Distance measuring device, method for controlling distance measuring device, program, and recording medium

Abstract

To provide a distance measuring device that can record image data in a state desirable for a photographer, a method for controlling a distance measuring device, a program, and a recording medium.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus 100 is communicably connected to imaging means (photographing unit 30), focusing means (focus lens 301a), and recording means (recording medium 61) that can execute recording processing of recording image data of a subject. The imaging apparatus 100 comprises: distance measuring means (distance measuring unit 20) that measures the distance to the subject; determination means (system control unit 200) that determines whether the imaging apparatus is in a focused state to the subject on the basis of the result of focusing performed by the focusing means; and control means (system control unit 200) that, even if the distance is measured by the distance measuring means, when the determination means determines that the imaging apparatus is not in the focused state as the result of the determination, can perform control of restricting the execution of the recording processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a distance measuring device, a control method for the distance measuring device, a program, and a recording medium.

Background Art

[0002] A distance measuring device that measures the distance to a measurement target by the TOF (Time Of Flight) method is known (for example, Patent Document 1). The distance measuring device described in Patent Document 1 includes a light emitting unit that emits invisible light toward the measurement target, a light receiving unit that receives the invisible light reflected by the measurement target, converts it into an electrical signal, and outputs the electrical signal, and a distance calculation unit that calculates the distance to the measurement target based on the electrical signal from the light receiving unit. In addition to the function of measuring the distance to a subject by the TOF method, a distance measuring device that further has a function of adjusting the focus on the subject and a photographing function of photographing the subject is also known (for example, Patent Document 2).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In distance measurement by the TOF method, depending on, for example, the shape of the distance measurement target or the distance to the distance measurement target, reflected light with sufficient intensity for distance measurement may not be obtained, and accurate distance measurement may be difficult. In addition, depending on the brightness or chroma of the distance measurement target, it may not be possible to perform focus adjustment suitable for imaging, that is, there is a possibility that the distance measurement target may not be in focus. In the distance measuring device described in Patent Document 2, imaging is performed regardless of the quality of the distance measurement state or the focus state. Therefore, there is a problem that the captured image is recorded in the defective state even when the distance measurement state is defective or the focus state is defective.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems. An object of the present invention is to provide a distance measuring device, a control method for the distance measuring device, a program, and a recording medium that can record image data in a state preferable for a photographer.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a distance measuring device of the present invention is a distance measuring device communicably connected to an imaging unit that images a subject, a focus adjustment unit that performs focus adjustment on the subject by the imaging unit, and a recording unit capable of executing a recording process for recording image data of the subject imaged by the imaging unit, the distance measuring device including a distance measuring unit that measures the distance to the subject, a determination unit that determines whether or not the subject is in a focused state based on a focus adjustment result of the focus adjustment unit, and a control unit capable of controlling to limit execution of the recording process when, as a result of the determination by the determination unit, it is determined that the focused state is not achieved even though the distance has been measured by the distance measuring unit.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to record image data in a state preferable for a photographer.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the configurations described in each embodiment. For example, each part constituting the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that can exhibit the same function. Also, any component may be added. Further, any two or more configurations (features) among the embodiments can be combined.

[0010] <First Embodiment> Hereinafter, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance when the distance measuring device is applied to an imaging device. The imaging device 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a device main body 10, an eyepiece portion 40 through which a user (photographer) looks in during imaging, and an operation portion (operation means) 50 disposed across the device main body 10 and the eyepiece portion 40. The device main body 10 includes a distance measuring portion (distance measuring means) 20, an imaging portion (imaging means) 30, and a recording medium I / F 60. The distance measuring portion 20 includes a light emitting portion 21 and a light receiving portion 22. The light emitting portion 21 irradiates a laser beam toward the subject. The light receiving portion 22 receives the reflected light of the laser beam from the light emitting portion 21 reflected by the subject. Thereby, the distance measuring portion 20 can measure the distance from the imaging device 100 to the subject based on the time difference from when the laser beam is irradiated from the light emitting portion 21 until the reflected light is detected by the light receiving portion 22, that is, the flight time of light (distance measuring step). Thus, in the present embodiment, the distance measuring portion 20 is configured to be able to measure the distance by the TOF (Time Of Flight) method. Thereby, the distance from the imaging device 100 to the subject can be accurately measured with a simple configuration. The imaging portion 30 generates image data representing an image of the subject included in the imaging range of a predetermined angle of view. Thereby, the subject can be imaged. Note that the light emitting portion 21 is adjusted to be able to irradiate a laser beam in a predetermined direction within the imaging range of the imaging portion 30. A recording medium 61 is detachably attached to the recording medium I / F 60. The recording medium 61 is a recording means capable of executing a recording process for recording the image data of the subject imaged by the imaging portion 30. The recording medium 61 stored in the recording medium I / F 60 can communicate with the imaging device 100 via the recording medium I / F 60. The recording medium 61 is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a memory card such as an SD card. Note that the recording medium 61 is not limited to being detachable, and may be fixed and built in the device main body 10. In this case, the recording medium I / F 60 can be omitted.

[0011] The eyepiece part 40 has a display device (not shown) such as a transmissive liquid crystal panel inside. A live view image based on the image data sequentially acquired from the photographing part 30 is displayed on this display device. Thereby, the display device can function as an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Note that an image representing the distance measurement result at the distance measurement part 20, information of the imaging device 100, etc. can be superimposed and displayed on the live view image. Further, the display device can display the image data read from the recording medium 61. Also, the user can operate the operation button 51 of the operation part 50 while visually recognizing the image displayed on the display device inside the eyepiece part 40. Thereby, it is possible to instruct the execution of distance measurement and photographing, etc.

