U.S. patent application number 12/591647 was filed with the patent office on 2010-06-03 for image file generation device, camera and image file generation method.
This patent application is currently assigned to NIKON CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Toshihisa Kuroiwa.
Application Number | 20100134655 12/591647 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41582203 |
Filed Date | 2010-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100134655 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kuroiwa; Toshihisa |
June 3, 2010 |
Image file generation device, camera and image file generation
method
Abstract
An image file generation device includes: an image file
generation unit that generates an image file having stored therein
a plurality of sets of image data obtained in a batch via an image
sensor; and an image recording unit that records the image file
into a storage medium, wherein: if the image file generation unit
determines that an image file-splitting condition has been
satisfied while the batch of image data is being obtained via the
image sensor, the image file generation unit ends image data
storage into the current image file and starts image data storage
into a new image file.
Inventors: |
Kuroiwa; Toshihisa;
(Miura-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
OLIFF & BERRIDGE, PLC
P.O. BOX 320850
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22320-4850
US
|
Assignee: |
NIKON CORPORATION
TOKYO
JP
|
Family ID: |
41582203 |
Appl. No.: |
12/591647 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
348/231.2 ;
348/E5.024 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/2158 20130101;
H04N 1/32358 20130101; H04N 1/2112 20130101; H04N 1/32454 20130101;
H04N 2201/3295 20130101; H04N 1/215 20130101; H04N 2201/212
20130101; H04N 5/76 20130101; H04N 1/2141 20130101; H04N 2201/3288
20130101; H04N 1/2166 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/231.2 ;
348/E05.024 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/76 20060101
H04N005/76 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 28, 2008 |
JP |
2008-304494 |
Oct 23, 2009 |
JP |
2009-244316 |
Claims
1. An image file generation device, comprising: an image file
generation unit that generates an image file having stored therein
a plurality of sets of image data obtained in a batch via an image
sensor; and an image recording unit that records the image file
into a storage medium, wherein: if the image file generation unit
determines that an image file-splitting condition has been
satisfied while the batch of image data is being obtained via the
image sensor, the image file generation unit ends image data
storage into the current image file and starts image data storage
into a new image file.
2. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein:
the image file generation unit determines that the image
file-splitting condition has been satisfied when a number of sets
of image data stored in the image file exceeds a predetermined
value.
3. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein:
the image file generation unit determines that the image
file-splitting condition has been satisfied when a data size of the
image file exceeds a predetermined data size.
4. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein: a
FAT file system is adopted as a file system in the storage medium;
the image file generation device further comprises a FAT memory
where FAT information read out from a FAT area in the storage
medium is stored; and the image file generation unit determines
that the image file-splitting condition has been satisfied with
timing with which the FAT information having been rewritten in the
FAT memory while the image data are recorded into the storage
medium is written back into the storage medium from the FAT
memory.
5. An image file generation device according to claim 4, wherein:
the image file generation unit determines that the image
file-splitting condition has been satisfied each time the FAT
information in the FAT memory is written back into the storage
medium.
6. An image file generation device according to claim 4, wherein:
the image file generation unit determines that the image
file-splitting condition has been satisfied when the FAT
information in the FAT memory has been written back into the
storage medium a predetermined number of times.
7. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein: a
user is allowed to select a setting for the image file-splitting
condition.
8. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein:
the batch of image data is a batch of image data made up with a
plurality of image data obtained through a single continuous
shooting operation.
9. An image file generation device according to claim 1, wherein:
the batch of image data is a batch of image data made up with a
plurality of image data obtained through a single continuous
shooting operation; and the image file generation unit determines
that the image file-splitting condition has been satisfied when a
continuous shooting speed has become lower.
10. An image file generation device according to claim 9, further
comprising: a focus adjustment unit that executes focus adjustment,
wherein: the focus adjustment unit executes focus adjustment before
starting the continuous shooting operation and when the continuous
shooting speed has become lower.
11. An image file generation device according to claim 1, further
comprising: a deletion unit that deletes at least one set of image
data among the plurality of image data stored in the image file in
response to an instruction issued by the user; and an integration
unit that integrates a plurality of image files having been
generated in correspondence to a batch of image data into a single
image file by ensuring that the image file-splitting condition is
satisfied if the deletion unit has deleted image data in an image
file.
12. A camera, comprising: an image sensor that obtains image data
by capturing a subject image; and an image file generation device
according to claim 1.
13. An image file generation method, comprising: an image file
generation step of generating an image file having stored therein a
plurality of image data obtained in a batch via an image sensor;
and an image recording step of recording the image file into a
storage medium, wherein: in the image file generation step, image
data storage into a current image file is ended and image file
storage into a new image file is started if an image file-splitting
condition is determined to have been satisfied while the batch of
image data is being obtained via the image sensor.
14. An image file generation method, comprising: a deletion step of
deleting at least one set of image data among a plurality of sets
of image data stored in an image file in response to an instruction
issued by a user; and an integration step of integrating a
plurality of image files generated in correspondence to a batch of
image data into a single image file by ensuring that an image
file-splitting condition is satisfied if image data have been
deleted in the deletion step.
15. A computer program product containing a program enabling a
computer to execute an image file generation method according to
claim 13.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0001] The disclosures of the following priority applications are
herein incorporated by reference: Japanese Patent Application No.
2008-304494 filed Nov. 28, 2008; and Japanese Patent Application
No. 2009-244316 filed Oct. 23, 2009.
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an image file generation
device, a camera and an image file generation method.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Image data recording devices known in the related art
include those that record a plurality of sets of image data
obtained through a single photographing operation in a common image
file (see, for instance, Japanese Laid Open Patent Publication No.
H11-266420).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] However, if numerous sets of image data are obtained through
a single photographing operation, the data size of the image file
may become excessively large at such an image data recording device
in the related art.
[0007] According to the 1st aspect of the present invention, an
image file generation device, comprises: an image file generation
unit that generates an image file having stored therein a plurality
of sets of image data obtained in a batch via an image sensor; and
an image recording unit that records the image file into a storage
medium, wherein: if the image file generation unit determines that
an image file-splitting condition has been satisfied while the
batch of image data is being obtained via the image sensor, the
image file generation unit ends image data storage into the current
image file and starts image data storage into a new image file.
