit of the electronic camera in
the above description (1) selectively has a moving image capture
mode in which a subject is captured as moving images, and the
derivative image generating unit generates, for the original image
captured in the moving image capture mode (namely, moving images),
a derivative image by reducing resolution or color of one frame of
the original image.
[0024] Such generation of the derivative image from one frame of
the moving images enables reduction in processing load taken for
generating the derivative image from the moving images. It is also
made possible that captured moving images are not transferred
immediately after the capture, but only one frame of the derivative
image is transferred for a trial instead.
(11) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the imaging unit of the electronic camera in
the above description (1) selectively has a continuous capture mode
in which a subject is captured as continuous static images, in
which the derivative image generating unit generates, for an
original image captured in the continuous capture mode (namely,
plural static images), derivative images (namely, plural static
images) by reducing resolution or color of each frame of the
original image.
[0025] Structuring the electronic camera in this way eliminates the
necessity for the user to generate the derivative images frame by
frame separately from the continuously shot static images. This
results in realizing a very usable electronic camera.
(12) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a thumbnail generating unit
generating a thumbnail image for thumbnail display from the
original image and appending the generated thumbnail image to the
original image, and the thumbnail generating unit does not append
the thumbnail image to the original image when the number of pixels
of the thumbnail image is equal to or larger than the number of
pixels of the derivative image.
[0026] Not appending the thumbnail image to the original image can
reduce the file size of the original image properly. Note that the
derivative image is preferably used in place of the thumbnail image
in the case of not appending the thumbnail to the original image as
described above.
(13) Another electronic camera of the present invention includes:
an imaging unit for capturing a subject to generate an original
image; a derivative image generating unit for reducing resolution
or color of the original image to generate a derivative image for
transfer; a recording unit recording the original image and the
derivative image thereon; a transfer unit transferring the
derivative image recorded on the recording unit to an external
transfer destination; and a control unit erasing from the recording
unit a derivative image which has been transferred to exterior by
the transfer unit.
[0027] Structuring the electronic camera in this way eliminates a
problem that the derivative image which has been transferred
continues to remain in the electronic camera.
(14) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a display unit displaying an image
or information on the image, wherein the display unit discriminates
between the original image and the derivative image and decides the
derivative image as non-display.
[0028] In such a structure, not displaying (hiding) the derivative
image on the screen makes it possible to prevent, with sureness,
the user from being confused because the original image and the
derivative image being the same image appear on the screen. In
addition, deciding the derivative image as non-display reduces the
number of images to be displayed. This enables the user to quickly
find a target image from a small number of display images.
(15) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a display unit displaying an image
or information on the image, and the display unit displays
information on the image size of the derivative image in addition
to the derivative image.
[0029] Such a structure of the electronic camera enables the user
to accurately distinguish the original image and the derivative
image being the same image, according to the displayed image
size.
(16) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a display unit displaying an image
or information on the image, and the display unit displays a
derivative image when the user performs a predetermined operation
during the display of the original image, and displays derivative
images in the order of their image sizes according to the user's
operation when a plurality of derivative images generated from the
same original image are present.
[0030] With such a structure of the electronic camera, when the
predetermined user's operation is performed during the display of
the original image, its corresponding derivative image is
displayed. In this case, first displayed is the original image and
next is the derivative image, therefore, the user can accurately
distinguish the original image and the derivative image being the
same image according to the display order.
[0031] Further, in a case where a plurality of derivative images
generated from the same original image are present, the derivative
images are displayed in the order of their image sizes according to
the user's operation. This enables the user to accurately decide a
magnitude relation of plural images being the same image, according
to the display order.
(17) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a display unit displaying an image
or information on the image, and the display unit, upon deciding
the original image as non-display, decides a derivative image
generated from this original image as non-display.
[0032] Structuring the electronic camera in this way can prevent
occurrence of a problem that a derivative image of the original
image as non-display is displayed. Further, the user need not set
non-display twice separately for the original image and its
derivative image being the same image, therefore, the user can save
his/her labor.
(18) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a display unit displaying an image
or information on the image, and the display unit discriminates
between the original image and the derivative image and does not
display the original image and the derivative image concurrently on
the screen.
[0033] In such a structure, the original image and the derivative
image being the same image are not displayed together on the same
screen, which can prevent the user from being confused because of
his/her inability to distinguish the images. Further, the original
image and the derivative image being the same image are not
displayed at the same time so that many different images can be
concurrently displayed. This enables the user to quickly find a
target image from various images in a display list.
(19) Another electronic camera of the present invention is
characterized in that the electronic camera in the above
description (1) further includes a slide display unit automatically
displaying a plurality of images in sequence, and the slide display
unit separates the plurality of images into original images and
derivative images to automatically display either of the original
images and the derivative images.
[0034] Structuring the electronic camera in this way can prevent
redundant slide displays of the original images and the derivative
images being the same image. As a result, the user can look through
all images in a relatively short time, or he/she can take his/her
time as much as he/she wants to look through all images since it is
made possible to elongate the display time per frame without
elongating the total display time.
(20) In another electronic camera of the present invention, the
transfer unit of the electronic camera in the above description (1)
has a function of transferring the original image in addition to a
function of transferring the derivative image. This electronic
camera further includes a transfer setting unit setting a flag on
an image designated by a user's input, the flag indicating a
transfer candidate of the transfer unit. Specifically, the
derivative image generating unit of this electronic camera, when
generating the derivative image from the original image having a
flag thereon, removes the flag from this original image and sets
the flag on the generated derivative image.
[0035] Such a structure enables the user to freely select an image
to be transferred by performing the following operations {circle
around (1)} and {circle around (2)}.
{circle around (1)} The user selects an image to be transferred
from original images and temporarily sets the flag on the selected
original image. {circle around (2)} The user thereafter selects
from the original images a to-be-transferred image with reduced
file space, thereby generating a derivative image.
[0036] At this time, the electronic camera shift the flag from the
original image to the derivative image generated in the operation
{circle around (2)}. On the other hand, the original image
continues to have the flag in case where the derivative image is
not generated from the original image. Performing the operations
{circle around (1)} and {circle around (2)} enables the user to set
the flag on either the original image or the derivative image when
necessary.
[0037] The operations {circle around (1)} and {circle around (2)}
are both intended for the original image. Therefore, the user need
not pay attention to the derivative image when performing these
operations, and can set the flag mainly on original images by an
intuitive and simple operation.
(21) Another electronic camera of the present invention is so
structured that the transfer unit of the electronic camera in the
above description (1) further has a function of transferring the
original image in addition to a function of transferring the
derivative image. This electronic camera further includes a
transfer setting unit setting a flag on an image designated by
user's input, the flag indicating a transfer candidate of the
transfer unit.
[0038] Specifically, the transfer setting unit of this electronic
camera, when the original image selected by the user's input has
its derivative image, sets the flag not on the original image but
on the derivative image.
[0039] Such a structure enables the user to freely select an image
to be transferred by performing the following operations {circle
around (3)} and {circle around (4)}.
{circle around (3)} The user selects from original images an image
to be transferred with reduced file space and temporarily generates
a derivative image. {circle around (4)} The user thereafter selects
an image to be transferred from the original images and sets the
flag on the selected original image.
[0040] At this time, the electronic camera shifts, at the operation
{circle around (4)}, the flag from the original image to the
derivative image generated in the operation. On the other hand, the
original image continues to have the flag when the derivative image
is not generated from the original image in the operation {circle
around (3)}. The user can allot the flag to the original image and
the derivative image when necessary by performing the operations
{circle around (3)} and {circle around (4)}.
[0041] The operations {circle around (3)} and {circle around (4)}
are both intended for the original images. Therefore, the user need
not pay attention to the derivative image when performing these
operation, and can set the flag mainly on original images by an
intuitive and simple operation.
[0042] Note that it is more preferable to carry out both the
inventions described in (20) and (21) together. In this case, the
user is allowed to carry out either the above operations {circle
around (1)} and {circle around (2)} or operations {circle around
(3)} and {circle around (4)}. Also, performing the above operations
{circle around (1)} and {circle around (2)} in a reverse order is
equivalent to performing the operations {circle around (3)} and
{circle around (4)}. In other words, by combining both of the
inventions in (20) and (21), the user is allowed to execute the
aforesaid operations {circle around (1)} and {circle around (2)} in
any order. This enables the user to set the flag on the original
and derivative images more freely without taking the operation
order into account.
