Imaging apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

To prevent an unintended process from being performed by a user's erroneous operation on displayed image information.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus has imaging means, detection means for detecting a user operation performed on image information displayed on display means, and control means for disabling the user operation when at least predetermined image information input externally is displayed on the display means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for preventing processing in response to an erroneous user operation on image information being displayed. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a method for disabling touch operations on the display unit when an eye-closed state of the eyepiece finder is detected in a digital camera that has a display unit different from the eyepiece finder and allows touch operations on the display unit. According to Patent Document 1, when an eye-closed state of the eyepiece finder is detected, the user cannot see the display unit, so it is possible to prevent unintended processing from being performed by accidentally touching the display unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-145191 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even when the user can see the display unit, there is a possibility that unintended processing may be performed. For example, the imaging device allows shooting operations even when an image input from outside is displayed on the display unit, but since the state after the operation is not displayed on the display screen, the user may mistakenly perform an operation on the displayed image, resulting in unintended processing.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to realize a technology that prevents unintended processing from being performed due to a user erroneously performing an operation on image information that is being displayed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object, the imaging device of the present invention has an imaging means, a detection means for detecting a user operation performed on image information displayed on a display means, and a control means for disabling the user operation when at least predetermined image information input from outside is displayed on the display means. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent unintended processing from being performed due to a user's erroneous operation on image information being displayed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an extension device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3A and 3B are diagrams for explaining an example of connection between an imaging device and an extension device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of screen displays in non-PinP mode according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing examples of screen display in PinP mode according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 5A to 5C are diagrams for explaining the display size of a sub-screen in PinP mode according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] 5 is a flowchart showing a first control process according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when touch operations are disabled in S708 of FIG. 7; [Figure 9] 6 is a flowchart showing a second control process according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing examples of screen displays when touch operations are enabled in S906 or disabled in S907 in FIG. 9; [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a third control process according to the embodiment. [Figure 12]11. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen display when a user operation is invalid in step S1107 of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic external view of a display unit provided with an input device other than a touch panel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Although the embodiments describe a number of features, not all of these features are essential to the invention, and the features may be combined in any manner. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar configurations, and duplicated descriptions are omitted.

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment in which an imaging device of the present invention is applied to a digital video camera used at a shooting site, etc. will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to digital cameras, but can also be applied to smartphones, which are a type of mobile phone, tablet devices, and the like.

[0011] The imaging device 100 of this embodiment includes: <Configuration of Image Capturing Apparatus 100> First, the configuration and functions of an image capturing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image capturing apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.

[0013] The imaging device 100 includes a control unit 101, a non-volatile memory 102, a volatile memory 103, an image processing unit 104, a display unit 105, an operation unit 106, an input / output I / F 107, and an imaging unit 110. The components of the imaging device 100 are connected to each other via an internal bus 111 so as to be able to transmit and receive data. The imaging device 100 operates as a control device capable of displaying images, an OSD (On Screen Display) and a GUI (Graphical User Interface), and controlling an extension device 200 (described later) connected to the imaging device 100.

[0014] The control unit 101 is an arithmetic processor (CPU or MPU) that controls the entire imaging device 100, and controls the above-mentioned components by executing a program stored in a non-volatile memory 102 (described later). Note that instead of the control unit 101 controlling the entire device, the entire device may be controlled by multiple hardware devices sharing the processing.

[0015] The non-volatile memory 102 is a ROM, and is used as a storage area for storing constants, programs, etc. for the operation of the control unit 101. The programs are programs for executing control processing, which will be described later in this embodiment.

[0016] The volatile memory 103 is a RAM, and is used as a working area for expanding constants and variables for the operation of the control unit 101, programs read from the non-volatile memory 102, and the like.

[0017] The image processing unit 104 executes various image processes on image data captured by the imaging unit 110, image data stored in the non-volatile memory 102 or the recording medium 108, image data input from the outside via the input / output I / F 107, and the like under the control of the control unit 101. The image processing unit 104 then compresses and encodes the processed still image data in a JPEG format or the like, or encodes the moving image data in a moving image compression format such as the MP4 format, to generate an image file, which is then recorded on the recording medium 108. The processes executed by the image processing unit 104 include an A / D conversion process for converting an analog signal into a digital signal, and a D / A conversion process for converting a digital signal into an analog signal. The image processes also include coding, compression, decoding, enlargement / reduction (resizing), noise reduction, and color conversion processes for image data. The image processing unit 104 may be configured with a dedicated circuit block (GPU (Graphical Processing Unit)) for executing a specific image process. Depending on the type of image process, the control unit 101 can execute the image process according to a program without using the image processing unit 104.