[0008] According to the 2nd aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 1st aspect, it is
preferred that the image file generation unit determines that the
image file-splitting condition has been satisfied when a number of
sets of image data stored in the image file exceeds a predetermined
value.
[0009] According to the 3rd aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 1st aspect, it is
preferred that the image file generation unit determines that the
image file-splitting condition has been satisfied when a data size
of the image file exceeds a predetermined data size.
[0010] According to the 4th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 1st aspect, it is
preferred that: a FAT file system is adopted as a file system in
the storage medium; the image file generation device further
comprises a FAT memory where FAT information read out from a FAT
area in the storage medium is stored; and the image file generation
unit determines that the image file-splitting condition has been
satisfied with timing with which the FAT information having been
rewritten in the FAT memory while the image data are recorded into
the storage medium is written back into the storage medium from the
FAT memory.
[0011] According to the 5th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 4th aspect, it is
preferred that the image file generation unit determines that the
image file-splitting condition has been satisfied each time the FAT
information in the FAT memory is written back into the storage
medium.
[0012] According to the 6th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 4th aspect, it is
preferred that the image file generation unit determines that the
image file-splitting condition has been satisfied when the FAT
information in the FAT memory has been written back into the
storage medium a predetermined number of times.
[0013] According to the 7th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to any one of the 2nd
through 6th aspects, it is preferred that a user is allowed to
select a setting for the image file-splitting condition.
[0014] According to the 8th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to any one of the 1st
through 7th aspects, it is preferred that the batch of image data
is a batch of image data made up with a plurality of image data
obtained through a single continuous shooting operation.
[0015] According to the 9th aspect of the present invention, in the
image file generation device according to the 1st aspect, it is
preferred that: the batch of image data is a batch of image data
made up with a plurality of image data obtained through a single
continuous shooting operation; and the image file generation unit
determines that the image file-splitting condition has been
satisfied when a continuous shooting speed has become lower.
[0016] According to the 10th aspect of the present invention, in
the image file generation device according to the 9th aspect, it is
preferred that: the image file generation device further comprises
a focus adjustment unit that executes focus adjustment; and the
focus adjustment unit executes focus adjustment before starting the
continuous shooting operation and when the continuous shooting
speed has become lower.
[0017] According to the 11th aspect of the present invention, in
the image file generation device according to the 1st aspect, it is
preferred that the image file generation device further comprises:
a deletion unit that deletes at least one set of image data among
the plurality of image data stored in the image file in response to
an instruction issued by the user; and an integration unit that
integrates a plurality of image files having been generated in
correspondence to a batch of image data into a single image file by
ensuring that the image file-splitting condition is satisfied if
the deletion unit has deleted image data in an image file.
[0018] According to the 12th aspect of the present invention, a
camera comprises: an image sensor that obtains image data by
capturing a subject image; and an image file generation device
according to any one of the 1st through 11th aspects.
[0019] According to the 13th aspect of the present invention, an
image file generation method comprises: an image file generation
step of generating an image file having stored therein a plurality
of image data obtained in a batch via an image sensor; and an image
recording step of recording the image file into a storage medium,
and in the image file generation step, image data storage into a
current image file is ended and image file storage into a new image
file is started if an image file-splitting condition is determined
to have been satisfied while the batch of image data is being
obtained via the image sensor.
[0020] According to the 14th aspect of the present invention, an
image file generation method comprises: a deletion step of deleting
at least one set of image data among a plurality of sets of image
data stored in an image file in response to an instruction issued
by a user; and an integration step of integrating a plurality of
image files generated in correspondence to a batch of image data
into a single image file by ensuring that an image file-splitting
condition is satisfied if image data have been deleted in the
deletion step.
[0021] According to the 15th aspect of the present invention, a
computer program product contains a program enabling a computer to
execute an image file generation method according to the 13th or
the 14th aspect.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the structure of the
digital camera achieved in an embodiment;
[0023] FIGS. 2A and 2B schematically illustrate data structures
that may be assumed in multiple-image files;
[0024] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the data structure of JPEG
data;
[0025] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the folder structure
assumed in a memory card;
[0026] FIG. 5 presents a flowchart of the processing executed in
the digital camera 100;
[0027] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate how image data flow during a
photographing operation; and
[0028] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates how FAT information in the
memory card is read out to the FAT memory and how FAT information
in the FAT memory is written back into the memory card.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
First Embodiment
[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a structure that may be
adopted in the digital still camera (DSC) achieved in the first
embodiment. The digital still camera (hereafter referred to as the
"digital camera") 100 includes a lens 101, a CCD 102, an image
processing circuit 103, a display controller 104, an LCD panel 105,
a CPU 106, an SDRAM 107, a JPEG codec 108, a USB controller 109 and
a memory card controller 110.
[0030] The CPU 106 is a main controller that executes overall
control for the digital camera 100. It controls the digital camera
100 by executing photographing processing, image reproduction
processing, image data transfer processing and the like.
[0031] The photographing processing executed in the digital camera
100 is first described. An optical image of a subject input through
the lens 101 undergoes photoelectric conversion at the CCD 102
functioning as an image sensor and is then read out. The image is
then converted to digital image data at an AFE (analog front end)
(not shown) and the digital image data resulting from the
conversion are input to the image processing circuit 103. It is to
be noted that the lens 101 includes a focusing lens (AF lens) (not
shown), and as the user presses a shutter release button (not
shown) halfway down, the CPU 106 drives the AF lens by controlling
a drive unit 101a to adjust the focus.
[0032] Various types of image processing are executed on the
digital image data input thereto at the image processing circuit
103 and the image data having undergone the image processing are
recorded into the SDRAM 107. The SDRAM 107, which is a volatile
memory, is used as a buffer memory where image data are temporarily
recorded or as a work memory where a program is opened when the CPU
106 executes the program.