(22) Another electronic camera of the present invention is so
structured that the transfer unit of the electronic camera in the
above description (1) further has a function of transferring the
original image in addition to a function of transferring the
derivative image. This electronic camera further includes: a
transfer setting unit setting a flag on an image designated by
user's input, the flag indicating a transfer candidate of the
transfer unit; and an erase unit erasing an image designated by a
user's input.
[0043] Especially, the transfer setting unit of this electronic
camera erases, in response to the erase of the original image, a
derivative image generated from this original image, and removes
the flag from the derivative image.
[0044] With such a structure, the user need not remove the flags of
remaining derivative images in another time after erasing the
original image, and can operate the electronic camera in a simpler
manner.
(23) Another electronic camera of the present invention is so
structured that the transfer unit of the electronic camera in the
above description (1) further has a function of transferring the
original image in addition to a function of transferring the
derivative image. This electronic camera further includes: a
transfer setting unit setting a flag on an image designated by
user's input, the flag indicating a transfer candidate of the
transfer unit; and an erase unit erasing an image designated by
user's input.
[0045] Especially, the transfer setting unit of this electronic
camera, when the derivative image having the flag set thereon is
erased, sets the flag on an original image from which the
derivative image is generated.
[0046] With such a structure, when the user wants to return the
flag to the original image from the derivative image, he/she should
first erase an unnecessary derivative image which is no longer a
candidate of the transfer. By this user's operation, the electronic
camera shifts the flag from the derivative image to the original
image. Therefore, the user need not shift the flag explicitly, and
can operate the electronic camera in a simpler way.
(24) Another electronic camera of the present invention is so
structured that the transfer unit of the electronic camera in the
above description (1) further has a function of transferring the
original image in addition to a function of transferring the
derivative image, This electronic camera further includes a
transfer setting unit setting a flag on an image designated by
user's input, the flag indicating a transfer candidate of the
transfer unit.
[0047] Especially, the transfer setting unit of this electronic
camera sets the flag on all original images with print information,
irrespective of whether or not these original images have their
derivative images.
[0048] The original images having print information are likely to
be used for printing purpose at their external transfer
destinations. For the printing use, the original image having large
image information is more preferable in view of image quality than
the derivative image with reduced file space. Hence, setting the
flag on the original images having the print information as
described above can surely improve the print image quality at the
external transfer destination.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0049] The above-described objects and other objects of the present
invention will be made apparent with reference to the following
description and the attached drawings.
[0050] FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) are views each showing an external
appearance of an electronic camera 11;
[0051] FIG. 2 is a block diagram explaining the configuration of
the electronic camera 11;
[0052] FIG. 3 is a flowchart (1/2) explaining a derivative image
generating process;
[0053] FIG. 4 is a flowchart (2/2) explaining the derivative image
generating process;
[0054] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process routine of file
manipulation;
[0055] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a derivative image generating
process in a second embodiment:
[0056] FIG. 7 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode in a third embodiment;
[0057] FIG. 8 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a thumbnail display mode;
[0058] FIG. 9 is a view showing a display screen image in the full
screen display mode;
[0059] FIG. 10 is a view showing a display screen image in the
thumbnail display mode;
[0060] FIG. 11 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode in a fourth embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 12 is a view showing a display screen image in the full
screen display mode:
[0062] FIG. 13 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a slide display mode in the fourth embodiment;
[0063] FIG. 14 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode;
[0064] FIG. 15 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a thumbnail display mode; and
[0065] FIG. 16 shows thumbnail display.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0066] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention
will be explained with reference to the drawings.
First Embodiment
[0067] A first embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera
corresponding to the inventions of claims 1, 4, 5, 7 to 9, 12, and
13.
[Configuration Description of Electronic Camera]
[0068] FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) are views each showing an external
appearance of this electronic camera 11. Note that FIG. 1(a) is a
top view of the electronic camera 11, and FIG. 1(b) is a rear view
of the electronic camera 11. FIG. 2 is a block diagram explaining
the internal configuration of the electronic camera 11.
[0069] Hereinafter, the configuration of the electronic camera 11
will be explained with reference to these FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
[0070] First, a lens 12 is attached to the electronic camera 11. An
image sensor 13 is disposed in an image space of this lens 12. This
image sensor 13 is controlled by a timing generator 13a and
captures a subject. The image captured by this image sensor 13
(namely, an original image) is digitized by an image processing
unit 14 and an A/D converting unit 15, and thereafter, given to a
digital signal processor (hereinafter, referred to as a DSP) 16.
This DSP 16 is connected to a buffer memory 18 and a memory card 19
via a data bus 17. The DSP 16 performs two-dimensional image
processing, image compression processing, and so on for the
original image while exchanging image data with this buffer memory
18. The original image processed in the DSP 16 is recorded on the
memory card 19 in an EXIF file format.
[0071] Meanwhile, the aforesaid timing generator 13a, image
processing unit 14, DSP 16, buffer memory 18, and memory card 19
are connected to a microprocessor (hereinafter, referred to as an
MPU) 21 via a system bus 20 for control and data transfer.
[0072] To this MPU 21, connected are a release button 22, a cross
button 23, a menu button 24, a command dial 25, a zoom button 26, a
display switch button 27, a transfer button 28, a derivative image
generating button 29, an enter key 29a, and an erase button
29b.
[0073] Note that the aforesaid cross button 23 is constituted of
four-direction keys consisting of an up key 23a, a down key 23b, a
left key 23c, and a right key 23d.
[0074] A frame memory 30 is connected to the aforesaid system bus
20. Image data in this frame memory 30 is displayed on a liquid
crystal display unit 31 provided on a rear face of the electronic
camera 11.
[0075] To the aforesaid system bus 20, further connected is an
interface 32 transferring an image having a flag, to an external
transfer destination in response to the operation to the transfer
button 28.
[Relation with the Invention]
[0076] Hereinafter, the relation between the inventions and the
first embodiment will be explained. It should be noted that the
relation here only illustrates one interpretation for reference and
is not intended to limit the present invention more than
necessary.
[0077] An imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to the
image sensor 13, the timing generator 13a, the image processing
unit 14, the A/D converting unit 15, and the DSP 16.
[0078] A derivative image generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a derivative image generating function` of the MPU
21 (or the DSP 16).
[0079] A recording unit described in the claims corresponds to `a
function of file management of the memory card 19` of the MPU
21.
[0080] A transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to the
interface 32.
[0081] An erase control unit described in the claims corresponds to
`a function of receiving an erase command for the original image
from a user's operation or the like of the cross button 23` of the
MPU 21.
[0082] A transfer control unit described in the claims corresponds
to `a function of receiving a file transfer command for an original
image from a user's operation or the like of the cross button 23`
of the MPU 21.
[0083] A protect control unit described in the claims corresponds
to `a function of receiving a protect command for an original image
from a user's operation or the like of the cross button 23` of the
MPU 21.
[0084] An original image erase control unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of receiving an erase command for only
an original image from a user's operation or the like of the cross
button 23` of the MPU 21.
[0085] A thumbnail generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of generating a thumbnail image to
append it to a file header of an original image` of the MPU 21 (or
the DSP 16).
[0086] A control unit described in the claims corresponds to `a
function of erasing from the memory card 19 a derivative image
which has been transferred` of the MPU 21.
[Description on Derivative Image Generating Process]
[0087] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are flowcharts explaining a derivative
image generating process. Note that this process starts as a part
of processes in response to pressing of the down key 23b.
Hereinafter, the derivative image generating process will be
explained following the steps in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.
Step S1: When a user presses down the down key 23b, the MPU 21
first determines a current operation mode of the electronic camera
11.
[0088] Here, when the current operation mode is a quick review mode
(a mode to display on the liquid crystal display unit 31 an image
immediately after being captured) or a reproduction mode (a mode to
reproduce an image in the memory card 19 for display on the liquid
crystal display unit 31), the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S2.
[0089] On the other hand, in the case where the current operation
mode is of other operation modes, the MPU 21 shifts its operation
to Step S14.
Step S2: The MPU 21 determines a current display status of the
liquid crystal display unit 31.
[0090] When the original image is displayed on the full screen, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S3.
[0091] On the other hand, in the case where the liquid crystal
display unit 31 has other display status (a 1/4 screen display, a
thumbnail display, a derivative image display, or the like), the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S14.
Step 3: The MPU 21 obtains information on an available storage
space of the memory card 19.
[0092] Here, when the storage space currently available is too
small to store a new derivative image, the MPU 21 gives up
generating a new derivative image and shifts its operation to Step
S14.
[0093] On the other hand, when the storage space currently
available is large enough to store the derivative image, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step 4.