[0018] The display unit 105 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal or organic EL display device, and displays information including images, sounds, OSD, and / or GUI (hereinafter, image information) on a display screen according to the control of the control unit 101. The display unit 105 may be a configuration built into the imaging device 100, or may be a configuration connectable to the imaging device 100 as an external device (such as an external monitor or a television receiver). When the display unit 105 is an external display device, the imaging device 100 only needs to include an interface that outputs a display signal for displaying image information on the display unit 105. In this case, the control unit 101 controls each component of the imaging device 100 to generate a display signal according to a program and output the display signal to the display unit 105. In this way, the display unit 105 displays image information based on the display signal output from the imaging device 100. Furthermore, the control unit 101 can display image information read from the non-volatile memory 102 or the recording medium 108 or image information input from the outside via the input / output I / F 107 by the image processing unit 104 using picture-in-picture (hereinafter, PinP). PinP is a method of displaying a screen (sub-screen) smaller than the entire screen (main screen) of the display unit 105 by overlapping it with a part of the main screen. The image information displayed on the main screen and the image information displayed on the sub-screen may be the same image information or different image information, and can be arbitrarily set by the user. In this embodiment, at least one of the first image information and the second image information is displayed on the display unit 105. When the first image information is displayed on the main screen, the second image information is displayed on the sub-screen, and when the second image information is displayed on the main screen, the first image information is displayed on the sub-screen. The first image information includes an image captured by the imaging unit 110 (captured image (live view image)) or an image read from the non-volatile memory 102 or the recording medium 108 (playback image). The second image information is an image input from the outside via the input / output I / F 107, and includes an image input from an extension device 200 described later and a return image captured by an imaging device different from the imaging device 100. The return image is, for example, an image of the same subject captured by an imaging device different from the imaging device 100.The control unit 101 can switch between the first image information and the second image information displayed on the main screen and the sub-screen. Note that the images include still images and moving images. The display size of the second image displayed on the sub-screen can be changed by the image processing unit 104 within the display range of the main screen.

[0019] The operation unit 106 is an input device for receiving user operations, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, a button, a dial, a joystick, a touch sensor, or a touch pad. The operation unit 106 outputs an instruction according to the user operation to the control unit 101, and the control unit 101 executes processing according to the instruction from the operation unit 106. The operation unit 106 also has a mode changeover switch for changing the operation mode of the imaging device 100 to either a shooting mode for shooting an image or a playback mode for playing back the shot image. Note that the operation mode of the imaging device 100 may be changed over by a GUI of a menu screen or the like instead of the mode changeover switch. The shooting mode and the playback mode can be changed over to a PinP mode or a non-PinP mode by a display changeover switch included in the operation unit 106 or a GUI of a menu screen. In the PinP mode, it is possible to change over the image information displayed on the main screen to the first image information or the second image information, and to change over the image information displayed on the sub screen to the first image information or the second image information.

[0020] The operation unit 106 has a touch panel 106a capable of detecting a touch operation on the display unit 105. The touch panel 106a and the display unit 105 can be configured as one unit. For example, the touch panel 106a is configured so that the light transmittance does not interfere with the display of the display unit 105, and is attached to the upper layer of the display surface of the display unit 105. Then, input coordinates on the touch panel 106a are associated with display coordinates on the display unit 105. This makes it possible to configure a GUI that allows the user to directly operate the screen displayed on the display unit 105. The control unit 101 can detect the operation or state of the touch panel 106a.

[0021] The input / output I / F 107 is an interface that connects to an external device connected to the recording medium 108 or the connection unit 109. The input / output I / F 107 includes an interface that can be connected by wire or wirelessly. In the case of wireless connection, a communication method such as a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), infrared communication, Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Wireless USB is used, and the device can also be connected to the Internet. In the case of wired connection, a cable such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB), a Serial Digital Interface (SDI) for connecting an external display device, or a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI (registered trademark)) is used. The external device connected to the input / output I / F 107 is, for example, another imaging device or an extension device 200 described later. The recording medium 108 is a recording medium such as a semiconductor memory such as a memory card or a hard disk, a magnetic disk, a compact disc (CD), or a digital versatile disc (DVD). The control unit 101 reads data from the recording medium 108 and writes data to the recording medium 108 through the input / output I / F 107. Furthermore, the control unit 101 inputs and outputs data to and from external devices via the input / output I / F 107 .