[0033] The JPEG codec 108 reads out image data recorded in the
SDRAM 107, compresses the image data thus read out in the JPEG
format and then records the compressed image data back into the
SDRAM 107. The CPU 106 creates in the SDRAM 107 an image file (JPEG
file) containing the image data having been compressed in the JPEG
format (JPEG data) appended with various types of additional
information (metadata). Then, the CPU 106 issued an instruction for
a DMA controller (not shown) so as to transfer the JPEG file having
been created to the memory card controller 110. Upon receiving the
JPEG file, the memory card controller 110 records the JPEG file
into a memory card 110a that is inserted in a memory card slot and
is used as a storage medium. The photographing processing is thus
completed.
[0034] Next, the image data reproduction processing executed in the
digital camera 100 is described. The CPU 106 controls the memory
card controller 110 and the DMA controller (not shown) so as to
read out a JPEG file from the memory card 110a. The CPU 106 then
issues an instruction for the DMA controller (not shown) so as to
transfer the JPEG data in the JPEG file to the JPEG codec 108 where
the JPEG data are decompressed. The decompressed image data are
stored back into the SDRAM 107. Subsequently, the CPU 106 issues an
instruction for the DMA controller (not shown) so as to read out
the decompressed image data from the SDRAM 107 and transfers the
image data thus read out to the image processing circuit 103. The
image data input to the image processing circuit 103 undergo
resolution conversion so as to adjust the resolution of the image
in correspondence to the display resolution at the LCD panel 105
and, as a result, display image data are generated. The DMA
controller (not shown) records the display image data back into the
SDRAM 107.
[0035] The CPU 106 issues an instruction for the DMA controller
(not shown) so as to read out the display image data from the SDRAM
107 and the display image data thus read out are transferred to the
display controller 104. The display controller 104 brings up the
display image data having been received on display at the LCD panel
105.
[0036] Lastly, the image data transfer processing executed at the
digital camera 100 is described. It is to be noted that the
following explanation is given as an example by assuming that a
personal computer is connected to a USB port 109a connected to the
USB controller 109 and that image data are transmitted to this
personal computer.
[0037] The CPU 106 reads out a JPEG file from the memory card 110a
and stores the JPEG file thus read out into the SDRAM 107 on a
temporary basis by controlling the memory card controller 110 and
the DMA controller (not shown). The DMA controller (not shown) then
reads out the JPEG file from the SDRAM 107 and transfers the JPEG
file to the USB controller 109. The USB controller 109, in turn,
transmits the JPEG file received thereat to the personal computer
connected to the USB port 109a.
[0038] If the user issues an instruction for a continuous shooting
operation and a plurality of sets of JPEG data are generated in a
batch through the single continuous shooting operation as a result,
the plurality of sets of JPEG data having been generated are stored
together in a single image file in the digital camera 100 achieved
in the embodiment. In other words, the CPU 106 creates an image
file having recorded therein a plurality of sets of JPEG data. In
the description of the embodiment, an image file containing a
plurality of sets of JPEG data recorded therein as described above
is referred to as a multiple image file.
[0039] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates data structures of multiple
image files. A multiple image file may adopt a data structure such
as that of an image file 3a in FIG. 2A with a plurality of sets of
JPEG data 1 through n recorded therein. A multiple image data file
may instead adopt a data structure such as that shown in FIG. 2B.
An image file 3b in the example presented in FIG. 2B includes
header information 3c for the entire image file 3b, recorded at the
head of the image file 3b. Following the header information 3c,
data equivalent to the first image file, i.e., a header
information/image data set 3c-1, through data equivalent to the nth
image file, i.e., a header information/image data set 3c-n, are
recorded in sequence.
[0040] Namely, assuming n images have been obtained through a
continuous shooting operation, n sets of JPEG data are recorded in
the single image file in the example presented in FIG. 2A, whereas
n sets of image data are recorded in the single image file in the
example presented in FIG. 2B. It is to be noted that each set of
JPEG data recorded in the image file in FIG. 2A assumes a standard
data structure such as that shown in FIG. 3.
[0041] In principle, the CPU 106 executes control so as to record a
plurality of sets of JPEG data obtained through each continuous
shooting operation into a single image file. However, if no limit
is set with regard to the number of sets of JPEG data that can be
recorded in a given image file, the data size of the image file may
become excessively large. In such a case, the user may later find
the image file too large to handle with ease. Accordingly, a
specific upper limit (an image file-splitting condition), e.g.,
100, is set to the number of sets of JPEG data that can be recorded
into a single image file in the embodiment, and if the continuous
shooting operation is carried on after taking 100 photographs, the
CPU 106 creates another image file to split this single image.
[0042] Namely, the CPU 106 executes control so that if the number
of photographs obtained through the continuous shooting operation
exceeds 100, the first image file is closed upon recording the JPEG
data of the 100th image and the JPEG data for the 101st image and
subsequent images are recorded into a second image file that is
created separately. Likewise, if the number of photographs taken
through the continuous shooting operation exceeds 200, the CPU 106
closes the second image file upon recording the JPEG data of the
200th image and records the JPEG data for the 201st image and
subsequent images into a newly created third image file. By
repeatedly executing this process, image files can be created
without allowing their data sizes to become excessively large even
when a great number of photographs are taken through a continuous
shooting operation.
[0043] It is to be noted that when a plurality of multiple image
files is created in correspondence to a single continuous shooting
operation, the CPU 106 ensures that each of the plurality of
multiple image files created in correspondence to the continuous
shooting operation can be identified as a multiple image file
belonging to a group of multiple image files created for the
particular continuous shooting operation. For this purpose, the CPU
106 may record link information for the multiple image files having
been created in correspondence to the single continuous shooting
operation, into the individual multiple image files as
meta-information. As an alternative, the file names appended to the
individual multiple image files may include a common data string so
as to allow the multiple image files to be identified as image
files having been created through a single continuous shooting
operation. As a further alternative, the file names appended to the
individual multiple image files may include sequence numbers so as
to allow the multiple image files to be identified as image files
having been created through a single continuous shooting
operation.