Step S4: The MPU 21 overlappingly displays the following
confirmation menu on a display image on the liquid crystal display
unit 31. Header "Generate a derivative image?" Option {circle
around (1)} Yes (default option) Option {circle around (2)} No
Option {circle around (3)} Change reduction size Step S5: The MPU
21 monitors a user's operation to the cross button 23 to receive a
selected one of the above options {circle around (1)} to {circle
around (3)}.
[0094] Specifically, a user hits the right key 23d once,
determining selection of the option {circle around (1)}. In this
case, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S8.
[0095] The user hits the right key 23d once after hitting the down
key 23b once, determining selection of the option {circle around
(2)}. In this case, the MPU 21 stops generating a new derivative
image to shifts its operation to Step S14.
[0096] Meanwhile, the user hits the right key 23d once after
hitting the down key 23b twice, determining selection of the option
{circle around (3)}. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts its operation
to Step S6.
Step S6: The MPU 21 additionally displays the following
confirmation menu on the display image on the liquid crystal
display unit 31. Header "Change reduction size" Option {circle
around (1)} 640.times.480 (default at the shipping time) Option
{circle around (2)} 320.times.240 Option {circle around (3)}
160.times.120 Option {circle around (4)} 96.times.72 Step S7: The
MPU 21 monitors the user's operation to the cross button 23 to
receive the selection and determination of the image size
(reduction size) of the derivative image. The MPU 21 uses the image
size determined here as a default thereafter. After this operation,
the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S4. Step S8: The MPU
21 searches files in the memory card 19 to determine whether or not
a derivative image to be generated already exists.
[0097] When the derivative image to be generated already exists
here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S9.
[0098] On the other hand, when the derivative image to be generated
does not exist, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S11.
Step S9: The MPU 21 overlappingly displays the following
confirmation menu on the display image on the liquid crystal
display unit 31. Header "A derivative image already generated.
Overwrite?" Option {circle around (1)} Yes Option {circle around
(2)} No (default option) Option {circle around (3)} Change
reduction size Step S10: The MPU 21 monitors the user's operation
to the cross button 23 to receive a selected one of the above
options {circle around (1)} to {circle around (3)}.
[0099] Specifically, the user hits the right key once, determining
selection of the option {circle around (2)}. In this case, the MPU
21 stops generating a new derivative image to shift its operation
to Step S14.
[0100] The user hits the right key 23d once after hitting the down
key 23b once, determining selection of the option {circle around
(3)}. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S6.
[0101] Meanwhile, the user hits the right key 23d once after
hitting the up key 23a once, determining selection of the option
{circle around (1)}. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts its operation
to Step S11.
Step 11: In the case of the reproduction mode, the MPU 21 reads out
from the memory card 19 a compressed file of the original image
currently displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 31 to store
this compressed file in the buffer memory 18. The DSP 16 expands
this compressed file to develop the original image in the buffer
memory 18.
[0102] On the other hand, in the case of the quick review mode, the
original image immediately after being captured has been developed
in the buffer memory 18 by the MPU 21.
[0103] The MPU 21 (or the DSP 16) performs resolution-conversion on
this original image in the buffer memory 18 to have an image of a
default image size to generate a derivative image.
[0104] The DSP 16 compresses this derivative image to, for example,
about 1/16 irrespective of the compressibility of the original
image.
[0105] The MPU 21 copies header information of the original image,
appends it to the compressed data of the derivative image to
generate a compressed file in the EXIF file format.
[0106] Further, the MPU 21 replaces an initial letter of a file
name "DSCN****.jpg" of the original image with a letter (for
example, "S" or the like) according to the image size to create a
file name of the derivative image. The associations between the
original image and the derivative image are made according to the
file name rule.
[0107] The MPU 21 records thus generated file of the derivative
image in the same folder as the original image in the memory card
19.
Step S12: The MPU 21 compares the number of pixels of a thumbnail
image appended in the file of the original image with the number of
pixels of the derivative image newly generated.
[0108] When the number of the pixels of the thumbnail image is
equal to or larger than the number of the pixels of the derivative
image here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S13.
[0109] On the other hand, when the number of the pixels of the
thumbnail image is smaller than the number of the pixels of the
derivative image, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S14.
Step S13: The MPU 21 erases the thumbnail image from the file of
the original image to reduce a file space of the original image.
Thereafter, when the thumbnail image of the original image is
required, the derivative image is used as a substitute for the
thumbnail image. Step S14: The MPU 21 calls other process routines
which are to be executed when the down key 23b is pressed down.
[0110] Through the operations explained above, the derivative image
generating process is completed.
[Description on File Manipulation of Images]
[0111] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process routine of file
manipulation. Hereinafter, the file manipulation to images will be
explained following the steps shown in FIG. 5.
[0112] Step S18: The user first switches the mode of the electronic
camera 11 to the reproduction mode, and selects on the liquid
crystal display unit 31 an original image as an object of the file
manipulation.
Step S19: When the original image as the object of the manipulation
is selected, the MPU 21 changes the initial letter of the file name
of this original image to create the file name of a derivative
image. The MPU 21 searches the memory card 19 for the file name of
the derivative image and determines whether or not the concerning
derivative image exists. Step S20: Next, the MPU 21 monitors the
user's operation to the menu button 24 and the transfer button
28.
[0113] When the transfer button 28 is pressed down here, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S21.
[0114] On the other hand, when the menu button 24 is pressed down,
the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S22.
Step S21: When the original image as the object of the manipulation
has a derivative image, the MPU 21 transfers this derivative image
to a preset external transfer destination via the interface 32.
Upon completion of the transfer operation, the MPU 21 erases from
the memory card 19 the derivative image which has been transferred,
to thereby increase an available storage space of the memory card
19.
[0115] Meanwhile, when the original image as the object of the
manipulation does not have any derivative image, the original image
is transferred as it is to the external transfer destination via
the interface 32.
[0116] After such file manipulation, the MPU 21 completes the file
manipulation process routine.
Step S22: The MPU 21 displays a menu screen on the liquid crystal
display unit 31 in response to the menu button 24 being pressed
down. The user operates the cross button 23 referring to the menu
screen on the liquid crystal display unit 31 to input a desired
file manipulation command. Step S23: When the user selects a file
erase command to the original image, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S24. In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S25. Step S24: The MPU 21 erases from the memory
card 19 the original image as the object of the manipulation. Note
that, when the original image as the object of the manipulation has
a derivative image, the MPU 21 erases this derivative image
together. After such file manipulation, the MPU 21 finishes the
file manipulation process routine. Step S25: When the user selects
a file transfer command to the original image, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation to Step S26. In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S27. Step S26: The MPU 21 file-transfers the
original image as the object of the manipulation to a folder
designated by the user. Note that, when the original image as the
object of the manipulation has a derivative image, the MPU 21
file-transfers this derivative image together. After such file
manipulation, the MPU 21 finishes the file manipulation process
routine. Step S27: When the user selects a protect command for the
original image, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S28. In
other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S29. Step S28:
The MPU 21 appends a protect attribute to the file of the original
image as the object of the manipulation. Note that, when the
original image as the object of the manipulation has a derivative
image, the MPU 21 appends the protect attribute to the file of this
derivative image as well. After such file manipulation, the MPU 21
finishes the file manipulation process routine. Step S29: When the
user selects an erase command to only the original image, the MPU
21 shifts its operation to Step S30. In other cases, the MPU 21
finishes the file manipulation process routine. Step S30: The MPU
21 erases the file of the original image as the object of the
manipulation from the memory card 19. Note that, when the original
image as the object of the manipulation has a derivative image, the
MPU 21 changes the file name of this derivative image to the file
name of the original image, thereby upgrading the derivative image
to the original image. After such file manipulation, the MPU 21
finishes the file manipulation process routine.
[0117] Through the operations explained above, the file
manipulation process is completed.
Effect and so on of First Embodiment
[0118] As described above, in the first embodiment, a new
derivative image for transfer is generated by reducing the
resolution of the original image. The MPU 21 changes the initial
letter "D" of the file name of the original image to the initial
letter "S" or the like for the derivative image to generate the
file name of the derivative image. The original image and the
derivative image are recorded on the memory card 19 in such a
manner that both the images get associated with each other by the
file name rule.
[0119] Therefore, by tracing back the associations by this file
name rule, the file manipulation done to the original image can be
automatically applied to its derivative image. As a result, the
user need not separately perform file manipulation for the original
image and the derivative image, which realizes saving labor taken
for managing the derivative image.
[0120] Especially, in the first embodiment, in response to the
erase of the original image, its corresponding derivative image is
erased together. This eliminates a problem that an unnecessary
derivative image continues to remain on the memory card 19 and
occupies a memory space even after the original image is
erased.