[0012] The operation part 50 has an operation button 51, an operation button 52, and an operation button 53. The input device has a name corresponding to the assigned function. In FIG. 1, the operation button 51 is a button that is operated when instructing the execution of distance measurement and photographing as described above. The operation button 52 is a power button for switching the ON / OFF of the power supply of the imaging device 100. The operation button 53 is a switching button for switching various operation modes such as a photographing mode, for example. Note that the operation part 50 is not limited to a configuration having the operation buttons 51 to 53. Also, the operation part 50 is not limited to a button configuration, and for example, any input device that can be operated by the user such as a touch panel, a dial, a direction key (cross key), a joystick, etc. may be used.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the imaging device shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the imaging device 100 includes a system control unit (control means) 200, a nonvolatile memory (recording medium) 201, a power control unit 202, and a power supply unit 203. The imaging device 100 also includes a distance calculation unit 204, an image processing unit 205, a memory 206, a display control unit 207, a display unit 208, and an AF / AE processing unit 209. Each piece of hardware included in the imaging device 100 is connected so as to be communicable with each other. The system control unit 200 includes one or more processors (CPU, MPU, microprocessor, etc.). The system control unit 200 controls the operations (operations) of each part of the imaging device 100 and realizes the functions of the imaging device 100 by reading the program stored in the nonvolatile memory 201 into the memory 206 and executing it. The nonvolatile memory 201 may be electrically erasable and recordable. The nonvolatile memory 201 stores programs executed by the system control unit 200, various setting values of the imaging device 100, GUI data such as images superimposed on a menu screen and a live view image, and the like. This program includes, for example, a program for causing a computer (CPU, etc.) to execute each part and each means (control method of the distance measuring device) of the imaging device 100.

[0014] The memory 206 is a temporary recording means that executes a loading process of reading a program executed by the system control unit 200, or executes a temporary recording process of temporarily storing (recording) ranging results at the ranging unit 20, image data at the imaging unit 30, and the like. Also, a part of the memory 206 is used as a video memory for storing image data for display. By storing a composite image of a live view image and an image representing additional information such as a ranging result in the video memory, an image representing additional information can be superimposed and displayed on the live view image on the display unit 208. The image display on the display unit 208 is controlled by the display control unit 207. Specifically, the display control unit 207 generates a display signal in an appropriate format based on the image data stored in the video memory area of the memory 206, and outputs it to the display unit 208. The display unit 208 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display device disposed in the eyepiece unit 40. The power supply control unit 202 detects the type of power supply (battery or external power supply) as the power supply unit 203, the type and remaining amount of the battery connected to the power supply unit 203, and the like. Also, the power supply control unit 202 supplies power required for each block including the recording medium 61 based on the detection result regarding the power supply unit 203 and the control of the system control unit 200. The power supply unit 203 is a battery or an external power supply (such as an AC adapter).

[0015] The light emitting unit 21, the light receiving unit 22, and the distance calculation unit 204 constitute a distance measurement unit 20 that measures the distance to a predetermined position within the imaging range of the imaging unit 30. The light emitting unit 21 includes a light emitting element 21a, a light emission control unit 21b, and an irradiation lens 21c. The light emitting element 21a is, for example, a semiconductor laser element (laser diode) or the like, and in this embodiment, it outputs invisible near-infrared light. The light emission control unit 21b controls the operation of the light emitting element 21a based on a control signal from the system control unit 200 so as to output pulsed laser light. The laser light output from the light emitting element 21a is condensed by the irradiation lens 21c and output from the imaging device 100. The light receiving unit 22 includes a light receiving lens 22a, a light receiving element 22b, and a light receiving unit A / D converter 22c. The light receiving unit 22 detects the reflected light of the laser light output by the light emitting unit 21. The light receiving lens 22a condenses the incident light onto the light receiving surface of the light receiving element 22b. The light receiving element 22b is, for example, a photodiode. The light receiving element 22b outputs a light receiving signal (analog signal) having a magnitude corresponding to the incident light amount through photoelectric conversion. The light receiving signal (analog signal) output by the light receiving element 22b is converted into a digital signal by the light receiving unit A / D converter 22c. The light receiving unit A / D converter 22c outputs the digital signal to the distance calculation unit 204. When the light receiving element 22b is an avalanche photodiode (APD), a numerical value (digital value) corresponding to the light reception amount can be obtained by counting the number of pulses output by the APD, so the light receiving unit A / D converter 22c can be omitted. The distance calculation unit 204 can obtain the distance to the subject that reflected the laser light based on the time (TOF) from when the light emitting element 21a outputs the laser light until the reflected light is detected by the light receiving element 22b. Note that depending on the distance to the subject existing in the traveling direction of the laser light, the state of the surface of the subject, etc., the reflected light of the laser light may not always be detected by the light receiving unit 22. For example, when the reflected light is not detected by the light receiving unit 22 within a predetermined time, or when the intensity of the detected reflected light is weak, etc., when the reflected light cannot be appropriately detected by the light receiving unit 22, the distance calculation unit 204 may have difficulty obtaining the distance to the subject. When the distance calculation unit 204 succeeds in obtaining the distance, it outputs the distance to the system control unit 200 as a distance measurement result.On the other hand, when the distance calculation unit 204 fails to obtain the distance, it outputs information indicating the measurement failure to the system control unit 200 as the ranging result. Note that when the distance calculation unit 204 obtains an abnormal distance such as a distance of "0", it may output information indicating the measurement failure.