[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates how image files may be recorded in the
memory card 110a. It is to be noted that the memory card 110a will
normally be formatted in the FAT file system, and that image files
will, therefore, be recorded as FAT system files. In the example
presented in FIG. 4, image files, each appended with a file name,
are recorded in a "100 ABCDE" folder within a "DCIM" folder. A file
with an extension ".JPG" in FIG. 4 is a standard JPEG file, whereas
a file with an extension ".MIG" in FIG. 4 is a multiple image file
having been described earlier.
[0045] Namely, within the "100 ABCDE" folder in FIG. 4, three JPEG
files, i.e., "DSC.sub.--0001.JPG", "DSC.sub.--0002.JPG" and
"DSC.sub.--0006.JPG", and three multiple image files, i.e.,
"DSC.sub.--0003.MIG", "DSC.sub.--0004.MIG" and
"DSC.sub.--0005.MIG", are recorded.
[0046] FIG. 5 presents a flowchart of the processing executed in
the digital camera 100 in the first embodiment. The processing in
FIG. 5 is executed by the computer CPU 106 based upon a program
that is started up in response to a continuous shooting instruction
issued by the user. The program is stored in a non-volatile memory
(not shown) within the CPU 106.
[0047] Provided that the non-volatile memory allows data overwrite,
the program may be procured from an external source outside the
digital camera 100. In such a case, the program may be obtained via
the memory card 110a, i.e., a storage medium (recording medium),
where it is installed in a predetermined format. As an alternative,
the program may be provided via a personal computer connected to
the USB controller 109. The program, installed in a recording
medium such as a CD-ROM or a DVD, may be obtained via the personal
computer, or the program may be obtained as a data signal
transmitted through a communication network such as the Internet.
In other words, the program, provided as a computer-readable
computer program product assuming any of various modes, such as a
recording medium and a data signal (carrier wave), can be loaded
into the digital camera 100.
[0048] In step S701, the CPU 106 creates a blank multiple image
file and opens the multiple image file thus created so as to allow
JPEG data, to be obtained through a continuous shooting operation,
to be recorded therein. Subsequently, the operation proceeds to
step S702, in which image signals obtained through a photographing
operation executed as described earlier and output from the CCD 102
undergo the image processing at the image processing circuit 103
and JPEG data are created through JPEG compression executed at the
JPEG codec 108, before the operation proceeds to step S703.
[0049] In step S703, the CPU 106 records the JPEG data having been
created in step S702 into the multiple image file having been
opened in step S701. The operation then proceeds to step S704. In
step S704, the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or not the
number of sets of JPEG data having been recorded into the multiple
image file in the open state has exceeded a predetermined number,
e.g., whether or not the number of sets of JPEG data recorded in
the multiple image file has reached 100. If a negative decision is
made in step S704, the operation proceeds to step S707.
[0050] In step S707, the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or
not the continuous shooting operation is still in progress. For
instance, the CPU 106 may determine that the continuous shooting
operation is still in progress if the shutter release button is
still being held all the way down and may determine that the
continuous shooting operation has ended if the shutter release
button, previously held all the way down, has been released. If an
affirmative decision is made in step S707, the operation returns to
step S702 to repeatedly execute the processing described above. If
a negative decision is made in step S707, the operation proceeds to
step S708. In step S708, the CPU 106 closes the currently open
multiple image file thereby terminating recording of the JPEG data
into the multiple image file and then the CPU 106 ends the
processing.
[0051] If an affirmative decision is made in step S704, the
operation proceeds to step S705. In step S705, the CPU 106 closes
the currently open multiple image file, thereby terminating
recording of the JPEG data into the multiple image file. As a
result, it is ensured that the number of sets of JPEG data recorded
into each multiple image file never exceeds a predetermined number,
e.g., 100. Subsequently, the operation proceeds to step S706 in
which the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or not the
continuous shooting operation is still in progress. If an
affirmative decision is made in step S706, the operation returns to
step S701 to open a new multiple image file. If a negative decision
is made in step S706, the processing ends.
[0052] In the first embodiment described above, the CPU 106 creates
a single multiple image file containing a batch of JPEG data
obtained through the same continuous shooting operation. Even while
the continuous shooting operation is in progress, the CPU 106
closes the current multiple image file once the number of sets of
JPEG data in the image file exceeds a predetermined number, e.g.,
100 and opens a new multiple image file so as to record the JPEG
data over separate multiple image files. As a result, an advantage
is achieved in that the data size of a multiple image file never
becomes excessively large.
Second Embodiment
[0053] In the first embodiment described above, the CPU 106 closes
the current multiple image file and opens a new multiple image file
once the number of sets of JPEG data recorded in the current
multiple image file exceeds a predetermined number, e.g., 100, even
while the continuous shooting operation is in progress. Then, any
JPEG data obtained subsequently are recorded into the new multiple
image file, so as to ensure that the data size of a multiple image
file never becomes excessively large.
[0054] In the second embodiment, the CPU 106 closes the current
multiple image file and opens a new multiple image file once the
data size of the current multiple image file becomes equal to or
greater than a predetermined size (an image file-splitting
condition), e.g., equal to or greater than 100 MB, while the
continuous shooting operation is in progress. Through these
measures, it is ensured, as in the first embodiment, that the data
size of a multiple image file never becomes excessively large. It
is to be noted that since the description of the first embodiment
having been given in reference to FIGS. 1 through 4 also applies to
the second embodiment, a repeated explanation is not provided.
[0055] The processing executed by the CPU 106 in the second
embodiment is now described in reference to the flowchart presented
in FIG. 5. It is to be noted that steps in which processing
identical to that in the first embodiment is executed among the
steps in FIG. 5 are not described and that the following
explanation focuses on the features differentiating the second
embodiment from the first embodiment.
[0056] In step S704, the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or
not the data size of the multiple image file exceeds a
predetermined point, i.e., whether or not the data size of the
multiple image file is equal to or greater than a predetermined
size of, for instance, 100 MB. If a negative decision is made in
step S704, the operation proceeds to step S707. However, if an
affirmative decision is made in step S704, the operation proceeds
to step S705 in which the CPU 106 closes the currently open
multiple image file.