[0022] The input / output I / F 107 can input the second image information from another imaging device connected to the connection unit 109. The control unit 101 can temporarily store the second image information in the volatile memory 103, generate a display signal corresponding to the second image information, and output it to the display unit 105 or an external display device via the input / output I / F 107. In the shooting mode or the reproduction mode, when a predetermined operation is performed on a predetermined operation member included in the operation unit 106 as a display instruction for a return image, the control unit 101 outputs a display signal corresponding to the second image information to the display unit 105 or an external display device. The case where a predetermined operation is performed on a predetermined operation member is, for example, when a long press on a specific button is detected or when switching of a toggle switch is detected. Note that, when multiple display devices including the display unit 105 are connected to the imaging device 100, the second image information can be output only to a specific display device or to all display devices.

[0023] The connection unit 109 connects the recording medium 108 or an external device to the input / output I / F 107. The connection unit 109 has an antenna for receiving radio signals in the case of a wireless connection, and has a connector such as SDI or HDMI (registered trademark) for connecting a cable in the case of a wired connection.

[0024] The imaging unit 110 includes an optical system including a lens, a shutter, an aperture, etc., an image sensor configured with a CCD or CMOS for converting an optical image into an electrical signal, and an A / D converter for converting an analog signal generated by the image sensor into a digital signal. The imaging unit 110 is capable of capturing still images and moving images.

[0025] <Configuration of the Expansion Device 200> Next, the configuration and functions of the expansion device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0026] Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the extension device 200 of this embodiment. Fig. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of connection between the imaging device 100 and the extension device 200. Fig. 3(a) shows a state in which the extension device 200 is not connected to the imaging device 100. Fig. 3(b) shows a state in which the extension device 200 is connected to the imaging device 100. When the connection unit 208 of the extension device 200 is connected to the connection unit 109 of the imaging device 100, the input / output I / F 107 of the imaging device 100 and the input / output I / F 207 of the extension device 200 are connected to enable input / output of data, and the imaging device 100 becomes able to control the extension device 200.

[0027] The extension device 200 is connected to extend the configuration and functions of the imaging device 100. The extension of the imaging device 100 includes adding configurations and functions provided in the imaging device 100 and improving the performance of the configurations and functions provided in the imaging device 100.

[0028] The expansion device 200 includes a control unit 201, a non-volatile memory 202, a volatile memory 203, an image processing unit 204, a recording medium I / F 205, an input / output I / F 207, and a connection unit 208. The components of the expansion device 200 are connected via an internal bus 209 so as to be able to send and receive data to and from each other.

[0029] The control unit 201, non-volatile memory 202, volatile memory 203, image processing unit 204, recording medium 206, and connection unit 208 of the extension device 200 have substantially the same configurations and functions as the control unit 101, non-volatile memory 102, volatile memory 103, image processing unit 104, recording medium 108, and connection unit 109 of the imaging device 100 shown in Fig. 1. The following description will focus on the parts that differ from the imaging device 100.

[0030] The recording medium I / F 205 is an interface with a recording medium 206, such as a semiconductor memory such as a memory card or a hard disk, a magnetic disk, a CD, a DVD, etc. The control unit 201 reads data from the recording medium 206 and writes data to the recording medium 206 through the recording medium I / F 205.

[0031] The input / output I / F 207 is an interface for connecting to an external device, and has the same configuration and function as the input / output I / F 107 of the imaging device 100 shown in Fig. 1. The input / output I / F 207 includes a first input / output I / F and a second input / output I / F. The imaging device 100 or another expansion device can be connected to the first input / output I / F, and inputs / outputs data between the imaging device 100 or the other expansion device. The second input / output I / F can be connected to another expansion device, and inputs / outputs data between the other expansion device.

[0032] <Screen Display of Imaging Apparatus 100> Next, with reference to Figs. 4 to 6, a description will be given of the screen displayed on the display unit 105 of the imaging apparatus 100 of this embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 4 shows an example of a screen display in the non-PinP mode of the imaging device 100 of this embodiment.

[0034] 4(a) shows a screen 400 in which a live view image (captured image) 401 captured by the imaging unit 110, an OSD 402a showing shooting parameters, remaining battery level, shooting time, etc. when the captured image 401 was captured, and an OSD 400b showing that the imaging device 100 is in a shooting standby state are displayed superimposed on the captured image 401. The OSDs 402a and 402b for the captured image 401 are generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the captured image 401.