[0016] The imaging unit 30 includes an imaging optical system 30a, an image sensor 30b, and an imaging unit A / D converter 30c. The imaging optical system 30a includes a plurality of lenses. The plurality of lenses includes a focus lens 301a for adjusting the focal length of the imaging optical system 30a. The system control unit 200 performs automatic focusing control (focus adjustment) and automatic exposure control (exposure adjustment) using the AF / AE processing unit 209. In the present embodiment, the focus lens 301a and the AF / AE processing unit 209 function as focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment of the imaging unit 30 with respect to the subject. Further, the AF / AE processing unit 209 also functions as exposure adjustment means for performing exposure adjustment of the imaging unit 30. When the focal length of the imaging optical system 30a is variable, the zoom lens is included in the plurality of lenses. When having a lens shift type image stabilization function, the shift lens is included in the plurality of lenses. The image sensor 30b is, for example, a CCD or a CMOS color image sensor having a color filter in a primary color Bayer array. The image sensor 30b includes a pixel array in which a plurality of pixels are two-dimensionally arranged and a peripheral circuit for reading signals from each pixel. Each pixel accumulates charges corresponding to the incident light amount by photoelectric conversion. A signal having a voltage corresponding to the amount of charges accumulated during the exposure period is read out from each pixel, thereby obtaining a pixel signal group (analog image signal) representing the subject image formed by the imaging optical system 30a on the imaging surface. Operations of the imaging unit 30 such as imaging and adjustment of the focal length are controlled by the system control unit 200. The imaging unit A / D converter 30c performs A / D conversion on the analog image signal output from the image sensor 30b and converts it into a digital image signal (image data). The image data output by the imaging unit A / D converter 30c is output to the image processing unit 205.

[0017] The image processing unit 205 applies predetermined image processing to the image data output by the imaging unit A / D converter 30c to generate signals and image data according to the application, or to acquire and generate various types of information. The image processing unit 24 may be a dedicated hardware circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) designed to implement a specific function. Further, the image processing unit 24 may be configured such that a processor such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) realizes a specific function by executing software. The image processing unit 24 outputs information and data to the system control unit 200.

[0018] Examples of the image processing applied by the image processing unit 205 to the image data include preprocessing, color interpolation processing, correction processing, detection processing, data processing, evaluation value calculation processing, special effect processing, and the like. The image processing is not limited to these processes. The preprocessing includes, for example, signal amplification, reference level adjustment, defective pixel correction, and the like. The color interpolation processing is performed when the imaging device 30b is provided with a color filter, and is a process of interpolating the values of color components not included in the individual pixel data constituting the image data. The color interpolation processing is also called demosaicing processing. The correction processing includes processes such as white balance adjustment, gradation correction, correction of image degradation (image restoration) caused by optical aberration of the imaging optical system 30a, correction of the influence of peripheral light reduction of the imaging optical system 30a, and color correction. The detection processing includes detection of a feature region (for example, a face region or a human body region) and its movement, person recognition processing, and the like. The data processing includes processes such as region extraction (trimming), synthesis, scaling, encoding and decoding, header information generation (data file generation), and the like. In addition, the data processing also includes generation of display image data and recording image data. The evaluation value calculation processing includes processes such as generation of signals and evaluation values used for autofocus detection (AF), and generation of evaluation values used for automatic exposure control (AE). When signals and evaluation values used for AF are generated, the focus lens 301a is driven by the AF / AE processing unit 209 based on these signals and evaluation values. Thereby, focus adjustment is performed and AF processing is performed. When an evaluation value used for AE is generated, the sensitivity is adjusted by the AF / AE processing unit 209 based on this evaluation value. Thereby, AE processing is performed. Note that AE processing may be performed by changing the aperture and shutter speed. In addition, the AF processing may fail when the contrast of the subject is relatively low, the subject is relatively dark, or the subject is too close to the shortest shooting distance of the lens. Also, in AE processing, there is a possibility of failure when the subject is relatively too bright or the brightness fluctuates. The special effect processing includes processes such as addition of a blur effect, change of color tone, relighting, and the like. The system control unit 200 stores the image data output by the image processing unit 205 in the memory 206.The system control unit 200 stores the display image data in the video memory area of the memory 206. Also, the system control unit 200 generates image data representing information such as the distance measurement result obtained from the distance calculation unit 204, and stores it in the video memory area of the memory 206. This image data is displayed superimposed on the live view image.

[0019] The system control unit 200 monitors operations on the operation buttons 51 to 53 of the operation unit 50. The system control unit 200 executes a predetermined operation according to the operations on the operation buttons 51 to 53. When an operation on the operation button 51 is detected, the system control unit 200 executes recording of the image captured by the imaging unit 30, distance measurement by the distance measurement unit 20, etc. when an operation on the operation button 51 is detected. When the system control unit 200 detects an operation on the operation button 52, it switches the power on and off of the imaging device 100.

[0020] When the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 53, it switches the operation mode of the imaging device 100. The imaging device 100 has a shooting mode, a distance measurement mode, and a simultaneous recording mode as operation modes. The shooting mode is a mode in which an operation of the operation button 51 is regarded as an instruction to start or end recording. When the imaging device 100 is powered on, the system control unit 200 executes an operation in the standby state. The operation in the standby state is an operation for causing the display unit 208 to function as an electronic viewfinder. Specifically, the system control unit 200 causes the image processing unit 205 to generate display image data based on the image data sequentially acquired from the imaging unit 30. Further, the system control unit 200 causes the display control unit 207 to display on the display unit 208. In the shooting mode, the system control unit 200 waits for an operation of the operation button 51 while continuing the live view display on the display unit 208. Then, when the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 51, for example, it records one frame of the display image data as a still image on the recording medium 61. Alternatively, the system control unit 200 starts recording the live view image on the recording medium 61. Whether to record a still image or a moving image can be changed by a previous setting. In the case of the setting for recording a still image, the system control unit 200 records a still image each time an operation of the operation button 51 is detected. On the other hand, in the case of the setting for recording a moving image, the system control unit 200 repeats the start and end of recording of the moving image each time an operation of the operation button 51 is detected. In the shooting mode, the execution of distance measurement is stopped.

[0021] In the ranging mode, the system control unit 200 waits for an operation of the operation button 51 while continuing the live view display on the display unit 208. Note that an image of an indicator 500 such as a cursor or a pointer (see FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)) indicating a ranging point (ranging target) is superimposed on the live view image in the ranging mode at a predetermined position. When the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 51, it executes a ranging operation. The system control unit 200 controls the light emission control unit 21b to output pulsed laser light from the light emitting element 21a and activates the light receiving unit 22 and the distance calculation unit 204. Thereafter, when the system control unit 200 receives a ranging result from the distance calculation unit 204, it superimposes the ranging result (distance or measurement failure) on the live view image being displayed. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed or when an operation of the operation button 51 is detected, the system control unit 200 resumes the live view display and waits for an operation of the operation button 51. Note that when an operation of the operation button 51 is detected, until a predetermined time has elapsed, the update of the live view image may be stopped and the ranging result may be superimposed on the frame image at the time of the operation of the operation button 51.