[0121] Further, in the first embodiment, the derivative image is
erased in response to the completion of the external transfer of
the derivative image. This eliminates a problem that the derivative
image that has been transferred continues to remain in the
electronic camera and occupies the memory space of the memory card
19.
[0122] Moreover, in the first embodiment, in response to the file
transfer of the original image, its corresponding derivative image
is also file-transferred. This eliminates a problem that the
derivative image exists separately from the original image after
the file transfer of the original image.
[0123] In addition, in the first embodiment, in accordance with the
protect setting (erase prevention setting) of the original image,
the protect setting is set on its corresponding derivative image.
Therefore, the user need not set the protect setting separately on
the original image and on the derivative image, which makes it
possible to save his/her time and labor.
[0124] Further, in the first embodiment, when only the original
image is erased, its corresponding derivative image is upgraded to
the original image. This can prevent a disadvantage that the user
does not notice the derivative image whose original image does not
exist remaining on the memory card 19 and leaves it
unprocessed.
[0125] Moreover, in the first embodiment, if the number of the
pixels of the thumbnail image is equal to or larger than the number
of the pixels of the derivative image, the thumbnail image is
erased from the file of the original image. This can reduce the
file size of the original image by the file size of the thumbnail
image.
[0126] Next, another embodiment will be explained.
Second Embodiment
[0127] A second embodiment describes an electronic camera
corresponding to the inventions of claims 1 to 13. Note that the
configuration of the electronic camera in the second embodiment is
the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 1 and FIG. 2), and
therefore, the configuration description thereof will be omitted
here. Further, description on the operations similar to those of
the first embodiment (file manipulation to the images, suspension
of thumbnail image appending, and so on) will be omitted here in
order to avoid repetition.
[Relation with the Invention]
[0128] Hereinafter, the relation between the inventions and the
second embodiment will be explained. Note that the relation here
only illustrates one interpretation for reference, and is not
intended to limit the present invention more than necessary.
[0129] An imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to an
image sensor 13, a timing generator 13a, an image processing unit
14, an A/D converting unit 15, and a DSP 16.
[0130] A derivative image generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of generating a derivative image` of an
MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
[0131] A recording unit described in the claims corresponds to `a
function of file management of a memory card 19` of the MPU 21.
[0132] A transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to an
interface 32.
[0133] A storage space monitoring unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of monitoring an available storage space
of the memory card 19` of the MPU 21.
[0134] A control unit described in the claims corresponds to `a
function of erasing from the memory card 19 a derivative image
which has been transferred` of the MPU 21.
[Description on Derivative Image Generating Process]
[0135] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a derivative image generating
process characterizing the second embodiment.
[0136] Hereinafter, the derivative image generating process will be
explained following the steps shown in FIG. 6.
Step S40: A user first operates a cross button 23, similarly to the
first embodiment, to give a derivative image generating command to
the MPU 21. Step S41: The MPU 21 obtains information on an
available storage space of the memory card 19. Step S42: The MPU 21
determines whether or not the available storage space of the memory
card 19 is large enough to store a derivative image.
[0137] When the available storage space is too small to store the
derivative image here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S42.
[0138] On the other hand, when the available storage space is large
enough to store the derivative image, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S43.
Step S43: The MPU 21 erases from the memory card 19 a part or all
of existing derivative images to secure a memory space in the
memory card 19. Step S44: The MPU 21 communicates with an external
transfer destination via the interface 32 to obtain information on
the external transfer destination (incidentally, information on
what kind of device the external transfer destination is may also
be obtained through a user's input). Step S45: The MPU 21
determines an image format (for example, image size, a screen
aspect ratio, the number of colors, and so on) of the derivative
image appropriate for the external transfer destination in
accordance with the information on the external transfer
destination. Step S46: The MPU 21 determines the type of an
original image from which the derivative image is generated.
[0139] When the original image is a one-frame image captured in a
single-shot capture mode here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to
Step S47.
[0140] When the original image is constituted of moving images
captured in a moving image capture mode, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S48.
[0141] On the other hand, when the original image is a group of
static images captured in a continuous capture mode, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S49.
Step S47: The MPU 21 converts the original image (the one-frame
static image here) to the image format determined in Step S45 to
generate the derivative image. After this operation, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S50. Step S48: The MPU 21 extracts a
first frame of the original image (the moving images here). The MPU
21 converts this first frame into the image format determined in
Step S45 to generate the derivative image. After this operation,
the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S50. Step S49: The MPU 21
converts each frame of the original image (the plural static images
here) into the image format determined in Step S45 to generate the
plural derivative images. After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation to Step S50. Step S50: The MPU 21 determines whether
or not a lower folder corresponding to the image size of the
derivative image exists in a folder of the original image.
[0142] When the lower folder does not exist here, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation to Step S51.
[0143] On the other hand, when the lower folder exists, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S52.
Step S51: The MPU 21 makes a lower folder exclusively for the image
size of the derivative image under a hierarchy of the original
image folder in the memory card 19. Step S52: The MPU 21 stores a
file of the derivative image in the lower folder exclusively for
the image size.
[0144] Through the above-described operations, the derivative image
generating process is completed.
Effect and so on of Second Embodiment
[0145] In the second embodiment, the same effect as that in the
first embodiment is obtainable as described above.
[0146] In addition, in the second embodiment, the lower folder is
made for each image size of the derivative image in the folder of
the original image, and the derivative images are stored therein,
being classified by the image size. This enables efficient image
management of the original images and the derivative images based
on the hierarchical folders.
[0147] Further, in the second embodiment, the image format
appropriate for the external transfer destination is determined
based on the information on the external transfer destination, and
the derivative image is generated so as to conform to the image
format. Consequently, the user need not change the image format or
the like for every external transfer destination. Moreover, a
suitable derivative image for the external transfer destination can
be surely generated.
[0148] Moreover, in the second embodiment, all or a part of the
derivative images are erased when the memory card 19 does not have
a sufficient available storage space. In this case, a shortage in
the available storage space is compensated by the file space of the
erased derivative images, so that it is made possible to increase
the number of recordable frames of the electronic camera with
efficiency.
[0149] Note that when the memory card 19 does not have an available
storage space large enough to store a captured original image, a
part or all of the derivative images may be erased. In this case,
it is possible to secure the storage space for the original
image.
Third Embodiment
[0150] A third embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera
corresponding to the inventions of claims 14 and 18.
[0151] Note that the configuration of the electronic camera in the
third embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG.
1 and FIG. 2), and therefore, the configuration description thereof
will be omitted here.
[Relation with the Invention]
[0152] Hereinafter, the relation between the invention and the
third embodiment will be explained. It should be noted that the
relation here only illustrates one interpretation for reference and
is not intended to limit the present invention more than
necessary.
[0153] An imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to an
image sensor 13, a timing generator 13a, an image processing unit
14, an A/D converting unit 15, and a DSP 16.
[0154] A derivative image generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of generating a derivative image` of an
MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
[0155] A transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to an
interface 32.
[0156] A display unit described in the claims corresponds to the
MPU 21 and a liquid crystal display unit 31.
[Description on Operation of Full Screen Display Mode]
[0157] FIG. 7 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode in the third embodiment. Hereinafter,
the operation in the full screen display mode will be explained
following the steps in FIG. 7.
Step S101: A user turns a command dial 25 first to select a
reproduction mode. The user further operates a display switch
button 27 as required to select the full screen display mode.
[0158] When the full screen display mode is thus selected, the MPU
21 selects a frame number for the full screen display.
[0159] After image capturing, for example, the MPU 21 selects the
last frame number (in other words, a frame number captured most
recently) as the frame number for the full screen display.
[0160] After image reproduction, for another example, the MPU 21
selects a most recently reproduced frame number as the frame number
for the full screen display.
Step S102: The MPU 21 generates a file name of an original image
corresponding to the selected frame number based on the selected
frame number and a file name rule.
[0161] When the file name rule of original images is, for example,
"DSCN****.jpg", the MPU 21 inserts the frame number in the serial
number "****" to generate the file name of the original image.
Step S103: The MPU 21 reads out a compressed file of the original
image from a memory card 19 based on the generated file name and
stores this compressed file in a buffer memory 18. After expanding
this compressed file, the DSP 16 converts the resolution thereof
according to the screen size of the liquid crystal display unit 31
and stores this converted file in a frame memory 30. The liquid
crystal display unit 31 displays on the full screen the original
image (the one converted in accordance with the screen size of a
monitor screen) in this frame memory 30. Step S104: The MPU 21
determines whether or not the displayed original image has a
derivative image for transfer.
