Electronic apparatus

Abstract

To provide an electronic apparatus capable of personal authentication without interfering with a photographing operation.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus includes: a photographing unit that photographs an object to be authenticated for personal authentication; a setting unit that sets a registration mode for registering personal authentication data that serves as a reference when performing the personal authentication; a photographing control unit that continuously photographs, when the registration mode is set, the authentication object while changing a photographing angle of the photographing unit; a recognition unit that recognizes an authentication point that serves as an index when performing the personal authentication in each of images that are continuously photographed by the photographing unit; a trajectory generation unit that generates trajectory data indicating trajectory of the authentication point recognized by the recognition unit; and a registration unit that registers the trajectory data generated by the trajectory generation unit as the personal authentication data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known an electronic device that displays an authentication screen on a display unit when performing personal authentication (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2010-152758 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in this electronic device, if personal authentication is performed during a photographing operation, an authentication screen is displayed on the display unit instead of the photographing screen, which creates a problem in that photographing operations such as framing that the operator performs while looking at the photographing screen are hindered.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device that can perform personal authentication without interfering with the photographing operation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The electronic device of the present invention includes a photographing unit that photographs an authentication object that is a target for personal authentication; a setting unit that sets a registration mode that registers personal authentication data that serves as a reference for performing the personal authentication; a photographing control unit that, when the registration mode is set, continuously photographs the authentication object while changing the photographing angle of the photographing unit; a recognition unit that recognizes authentication points that serve as indicators for performing the personal authentication in each image continuously photographed by the photographing unit; a trajectory generation unit that generates trajectory data that indicates the trajectory of the authentication points recognized by the recognition unit; and a registration unit that registers the trajectory data generated by the trajectory generation unit as the personal authentication data. Equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the electronic device of the present invention, personal authentication can be performed without interfering with the photographing operation. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a digital camera according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 5 is a flowchart showing processing of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing processing of a digital camera according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display screen of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a display screen of the digital camera according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a digital camera according to a third embodiment, as viewed from the back. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a registration process of a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a situation in which personal authentication data is registered using a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing images continuously captured in a registration mode of a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a contour image acquired in a registration mode of a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing personal authentication processing of a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing images continuously captured in a personal authentication mode using a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a contour image captured in a personal authentication mode by a digital camera according to a third embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a contour image when specific shooting conditions are set in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] A digital camera according to a first embodiment will now be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital camera according to the embodiment. The digital camera 2 includes a CPU 4 that performs overall control of each component of the digital camera 2. Connected to the CPU 4 are an operation unit 6, a GPS 5 that determines the current location based on signals received from GPS satellites, a communication unit 8 that transmits image data of images to be uploaded to a web server via the Internet, a display control unit 12 that controls the display of an LCD display unit 10 that displays through-the-lens images and the like, a touch panel 14 that detects the position of a finger or other contact on the LCD display unit 10, an image sensor 16 that captures subject light and generates an image signal, an image storage unit 18 that temporarily stores image data of images captured by the image sensor 16, a personal information storage unit 20 that stores a graphic pattern drawn with dots or lines as personal authentication data, and a memory card slot 23 into which a memory card 21 that stores image data is inserted.

[0010] Here, the operation unit 6 includes a power switch (not shown), a shutter button (not shown), etc. The graphic patterns include a first graphic pattern used when determining whether to set a posting mode (described later) and a second graphic pattern used when determining whether to end the posting mode. The graphic patterns are registered in advance in the personal information storage unit 20 by the operator drawing a predetermined figure on the LCD display unit 10 with his / her finger.

[0011] Next, the processing of the digital camera 2 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 2. First, when the power is turned on by an operator, the CPU 4 starts capturing a through image using the image sensor 16, and displays the captured through image on the LCD display unit 10 (step S1).