[0022] In the simultaneous recording mode, the system control unit 200 waits for an operation of the operation button 51 while continuing the live view display on the display unit 208. Note that, similar to the distance measurement mode, in the simultaneous recording mode as well, the system control unit 200 superimposes and displays an image of an indicator 500 such as a cursor or a pointer indicating a distance measurement point at a predetermined position of the live view image. When the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 51, it executes a distance measurement operation in the same manner as in the distance measurement mode. Further, the system control unit 200 executes a still image or video recording operation. For example, when the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 51, it causes the image processing unit 205 to start generating video data for recording. Alternatively, when the system control unit 200 detects an operation of the operation button 51, it causes the imaging device 30b to capture a still image and causes the image processing unit 205 to generate still image data for recording. At this time, the system control unit 200 controls the image processing unit 205 and a focus lens driving unit (not shown) that drives the focus lens 301a to perform AF processing and AE processing. Through these processes, it is possible to attempt to generate video data or still image data for recording in which the focus (sharpness) and brightness are adjusted. The system control unit 200 stores the video data or still image data for recording generated by the image processing unit 205 in the memory 206. Note that, in this embodiment, it is assumed that new video data and still image data for recording are generated, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a video for live view display may be recorded, or one frame of the video for live view display may be recorded as a still image.

[0023] The system control unit 200 sequentially switches the operation mode each time the operation button 53 is operated. Alternatively, when the operation button 53 is operated, the system control unit 200 may display a list screen of the operation modes and switch to the operation mode selected by the user from the list screen. The method for selecting the operation mode is not particularly limited, and examples include a method of operating the direction keys included in the operation unit 50. Note that the system control unit 200 may superimpose characters, icons, etc. indicating the current operation mode on the live view image, or may change the emission color of an LED or the like provided in the imaging device 100 to a color corresponding to the current operation mode.

[0024] In addition to the operation buttons 51 to 53, the operation unit 50 may further include a menu button and direction keys. In this case, the system control unit 200 executes a predetermined operation in response to the operation of the menu button or the direction keys. For example, when the system control unit 200 detects the operation of the menu button, it causes the display unit 208 to display the GUI of the menu screen. When the system control unit 200 detects the operation of the direction keys while the menu screen is being displayed, it can change the item selected within the menu screen according to the operation direction of the direction keys. Also, when the system control unit 200 detects the operation of the direction keys while the menu screen is being displayed, it can change the settings according to the selected item or transition to another menu screen.

[0025] When the system control unit 200 receives the distance measurement result from the distance calculation unit 204, it superimposes and displays the distance measurement result on the live view image. As the distance measurement result superimposed on the live view image, when the distance measurement is successful, it is the distance, and when the distance measurement fails, it indicates that fact. Also, when the distance measurement is successful and the AF process and the AE process are successful, the system control unit 200 associates the recorded video data or still image data stored in the memory 206 with the distance measurement result and records them on the recording medium 61. Here, "successful distance measurement" means that the distance measurement result to the subject, that is, the distance has been obtained. "Failed distance measurement" means that the distance measurement result (distance) to the subject has not been obtained. Also, "successful AF process" means that the subject is in focus, that is, the focus state has been achieved. "Failed AF process" means that the subject is not in focus, that is, the out-of-focus state has been achieved. Also, "successful AE process" means that appropriate exposure for the subject has been obtained. "Failed AE process" means that appropriate exposure for the subject has not been obtained. Note that in this embodiment, the system control unit 200 determines whether the AF process is in focus or not, but it is not limited to this. For example, it may be determined by a focus determination means provided separately from the system control unit 200. Similarly, the determination of whether the AE process is successful in exposure (exposure quality determination) is each performed by the system control unit 200 in this embodiment, but for example, it may be performed by an exposure determination means provided separately from the system control unit 200. When the system control unit 200 receives that the distance measurement has failed or that the AF process or the AE process has failed, it discards the image data stored in the memory 206 without recording it on the recording medium 61.

[0026] Note that, for video data and still image data, information such as the shooting date and time and shooting settings is recorded, for example, in the file header. The distance measurement result may be recorded in the file header in the same manner as the video data and still image data, or may be recorded in a file separate from the file header. When recording the distance measurement result in a separate file, it is preferable to record, for example, a common character string in the file name so that it can be understood that the image data file and the distance information file are associated with each other.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed after distance measurement in the distance measurement mode or the simultaneous recording mode. The captured image 300A shown in FIG. 3(a) and the captured image 300B shown in FIG. 3(b) are both images of a golf course captured by the imaging device 100. Further, in the captured image 300A and the captured image 300B, a flag 301, a pond 302, a bunker 303, three trees 304, etc. are shown, respectively. The captured image 300A is an image when measuring the distance to the tree 304a located in the center of the three trees 304. The captured image 300B is an image when measuring the distance to the far side edge of the pond 302. As described above, in the distance measurement mode, an indicator 500 indicating the distance measurement position is superimposed on the live view image. As the indicator 500, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), it is a cross-shaped cursor (image), but it is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a dot-shaped image, an arrow-shaped image, or the like. When the indicator 500 is a cross-shaped cursor, the intersection point 501 thereof is superimposed on a predetermined position of the captured image 300 (for example, the center of the captured image 300).