[0035] 4(b) is a screen 403 that displays an image 404 that has been read from the recording medium 108 via the input / output I / F 107 or an image 404 that has been input from the recording medium 206 of the extension device 200. A GUI 405 for starting / stopping playback, fast-forwarding, rewinding, and specifying a playback position is displayed on the screen 403, superimposed on the image 404. The GUI 405 for the image 404 is generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the image 404.

[0036] 4(c) is in a state where a return image 407, which is the second image information input from an external device via the input / output I / F 107, is displayed on the screen 406. An OSD 408 indicating that the return image 407 is being displayed is displayed superimposed on the return image 407 on the screen 406. The OSD 408 is generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the image 401.

[0037] FIG. 5 shows an example of a screen display in the PinP mode of the imaging device 100 of this embodiment.

[0038] 5(a) shows a screen 500 in which a return image 502 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a captured image 501 displayed on a main screen of the display unit 105. The return image 502 is displayed as a sub-screen in a lower right area that is a part of the main screen 500, with a display size smaller than that of the captured image 501 displayed on the main screen 500. The display size of the return image 502 on the sub-screen is resized by the image processing unit 104. An OSD 502a indicating that a return image is being displayed is displayed on the return image 502 superimposed on the return image 502. The OSD 502a is generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the return image 502.

[0039] 5B shows a screen 503 in which a captured image 505 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a return image 504 displayed on a main screen of the display unit 105. The captured image 505 is displayed as a sub-screen in a lower right area that is a part of the main screen 503 with a display size smaller than that of the return image 504 displayed on the main screen 503. The display size of the captured image 505 on the sub-screen is resized by the image processing unit 104. An OSD 504a indicating that a return image is being displayed is displayed on the return image 504 superimposed on the return image 504. The OSD 504a is generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the return image 504. The OSDs 505a and 505b of the captured image 505 are generated by the image processing unit 104 and superimposed on the captured image 505.

[0040] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a state in which, in the PinP mode of the imaging device 100 of this embodiment, a captured image 602 is displayed as a sub-screen at a display size smaller than a return image 601, superimposed on the return image 601 displayed on the main screen.

[0041] 6A shows a screen 600 in which a captured image 602 displayed as a sub-screen is superimposed on a return image 601 with a display size equal to or larger than the range of a threshold 603. In FIG.

[0042] A screen 604 in FIG. 6B shows a state in which a captured image 602 displayed as a sub-screen is superimposed on a return image 601 at a display size less than the range of a threshold 603 .

[0043] In this embodiment, in a state where a return image is displayed on the main screen, a control process is performed to invalidate a user operation performed on the displayed image. Furthermore, in this embodiment, in a state where a captured image is displayed as a sub-screen with a display size smaller than that of the return image superimposed on the return image displayed on the main screen, if the display size of the captured image is less than a threshold value or the operation position is within the display range of the return image, a control process is performed to invalidate a user operation performed on the displayed image. In this case, the user operation performed on the displayed image includes a touch operation on the displayed image and a non-touch operation by an operation unit (such as a button) other than the touch panel of the display unit 105. The user operation performed on the displayed image is, for example, an operation to specify a position to be focused by AF processing in the live view image being displayed, for example, an operation to move the AF frame to a desired subject on the display screen.

[0044] It should be noted that the threshold value 603 shown in FIG. 6 is visualized for ease of understanding, and is not actually displayed on the screen.

[0045] <First Control Processing> Next, the first control processing by the imaging device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0046] The first control process is a control process for validating or invalidating a user operation according to a display state of the image being displayed when a touch operation is detected as a user operation performed on the image being displayed, thereby notifying the user that a process corresponding to the touch operation performed on the image being displayed will not be performed.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a first control process in response to a touch operation of the imaging device 100 of this embodiment.

[0048] The process in Fig. 7 is realized by the control unit 101 executing a program stored in the non-volatile memory 102 and controlling each component of the imaging device 100 and / or the extension device 200. The process in Fig. 7 is started in a state in which another imaging device or other external device is connected to the imaging device 100 or the extension device 200 connected to the imaging device 100, and second image information (return image) can be received from the other imaging device or other external device. The process in Fig. 7 is started in a state in which the operation mode of the imaging device 100 is a shooting mode or a playback mode, and image information is displayed on the display unit 105. The same applies to Figs. 9 and 11 described later.