[0057] Even while the continuous shooting operation is in progress,
the CPU 106 in the second embodiment described above closes the
current multiple image file once the data size of the multiple
image file exceeds a predetermined size, e.g., 100 MB, and opens a
new multiple image file so as to record the JPEG data over separate
multiple image files. As a result, an advantage is achieved in that
the data size of a multiple image file never becomes excessively
large.
Third Embodiment
[0058] The CPU 106 in the third embodiment closes the current
multiple image file and opens a new multiple image file once the
continuous shooting speed becomes lower while the continuous
shooting operation is in progress. Through these measures, it is
ensured, as in the first and second embodiment, that the data size
of a multiple image file never becomes excessively large. In
addition, since the new multiple image file is opened with the
timing with which the continuous shooting speed has become low, the
processing for opening the new multiple image file, which may
require a significant length of time, can be executed without
greatly affecting the continuous shooting speed. It is to be noted
that since the description of the first embodiment having been
given in reference to FIGS. 1 through 4 also applies to the third
embodiment, a repeated explanation is not provided.
[0059] The continuous shooting speed of the continuous shooting
operation in progress may be lowered as the buffer becomes full of
data awaiting processing, creating a time interval during which the
operation waits for the buffer to become available. The embodiment
is now described in reference to FIG. 6 by citing a specific
instance in which the continuous shooting speed of a continuous
shooting operation in progress becomes lower.
[0060] FIG. 6A illustrates the flow of data through which JPEG data
are created based upon image signals (CCD data) input from the CCD
102. As shown in FIG. 6A, the CCD data first undergo a pre-process
(primarily correction processing) at the image processing circuit
103 and are then recorded into a RAW buffer area 107a allocated
within the SDRAM 107. Through the preprocess, AWB (auto white
balance) detection is executed in correspondence to the individual
fields and AWB evaluation values calculated in units of the
individual fields are later totaled and are thus converted to an
AWB evaluation value for each frame.
[0061] Once all the field image data are recorded into the RAW
buffer area 107a, the image processing circuit 103 executes a
post-process (primarily color processing) which includes color
interpolation by reading out the field image data line by line in
sequence. The image processing circuit 103 records the image data
having undergone the post-process (YUV data) into a YUV buffer area
107b. It is to be noted that, as shown in FIG. 6B, the YUV buffer
area 107b is made up with three areas, i.e., an area 107b-1 where
the main image data are recorded, an area 107b-2 where display
image data are recorded and an area 107b-3 where thumbnail image
data are recorded.
[0062] The JPEG codec 108 reads out the YUV data from the YUV
buffer area 107b and compresses the YUV data in the JPEG format,
thereby creating JPEG data. The JPEG data thus created are then
recorded into a JPEG buffer area 107c. As the CPU 106 records into
the memory card 110a an image file (JPEG file) generated by
appending metadata onto the JPEG data recorded in the JPEG buffer
area 107c, the photographing processing is completed. Under these
circumstances, the CPU 106 in the embodiment stores a plurality of
JPEG images into a single image file as has been described in
reference to the first and second embodiment.
[0063] Since the numbers of sets of image data that can be recorded
into the RAW buffer area 107a, the YUV buffer area 107b and the
JPEG buffer area 107c are limited, a wait period during which the
operation waits for a given buffer having become full to become
available again, tends to occur. For instance, the buffer capacity
at the RAW buffer area 107a, the buffer capacity at the YUV buffer
area 107b and the buffer capacity at the JPEG buffer area 107c in
FIG. 6A may be respectively two image frames, two image frames and
five image frames.
[0064] In this situation, a wait period occurs as described below,
assuming that frame rate at the CCD is 2 fps, that the processing
rate of the post-process and the JPEG compression is 2 fps and that
the recording rate at which data are recorded into the memory card
is 1 fps. Namely, while JPEG data equivalent to two frames are
recorded each second into the JPEG buffer area 107b, only a single
frame of image data can be recorded per second into the memory
card. Thus, the JPEG buffer area 107c accumulates one frame of JPEG
data every second and 5 seconds after the continuous shooting
start, the JPEG buffer area 107c with the five-frame capacity
becomes full.
[0065] Once the JPEG buffer area 107c becomes full, as described
above, the JPEG codec 108 is no longer able to output JPEG data to
the JPEG buffer area 107c. Thus, the JPEG codec 108 is forced to
suspend the JPEG compression processing until space equivalent to a
single image frame becomes available in the JPEG buffer area 107c.
Once the JPEG codec 108 suspends the JPEG compression processing as
described above, the YUV data recorded in the YUV buffer area 107b
are no longer read by the JPEG codec 108 and consequently, the YUV
buffer area 107b, too, becomes full.
[0066] In this situation, the image processing circuit 103 is no
longer able to output YUV data to the YUV buffer area 107b and the
image processing circuit 103 is thus forced to suspend the
post-process until space equivalent to a single image frame becomes
available in the YUV buffer area 107b. While the image processing
circuit 103 suspends the post-process as described above, the image
data recorded in the raw buffer area 107a cannot be read by the
image processing circuit 103 and thus, the raw buffer area 107a
also becomes full.
[0067] If the RAW buffer area 107a becomes full, the image
processing circuit 103 is forced to suspend execution of the
preprocess and, as a result, the CCD 102 can no longer output image
signals to the image processing circuit 103. Consequently, the
continuous shooting operation must be suspended until space
equivalent to a single image frame becomes available in the RAW
buffer area 107a.
[0068] As described above, the buffer areas become full
sequentially in the order of the JPEG buffer area 107c, the YUV
buffer area 107b and the RAW buffer area 107a in the example
presented in FIG. 6. Ultimately, the continuous shooting operation
will be executed each time space equivalent to a single image frame
becomes available in the RAW buffer area 107a and thus, the
continuous shooting speed will become dependent upon the lowest
processing rate, i.e., the recording rate at which data are
recorded into the memory card. Namely, even if the continuous
shooting operation is initially executed at a continuous shooting
speed matching the CCD frame rate of 2 fps, the continuous shooting
speed will subsequently be lowered to 1 fps, i.e., the recording
rate at which data are recorded into the memory card once all the
buffer areas become full.