[0028] The distance measurement unit 20 is adjusted to output laser light from the light emitting unit 21 toward a position within the imaging range of the imaging unit 30 and corresponding to the intersection point 501 of the indicator 500. Thereby, the user can measure the distance to the measurement target with the distance measurement unit 20 by operating the operation button 51 in a state where the imaging device 100 is oriented toward the position where the intersection point 501 of the indicator 500 is desired to be measured, that is, the measurement target. When the distance measurement is normally performed and the distance measurement is successful, an image 400 representing the distance is superimposed and displayed as a measurement result on the live view image. In the captured image 300A, the tree 304a is the measurement target, and the distance "100 yd" to the tree 304a is superimposed and displayed in the image 400. In the captured image 300B, the pond 302 is the measurement target, and the distance "50 yd" to the far edge of the pond 302 is superimposed and displayed in the image 400. The unit of the distance to the measurement target is "yd" in the configuration shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), but is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, "m" or the like. Also, the unit of the distance to the measurement target can be changed from "yd" to "m". When the distance measurement fails, an image 400 including a character string (message) or symbol such as "Error", "×", or "Measurement failed" indicating that is superimposed and displayed. Thus, the image 400 functions as a notification means for notifying the distance measurement result by the distance measurement unit 20. Thereby, the user can grasp the distance to the measurement target when the distance measurement is successful, and can grasp that fact when the distance measurement fails.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing in the simultaneous recording mode executed by the imaging device. The processing based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is realized by the system control unit 200 executing a program stored in the non-volatile memory 201 to control the operations of each unit. Further, the processing based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 starts when the power of the imaging device 100 is on and the simultaneous recording mode is selected by the operation button 53. As shown in FIG. 4, in step S1001, the system control unit 200 causes each unit to execute operations necessary for live view display in order to make the display unit 208 function as an electronic viewfinder. The system control unit 200 causes the image processing unit 205 to generate display image data based on the image data sequentially acquired from the imaging unit 30. The system control unit 200 stores the display image data for one frame in the video memory area of the memory 206 and synthesizes an image of the distance measurement position indicator 500 (see FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)) into the image data in the video memory. Note that the system control unit 200 may similarly synthesize images indicating other information such as an image indicating the remaining battery level and the operation mode. Further, the system control unit 200 controls the display control unit 207 to display the synthesized image data stored in the video memory area of the memory 206 on the display unit 208. The system control unit 200 repeatedly executes these operations for each frame to realize live view display on the display unit 208.

[0030] In step S1002, the system control unit 200 determines whether the operation button 51 has been operated. As a result of the determination in step S1002, if it is determined that the operation button 51 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S1003. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1002, if it is determined that the operation button 51 has not been operated, the process proceeds to step S1012.

[0031] In step S1003, the system control unit 200 controls the light emission control unit 21b to output pulsed laser light from the light emitting element 21a, and activates the light receiving unit 22 and the distance calculation unit 204. Thereby, distance measurement is performed. Further, the system control unit 200 causes the imaging unit 30 to capture a still image or a moving image for recording, and causes the image processing unit 205 to generate image data for recording. Thereby, imaging is performed. This image data can be image data to be recorded on the recording medium 61 in a later step S1011.

[0032] In step S1004, the system control unit 200 stores the image data for recording generated by the image processing unit 205 in step S1003 in the memory 206.

[0033] In step S1005, the system control unit 200 determines whether or not the distance measurement has been successful based on the distance measurement result acquired from the distance calculation unit 204. As a result of the determination in step S1005, if it is determined that the distance measurement has been successful, the process proceeds to step S1007. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1005, if it is determined that the distance measurement has not been successful, that is, it has failed, the process proceeds to step S1006.

[0034] In step S1006, the system control unit 200 deletes the image data for recording temporarily stored in the memory 206 in step S1004. After executing step S1006, the process returns to step S1002, and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed.

[0035] In step S1007, the system control unit 200 temporarily stores the distance measurement result in step S1003, that is, the distance data (information regarding the distance) in the memory 206.

[0036] In step S1008, the system control unit 200 determines whether the AF process and the AE process have succeeded based on the AF process result (focus adjustment result) and the AE process result (exposure adjustment result) acquired from the image processing unit 205 in step S1003 (determination step). In this way, the system control unit 200 also functions as a means for determining whether the AF process and the AE process have succeeded. And as a result of the determination in step S1008, if it is determined that the AF process and the AE process have succeeded, the process proceeds to step S1009. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1008, if it is determined that the AF process and the AE process have not succeeded, the process proceeds to step S1010.

[0037] In step S1010, the system control unit 200 deletes the image data for recording temporarily stored in the memory 206 in step S1004 and the distance measurement result temporarily stored in the memory 206 in step S1007, respectively. After executing step S1010, the process returns to step S1002, and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed.

[0038] In step S1009 after executing step S1008, the system control unit 200 synthesizes the distance measurement result temporarily stored in the memory 206 in step S1007 with the frame image stored in the video memory area of the memory 206 in step S1001. As a result, on the display unit 208, for example, an imaging image 300A (see Fig. 3(a)) or an imaging image 300B (see Fig. 3(b)) in which the index 500 and the image 400 representing the distance are superimposed is displayed. Here, for the sake of simplicity of the process, the system control unit 200 synthesizes and displays an image indicating the distance on the live view image when the operation button 51 is operated, but it is not limited to this. For example, the system control unit 200 may generate composite image data in which the index 500 and the image 400 are synthesized with the image data for recording stored in the memory 206, scale the composite image data, and display it on the display unit 208.

[0039] In step S1011, the system control unit 200 associates the image data for recording stored in the memory 206 in step S1004 with the distance measurement result stored in the memory 206 in step S1007 and records them on the recording medium 61. Note that the distance measurement result may be recorded by being synthesized with the recording image data as an image representing the distance, or may be recorded by being included in the metadata of the data file for storing the recording image data as a numerical value representing the distance. Also, the distance measurement result may be recorded in the recording image data and the metadata of the data file, respectively. When recording the distance measurement result as an image, it is preferable to also synthesize the indicator 500 representing the distance measurement position with the recording image data. Also, when recording a moving image, it is preferable to synthesize the distance measurement result and the indicator 500 (cursor) for each frame. Also, the distance measurement position (coordinates) in the image may be recorded as metadata, but for example, when playing back on the imaging device 100, since the distance measurement position in the image is known (image center), it may be omitted. Also, when the distance measurement result is recorded only as a numerical value (distance data), when the system control unit 200 reproduces and displays the recording image data, it can acquire the distance data from the metadata, convert it into an image 400, and synthesize it with the image data together with the indicator 500 for display.