[0012] Next, the CPU 4 determines whether a touch panel input has been made (step S2). That is, the CPU 4 determines whether the operator's finger has touched the LCD display unit 10 using the touch panel 14. If no touch panel input has been made (step S2: No), the CPU 4 ends the series of processes if a predetermined time has passed since the power was turned on (step S3: Yes). On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not passed since the power was turned on (step S3: No), the CPU 4 repeats the process of step S2.

[0013] If a touch panel input is made (step S2: Yes), the CPU 4 determines whether the touch panel input is a long press or not (step S4). The determination of whether the touch panel input is a long press or not is performed using a known technique. If the touch panel input is not a long press (step S4: No), that is, if the touch panel input is a short press, the CPU 4 detects the position on the touch panel 14 that the operator's finger touched, performs touch AF to focus on the detected position (step S5), and then captures an image using the image sensor 16 (step S6).

[0014] On the other hand, if the touch panel input is a long press (step S4: Yes), CPU 4 performs personal authentication by determining whether the trajectory of the finger that touched LCD display unit 10 matches the first graphic pattern stored in personal information storage unit 20 (step S7). Here, "match" includes not only a perfect match but also an approximate match. If the trajectory of the finger does not match the first graphic pattern (step S7: No), an error message such as "Patterns do not match. Please draw the graphic again" is displayed on LCD display unit 10 (step S8), and the process returns to step S2.

[0015] If the finger trajectory matches the first figure pattern (step S7: Yes), CPU 4 sets a posting mode to upload the captured image to a predetermined image posting site (not shown) provided by a web server (step S9). When the shutter button is operated and an image of the subject is captured (step S10), CPU 4 temporarily stores image data of the captured image in image storage unit 18. Next, CPU 4 transmits the image data read from image storage unit 18 to the web server via the Internet using communication unit 8, and uploads an image based on the image data to the image posting site (step S11).

[0016] Next, the CPU 4 determines whether or not a touch panel input has been made again (step S12). If a touch panel input has not been made (step S12: No), the processes of steps S10 to S12 are repeated.

[0017] On the other hand, if a touch panel input is made (step S12: Yes), the CPU 4 determines whether the touch panel input is a long press or not (step S14). If the touch panel input is a short press and not a long press (step S14: No), an error message such as "Pattern does not match. Please draw the shape again" is displayed on the LCD display unit 10 (step S16), and the process returns to step S12.

[0018] On the other hand, if the touch panel input is a long press (step S14: Yes), CPU 4 determines whether or not the trajectory of the finger that touched LCD display unit 10 matches the second graphic pattern stored in personal information storage unit 20 (step S15). If the trajectory of the finger does not match the second graphic pattern (step S15: No), the process proceeds to step S16, and an error message such as "Patterns do not match. Please draw the graphic again" is displayed on LCD display unit 10.

[0019] On the other hand, if the finger trajectory matches the second figure pattern (step S15: Yes), the CPU 4 ends the posting mode (step S17) and determines whether an operation to end shooting has been performed (step S18). If an operation to end shooting has not been performed (step S18: No), the process returns to step S2. On the other hand, if an operation to end shooting has been performed (step S18: Yes), the process ends.

[0020] According to the digital camera 2 of the first embodiment, personal authentication is performed based on the trajectory of a finger recognized by the touch panel 14, so even if personal authentication is performed during a photographing operation, there is no need to display an authentication screen for password entry or the like on the LCD display unit 10, and personal authentication can be performed without interfering with the operator's photographing operation. In other words, the operator can perform personal authentication while viewing a through image and upload the photographed image to an image posting site.

[0021] Furthermore, even if the operator suddenly wants to take and upload a photo while taking a through image, the operator can quickly complete the personal authentication operation by simply tracing the display screen with his / her finger and switch to posting mode.

[0022] Furthermore, by determining whether the trace of the operator's finger that touches the LCD display unit 10 matches a graphic pattern that has been drawn by the operator in advance, personal authentication with a high level of security can be performed.