[0049] In S701, the control unit 101 detects a touch operation on the display screen of the display unit 105 by the touch panel 106a.

[0050] In S702, the control unit 101 acquires coordinate information of the touch position corresponding to the touch operation detected in S701, and stores the coordinate information in the volatile memory 103.

[0051] In S703, the control unit 101 determines whether the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is second image information input from the outside. When the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is image information input via the input / output I / F 107 or the input / output I / F 207 of the expansion device 200, the control unit 101 determines that the image information is second image information. When the control unit 101 determines that the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is second image information input from the outside, the control unit 101 advances the process to S704. When the control unit 101 determines that the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is not second image information input from the outside, the control unit 101 advances the process to S709.

[0052] In S704, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the second image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is a return image. When the control unit 101 receives a predetermined operation (a display instruction for a return image) on a predetermined operation member included in the operation unit 106, the control unit 101 determines that the second image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is a return image. When the control unit 101 determines that the second image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is a return image, the control unit 101 advances the process to S705, and when the control unit 101 determines that the second image information is not a return image, the control unit 101 advances the process to S709.

[0053] In S705, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is displayed in the PinP mode. The control unit 101 determines whether or not the operation mode of the imaging device 100 is set to the PinP mode based on the setting of a display changeover switch included in the operation unit 106, the setting of the GUI of the menu screen, and the like. If the control unit 101 determines that the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is displayed in the PinP mode, the control unit 101 advances the process to S706. If the control unit 101 determines that the image information displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 is not displayed in the PinP mode, the control unit 101 advances the process to S708.

[0054] In S706, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the display size of the first image information (captured image or reproduced image) generated by the image processing unit 104 and displayed as a sub-screen on the display unit 105 is equal to or larger than a threshold. If the control unit 101 determines that the display size of the first image information displayed as a sub-screen on the display unit 105 is equal to or larger than the threshold, the control unit 101 advances the process to S707. If the control unit 101 determines that the display size of the image displayed on the sub-screen of the display unit 105 is less than the threshold, the control unit 101 advances the process to S709.

[0055] In S707, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the touch position acquired in S702 is within the display range of the return image displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105. If the control unit 101 determines that the touch position acquired in S702 is within the display range of the return image displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, the process proceeds to S708. If the control unit 101 determines that the touch position acquired in S702 is not within the display range of the return image displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, the process proceeds to S709.

[0056] In S708, the control unit 101 invalidates the touch operation detected in S701, displays a message notifying the user that the touch operation has been invalidated, as shown in Fig. 8(a) or 8(b), and ends the process. Note that, if the display of the return image on the display unit 105 is triggered by the detection of an input operation (such as a button) other than a touch operation, the process may end without performing the process of S708.

[0057] In S709, the control unit 101 validates the touch operation detected in S701, performs processing according to the user operation detected in S701, and ends the processing.

[0058] In S707, S708, and S709, the control unit 101 disables the touch operation when the touch position is within the display range of the return image, whereas it enables the touch operation when the touch position is not within the display range of the return image.

[0059] FIG. 8 shows an example of a screen display when touch operations are disabled in S708 of FIG.

[0060] Screen 800 in Fig. 8(a) illustrates a state in which, when a touch operation on the display screen is detected in non-PinP mode, a message 801 is displayed to notify the user that the touch operation has been invalidated. Screen 800 illustrates a display example in which a return image is displayed on the main screen of display unit 105 (YES in S704 and NO in S705 in Fig. 7). Seeing message 801, the user can recognize that processing corresponding to the touch operation has not been performed.

[0061] A screen 802 in Fig. 8(b) illustrates a state in which, when a touch operation on the display screen is detected in the PinP mode, a message 806 is displayed to notify the user that the touch operation has been invalidated. The screen 802 illustrates a display example in which a captured image 804 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a return image 803 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, and the display size of the captured image 804 is less than a threshold value 805 (YES in S705 and NO in S706 in Fig. 7). Seeing the message 806, the user can recognize that processing corresponding to the touch operation has not been performed.

[0062] It should be noted that the threshold value 805 shown in FIG. 8(b) is visualized for ease of understanding, and is not actually displayed on the screen.