[0040] In step S1012, the system control unit 200 determines whether the operation mode has been changed. As a result of the determination in step S1012, if it is determined that the operation mode has been changed, the process proceeds to step S1013. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1012, if it is determined that the operation mode has not been changed, the process returns to step S1002 and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed. Note that the determination of the operation mode change is made not only based on the operation of the operation button 53, but also based on the fact that the power has been turned off by operating the operation button 52.

[0041] In step S1013, the system control unit 200 deletes the recording image data and the distance measurement results remaining in the memory 206, and the process ends. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 4, the execution order of step S1005 and step S1008 may be reversed. Also, in the flowchart shown in FIG. 4, the execution order of step S1009 and step S1011 may be reversed, or step S1009 and step S1011 may be executed in parallel.

[0042] As described above, in the imaging device 100, even if the distance is measured by the distance measuring unit 20 in step S1003, there may be a case where it is determined that the AF process has failed (out-of-focus state) and the AE process has also failed (poor exposure adjustment) as a result of the determination in step S1008. In this case, in step S1010, the system control unit 200 deletes the image data for recording and the distance measurement result temporarily stored in the memory 206, respectively, as control for restricting the execution of this recording (recording process) on the recording medium 61 (control step). On the other hand, there may be a case where the distance is measured by the distance measuring unit 20 in step S1003, and as a result of the determination in step S1008, it is determined that the AF process has succeeded (in-focus state) and the AE process has also succeeded (good exposure adjustment). In this case, in step S1011, the system control unit 200 executes this recording on the recording medium 61. By such control, for example, it is possible to suppress the wasteful consumption of the capacity of the recording medium 61 due to the recording of image data in the case of failure of the AF process and the AE process, or the display of unnecessary images when reproducing the image data recorded on the recording medium 61. Also, it is possible to quickly and easily search for image data in which the distance measurement has succeeded and the focus (sharpness) and brightness have been adjusted from among the image data recorded on the recording medium 61. In this way, in the imaging device 100, it is possible to record image data in a state preferable for the user (photographer). Also, in the imaging device 100, when the distance is not measured by the distance measuring unit 20 (NO in step S1005), the determination as to whether the AF process and the AE process have succeeded (step S1008) is omitted. The image data for which the distance measurement has failed is unnecessary data for the user, and it is possible to prevent such data from being recorded on the recording medium 61.

[0043] <Second Embodiment> Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the second embodiment will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the description of the same matters will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that the operation button 51 has a two-stage switch structure that can be pressed in two stages. Specifically, the operation button 51 is a two-stage switch having a switch SW1 (not shown) and a switch SW2 (not shown). During the operation of the operation button 51 (for example, half-pressed), that is, at the first stage, the switch SW1 is turned on. At this time, the start of the distance measurement operation, AF processing, and AE processing is instructed. Also, when the operation of the operation button 51 is completed (for example, fully pressed), that is, at the second stage, the switch SW2 is turned on. At this time, the start of the imaging operation and the recording of the captured image data is instructed.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing in the simultaneous recording mode executed by the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, in step S5001, the system control unit 200 causes each unit to execute operations necessary for live view display in order to cause the display unit 208 to function as an electronic viewfinder. The system control unit 200 causes the image processing unit 205 to generate display image data based on the image data sequentially acquired from the imaging unit 30. The system control unit 200 stores the display image data for one frame in the video memory area of the memory 206 and synthesizes an image of an index 500 (see FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)) indicating the distance measurement position with the image data in the video memory. Further, the system control unit 200 controls the display control unit 207 to display the synthesized image data stored in the video memory area of the memory 206 on the display unit 208. The system control unit 200 repeatedly executes these operations for each frame to realize the live view display on the display unit 208.

[0045] In step S5002, the system control unit 200 determines whether the operation button 51 has been half-pressed, that is, whether the switch SW1 has been turned on. If it is determined in step S5002 that the button has been half-pressed, the process proceeds to step S5003. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5002 that the button has not been half-pressed, the process proceeds to step S5016.

[0046] In step S5003, the system control unit 200 controls the light emission control unit 21b to output pulsed laser light from the light emitting element 21a, and activates the light receiving unit 22 and the distance calculation unit 204. Thereby, distance measurement is performed. Further, the system control unit 200 controls the image processing unit 205 and the focus lens driving unit that drives the focus lens 301a, etc., to start AF processing and AE processing.

[0047] In step S5005, the system control unit 200 determines whether the distance measurement has been successful based on the distance measurement result obtained from the distance calculation unit 204. If it is determined in step S5005 that the distance measurement has been successful, the process proceeds to step S5007. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5005 that the distance measurement has not been successful, the process proceeds to step S5006.

[0048] In step S5006, the system control unit 200 superimposes, as an error, the information indicating the measurement failure determined in step S5005 on the live view image being displayed on the display unit 208. After step S5006 is executed, the process returns to step S5002, and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed.

[0049] In step S5007 after step S5003 is executed, the system control unit 200 superimposes the distance determined to be successful in distance measurement in step S5005 on the live view image being displayed on the display unit 208.

[0050] In step S5008, the system control unit 200 temporarily stores the ranging result in step S5003, that is, the distance data, in the memory 206.

[0051] In step S5009, the system control unit 200 determines whether the AF process and the AE process have succeeded based on the AF process result and the AE process result obtained from the image processing unit 205 in step S5003. If it is determined in step S5009 that the AF process and the AE process have succeeded, the process proceeds to step S5011. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5009 that the AF process and the AE process have not succeeded, the process proceeds to step S5010.