[0023] Furthermore, when determining whether to end the posting mode, personal authentication can be performed using a different graphic pattern than when determining whether to set the posting mode, which can provide the following benefits. For example, suppose that digital camera 2 is stolen by a thief who knows the first graphic pattern. The thief then touches the trajectory of the first graphic pattern to set the posting mode and uploads a captured image to an image posting site. Here, the image data of the image to be posted is assumed to contain location information and date and time information acquired by GPS 5. In such a case, if the thief cannot touch the trajectory of the second graphic pattern to end the posting mode, the image will continue to be uploaded to the image posting site every time it is taken, making it possible to track the thief's current location from the location information added to the image data of the uploaded image.

[0024] Next, processing of a digital camera according to a second embodiment will be described. The digital camera according to the second embodiment is configured such that, in the first embodiment, if personal authentication is performed during video shooting, the video being shot is uploaded to a predetermined image posting site. Furthermore, as personal authentication data, a third figure pattern used when determining whether to set a video posting mode (described later) and a fourth figure pattern used when determining whether to end the video posting mode are stored in personal information storage unit 20. Therefore, in the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail, and overlapping portions will not be described as appropriate.

[0025] First, when the operator sets the video shooting mode for shooting video images and operates the shutter button, CPU 4 starts shooting video images with image sensor 16 (step S31) and sequentially stores image data of the photographed subject in image storage unit 18. Then, image data is sequentially read from image storage unit 18, and an image based on the image data is displayed on LCD display unit 10. Image data of the image displayed on LCD display unit 10 is stored in memory card 21.

[0026] Here, when a touch panel input is made (step S32: Yes), CPU 4 determines whether the touch panel input is a long press or not (step S34). If the touch panel input is a short press and not a long press (step S34: No), CPU 4 detects the position on touch panel 14 that the operator's finger touched, and focuses on the detected position (step S36). Such a short press during video capture is performed when it is desired to change the focus position of the subject.

[0027] On the other hand, if the touch panel input is a long press (step S34: Yes), CPU 4 performs personal authentication by determining whether the trajectory of the finger that touched LCD display unit 10 matches the third graphic pattern stored in personal information storage unit 20 (step S37). If the trajectory of the finger does not match the third graphic pattern (step S37: No), an error message such as "Patterns do not match. Please draw the graphic again" is displayed on LCD display unit 10 (step S38), and the process returns to step S32.

[0028] If the finger trajectory matches the third figure pattern (step S37: Yes), CPU 4 sets a video posting mode in which the video being shot is uploaded to a predetermined image posting site from the middle (step S39). Next, CPU 4 transmits image data sequentially read from image storage unit 18 to a web server via the Internet from communication unit 8 (step S41). As a result, the video shot after personal authentication during video shooting is uploaded to the image posting site.

[0029] Next, the CPU 4 determines again whether or not a touch panel input has been made (step S42). If a touch panel input has not been made (step S42: No), the process returns to step S42 and continues uploading the moving images being captured.

[0030] On the other hand, if a touch panel input has been made (step S42: Yes), or if the touch panel input is a long press (step S44: Yes), the CPU 4 determines whether or not the trajectory of the finger that touched the LCD display unit 10 matches the fourth figure pattern stored in the personal information storage unit 20 (step S45). If the trajectory of the finger does not match the fourth figure pattern (step S45: No), the CPU 4 displays an error message such as "Patterns do not match. Please draw the figure again" on the LCD display unit 10 (step S46), and returns to the processing of step S42.

[0031] If the finger trajectory matches the fourth figure pattern (step S45: Yes), the CPU 4 ends the video posting mode (step S47) and determines whether an operation to end video shooting has been performed (step S48). If an operation to end video shooting has not been performed (step S48: No), the process returns to step S32, and if an operation to end video shooting has been performed (step S48: Yes), the process ends.

[0032] With the digital camera according to the second embodiment, the operator can perform personal authentication while viewing the moving image displayed on the LCD display unit 10, and can upload the moving image to an image posting site from the middle of the shooting. Also, by performing personal authentication again while shooting, the upload of the moving image can be stopped midway.