[0162] When a file name rule of derivative images is, for example,
"SSCN****.jpg", the MPU 21 changes an initial letter of the file
name of the original image from "D" to "S" to generate a file name
of the derivative image. The MPU 21 searches the memory card 19 for
this file name of the derivative image to determine whether or not
the original image has the derivative image.
[0163] When the original image has the derivative image here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S105.
[0164] On the other hand, when the corresponding derivative image
does not exist, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S106.
Step S105: The MPU 21 overlappingly displays an information display
indicating that "a derivative image exists" as shown in FIG. 9 on
the liquid crystal display unit 31 via the frame memory 30.
[0165] After such information display, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S106.
Step S106: The MPU 21 waits for a user's key operation with this
full screen display on (FIG. 9).
[0166] When the user presses down a left key 23c or a right key 23d
here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S107.
[0167] On the other hand, when the user presses down a derivative
image generating button 29, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S108.
Step S107: If the right key 23d is pressed down here, the MPU 21
cyclically moves the frame number for the full screen display one
forward.
[0168] On the other hand, if the left key 23c is pressed down, the
MPU 21 cyclically moves the frame number for the full screen
display one backward.
[0169] After thus changing the frame number, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S102.
Step S108: The MPU 21 displays the following confirmation menu
overlappingly on a display image on the liquid crystal display unit
31. Header "Generate a derivative image?" Option {circle around
(1)} Yes (default option) Option {circle around (2)} No Option
{circle around (3)} Change reduction size Step S109: The MPU 21
monitors the user's operation to a cross button 23 to receive the
selection from the above options {circle around (1)} to {circle
around (3)}.
[0170] Specifically, the user hits the right key 23d once,
determining the selection of the option {circle around (1)}. In
this case, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S112.
[0171] The user hits the right key 23d once after hitting a down
key 23b once, determining the selection of the option {circle
around (2)}. In this case, the MPU 21 cancels generating a new
derivative image and shifts its operation back to Step S106.
[0172] On the other hand, the user hits the right key 23d once
after hitting the down key 23b twice, determining the selection of
the option {circle around (3)}. In this case, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S110.
Step S110: The MPU 21 additionally displays the following
confirmation menu on the display image on the liquid crystal
display unit 31. Header "Change reduction size" Option {circle
around (1)} 640.times.480 (default at the shipping time) Option
{circle around (2)} 320.times.240 Option {circle around (3)}
160.times.120 Option {circle around (4)} 96.times.72 Step S111: The
MPU 21 monitors the user's operation to the cross button 23 to
receive the selection of the image size (reduction size) of the
derivative image. The MPU 21 uses the image size selected here as a
default thereafter. After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S108. Step S112: The MPU 21 reads out from
the memory card 19 the compressed file of the original image
currently displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 31 to store
this compressed file in the buffer memory 18. The DSP 16 expands
this compressed file to develop the original image in the buffer
memory 18 (incidentally, when the expanded image in Step S103 still
exists in the buffer memory 18, this expanded image is preferably
used to omit the original image expanding operation).
[0173] The MPU 21 (or the DSP 16) converts the resolution of the
original image in this buffer memory 18 to the default image size
to generate a derivative image.
[0174] The DSP 16 compresses this derivative image to, for example,
about 1/16 irrespective of the compressibility of the original
image.
[0175] The MPU 21 copies header information of the original image
and appends it to compressed data of the derivative image to
generate a compressed file in an EXIF format.
[0176] Further, the MPU 21 replaces the initial letter of the file
name "DSCN****.jpg" of the original image with a letter (for
example, "S" or the like) according to the image size, and the
resultant file name is defined as a file name of the derivative
image.
[0177] The MPU 21 records the file of thus completed derivative
image in the same folder as the original image in the memory card
19.
[0178] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S106.
[0179] Through a series of the operations explained above, the full
screen display is carried out.
[Description on Operation of Thumbnail Display Mode]
[0180] FIG. 8 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a thumbnail display mode.
[0181] Next, the operation in the thumbnail display mode will be
explained following the steps in FIG. 8.
Step S121: The user turns the command dial 25 first to select the
reproduction mode. The user further operates the display switch
button 27 if necessary to select the thumbnail display mode.
[0182] When the thumbnail display mode is thus selected, the MPU 21
decides a frame number at a focus position (an original image for
focus selected from a group of thumbnail-displayed images).
[0183] After image capturing, for example, the MPU 21 selects the
last frame number (namely, a frame number most recently captured)
as the frame number at the focus position.
[0184] After image reproduction, for another example, the MPU 21
selects a most recently reproduced frame number as the frame number
at the focus position.
Step S122: Based on the selected frame number and the file name
rule, file names of the group of the original images for the
thumbnail display are generated. Step S123: The MPU 21 retrieves
these file names from the memory card 19 and sequentially reads out
the thumbnail images each stored in a header of each file. The MPU
21 displays these thumbnail images as a list on the liquid crystal
display unit 31 via the frame memory 30. Step S124: The MPU 21
determines whether or not each of the original images on the screen
has a derivative image based on the file name rule. The MPU 21
displays information indicating that "a derivative image exists" on
the thumbnail image corresponding to the original image having the
derivative image, as shown in FIG. 10. Step S125: The MPU 21 waits
for a user's key operation with this thumbnail display on.
[0185] If the user presses down the derivative image generating
button 29 here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S126.
[0186] Meanwhile, when the user presses down a cross button 23, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S127.
[0187] When the user presses down an enter key, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation to Step S131.
Step S126: In case where the derivative image generating button 29
is pressed down here, the MPU 21 displays a derivative image
generation mark on each of the thumbnail images at the focus
positions, as shown in FIG. 10. Further, the MPU 21 adds the frame
number of this focus position in a derivative image generation
schedule list which is prepared on an internal memory. After this
operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S125. Step
S127: The MPU 21 determines the user's operation to the cross
button 23.
[0188] If the user presses the down key 23b down here, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S128.
[0189] On the other hand, when the user presses down the left key
23c or the right key 23d, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S129.
Step S128: The MPU 21 searches for the derivative image of the
original image at the focus position, and displays as information
image size of this derivative image on the thumbnail image at the
focus position (refer to FIG. 10).
[0190] Note that when the original image at the focus position has
a plurality of derivative images, the MPU 21 displays the image
sizes of the derivative images in sequence every time the down key
23b is pressed down.
[0191] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S125.
Step S129: When the right key 23d is pressed down, the MPU 21 moves
the focus position forward by one frame.
[0192] On the other hand, when the left key 23c is pressed down,
the MPU 21 moves the focus position backward by one frame.
Step S130: In accordance with such shift in the focus position, the
MPU 21 determines whether or not the focus position shifts to the
outside of a thumbnail display range.
[0193] When the focus position shifts within the thumbnail display
range here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S125.
[0194] On the other hand, when the focus position shifts to the
outside of the thumbnail display range, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S122 and updates the thumbnail display.
Step S131: When the enter key 29a is pressed down, the MPU 21
overlappingly displays the following confirmation menu on the
liquid crystal display unit 31. Header "Generate a derivative
image?" Option {circle around (1)} Yes (default option) Option
{circle around (2)} No Option {circle around (3)} Change reduction
size Step S132: The MPU 21 monitors the user's operation to the
cross button 23 to receive the selection from the above options
{circle around (1)} to {circle around (3)}.
[0195] When the option {circle around (1)} is selected here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S135.
[0196] When the option {circle around (2)} is selected, the MPU 21
cancels generating a new derivative image and shifts its operation
back to Step S125.
[0197] On the other hand, when the option {circle around (3)} is
selected, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S133.
Step S133: The MPU 21 additionally displays the following
confirmation menu on the display image on the liquid crystal
display unit 31. Header "Change reduction size" Option {circle
around (1)} 640.times.480 (default at the shipping time) Option
{circle around (2)} 320.times.240 Option {circle around (3)}
160.times.120 Option {circle around (4)} 96.times.72 Step S134: The
MPU 21 monitors the user's operation to the cross button 23 to
receive the selection of the image size (reduction size) of the
derivative image. The MPU 21 uses the image size selected here as a
default thereafter. After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S131. Step S135: The MPU 21 sequentially
generates the derivative images from the original images with the
generation mark (the original images listed in the derivative image
generation schedule list) and sequentially records these derivative
images in the memory card 19.
[0198] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S125.