[0063] <Second Control Processing> Next, the second control processing by the imaging device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0064] In the first control process, it is assumed that a touch operation on the display screen is detected. In contrast, in the second control process, regardless of whether a touch operation on the display screen is detected, it is determined whether the touch operation is invalidated and notifies the user in advance whether a process corresponding to the touch operation is performed. This makes it possible to notify the user in advance whether a process corresponding to the touch operation is performed.

[0065] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the second control process by the imaging device 100 of this embodiment.

[0066] The processes in S902 to S905 in FIG. 9 are similar to the processes in S703 to S706 in FIG.

[0067] In S901, the control unit 101 displays image information on the display unit 105, and the process proceeds to S1002.

[0068] In S906, the control unit 101 displays an icon to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are enabled, as shown in FIGS. 10(b), (c), and (e), and ends the process.

[0069] In S907, the control unit 101 displays an icon for notifying the user that touch operations on the display screen are invalid, as shown in FIGS. 10(a) and 10(d), and ends the process.

[0070] FIG. 10 shows an example of a screen display when the touch operation is enabled in S906 of FIG. 9 or when the touch operation is disabled in S907.

[0071] 10(a) shows an example of a state in which an icon 1001 is displayed to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are disabled in non-PinP mode. The screen 1000 shows a display example of a state in which a return image is displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 (YES in S903 and NO in S904 in FIG. 9). By looking at the icon 1001, the user can recognize that even if a touch operation is performed on the display screen, processing corresponding to the touch operation will not be performed.

[0072] A screen 1002 in Fig. 10(b) illustrates a state in which an icon 1003 is displayed to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are enabled in the PinP mode. The screen 1002 illustrates a display example in which a return image 1005 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a captured image 1004 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 (NO in S903 and NO in S904 in Fig. 9). By looking at the icon 1003, the user can recognize that processing will be performed in response to a touch operation on the display screen.

[0073] A screen 1006 in Fig. 10(c) illustrates a state in which an icon 1007 is displayed to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are enabled in the PinP mode. The screen 1006 illustrates a display example in which a captured image 1009 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a return image 1008 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, and the display size of the captured image 1009 is equal to or larger than the range of a threshold value 1010 (YES in S905 in Fig. 9). Seeing the icon 1007, the user can recognize that processing will be performed in response to the touch operation.

[0074] A screen 1011 in Fig. 10(d) illustrates a state in which an icon 1012 is displayed to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are disabled in the PinP mode. The screen 1011 illustrates a display example in which a captured image 1014 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a return image 1013 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, and the display size of the captured image 1014 is less than the range of a threshold value 1015 (NO in S905 in Fig. 9). Seeing the icon 1012, the user can recognize that processing in response to the touch operation will not be performed.

[0075] A screen 1016 in Fig. 10(e) illustrates a state in which an icon 1017 is displayed to notify the user that touch operations on the display screen are enabled in the PinP mode. The screen 1016 illustrates a display example in which a return image 1019 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a playback image 1018 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105 (NO in S902 and NO in S903 in Fig. 9). By looking at the icon 1017, the user can recognize that processing will be performed in response to a touch operation on the display screen.

[0076] In the example of FIG. 10, the user is notified by displaying an icon on the display screen, but a notification method other than the icon, such as a notification by a message, may also be used.

[0077] Moreover, the thresholds 1010 and 1015 shown in FIG. 10 are visualized for ease of understanding, and are not actually displayed on the screen.

[0078] <Third Control Processing> Next, the third control processing by the imaging device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs.

[0079] The first control process is based on the assumption that only touch operations on the display screen are detected. In contrast, the third control process is a control process that enables or disables user operations according to the display state of the image being displayed when a non-touch operation by an operation unit (such as a button) other than the touch panel of the display unit 105 is detected in addition to a touch operation as a user operation performed on the image being displayed. This makes it possible to notify the user that processing according to a non-touch operation will not be performed in addition to a touch operation on the display screen.

[0080] 13 is a schematic external view of display unit 105 illustrating a configuration in which display unit 105 is provided with an input device for operating the display screen in addition to a touch panel. Display unit 105 is provided with touch panel 106a and button 106b on the side of the display screen. Button 106b is an operating member for specifying an arbitrary position on the display screen, and a user can operate the image being displayed by operating button 106b.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the third control process by the imaging device 100 of this embodiment.

[0082] 11 are similar to the processes of S703 to S705 in FIG.

[0083] In S1101, the control unit 101 detects a user operation on the display screen of the display unit 105 by the operation unit .