[0033] Note that the images captured in the posting mode of the first embodiment described above may be not only still images but also moving images. In this case, when a moving image is captured in the posting mode, CPU 4 sequentially reads out image data of the moving image stored in image storage unit 18 and transmits the image data to a web server via the Internet. Then, when the moving image capture ends and it is no longer possible to transmit image data to the web server, uploading of one moving image to the image posting site is complete.

[0034] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, if the touch panel input is a short press, touch AF does not necessarily have to be performed. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, suppose that a "MENU" button that displays a menu screen is displayed on the LCD display unit 10 during through-image shooting. Here, when the "MENU" button is touched, the through-image screen displayed on the LCD display unit 10 may be switched to the menu screen.

[0035] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the photographing process during touch AF may be performed immediately after the focus is set on the position on the touch panel 14 that is touched by the finger, or may be performed when the shutter button is operated after the focus is set on the touched position.

[0036] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, ending the posting mode does not necessarily have to be done by touch panel input. For example, while the posting mode is ongoing, an icon such as "Logged in" may be displayed as shown in Fig. 4. Then, the posting mode may be ended when the icon is touched.

[0037] In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, it is not necessary to touch input different graphic patterns when entering and exiting the posting mode or video posting mode. That is, the posting mode or video posting mode may be terminated when the first graphic pattern or the third graphic pattern is touch input.

[0038] Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, touch input does not necessarily have to be performed with a finger, but may be performed with an operating member such as a pointer stick.

[0039] In each of the above-described embodiments, the digital camera 2 may be either a compact camera or a single-lens reflex camera.

[0040] Next, a digital camera according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known a reference point detection device for palm geometry authentication that performs personal authentication by recognizing the shape of the palm (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-348522).

[0042] However, this reference point detection device for palm geometry authentication uses a simple model in which the shapes of the fingers are replaced with straight lines as data for personal authentication. Therefore, if, for example, a person with a similar palm shape uses this reference point detection device for palm geometry authentication, there is a possibility that the person will be mistakenly authenticated.

[0043] Furthermore, when personal authentication is performed using a digital camera using the above method, the hand geometry authentication reference point detection device must be installed in the digital camera, which raises the problem of relatively high manufacturing costs.

[0044] An object of the invention according to the third embodiment is to provide an inexpensive imaging device capable of highly accurate personal authentication.

[0045] 6 is a perspective view of a digital camera 22 according to a third embodiment, viewed from the back. The digital camera 22 includes a housing 24 made of metal or plastic, and an LCD display unit 26, a multi-selector 28, and a zoom button 29 are provided on the back of the housing 24.

[0046] A power button 32 and a shutter button 34 are provided on the top surface of the housing 24, and a lens barrel 36 that houses a photographing lens (see FIG. 7) is provided on the front surface of the housing 24.

[0047] 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital camera 22 according to a third embodiment. The digital camera 22 includes a CPU 44 that performs overall control of each component of the digital camera 22. Connected to the CPU 44 are an operation unit 46, a display control unit 48 that controls the display of the LCD display unit 26, a touch panel 50 that performs input operations by touching with a finger icons and the like displayed on the LCD display unit 26, a photographing unit 54 that photographs a subject, an image storage unit 56 that temporarily stores image data of an image photographed by the photographing unit 54, an image processing unit 58 that performs pixel binarization processing on the image data, an information storage unit 59 that stores personal authentication data used when performing personal authentication, and a memory card slot 62 into which a memory card 60 that stores image data is inserted.

[0048] Here, the operation unit 46 includes a multi-selector 28, a zoom button 29, a power button 32, and a shutter button 34. The photographing unit 54 also includes a lens driving unit 66 that controls the driving of a photographing lens 64, an image sensor 68 configured by a CCD or the like, a lens driving unit 62, and a photographing control unit 70 that controls the driving of the image sensor 68.

[0049] Next, the registration process for registering personal authentication data in advance in digital camera 22 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 8. In the following, a specific example will be described in which operator A selects the bracelet part of a wristwatch as the registration object.