Effect and so on of Third Embodiment
[0199] As described above, in the third embodiment, the original
image and the derivative image are discriminated based on the file
name rule and only the original image is displayed on the liquid
crystal display unit 31. This makes it possible to surely prevent
the user from being confused at image management since there is no
case where the original image and the derivative image being the
same image are displayed together.
[0200] Further, only the original image is an object of display so
that the number of images to be displayed is decreased.
[0201] This enables the user to quickly find a target image
(picture) from a small number of images.
[0202] Moreover, also in the thumbnail display mode, only the
original images are displayed and thus the original images and the
derivative images are not displayed concurrently on the screen.
This can surely prevent the user from being confused at the image
management because the original image and the derivative image
being the same image are both present on the screen.
[0203] Next, another embodiment will be explained.
Fourth Embodiment
[0204] A fourth embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera
corresponding to the inventions of claims 15 to 19.
[0205] Note that the configuration of the electronic camera in the
fourth embodiment is the same as that in the third embodiment (FIG.
1 and FIG. 2), and therefore, the configuration description thereof
will be omitted here. Further, description on the same operations
as those of the third embodiment (the operation in the thumbnail
display mode and so on) will be also omitted in order to avoid
repeated description.
[Relation with the Invention]
[0206] Hereinafter, the relation between the inventions and the
fourth embodiment will be explained. It should be noted that the
relation here only illustrates one interpretation for reference and
is not intended to limit the present invention more than
necessary.
[0207] An imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to an
image sensor 13, a timing generator 13a, an image processing unit
14, an A/D converting unit 15, and a DSP 16.
[0208] A derivative image generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to `a function of generating a derivative image` of an
MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
[0209] A transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to an
interface 32.
[0210] A display unit described in the claims corresponds to the
MPU 21 and a liquid crystal display unit 31.
[0211] A slide display unit described in the claims corresponds to
the MPU 21 and the liquid crystal display unit 31.
[Description on Operation of Full Screen Display Mode]
[0212] FIG. 11 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode in the fourth embodiment. In this FIG.
11, the same step numbers are assigned to the same operations as
those in the third embodiment (FIG. 7), and repeated description
thereof will be omitted here.
[0213] The operation in the full screen display mode shown in FIG.
11 is characterized in that Steps S141 to S143 are newly added.
Hereinafter, this added part will be explained. Step S141: The MPU
21 reads out from a memory card 19 a file property of an original
image which is to be displayed, and determines whether or not this
original image is set as non-display.
[0214] When the original image is set as non-display here, the MPU
21 shifts its operation to Step S142.
[0215] On the other hand, when the original image is not set as
non-display (when the display thereof is permitted), the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S103.
Step S142: The MPU 21 cyclically moves a frame number which is to
be displayed, by one frame forward and so controls that the
original image (and a derivative image) set as non-display is not
displayed on the screen. After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation back to Step S102. Step S143: When a down key 23b is
pressed down in Step S106, the MPU 21 replaces an initial letter of
a file name "DSCN****.jpg" of the original image with a letter (for
example, "S" or the like) according to the image size to generate a
file name of the derivative image. The MPU 21 searches the memory
card 19 for this derivative image. Upon finding this derivative
image, the MPU 21 reads out this derivative image from the memory
card 19, and displays a display 42 of this derivative image
overlappingly on a full screen display 41 of the original image, as
shown in FIG. 12. At this time, the MPU 21 also displays an icon 43
as information showing the image size of this derivative image.
[0216] Note that when the down key 23b is pressed down a plurality
of times, the MPU 21 sequentially displays a plurality of
derivative images in the descending order of the image size. FIG.
12 shows a state in which the plural derivative images are
displayed by this operation in a nesting way.
[Description on Operation of Slide Display Mode]
[0217] FIG. 13 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a slide display mode in the fourth embodiment. Hereinafter, the
operation in the slide display mode will be explained following the
steps in FIG. 13.
Step S161: A user first turns a command dial 25 to select a
reproduction mode. The user further operates a display switch
button 27 as required to select the slide display mode.
[0218] When the slide display mode is thus selected, the MPU 21
selects an initial frame number of slide display from the memory
card 19, and substitutes this frame number in a frame number N.
Step S162: A file name of the original image corresponding to the
frame number N is generated based on the frame number N and a file
name rule.
[0219] When the file name rule of original images is, for example,
"DSCN****.jpg", the MPU 21 inserts the frame number in the serial
number "****" to generate the file name of the original image.
Step S163: The MPU 21 obtains information on a file property from
the memory card 19 based on the generated file name of the original
image and determines whether or not the original image is set as
non-display.
[0220] When the original image is set as non-display here, the MPU
21 shifts its operation to Step S164.
[0221] On the other hand, the original image is not set as
non-display (when the display thereof is permitted), the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S165.
Step S164: The MPU 21 moves the frame number to be displayed by one
frame forward cyclically and so controls that the original image
set as non-display is not displayed on the screen. After this
operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S162. Step
S165: The MPU 21 reads out a compressed file of the original image
from the memory card 19 based on the generated file name of the
original image and stores this compressed file in a buffer memory
18. After expanding this compressed file, the DSP 16 converts the
resolution thereof according the screen size of the liquid crystal
display unit 31 and stores the converted file in a frame memory 30.
The liquid crystal display unit 31 displays the original image (the
one converted according to the screen size of a monitor screen)
stored in this frame memory 30. Step S166: The MPU 21 determines
whether or not the original image on display has a derivative image
for transfer.
[0222] When the original image on display has the derivative image
here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S167.
[0223] On the other hand, when the original image on display does
not have the derivative image, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to
Step S168.
Step S167: The MPU 21 overlappingly displays an information display
indicating that "a derivative image exists" on the liquid crystal
display unit 31 via the frame memory 30. After such information
display, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S168. Step S168:
The MPU 21 waits for the elapse of a slide display time
corresponding to one frame and shifts its operation to Step S169.
Step S169: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the current frame
number N is the last frame number in the memory card 19.
[0224] When the current frame number N is different from the last
frame number, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step
S164.
[0225] On the other hand, when the current frame number N is the
last frame number, the slide display operation is finished.
Effect and so on of Fourth Embodiment
[0226] As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the
information display on the image size of the derivative image is
displayed as shown in FIG. 12. This enables a user to appropriately
distinguish the original image and the derivative image being the
same image based on the information on the image size.
[0227] Further, in the fourth embodiment, when the down key 23b is
pressed down while the original image is displayed on the full
screen, the derivative images are displayed in the descending order
of the image size. In this case, the user can appropriately
distinguish the original image and the derivative image based on
the display order.
[0228] Moreover, in the fourth embodiment, when the original image
is set as non-display, the derivative image is also set as
non-display together with the original image. Therefore, the user
need not separately set the derivative image as non-display, which
can save the user's time and labor.
[0229] Further, in the fourth embodiment, the original image and
the derivative image are discriminated based on the file name rule
and only the original image is displayed in the slide display mode.
Therefore, the original image and the derivative image being the
same image are not redundantly and repeatedly displayed, which
enables the user to look through a series of images in as short a
time as possible.
Fifth Embodiment
[0230] A fifth embodiment is an embodiment of an electronic camera
corresponding to the inventions of claims 20 to 24.
[0231] Note that since the configuration of the electronic camera
in the fifth embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment
(FIG. 1 and FIG. 2), the configuration description thereof will be
omitted here.
[Relation with the Invention]
[0232] Hereinafter, the relation between the inventions and the
fifth embodiment will be explained. It should be noted that the
relation here only illustrates one interpretation for reference and
is not intended to limit the present invention more than
necessary.
[0233] An imaging unit described in the claims corresponds to an
image sensor 13, a timing generator 13a, an image processing unit
14, an A/D converting unit 15, and a DSP 16.
[0234] A derivative image generating unit described in the claims
corresponds to "a function of generating a derivative image" of an
MPU 21 (or the DSP 16).
[0235] A transfer setting unit described in the claims corresponds
to `a function of setting a flag on an image` of the MPU 21.
[0236] A transfer unit described in the claims corresponds to an
interface 32.
[0237] An erase unit described in the claims corresponds to "a
function of erasing an image in a memory card 19" of the MPU
21.
[User Interface in Full Screen Display Mode]
[0238] FIG. 14 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a full screen display mode in the fifth embodiment. Hereinafter,
the operation in the full screen display mode will be explained
following the steps in FIG. 14.
Step S201: A user first turns a command dial 25 of an electronic
camera 11 to select a reproduction mode. The user further operates
a display switch button 27 as required to select the full screen
display mode.
[0239] When the full screen display mode is thus selected, the MPU
21 selects a frame number of an image for the full screen
display.