[0069] In the embodiment, the current multiple image file is closed
and a new multiple image file is opened with the timing with which
the continuous speed has become lower, as described above. Thus,
while a certain length of time is required to close the currently
open multiple image file and open a new multiple image file, the
extent to which the continuous shooting speed is lowered for the
multiple image file switch-over can be minimized by executing the
multiple image file close/open processing with the timing with
which the continuous shooting speed has become lower.
[0070] The processing executed by the CPU 106 in the third
embodiment is now described in reference to the flowchart presented
in FIG. 5. It is to be noted that steps in which processing
identical to that in the first embodiment is executed among the
steps in FIG. 5 are not described and that the following
explanation focuses on the features differentiating the third
embodiment from the first embodiment.
[0071] In step S704, the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or
not the continuous shooting speed has reached a predetermined
point, i.e., whether or not the continuous shooting speed has
become lower (whether or not the buffer areas have become full). If
a negative decision is made in step S704, the operation proceeds to
step S707. However, if an affirmative decision is made in step
S704, the operation proceeds to step S705 in which the CPU 106
closes the currently open multiple image file.
[0072] The following advantages are achieved through the third
embodiment described above.
[0073] (1) If the continuous shooting speed of a continuous
shooting operation in progress becomes lower, the CPU 106 closes
the current multiple image file and opens a new multiple image file
so as to record the image data over a plurality of separate image
files. As a result, the data size of a multiple image file never
becomes excessively large.
[0074] (2) In addition, since a separate multiple image file is
opened with the timing with which the continuous shooting speed has
become lower, the extent to which the continuous shooting speed is
lowered due to the time required for the switch-over processing for
closing the currently open multiple image file and opening a new
multiple image file can be minimized.
Fourth Embodiment
[0075] In the fourth embodiment, when recording a multiple image
file into the memory card 110a assuming the FAT file system during
a continuous shooting operation, the current multiple image file is
closed and a new multiple image file is opened in correspondence to
the timing with which FAT information within a FAT memory (not
shown) in the digital camera 100 is written back into the memory
card 110a. Through these measures, too, it is ensured, as in the
preceding embodiments, that the data size of a multiple image file
never becomes excessively large. It is to be noted that since the
description of the first embodiment having been given in reference
to FIGS. 1 through 4 also applies to the fourth embodiment, a
repeated explanation is not provided.
[0076] A FAT area, to be used as an area where FAT information,
i.e., management data, is recorded, is allocated in the memory card
110a adopting the FAT file system. The FAT information includes
information indicating the cluster numbers of clusters where image
file data are recorded, the cluster numbers of unused clusters and
the cluster numbers of defective clusters. In addition, the digital
camera 100 is equipped with a FAT memory used for FAT information
overwrite as FAT information in the memory card is read out,
information indicating the cluster number of a cluster where data
have been recorded is written into the FAT information having been
read out and the like when, for instance, recording data such as
image file data in a multiple image file into the memory card 110a.
Namely, when writing data such as a multiple image file into the
memory card 110a, the CPU 106 first needs to read the FAT
information in the FAT area of the memory card 110a into the FAT
memory, rewrites the FAT information in the FAT memory and then
write the FAT information back into the FAT area of the memory card
110a.
[0077] The FAT area allocated in the memory card 110a, in which
numerous clusters are present, normally has a greater size than the
FAT memory in the digital camera 100. For this reason, not all the
data in the FAT area can be read out into the FAT memory at once.
Accordingly, the CPU 106 needs to copy FAT information stored in
part of the FAT area in the memory card 110a, e.g., the FAT
information in an area A or the FAT information in an area B, read
(Read) the copied FAT information into the FAT memory 7a, update
the FAT information having been read out and then write (Write) the
updated information back into the FAT area in the memory card 110a,
as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0078] In the example presented in FIG. 7, the FAT information in
the area A, i.e., part of the FAT area in the memory card 110a, is
first read out to the FAT memory 7a, a data write is executed to
write the entire FAT information originating from the area A and
then the FAT information is written back into the memory card 110a.
Subsequently, the FAT information in the area B, i.e., the next
portion of FAT information from another part of the FAT area, is
read out into the FAT memory 7a, a data write is executed to write
this FAT information in its entirety in a similar manner and then
the FAT information is written back into the memory card 110a.
[0079] During this process, the CPU 106 closes the current multiple
image file and opens a new multiple image file with the timing of
each FAT information write-back from the FAT memory 7a into the
memory card 110a. Thus, assuming that the memory capacity of the
FAT memory 7a in the digital camera 100 allows the FAT information
required for, for instance, 250 MB data management to be recorded
therein (read into) at once, the FAT information is written back
with the timing with which the 256 MB data having been recorded
into the memory card 110a and, as a result, the data size of the
multiple image file never exceeds 256 MB. Likewise, if the memory
capacity of the FAT memory 7a in the digital camera 100 allows the
FAT information required for, for instance, 512 MB data management
to be recorded therein (read into) at once, the data size of the
multiple image file never exceeds 512 MB. In either case, it is
ensured that the data size of a multiple image file never becomes
excessively large.
[0080] As an alternative, the CPU 106 may close the current
multiple image file and open a new multiple image file with the
timing with which FAT information write-back from the FAT memory 7a
into the memory card 110a has been executed a predetermined number
of times. For instance, a target size for each multiple image file
may be set in advance and the current multiple image file may be
closed with the write-back timing with which the size of the
multiple image file comes closest to the target size after writing
back FAT information from the FAT memory 7a into the memory card
110a multiple times. Through these measures, the multiple image
file is closed once its data size becomes close to the
predetermined target size and thus, it is ensured that the data
size of a multiple image file never becomes excessively large. It
is to be noted that the target size may be a permanently fixed size
or the user may be allowed to select any target size.