[0050] First, when the power is turned on, the CPU 44 starts capturing a through image with the photographing unit 54, and displays the captured through image on the LCD display unit 26.

[0051] Next, when operator A operates touch panel 50, for example, to set a registration mode for registering personal authentication data (step S101), CPU 44 causes imaging control unit 70 to drive lens driving unit 66, and moves photographing lens 64 so that the photographing angle of view of photographing unit 54 becomes angle of view (W1) (step S102). Here, angle of view (W1) is the widest photographing angle of view of photographing unit 54.

[0052] Next, CPU 44 displays a message such as "Make sure the registration object is on the screen and press the shutter button" on LCD display unit 26. Here, as shown in Figure 9, when operator A extends his arm and brings bracelet 82 of wristwatch 80 worn on his wrist closer to the front of lens barrel 36, a through image of bracelet 82 of wristwatch 80 is displayed on LCD display unit 26.

[0053] Next, operator A adjusts the position of digital camera 22 so that bracelet 82 is displayed near the center of the display screen of LCD display unit 26, and operates shutter button .

[0054] When the shutter button 34 is operated, the CPU 44 performs continuous shooting while sequentially changing the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 54 toward the telephoto side (step S103). For example, as shown in Fig. 10, the CPU 44 first shoots image a with the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 54 set to angle of view (W1). Next, the CPU 44 shoots image b by setting the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 54 to angle of view (W2) on the telephoto side of the angle of view (W1). Then, the CPU 44 shoots image c at angle of view (W3) on the telephoto side of the angle of view (W2).

[0055] Thereafter, in a similar manner, CPU 44 photographs image d at angle of view (M1), image e at angle of view (M2), and image f at angle of view (M3). Furthermore, image g is photographed at angle of view (T1), image h at angle of view (T2), and image i at angle of view (T3). Image data of the multiple images photographed continuously is stored in image storage unit 56.

[0056] Next, the CPU 44 reads out the multiple pieces of image data captured continuously from the image storage unit 56, and performs pixel binarization processing for each piece of image data using the image processing unit 58 (step S104). For example, the CPU 44 calculates a differential value for each pixel constituting the image data, and if the differential value is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the pixel value of that pixel is determined to be "High," and if the differential value is less than the threshold value, the pixel value of that pixel is determined to be "Low."

[0057] Next, the CPU 44 controls the image processing unit 58 to generate contour image data for a contour image having contours defined by pixels determined to be "High" from each image data. That is, as shown in Fig. 11, contour image data for contour image a is generated from the image data of image a. Contour image data for contour image b is generated from the image data of image b. Similarly, contour image data for contour image c is generated from the image data of image c, contour image data for contour image d is generated from the image data of image d, contour image data for contour image e is generated from the image data of image e, contour image data for contour image f is generated from the image data of image f, contour image data for contour image g is generated from the image data of image g, contour image data for contour image h is generated from the image data of image h, and contour image data for contour image i is generated from the image data of image i.

[0058] Next, the CPU 44 detects the center of gravity of the metal fittings that make up the bracelet 82 from each piece of outline image data (step S105). For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 44 detects center of gravity 1(a), center of gravity 2(a), ..., center of gravity n(a) from the outline image data of outline image a. Next, the CPU 44 detects center of gravity 1(b), center of gravity 2(b), ..., center of gravity n(b) from the outline image data of outline image b. Similarly, this process is repeated for each piece of outline image data until center of gravity 1(i), center of gravity 2(i), ..., center of gravity n(i) are detected from the outline image data of outline image i.

[0059] Next, the CPU 44 calculates the coordinates of the positions of the center of gravity in each piece of contour image data, and generates trajectory data indicating the transition of the coordinates of each center of gravity (step S106). Specifically, the CPU 44 generates trajectory data indicating the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity 1(a) → center of gravity 1(b) → ... → center of gravity 1(i), the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity 2(a) → center of gravity 2(b) → ... → center of gravity 2(i), ..., and the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity n(a) → center of gravity n(b) → ... → center of gravity n(i). Next, the CPU 44 stores this trajectory data in the information storage unit 59 as personal authentication data (step S107).