[0240] After image capturing, for example, the MPU 21 selects the
last frame number (namely, a frame number most recently captured)
as the frame number for the full screen display.
[0241] After the image reproduction, for example, the MPU 21
selects a most recently reproduced frame number as the frame number
for the full screen display.
Step S202: The MPU 21 generates a file name of an original image
corresponding to the selected frame number based on the selected
frame number and a file name rule.
[0242] When the file name rule of original images is, for example,
"DSCN:****.jpg", the MPU 21 inserts the frame number in place of
the serial number "****" to generate the file name of the original
name.
Step S203: The MPU 21 reads out a compressed file of the original
image from the memory card 19 based on the generated file name and
stores this compressed file in a buffer memory 18. After expanding
this compressed file, the DSP 16 converts the resolution according
to the screen size of a liquid crystal display unit 31, and stores
this converted file in a frame memory 30. The liquid crystal
display unit 31 displays on the full screen the original image (the
one converted in accordance with the screen size of a monitor
screen) stored in this frame memory 30. Step S204: With this full
screen display, the MPU 21 determines a key operation to a cross
button 23 by a user.
[0243] When the user presses down a left key 23c or a right key 23d
here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S205.
[0244] When the user presses down a down key 23b, the MPU 21 shifts
its operation to Step S206.
[0245] In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S208.
Step S205: When the right key 23d is pressed down, the MPU 21 moves
the frame number for the full screen display one forward
cyclically.
[0246] On the other hand, when the left key 23c is pressed down,
the MPU 21 moves the frame number for the full screen display one
backward cyclically.
[0247] After thus changing the frame number, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S202.
Step S206: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the original image
on display has a derivative image.
[0248] When a file name rule of derivative images is, for example,
"SSCN****.jpg", the MPU 21 changes an initial letter of the file
name of the original image from "D" to "S" to generate a file name
of the derivative image. The MPU 21 searches the memory card 19 for
this file name of the derivative image, thereby judging whether or
not the original image has the derivative image.
[0249] When the original image has the derivative image here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S207.
[0250] On the other hand, the corresponding derivative image does
not exist, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S204.
Step S207: The MPU 21 reads out from the memory card 19 the
derivative image which is generated from the original image on
display. The MPU 21 displays a display 42 of this derivative image
overlappingly on a full screen display 41 of the original image, as
shown in FIG. 12. At this time, the MPU 21 also displays as
information an icon 43 indicating the image size of this derivative
image together.
[0251] Note that when the down key 23b is pressed down a plurality
of times, the MPU 21 sequentially displays a plurality of
derivative images in the descending order of the image size. FIG.
12 shows a state in which the plural derivative images are
displayed by this operation in a nesting way.
[0252] After this display operation to the derivative image, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S204.
Step S208: Further, the MPU 21 determines other user's key
operations.
[0253] When the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to a transfer
button 28 here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S209.
[0254] When the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to an erase
button 29b, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S213.
[0255] In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S221.
Step S209: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the original image
on display has a derivative image.
[0256] When the original image has the derivative image here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S210.
[0257] On the other hand, when the corresponding derivative image
does not exist, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S211.
Step S210: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the original image
on display has any print information (specification of a frame to
be printed, the number of sheets to be printed, and so on)
specified in DPOF (abbreviation of Digital Print Order Format) and
the like.
[0258] When the original image on display has the print
information, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S211.
[0259] On the other hand, when the original image on display does
not have any print information, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to
Step S212.
Step S211: The MPU 21 sets a flag on the original image on display.
This flag is set in such a manner, for example, that the MPU 21
writes information indicating a transfer candidate in a header or
the like of an image file. Another example of how the flag is set
is that the MPU 21 adds an identifier (file name or the like) of
the image to a transfer candidate list on an internal memory.
[0260] After the setting operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation
back to Step S204.
Step S212: The MPU 21 sets the flag not on the original image on
display but on the derivative image that the original image
has.
[0261] After this setting operation, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S204.
Step S213: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the derivative
image is displayed on the screen.
[0262] When the derivative image is displayed here as shown in FIG.
12, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S218.
[0263] On the other hand, when only the original image is displayed
on the screen, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S214.
Step S214: The MPU 21 erases the original image on display from the
memory card 19. Step S215: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the
erased original image had a derivative image.
[0264] When the erased original image had the derivative image
here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S216.
[0265] On the other hand, when the erased original image does not
have the derivative image, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S217.
Step S216: The MPU 21 erases the derivative image that the original
image had. Further, when the flag has been set on this derivative
image, the MPU 21 removes the flag.
[0266] Note that when the flag is set as information in the header
of the image file, removal of this flag is done concurrently with
the file erase of the derivative image. Also, when setting the flag
is managed according to the transfer candidate list on the internal
memory of the MPU 21, the removal of the flag is done at the same
time as the identifier of an image as a transfer candidate is
removed from this transfer candidate list.
Step S217: The MPU 21 moves the frame number of the original image
to be displayed by one frame backward in accordance with the erase
of the original image. Thereafter, the MPU 21 shifts its operation
back to Step S202 and updates the full screen display. Step S218:
The MPU 21 determines whether or not a flag is set on the
derivative image displayed on the utmost front window of the
screen.
[0267] When this derivative image has the flag set here, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S219.
[0268] On the other hand, when this derivative image does not have
the flag set, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S220.
Step S219: The MPU 21 sets the flag on the original image from
which this derivative image is generated. Note that when one
original image has a plurality of derivative images, the MPU 21
sets the flag on a derivative image having the second largest image
size next to the derivative image displayed on the utmost front
window. Step S220: The MPU 21 erases from the memory card 19 the
derivative image displayed on the utmost front window. Further, in
a case where this derivative image has a flag, the MPU 21 removes
the flag at the same time.
[0269] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S202 and updates the full screen display.
Step S221: The MPU 21 determines a key operation to a derivative
image generating button 29 by a user.
[0270] When the MPU 21 recognizes the user's key operation to the
derivative image generating button 29 here, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S222.
[0271] On the other hand, when the MPU 21 does not recognize the
key operation to the derivative image generating button 29, the MPU
21 shifts its operation back to Step S204.
Step S222: The MPU 21 reads out from the memory card 19 the
compressed file of the original image currently displayed and
stores this compressed file in the buffer memory 18. The DSP 16
expands this compressed file to develop the original image stored
in the buffer memory 18 (incidentally, when the expanded image in
Step S203 still exists in the buffer memory 18, it is preferable to
use this image, thereby omitting the original image expanding
operation).
[0272] The MPU 21 (or the DSP 16) converts the resolution of this
original image in the buffer memory 18 to generate a derivative
image.
[0273] The DSP 16 compresses this derivative image to, for example,
about 1/16 irrespective of the compressibility of the original
image.
[0274] The MPU 21 copies header information of the original image
and appends it to compressed data of the derivative image to
generate a compressed file in an EXIF format.
[0275] Further, the MPU 21 replaces the initial letter of the file
name "DSCN****.jpg" of the original image with a letter (for
example, "S" or the like) according to the image size to generate a
file name of the derivative image.
[0276] The MPU 21 records thus generated file of the derivative
image in the same folder as the original image in the memory card
19.
Step S223: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the flag is set on
the original image currently on display.
[0277] When this original image has the flag set here, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S224.
[0278] On the other hand, when this original image does not have
the flag set, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step
S204.
Step S224: The MPU 21 removes the flag on the original image
currently on display, and sets the flag on a newly generated
derivative image.
[0279] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S204.
[0280] Through a series of the operations explained above, the full
screen display is carried out.
[User Interface in Thumbnail Display Mode]
[0281] FIG. 15 is a flowchart explaining the operation performed in
a thumbnail display mode.
[0282] Next, the operation in the thumbnail display mode will be
explained following the steps in FIG. 15.
Step S241: The user first turns the command dial 25 of the
electronic camera 11 to select the reproduction mode. The user
further operates the display switch button 27 as required to select
the thumbnail display mode.
[0283] When the thumbnail display mode is thus selected, the MPU 21
determines a frame number of a focus position (an original image
selected for focusing among a group of images displayed in the
thumbnail display mode).
[0284] After image capturing, for example, the MPU 21 selects the
last frame number (that is, a frame number most recently captured)
as the frame number of the focus position.
[0285] After image reproduction, for another example, the MPU 21
selects a most recently reproduced frame number as the frame number
of the focus position.