[0084] In S1102, the control unit 101 determines whether or not the user operation detected in S1101 has been input from an operation unit (button 106b) other than the touch panel of the display unit 105. If the control unit 101 determines that the user operation detected in S1101 has been input from an operation unit (button 106b) other than the touch panel of the display unit 105, the process proceeds to S1103. If the control unit 101 determines that the user operation detected in S1101 has not been input from an operation unit (button 106b) other than the touch panel of the display unit 105, that is, that the user operation has been input to an operation unit provided in the imaging device 100, rather than to the display unit 105, the process proceeds to S1108.

[0085] In S1107, the control unit 101 invalidates the user operation detected in S1101, displays a message notifying the user that the processing corresponding to the user operation was not performed, and ends the processing, as shown in Fig. 12(a) or 12(b). Note that, if the display of the return image on the display unit 105 is triggered by the detection of an input operation (such as a button) other than a touch operation, the processing may end without performing the processing of S1107.

[0086] In S1108, the control unit 101 validates the user operation detected in S1101, performs processing according to the user operation detected in S1101, and ends the processing.

[0087] FIG. 12 shows an example of a screen display in the case where a user operation performed on the image being displayed in S1107 of FIG. 11 is invalid.

[0088] 12(a) shows an example of a state in which, when a user operation performed on a displayed image is detected in non-PinP mode, a message 1201 is displayed to notify the user that the user operation has been invalidated. Screen 1200 shows a display example of a state in which a return image is displayed on the main screen of display unit 105 (YES in S1104 and NO in S1105 in FIG. 12). Seeing message 1201, the user can recognize that processing corresponding to the user operation has not been performed.

[0089] A screen 1202 in Fig. 12(b) illustrates a state in which, when a user operation performed on a displayed image is detected in PinP mode, a message 1206 is displayed to notify the user that the user operation has been invalidated. The screen 1202 illustrates a display example in which a captured image 1204 is displayed as a sub-screen superimposed on a return image 1203 displayed on the main screen of the display unit 105, and the display size of the captured image 1204 is below the range of a threshold value 1205 (YES in S1106 in Fig. 11). Seeing the message 1206, the user can recognize that processing corresponding to the user operation has not been performed.

[0090] In the example of FIG. 12, the user is notified by displaying a message on the display screen, but a notification method other than a message, such as notification by an icon, may also be used.

[0091] It should be noted that the threshold value 1205 shown in FIG. 12(b) is visualized for ease of understanding, and is not actually displayed on the screen.

[0092] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent unintended processing from being performed due to a user erroneously performing an operation on the image information being displayed.

[0093] In the present embodiment, in S1102, it is determined whether the user operation is to an operation unit provided on the display unit 105 or to an operation unit provided on the imaging device 100, and when it is determined that the user operation is to an operation unit provided on the imaging device 100, the user operation is validated. However, for user operations to an operation unit other than a touch panel, an input operation to the operation unit for executing a specific function that enables an operation during display of a return image may be validated, and other input operations may be invalidated. For example, an input operation to the operation unit for switching an image displayed on the display unit 105 from a return image to a captured image (live view image) captured by the imaging unit 110 may be validated, while an input operation to the operation unit for setting up shooting (setting shooting parameters) of the imaging device 100 may be invalidated. In response to the image displayed on the display unit 105 being switched to a captured image, an input operation to an operation unit such as the touch panel 106a is validated.

[0094] [Other embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0095] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