[0081] In more specific terms, if the target size for each multiple
image file is 800 MB and the memory capacity of the FAT memory 7a
in the digital camera 100 allows the FAT information needed for 256
MB data management to be recorded therein, the current multiple
image file is closed once the FAT information write-back has been
executed three times, i.e., with the timing with which 756 MB data
have been written into the memory card through three FAT
information write-backs. If the memory capacity of the FAT memory
7a in the digital camera 100 allows the FAT information needed for
128 MB data management to be recorded therein, the current multiple
image file is closed once the FAT information write-back has been
executed seven times, i.e., with the timing with which 896 MB data
have been written into the memory card. In addition, if the memory
capacity of the FAT memory 7a in the digital camera 100 allows the
FAT information needed for 512 MB data management to be recorded
therein, the current multiple image file is closed once the FAT
information write-back has been executed seven times, i.e., with
the timing with which 1024 MB data have been written into the
memory card.
[0082] The processing executed by the CPU 106 in the fourth
embodiment is now described in reference to the flowchart presented
in FIG. 5. It is to be noted that steps in which processing
identical to that in the first embodiment is executed among the
steps in FIG. 5 are not described and that the following
explanation focuses on the features differentiating the fourth
embodiment from the first embodiment.
[0083] In step S704, the CPU 106 makes a decision as to whether or
not the continuous shooting speed has reached a predetermined
point, i.e., whether or not FAT information in the FAT memory 7a
has been written back into the memory card 110a. If a negative
decision is made in step S704, the operation proceeds to step S707.
However, if an affirmative decision is made in step S704, the
operation proceeds to step S705 in which the CPU 106 closes the
currently open multiple image file.
[0084] The following advantages are achieved through the fourth
embodiment described above.
[0085] (1) The CPU 106 closes the current multiple image file to
spit the file each time FAT information in the FAT memory 7a is
written back into the memory card 110a. As a result, it is ensured
that the data size of a multiple image file never becomes
excessively large.
[0086] (2) The CPU 106 closes the current multiple image file to
spit the file when writing the FAT information in the FAT memory 7a
back into the memory card 110a has been carried out a predetermined
number of times, by which the data size of the multiple image file
becomes close to a target size. Consequently, it is ensured that
each multiple image file assumes a data size close to the target
size and that the data size never becomes excessively large.
[0087] -Variations-
[0088] It is to be noted that the digital camera achieved in the
embodiments described above allows for the following
variations.
[0089] (1) In the first embodiment described above, the CPU closes
the current multiple image file and opens a new multiple image file
if the number of sets of JPEG data recorded in the multiple image
file would otherwise exceed a predetermined value, e.g., 100, while
a continuous shooting operation is in progress. However, the
present invention is not limited to this example and the user may
be allowed to select any value as the maximum number of sets of
JPEG data that can be written into a single multiple image
file.
[0090] (2) In the second embodiment described above, the CPU 106
closes the current multiple image file and opens a new multiple
image file once the data size of the multiple image file becomes
equal to or greater than a predetermined size, e.g., 100 MB, while
a continuous shooting operation is in progress. However, the
present invention is not limited to this example and the user may
be allowed to select any data size as the maximum data size each
multiple image file may assume.
[0091] (3) In the third embodiment described above, the CPU 106
closes the current multiple image file and opens a new multiple
image file once the continuous shooting speed becomes lower while a
continuous shooting operation is in progress. As an alternative,
the CPU 106 may close the current multiple image file, open a new
multiple image file and execute focus adjustment processing (AF
processing) with the multiple image file close/open timing once the
continuous shooting speed has become low. In the continuous
shooting mode selected for continuous shooting operation, the CPU
106 may execute focus adjustment by executing the AF processing
with the timing with which the user has pressed the shutter release
button halfway down and may subsequently start the continuous
shooting operation with the timing with which the user has pressed
the shutter release button all the way down. Under these
circumstances, by executing the AF processing again with the timing
with which the continuous shooting speed has become lower, the CPU
106 will be able to obtain well-focused sequential images even if
the subject does not remain stationary during the continuous
shooting operation. While the AF processing requires a certain
length of time to execute, the extent to which the continuous
shooting speed is lowered on account of the AF processing can be
minimized by executing the AF processing with the timing with which
the continuous shooting speed has become lower. It is to be noted
that the AF processing is executed by adopting the contrast method
or the phase difference method of the known art.
[0092] (4) In the first embodiment, a plurality of sets of JPEG
data are recorded into a single multiple image file and once the
number of sets of JPEG data exceeds 100 while the continuous
shooting operation is in progress, a separate multiple image file
is created so as to ensure that the data size of a multiple image
file never becomes excessively large. The file system in the
embodiment may further allow the user to delete any JPEG data in a
multiple image file. As the user deletes some JPEG data in multiple
image files, a plurality of multiple image files may be integrated,
as long as the number of sets of JPEG data recorded in any single
multiple image file does not exceed 100. For instance, a first
multiple image file containing 100 sets of JPEG data and a second
multiple image file containing 20 sets of JPEG data may be
generated through a single continuous shooting operation. Under
these circumstances, if 20 or more sets of JPEG data in the first
multiple image file are deleted, a single multiple image file may
be created by integrating the first multiple image file and the
second multiple image file.
[0093] (5) In the second embodiment, a plurality of sets of JPEG
data are recorded into a single multiple image file and once the
data size of the multiple image file exceeds 100 MB while the
continuous shooting operation is in progress, a separate multiple
image file is created so as to ensure that the data size of a
multiple image file never becomes excessively large. The file
system in the embodiment may further allow the user to delete any
JPEG data in a multiple image file. As the user deletes some JPEG
data in multiple image files, a plurality of multiple image files
may be integrated, as long as the data size of any single multiple
image file does not exceed 100 MB. For instance, a first multiple
image file assuming a data size of 100 MB and a second multiple
image file assuming a data size of 20 MB may be generated through a
single continuous shooting operation. Under these circumstances, if
JPEG data amounting to 20 MB or more are deleted from the first
multiple image file, a single multiple image file may be created by
integrating the first multiple image file and the second multiple
image file. In addition, the user may also be allowed to delete any
JPEG data in multiple image files in the third and fourth
embodiments and if the user has deleted JPEG data in multiple image
files, a plurality of multiple image files may be integrated as
long as the integrated multiple file does not exceed the single
multiple image file limit as the file-splitting condition.