[0052] In step S5010, the system control unit 200 superimposes and displays, as an error, the information indicating that the AF process and the AE process determined in step S5008 have failed on the live view image being displayed on the display unit 208. After step S5010 is executed, the process returns to step S5002, and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed.

[0053] In step S5011, the system control unit 200 superimposes and displays the information indicating that the AF process and the AE process determined in step S5008 have succeeded on the live view image being displayed on the display unit 208.

[0054] In step S5012, the system control unit 200 determines whether the operation button 51 has been fully pressed, that is, whether the switch SW2 has been turned on. If it is determined in step S5012 that the full press operation has been performed, the process proceeds to step S5013. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S5012 that the full press operation has not been performed, the process waits at step S5012, that is, step S5012 is repeated.

[0055] In step S5013, the system control unit 200 controls the imaging unit 30 to perform imaging, and causes the image processing unit 205 to generate image data for recording. Then, the system control unit 200 stores the image data for recording generated by the image processing unit 205 in the memory 206.

[0056] In step S5014, the system control unit 200 associates the image data for recording stored in the memory 206 in step S5013 with the distance measurement result stored in the memory 206 in step S5008, and records them on the recording medium 61.

[0057] In step S5015, the system control unit 200 synthesizes the distance measurement result stored in the memory 206 in step S5008 with the frame image stored in the video memory area of the memory 206 in step S5001. As a result, on the display unit 208, for example, an imaging image 300A (see Fig. 3(a)) or an imaging image 300B (see Fig. 3(b)) in which the index 500 and the image 400 representing the distance are superimposed is displayed.

[0058] In step S5016, the system control unit 200 determines whether the operation mode has been changed. As a result of the determination in step S5016, if it is determined that the operation mode has been changed, the process proceeds to step S5020. On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S5016, if it is determined that the operation mode has not been changed, the process returns to step S5002, and the subsequent steps are sequentially executed.

[0059] In step S5020, the system control unit 200 deletes the image data for recording and the distance measurement result remaining in the memory 206, and the process ends. In the flowchart shown in Fig. 5, the execution order of step S5005 and step S5009 may be reversed. Also, in the flowchart shown in Fig. 5, the execution order of step S5014 and step S5015 may be reversed, or step S5014 and step S5015 may be executed in parallel.

[0060] As described above, in the imaging device 100, the imaging operation and the recording of the captured image data are configured to be performed when the operation button 51 is fully pressed after the distance measurement, AF processing, and AE processing by the half-press operation of the operation button 51 are successful. Thereby, when the distance measurement fails, or when the AF processing and the AE processing fail, it is possible to suppress the wasteful consumption of the capacity of the recording medium 61 due to the recording of the image data. Also, it is possible to prevent unnecessary images from being displayed when reproducing the image data recorded on the recording medium 61.

[0061] As described above, the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist thereof. The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and causing one or more processors of a computer of the system or device to read and execute the program. Further, the present invention can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions. In the above embodiments, an example is given in which a distance measuring device having a distance measuring function is mounted in an imaging device having an imaging function, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an imaging device having an imaging function and a distance measuring device having a distance measuring function may be configured separately, and these separate units may be communicably connected to each other. Also, in the above embodiments, an example is given in which the distance measuring device is applied to the imaging device, but the present invention is not limited to this. Examples of devices to which the distance measuring device can be applied include, in addition to imaging devices, electronic devices such as desktop and notebook personal computers, tablet terminals (including PDAs), and mobile phones (including smartphones). Also, examples of devices to which the distance measuring device can be applied include media players, game devices, robots, drones, and drive recorders.

[0062] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following configurations, methods, programs, and recording media. A distance measuring device communicably connected to an imaging means for imaging a subject, a focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment on the subject by the imaging means, and a recording means capable of executing a recording process for recording image data of the subject imaged by the imaging means, comprising: a distance measuring means for measuring the distance to the subject; a determination means for determining whether or not the subject is in a focused state based on a focus adjustment result of the focus adjustment means; a control means capable of controlling to limit the execution of the recording process when, even though the distance has been measured by the distance measuring means, the determination means determines that the subject is not in the focused state. The distance measuring device is characterized by comprising these components. (Configuration 2) The distance measuring device according to Configuration 1, characterized by comprising a temporary recording means capable of executing a temporary recording process for temporarily recording the image data that can be the subject of the recording process between the start of distance measurement by the distance measuring means and the determination by the determination means. (Configuration 3) The distance measuring device according to Configuration 2, characterized in that when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means, the control means temporarily records information regarding the distance in the temporary recording means. (Configuration 4) The distance measuring device according to Configuration 2, characterized in that as a control for limiting the execution of the recording process, the control means deletes the image data temporarily recorded in the temporary recording means. (Configuration 5) The distance measuring device according to Configuration 2, characterized in that when the distance is not measured by the distance measuring means, the control means deletes the image data temporarily recorded in the temporary recording means. (Configuration 6) The distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that when the distance is not measured by the distance measuring means, the determination by the determination means is omitted. (Configuration 7) The distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and the determination means determines that the subject is in the focused state as a result of the determination, the control means is capable of controlling to execute the recording process. Configuration 8: The distance measuring device according to Configuration 7, wherein the control means records, in association with each other, the image data that can be a target of the recording process and the distance measured by the distance measuring means when the image data is acquired, in the recording means. Configuration 9: The distance measuring device includes operation means that can be pressed in two stages. The distance measuring means and the focus adjustment means can be started by a first-stage pressing operation on the operation means. The imaging means can be started by a second-stage pressing operation on the operation means, and the distance measuring device is as described in any one of Configurations 1 to 8. Configuration 10: The distance measuring device according to Configuration 9, wherein the imaging means captures an image of the subject when a second-stage pressing operation on the operation means is performed when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and, as a result of determination by the determination means, it is determined that the subject is in the in-focus state. Configuration 11: The distance measuring device is communicably connected to exposure adjustment means for performing exposure adjustment in the imaging means. The determination means can determine whether the exposure adjustment by the exposure adjustment means is good or bad. Configuration 12: The distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 10, wherein the control means can perform control to limit execution of the recording process when, even though the distance is measured by the distance measuring means, as a result of determination by the determination means, it is determined that the exposure adjustment is poor. Configuration 13: The distance measuring device according to Configuration 11, wherein the control means can perform control to execute the recording process when, as a result of determination by the determination means, it is determined that the exposure adjustment is good when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means. Configuration 14: The distance measuring device includes operation means that can be pressed in two stages. The distance measuring means and the exposure adjustment means can be started by a first-stage pressing operation on the operation means. The imaging means can be started by a second-stage pressing operation on the operation means, and the distance measuring device is as described in Configuration 11 or 12. (Configuration 14) The imaging means captures the subject when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and a second-stage pressing operation on the operation means is performed as a result of the determination by the determination means that the exposure adjustment is good, according to the distance measuring device described in Configuration 13. (Configuration 15) The distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 14, further comprising notification means for notifying the distance measurement result by the distance measuring means. (Configuration 16) The distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 15, wherein the distance measuring means is configured to be able to measure the distance by the TOF (Time Of Flight) method. (Configuration 17) The imaging means, the focus adjustment means, the recording means, and is an imaging device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 16. (Method 1) A method for controlling a distance measuring device communicably connected to an imaging means for imaging a subject, a focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment on the subject by the imaging means, and a recording means capable of executing a recording process for recording image data of the subject imaged by the imaging means, comprising a distance measuring step of measuring the distance to the subject, a determination step of determining whether or not the subject is in a focused state based on the focus adjustment result by the focus adjustment means, and a control step capable of restricting execution of the recording process when, even though the distance is measured in the distance measuring step, it is determined in the determination step that the subject is not in a focused state. (Program 1) A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the distance measuring device according to any one of Configurations 1 to 17. (Recording Medium 1) A recording medium on which the program described in Program 1 is recorded.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0063] 20 Distance Measuring Unit 30 Photographing Unit 61 Recording medium 100 Imaging device 200 System control unit 209 AF / AE processing unit 301a Focus lens