[0096] The disclosure of this specification includes the following imaging device, control method, and program. [Configuration 1] An imaging means; A detection means for detecting a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means; and a control means for invalidating the user's operation when at least predetermined image information input from an external source is displayed on the display means. [Configuration 2] The imaging device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the control means invalidates the user operation when the specified image information is second image information different from first image information captured by the imaging means. [Configuration 3] 3. The imaging device according to configuration 2, wherein the second image information is image information captured by an imaging device different from the imaging device. [Configuration 4] The imaging device described in configuration 3, characterized in that the control means disables the user operation when the first image information is displayed in a display size smaller than the second image information and superimposed on the second image information. [Configuration 5] The imaging device described in configuration 4, characterized in that the control means disables the user operation when the first image information is displayed superimposed on the second image information at a display size smaller than that of the second image information and the display size of the first image information is equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold. [Configuration 6] 6. The imaging device according to configuration 5, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when the operation position of the user operation is within a display range of the second image information. [Configuration 7] 7. The imaging device according to configuration 6, wherein the control means validates the user operation when the operation position of the user operation is not within a display range of the second image information. [Configuration 8] The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein when the user operation is detected and the control means invalidates the user operation, the control means notifies the user that the user operation has been invalidated. [Configuration 9] The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that when a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means is invalidated, regardless of whether the user operation has been detected or not, the control means notifies a user that the user operation will be invalidated. [Configuration 10] The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that when a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means is enabled, regardless of whether the user operation has been detected or not, the control means notifies a user that the user operation will be enabled. [Configuration 11] the display means is a display device built into the imaging device or a display device connected to the imaging device as an external device, 11. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 10, wherein the detection means detects a touch operation on a display screen of the display means or an input operation other than the touch operation as the user operation. [Configuration 12] The imaging device according to configuration 11, characterized in that even when the control means disables a touch operation on the display screen of the display means, the control means does not disable a specific input operation other than the touch operation. [Configuration 13] 13. The imaging device according to configuration 12, wherein the specific input operation includes an input operation for causing the display means to display a live view image captured by the imaging means. [Configuration 14] 12. The imaging device according to claim 11, wherein the control means, when disabling a touch operation on the display screen of the display means, also disabling a predetermined input operation other than the touch operation. [Configuration 15] 15. The imaging apparatus according to configuration 14, wherein the predetermined input operation includes an input operation for setting a shooting parameter. [Configuration 16] 16. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 15, further comprising a connection means for connecting an extension device for extending functions of the imaging device. [Configuration 17] A method for controlling an imaging device having an imaging unit and a detection unit that detects a user operation performed on image information displayed on a display unit, comprising the steps of: A control method comprising the step of invalidating the user operation when at least predetermined image information input from the outside is displayed on the display means. [Configuration 18] A program for causing a computer to function as a control means for the imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 16. [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 100: imaging device, 101: control unit, 105: display unit, 106: operation unit, 107: input / output I / F, 109: connection unit, 110: imaging unit, 200: expansion device

Claims

1. An imaging means, a detection means for detecting a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means, and a control means for invalidating the user operation when at least predetermined image information input from the outside is being displayed on the display means. An imaging apparatus characterized by comprising these components.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when the predetermined image information is second image information different from first image information captured by the imaging means.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second image information is image information captured by an imaging apparatus different from the imaging apparatus.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when a return image captured by an imaging apparatus different from the imaging apparatus and input from the outside is being displayed.

5. It has an interface for recording an image captured by the imaging means on a recording medium, The imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the control means does not invalidate the user operation even when image information input from the outside is being displayed as long as an image read from the recording medium is being displayed.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when the first image information is displayed in a display size smaller than that of the second image information and is superimposed on the second image information.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when the first image information is displayed in a display size smaller than that of the second image information and is superimposed on the second image information and the display size of the first image information is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value.

8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the control means invalidates the user operation when the operation position of the user operation is within the display range of the second image information.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the control means validates the user operation when the operation position of the user operation is not within the display range of the second image information.

10. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the control means detects the user operation and invalidates the user operation, the control means notifies the user that the user operation has been invalidated.

11. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the control means invalidates a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means regardless of whether the user operation has been detected, the control means notifies the user that the user operation has been invalidated.

12. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the control means validates a user operation performed on the image information displayed on the display means regardless of whether the user operation has been detected, the control means notifies the user that the user operation has been validated.

13. The display means is a display device built in the imaging device or a display device connected to the imaging device as an external device, The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the detection means detects a touch operation on the display screen of the display means or an input operation other than the touch operation as the user operation.

14. The imaging device according to claim 13, wherein even when the control means invalidates a touch operation on the display screen of the display means, the control means does not invalidate a specific input operation other than the touch operation.

15. The imaging device according to claim 14, wherein the specific input operation includes an input operation for causing the display means to display a live view image captured by the imaging means.

16. The imaging device according to claim 13, wherein when the control means invalidates a touch operation on the display screen of the display means, the control means also invalidates a predetermined input operation other than the touch operation.

17. The imaging device according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined input operation includes an input operation for setting shooting parameters.

18. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising connection means for connecting an expansion device for expanding the functions of the imaging device.

19. A control method for an imaging device, comprising: an imaging means; and a detection means for detecting a user operation performed on image information displayed on a display means. A control method, characterized by including a step of disabling the user operation when at least predetermined image information input from the outside is being displayed on the display means.

20. A program for causing a computer to function as a control means of the imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

Images