[0060] Next, a personal authentication process for performing personal authentication using a digital camera 22 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 12. Note that the following description will be given taking as an example a case where an operator A who has registered personal authentication data using a bracelet 82 as a registration object performs the personal authentication process. Note that the personal authentication process overlaps in many parts with the registration process, and therefore the description of the overlapping parts will be omitted where appropriate.

[0061] First, when the power is turned on, the CPU 44 starts capturing a through image with the photographing unit 54, and displays the captured through image on the LCD display unit 26.

[0062] Next, when operator A operates, for example, touch panel 50 to set the personal authentication mode for performing personal authentication (step S201), CPU 44 displays a message such as "Make sure the object to be authenticated is displayed on the screen and perform the specified operation" on LCD display unit 26.

[0063] Here, when operator A brings the bracelet 82 closer to the front of the lens barrel 36, a through image of the bracelet 82 portion of the wristwatch 80 is displayed on the LCD display unit 26. Then, when operator A operates the zoom button 29, the CPU 44 performs continuous shooting while changing the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 54 in accordance with the operation of the zoom button 29 (step S202). For example, when operator A performs an operation to sequentially change the shooting angle of view to the telephoto side within the range from the angle of view (W3) to the angle of view (M3), the CPU 44 shoots an image c' at the angle of view (W3), an image d' at the angle of view (M1), an image e' at the angle of view (M2), and an image f' at the angle of view (M3), as shown in FIG. 13 . Image data of the multiple images shot continuously is stored in the image storage unit 56.

[0064] Next, the CPU 44 reads out a plurality of image data obtained by successively capturing images from the image storage unit 56, and causes the image processing unit 58 to perform pixel binarization processing for each image data (step S203), thereby generating contour image data.

[0065] For example, as shown in FIG. 14, contour image data of contour image c' is generated from the image data of image c', contour image data of contour image d' is generated from the image data of image d', contour image data of contour image e' is generated from the image data of image e', and contour image data of contour image f' is generated from the image data of image f'.

[0066] Next, the CPU 44 detects the center of gravity of the metal part of the bracelet 82 from each of the outline image data (step S204). For example, as shown in FIG. 14, center of gravity 1 (c'), center of gravity 2 (c'), ..., center of gravity n (c') are detected from the outline image data of outline image c'. Next, center of gravity 1 (d'), center of gravity 2 (d'), ..., center of gravity n (d') are detected from the outline image data of outline image d. Similarly, center of gravity 1 (e'), center of gravity 2 (e'), ..., center of gravity n (e') are detected from the outline image data of outline image e, and center of gravity 1 (f'), center of gravity 2 (f'), ..., center of gravity n (f') are detected from the outline image data of outline image f.

[0067] Next, the CPU 44 calculates the coordinates of the positions of the center of gravity in each piece of contour image data, and generates trajectory data indicating the transition of the coordinates of each center of gravity (step S205). Specifically, the CPU 44 generates trajectory information indicating the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity 1(c') → center of gravity 1(d') → center of gravity 1(e') → center of gravity 1(f'), the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity 2(c') → center of gravity 2(d') → center of gravity 2(e') → center of gravity 2(f'), ..., and the transition of the coordinates of center of gravity n(c') → center of gravity n(d') → center of gravity n(e') → center of gravity n(f').

[0068] Next, the CPU 44 reads the personal authentication data from the information storage unit 59 and determines whether the trajectory of the coordinates of the center of gravity based on the trajectory information (hereinafter referred to as the trajectory based on the trajectory information) substantially matches part or all of the trajectory of the coordinates of the center of gravity based on the personal authentication data (hereinafter referred to as the trajectory based on the personal authentication data) (step S206).