Claims

1. A distance measuring device communicably connected to an imaging means for imaging a subject, a focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment on the subject by the imaging means, and a recording means capable of executing a recording process for recording image data of the subject imaged by the imaging means, comprising a distance measuring means for measuring the distance to the subject, a determination means for determining whether or not the subject is in a focused state based on a focus adjustment result by the focus adjustment means, and a control means capable of controlling to restrict execution of the recording process when, even though the distance has been measured by the distance measuring means, it is determined by the determination means that the subject is not in the focused state. The distance measuring device is characterized by this.

2. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising a temporary recording means capable of executing a temporary recording process for temporarily recording the image data that can be the subject of the recording process between when the distance measurement by the distance measuring means is started and when the determination by the determination means is made.

3. The distance measuring device according to claim 2, wherein the control means temporarily records information regarding the distance in the temporary recording means when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means.

4. The distance measuring device according to claim 2, wherein the control means deletes the image data temporarily recorded in the temporary recording means as control for restricting execution of the recording process.

5. The distance measuring device according to claim 2, wherein the control means deletes the image data temporarily recorded in the temporary recording means when the distance is not measured by the distance measuring means.

6. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, wherein when the distance is not measured by the distance measuring means, the determination by the determination means is omitted.

7. The control means is capable of controlling to execute the recording process when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and it is determined by the determination means that the in-focus state is achieved, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 1.

8. The control means records, in the recording means, by associating the image data that can be the object of the recording process with the distance measured by the distance measuring means when the image data is acquired, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 7.

9. It is provided with operating means that can be pressed in two stages. The distance measuring means and the focus adjusting means can be started to operate by a first-stage pressing operation on the operating means. The imaging means can be started to operate by a second-stage pressing operation on the operating means, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 1.

10. The imaging means images the subject when a second-stage pressing operation on the operating means is performed when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and it is determined by the determination means that the in-focus state is achieved, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 9.

11. The distance measuring device is communicably connected to exposure adjusting means for performing exposure adjustment in the imaging means. The determination means can determine whether the exposure adjustment in the exposure adjusting means is good or not. The control means is capable of controlling to limit the execution of the recording process when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and it is determined by the determination means that the exposure adjustment is poor, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 1.

12. The control means is capable of controlling to execute the recording process when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and it is determined by the determination means that the exposure adjustment is good, according to the distance measuring device described in claim 11.

13. It is provided with operating means that can be pressed in two stages, the distance measuring means, the exposure adjusting means, and the first-stage pressing operation on the operating means can start the operation, The imaging device according to claim 11, wherein the imaging means can start the operation by a second-stage pressing operation on the operating means.

14. The imaging means images the subject when the distance is measured by the distance measuring means and, as a result of the determination by the determination means, when it is determined that the exposure adjustment is good and the second-stage pressing operation on the operating means is performed. The distance measuring device according to claim 13, characterized in that

15. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying the distance measurement result by the distance measuring means.

16. The distance measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the distance measuring means is configured to be able to measure the distance by a TOF (Time Of Flight) method.

17. the imaging means, the focus adjustment means, The distance measuring device according to claim 1, characterized in that it is an imaging device comprising the recording means.

18. A method for controlling a distance measuring device communicably connected to an imaging means for imaging a subject, a focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment on the subject by the imaging means, and a recording means capable of executing a recording process for recording image data of the subject imaged by the imaging means, a distance measuring step of measuring the distance to the subject, a determination step of determining whether or not the subject is in a focused state based on the focus adjustment result by the focus adjustment means, Even if the distance is measured by the distance measurement step, when it is determined in the determination step that the state is not in the in-focus state, there is a control step capable of restricting the execution of the recording process. A control method for a distance measuring device, characterized by having this.

19. A program for causing a computer to execute each means of the distance measuring device according to claim 1.

20. A recording medium on which the program according to claim 19 is recorded.

Images