Step S242: The MPU 21 generates file names of a group of original
images for the thumbnail display in sequence based on the selected
frame number and the file name rule. Step S243: The MPU 21
retrieves these file names from the memory card 19 and sequentially
reads out thumbnail images stored in a header or the like of each
file. The MPU 21 stores these thumbnail images in the frame memory
30, and displays these thumbnail images as a list on the liquid
crystal display unit 31, as shown in FIG. 16. At this time, the
image at the focus position is highlighted (using a dotted frame or
the like as shown in FIG. 16). Step S244: The MPU 21 determines
whether or not the original image on the screen has a derivative
image based on the file name rule. As for the original image having
the derivative image, the MPU 21 displays information indicating
that "a derivative image exists" on a corresponding thumbnail
image, as shown in FIG. 16. Step S245: The MPU 21 determines the
user's key operation to the cross button 23 in this thumbnail
display state.
[0286] When the user presses down the down key 23b here, the MPU 21
shifts its operation to Step S246.
[0287] When the user presses down the left key 23c or the right key
23d, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S247.
[0288] In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S249.
Step S246: The MPU 21 retrieves the derivative image of the
original image at the focus position, and displays information on
the image size of this derivative image on the thumbnail image at
the focus position (refer to FIG. 16).
[0289] Note that when the original image at the focus position has
plural derivative images, the MPU 21 displays the image sizes of
the derivative images in the descending order every time the down
key 23b is pressed down.
[0290] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S245.
Step S247; When the right key 23d is pressed down, the MPU 21 moves
the focus position by one frame forward.
[0291] On the other hand, when the left key 23c is pressed down,
the MPU 21 moves the focus position by one frame backward.
Step S248: In accordance with such shift of the focus position, the
MPU 21 performs scroll shifting of a thumbnail view so as to keep
the focus position within the screen.
[0292] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S245.
Step S249: The MPU 21 further determines a user's operation to
other keys.
[0293] When the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to the
derivative image generating button 29 here, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation to Step S250.
[0294] When the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to the erase
button 29b, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S251.
[0295] In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step
S252.
Step S250: When the derivative image generating button 29 is thus
pressed down, the MPU 21 displays a derivative image generation
mark on the thumbnail image at the focus position. Further, the MPU
21 adds the frame number of this focus position to a derivative
image generation schedule list which is prepared on the internal
memory. After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S245. Step S251: When the erase button 29b is pressed down
here, the MPU 21 displays a derivative image erase mark on the
thumbnail image at the focus position. Further, the MPU 21 adds the
frame number of this focus position to a derivative image erase
schedule list which is prepared on the internal memory. After this
operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step S245. Step
252: The MPU 21 further determines the user's operation to other
keys.
[0296] When the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to the transfer
button 28 here, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S253.
[0297] Meanwhile, when the MPU 21 recognizes the key operation to
an enter key 29a, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S257.
[0298] In other cases, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back to Step
S245.
Step S253: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the original image
at the focus position has a derivative image.
[0299] When the original image has the derivative image here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S254.
[0300] On the other hand, when no corresponding derivative image
exists, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S255.
Step S254: The MPU 21 determines whether or not the original image
at the focus position has any print information (specification of a
frame to be printed, the number of sheets to be printed, and so on)
which is specified in DPOF (abbreviation of Digital Print Order
Format) or the like.
[0301] When the original image has the print information here, the
MPU 21 shifts its operation to Step S255.
[0302] On the other hand, when the original image on display does
not have any print information, the MPU 21 shifts its operation to
Step S256.
Step S255: The MPU 21 sets the flag on the original image at the
focus position.
[0303] After this setting operation, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S245.
Step S256: The MPU 21 sets the flag not on the original image at
the focus position but on the derivative image that this original
image has.
[0304] After this setting operation, the MPU 21 shifts its
operation back to Step S245.
Step S257: The MPU 21 selects the original image with the
derivative image erase mark (the original image listed in the
derivative image generation schedule list) and erases this original
image together with the derivative image. Note that when the
derivative image has the flag, the MPU 21 removes this flag as
well. Step S258: The MPU 21 selects the original images with the
derivative image generation mark (the original images listed in the
derivative image generation schedule list) to generate the
derivative images in sequence and records them in sequence on the
memory card 19. Note that when the original image has the flag, the
MPU 21 removes the flag from the original image and sets the flag
on a newly generated derivative image.
[0305] After this operation, the MPU 21 shifts its operation back
to Step S245.
[0306] Through a series of the operations explained above, the
operation during the thumbnail display is carried out.
[Description on Image Transfer Operation]
[0307] Next, the outline of an image transfer operation by the
electronic camera 11 will be explained.
[0308] The user first connects the interface 32 of the electronic
camera 11 to an external transfer destination via an appropriate
transfer route (a cable, a wireless LAN, an Internet terminal, and
the like).
[0309] The user turns a command dial 25 in this state to set the
electronic camera 11 in a transfer mode.
[0310] The MPU 21 waits for a user's operation to a transfer button
28 according to such a transfer mode. When the user presses down
the transfer button 28, the MPU 21 selects a file of an image
having the flag, and transfers this image to the external transfer
destination according to a predetermined protocol.
Effect and so on of Fifth Embodiment
[0311] As explained above, in generating the derivative image from
the original image having the flag, the electronic camera 11
removes the flag from the original image and sets the flag on the
derivative image (refer to Steps S222 to S224 in FIG. 14 and Step
258 in FIG. 15).
[0312] This enables the user to freely set the flag on the original
image and the derivative image by a two-step operation of {circle
around (1)} setting the flag on the original image and {circle
around (2)} generating the derivative image from the original
image.
[0313] Further, when the original image having the flag set on has
the derivative image, the electronic camera 11 does not set the
flag on this original image but sets the flag on the derivative
image (refer to Steps S209 to S212 in FIG. 14 and Steps S253 to
S256 in FIG. 15).
[0314] This enables the user to freely allot the flag to the
original image and the derivative image by a two-step operation of
{circle around (3)} generating the derivative image from the
original image and {circle around (4)} setting the flag on the
original image.
[0315] Since these operations are all intended for the original
image, the user need not directly deal with the derivative image in
spite that the derivative image is actually processed. This enables
the user to set the flag in an intuitive and simple manner,
focusing on the operation on the original image.
[0316] Moreover, in the fifth embodiment, in accordance with the
erase of the original image, the derivative image generated from
this original image is erased, and further, the flag on this
derivative image is also removed (refer to Steps S214 to S216 in
FIG. 14 and Step S257 in FIG. 15). Consequently, the removal of the
flag of the derivative image and the erase of the derivative image
can be carried out at the same time by only a single operation of
erasing the original image. As a result, unnecessary image files in
the memory card 19 can be easily erased.
[0317] Further, in the fifth embodiment, when the derivative image
having the flag is erased, the flag is returned to the original
image from which the derivative image is generated (refer to Steps
S218 to S220 in FIG. 14). Therefore, the user only needs to erase
the derivative image when the user intends to transfer the original
image instead of the derivative image with the flag. In this case,
the flag need not be newly set on the original image, which makes
it possible to facilitate the operation of the electronic camera
11.
[0318] In addition, in the fifth embodiment, as for the original
image having the print information (for example, the number of
sheets to be printed, print size, image processing information to
be referred to at the time of printing, and so on), the flag is set
on the original image irrespective of existence or nonexistence of
the derivative image (refer to Steps S210 to S211 in FIG. 14 and
Steps S254 to S255 in FIG. 15).
[0319] For printing use, generally, the original image is more
suitable than the derivative image in view of image quality because
the original image has abundant image information compared to the
derivative image with reduced data capacity. Hence, in a case where
the original image has the print information, the original image is
preferentially given the flag even when it has derivative images.
This results in enhancing the print image quality with reliability
when the images are used for printing purpose at the external
transfer destination.
Additional Comments on Embodiments
[0320] Note that in the above-described embodiments the resolution
of the original image is reduced to generate the derivative image.
The present invention, however, is not to be limited thereto. For
example, the derivative image is generated by reducing the color of
the original image.
[0321] Further, in the above-described embodiments, the use of the
file name rule and the hierarchical folders establishes the
associations between the original image and the derivative image.
The present invention, however, is not to be limited thereto. For
example, the file associations between the original image and the
derivative image may be recorded by using data such as header
information of files and file management information on a recording
medium. Further, the original image and the derivative image may be
discriminated by use of, for example, header information of files,
file management information, image size, or the like.
[0322] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from the spirit and essential
characteristics thereof. Therefore, the above-described embodiments
are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and no
restrictive. The scope of the present invention is to be defined by
the scope of the patent claims and is not at all to be restricted
by the description in the specification. Further, all modifications
and changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency
of the claims are intended to be embraced in the scope of the
present invention.
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