[0069] If the trajectory based on the trajectory information substantially matches part or all of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data (step S206: Yes), the CPU 44 determines that personal authentication has been successful, and permits the output of image data from the digital camera 22. In this embodiment, the trajectory of center of gravity 1(c') → center of gravity 1(d') → center of gravity 1(e') → center of gravity 1(f'), the trajectory of center of gravity 2(c') → center of gravity 2(d') → center of gravity 2(e') → center of gravity 2(f'), ..., and the trajectory of center of gravity n(c') → center of gravity n(d') → center of gravity n(e') → center of gravity n(f') included in the trajectory information are These correspond to the trajectory of center of gravity 1(c') → center of gravity 1(d') → center of gravity 1(e') → center of gravity 1(f'), the trajectory of center of gravity 2(c') → center of gravity 2(d') → center of gravity 2(e') → center of gravity 2(f'), and the trajectory of center of gravity n(c') → center of gravity n(d') → center of gravity n(e') → center of gravity n(f'), respectively, which are included in the personal authentication data. In other words, the trajectory based on the trajectory information substantially matches a portion of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data. Therefore, the CPU 44 determines that personal authentication has been successful and permits the output of image data from the digital camera 22.

[0070] If output of image data is permitted, for example, the captured image can be printed on a printer (not shown) or uploaded to a server (not shown).

[0071] On the other hand, if the trajectory based on the trajectory information does not substantially match part or all of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data (step S206: No), the CPU 44 determines that personal authentication has failed. Then, the CPU 44 prohibits the output of image data from the digital camera 22 and displays a message such as "Personal authentication has failed" on the LCD display unit 26. If the output of image data is prohibited, for example, the captured image cannot be printed on a printer (not shown) or uploaded to a server.

[0072] When permitting or prohibiting the output of image data, memory card 60 may be treated as an external device of digital camera 22. In this case, for example, image data is stored in memory card 60 only when output of image data is permitted, making it possible to actually take a photograph. Also, when output of image data is prohibited, image data is stored in the internal memory when shutter button 34 is operated, but is not stored in memory card 60, making it practically impossible to take a photograph.

[0073] According to the invention of the third embodiment, it is possible to generate complex personal authentication data by utilizing the zoom function and image processing function that cameras generally have, and therefore it is possible to provide an inexpensive digital camera 22 that is capable of highly accurate personal authentication. Furthermore, if the operator registers personal authentication data in advance, he or she can easily perform personal authentication by simply operating the zoom button 29.

[0074] Furthermore, because the personal authentication data is generated in registration mode by continuously photographing the bracelet 82 while changing the angle of view of the image capture unit 54 in one direction, even if the angle of view of the image capture unit 54 is changed in the opposite direction in personal authentication mode to photograph the bracelet 82, it is not possible to obtain trajectory information of a trajectory that substantially matches part or all of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data. For this reason, for example, even if a third party who has illegally obtained the digital camera 22 and wristwatch 80 photographs the bracelet 82 while changing the angle of view of the image capture unit 54 in the opposite direction, personal authentication will not be possible.

[0075] In addition, in the personal authentication mode, personal authentication can be performed if the trajectory based on the trajectory information approximately matches a portion of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data, so operator A does not need to zoom in and photograph the entire zoom range photographed during the registration process, and can easily perform the authentication operation.

[0076] Furthermore, in the registration mode and personal authentication mode, simple binarization processing is performed instead of complex image processing, so that the registration processing and personal authentication processing can be performed at a high processing speed.

[0077] In the third embodiment described above, lens distortion correction may be set to ON / OFF by operating touch panel 50 or the like. In this case, when a subject is photographed by imaging unit 54, image data of a distorted subject image that reflects the characteristics of imaging lens 64 is acquired. Therefore, operator A can generate personal authentication data that has a more complex trajectory that utilizes distortion aberration by performing the registration process with lens distortion correction turned off.