[0094] (6) In the first through fourth embodiments described above,
the CPU 106 stores a series of sets of JPEG data obtained through a
single shooting operation into a multiple image file. However, the
present invention is not limited to this example and a batch of
JPEG data made up with a plurality of sets of JPEG data obtained
through an operation other than a continuous shooting operation may
be recorded into a single multiple image file. For instance, the
present invention may be adopted in conjunction with a batch of
JPEG data made up of a plurality of sets of JPEG data obtained
through a panorama photographing operation, a batch of JPEG data
made up with a plurality of sets of JPEG data obtained through a
time-lapse photographing operation, and the like.
[0095] (7) The present invention may also be adopted when some of
the clusters in the memory card 110a have been used in the fourth
embodiment. Namely, if some clusters in the memory card 110a have
been used, a contiguous unused cluster cannot be procured within
the memory card 110a. Under these circumstances, too, the current
multiple image file may be closed with the write-back timing with
which the size of the multiple image file becomes closest to the
target size.
[0096] For instance, the memory capacity of the FAT memory 7a in
the digital camera 100 may allow the FAT information for 256 MB
data management to be recorded therein and the target size for each
multiple image file may be 800 MB. In this situation, while FAT
information with which recording of 256 MB data can be managed may
be read out from the memory card 110a into the FAT memory 7a
through a single FAT information read, the available data area will
accommodate recording of less than 256 MB of multiple image file
data if part of the 256 MB data area is already occupied.
[0097] For instance, if the 256 MB data area is only partially
available to allow 200 MB data to be recorded therein and FAT
information for 256 MB data management is read out into the FAT
memory 7a through a single FAT information read, only 200 MB data
can be recorded into the memory card 110a with the write-back
timing with which the particular FAT information is written back.
Namely, the multiple image file assumes the data size of 200 MB
with the FAT information write-back timing. Subsequently, 220 MB
data, 190 MB data and 170 MB data are assumed to be recorded
respectively through the second write-back, through the third
write-back and through the forth write-back.
[0098] Under these circumstances, the current multiple image file
will assume a data size of 770 MB, closest to the target size of
800 MB, with the timing of the forth write-back. Accordingly, the
CPU 106 will close the current multiple image file and open a new
multiple image file with the timing with which the fourth
write-back is completed. As an alternative, the current multiple
image file may be closed and a new multiple image file may be
opened with the timing with which the size of the current multiple
image file exceeds the target size of 800 MB, i.e., with the timing
with which the fifth write-back is completed.
[0099] (8) In the fourth embodiment described above, a separate
multiple image file is created to split the current multiple image
file by closing the current multiple image file based upon the
timing with which FAT information in the FAT memory 7a is written
back into the memory card 110a during the multiple image file
recording operation. Instead, the CPU 106 may record data without
creating separate multiple image files during the multiple image
file recording operation and may split the data when the multiple
image file data are reproduced. In more specific terms, as the CPU
106 records data into the multiple image file, it may partition the
data in the multiple image file recorded in the memory card 110a
with blank data with the timing with which FAT information in the
FAT memory 7a is written back into the memory card 110a. Then, in
response to a multiple image file reproduction instruction issued
by the user, the CPU 106 may split this multiple image file at the
positions of blank data to further create a plurality of multiple
image files. As an alternative, instead of creating a separate
multiple image file in correspondence to each set of blank data, a
separate multiple image file may be created in correspondence to a
predetermined number of sets of blank data.
[0100] (9) In the fourth embodiment described above, a separate
multiple image file is created based upon the timing with which FAT
information is written back into the memory card 110a from the FAT
memory 7a in the digital camera 100. As an alternative, a separate
multiple image file may be created based upon the capacity of the
buffer memory, i.e., the SDRAM 107, in the digital camera 100. More
specifically, a separate multiple image files may be created by
closing the current multiple image file and writing the multiple
image file data into the memory card 110a with the timing with
which the buffer memory where the multiple image file is being
created, becomes full.
[0101] (10) Separate multiple image files may be created through
methods other than those described in reference to the first
through fourth embodiments. For instance, if there is an upper
limit to the number of thumbnail images that can be displayed at
the LCD panel 105, a new multiple image file may be created to
split the file each time image data corresponding to the maximum
number of thumbnail images that can be displayed at the LCD panel
are written into the current multiple image file. As an
alternative, the current multiple image file may be closed and a
new multiple image file may be opened after a predetermined length
of time elapses during the photographic operation. In this case,
the timing with which a separate multiple image file is created may
be adjusted in correspondence to the intervals with which
individual images are photographed by closing the current multiple
image file each time a one-minute interval, for instance, elapses
during the continuous shooting operation and closing the multiple
image file each time a one-day interval, for instance, elapses in a
photographing mode other than the continuous shooting mode, such as
the normal photographing mode.
[0102] (11) In the first through fourth embodiment described above,
JPEG data are generated through JPEG compression executed by the
JPEG codec 108. However, the present invention is not limited to
this example and it may be adopted in conjunction with image data
generated in the GIF format or the TIFF format.
[0103] (12) In the first through fourth embodiments described
above, photographing processing is executed in the digital camera
100 and the processing in FIG. 5 is executed by the CPU 106.
However, the present invention is not limited to this example and
it may be adopted in an apparatus other than the digital camera
100. For instance, it may be adopted in an apparatus such as a
personal computer, which is connected to a digital camera through a
wired connection or a wireless connection and generates image files
by reading images photographed in the digital camera.
[0104] It is to be noted that as long as functions characterizing
the present invention are not compromised, the present invention is
in no way limited to the structures adopted in the embodiments
described above. In addition, the present invention allows any of
the embodiments described above to be adopted in combination with a
plurality of variations.
* * * * *