[0078] Furthermore, in the third embodiment described above, if personal authentication is successful, something other than permission to output image data may be performed. For example, if personal authentication is successful, the CPU 44 sets the shooting mode of the digital camera 22 to shooting conditions dedicated to operator A that have been registered in advance by the operator. On the other hand, if personal authentication is unsuccessful, setting to shooting conditions dedicated to operator A is prohibited.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above-described third embodiment, in the registration process, as in the personal authentication process, operator A may operate zoom button 29 to change the photographing angle of view and take successive photographs of bracelet 82. In this case, operator A can generate personal authentication data having a more complex trajectory.

[0080] For example, operator A takes continuous images of bracelet 82, setting a turning point (angle of view (T1)) in the change in the photographing angle of view, such as angle of view (W3) → angle of view (M1) → angle of view (M2) → angle of view (M3) → angle of view (T1) → angle of view (M3). This makes it difficult for a third party who illegally obtains digital camera 22 and wristwatch 80 to easily guess in which direction to operate zoom button 29, even if they attempt to perform personal authentication. This effectively prevents digital camera 22 from being used illegally by a third party.

[0081] In this case, in the personal authentication process, if the trajectory based on the trajectory information substantially matches the portion including the turning point of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data, it may be determined that the personal authentication is successful. For example, if a trajectory corresponding to the angle of view (M3) → angle of view (T1) → angle of view (M3) is confirmed based on the trajectory information, the output of image data from the digital camera 22 is permitted.

[0082] Furthermore, in the third embodiment described above, the registration process may be performed with specific shooting conditions set. For example, operator A sets the ISO sensitivity to high when setting the registration mode. Then, with the ISO sensitivity set to high, operator A continuously photographs bracelet 82 while changing the shooting angle of view of photographing unit 54. Here, when binarization processing is performed on the continuously photographed image data, CPU 44 is unable to recognize the contours of all the metal fitting parts from the image data photographed at high sensitivity, and contour image data is generated in which the contours of multiple metal fitting parts are recognized as a single contour, as shown in FIG. 15.

[0083] Here, the number of center of gravity points is less than in the normal case where the ISO sensitivity is not set to high sensitivity, and the positions of the center of gravity points are also recognized at positions different from the normal case, so different trajectory data is generated from the normal case.

[0084] In this case, if an operator who wants to take pictures with the digital camera 22 does not set the ISO sensitivity to high in personal authentication mode, no matter how they operate the zoom button 29 to take continuous pictures of the bracelet 82, they will not be able to obtain a trajectory that substantially matches part or all of the trajectory based on the personal authentication data, and they will not be able to be authenticated. Therefore, if the digital camera 22 is stolen by a third party, for example, it is possible to reliably prevent the digital camera 22 from being used fraudulently.

[0085] In this case, in addition to the ISO sensitivity, the exposure compensation value and white balance may be set to predetermined values ​​as specific photographing conditions.

[0086] Furthermore, in the third embodiment described above, the imaging device does not necessarily have to be the digital camera 22, but may be a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet terminal, or the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 2...digital camera, 4...CPU, 5...GPS, 6...operation unit, 8...communication unit, 10...LCD display unit, 14...touch panel, 16...imaging element, 18...image storage unit, 20...personal information storage unit, 21...memory card, 22...digital camera, 44...CPU, 46...operation unit, 26...LCD display unit, 50...touch panel, 54...shooting unit, 56...image storage unit, 58...image processing unit, 59...information processing unit, 60...memory card, 64...shooting lens, 66...lens driving unit, 68...imaging element, 70...shooting control unit

Claims

[Claim 1] an imaging unit that captures an image of an object to be authenticated as a personal authentication target; a setting unit for setting a registration mode for registering personal authentication data that serves as a reference when performing the personal authentication; an imaging control unit that continuously captures images of the authentication target while changing an imaging angle of the imaging unit when the registration mode is set; a recognition unit that recognizes an authentication point that serves as an index when performing the personal authentication in each of the images continuously captured by the photographing unit; a trajectory generating unit that generates trajectory data indicating a trajectory of the authentication point recognized by the recognition unit; a registration unit that registers the trajectory data generated by the trajectory generation unit as the personal authentication data; An electronic device comprising:

Images