Digital camera with printer

Abstract

To provide a digital camera with a printer with satisfactory operationality.SOLUTION: The digital camera with a printer includes: an imaging unit; a print unit that prints images on media and ejects the same; a display unit; a first operation member that is rotated from a first position in a first direction on a rotation axis against a biasing force, and when released, rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction by the biasing force and returns to the first position; and a processor. The processor performs a specific control depending on the operation of the first operation member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a digital camera with a built-in printer. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a digital camera with a built-in printer in the camera body (digital camera with a printer).

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a technique in which a rotatable lever is provided on the top surface of the camera body, and images are sorted and recorded in predetermined folders by rotating the lever. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-94841 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-318536 Summary of the Invention

[0005] One embodiment of the technique of the present disclosure provides a digital camera with a printer that is easy to operate. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) A digital camera with a printer, comprising: an imaging unit; a printing unit that prints an image on a medium and ejects it; a display unit; a first operating member that is rotated from a first position in a first direction around a rotation axis against a biasing force, and when released, rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction by the biasing force and returns to the first position; and a processor, wherein the processor performs specific control in response to the operation of the first operating member.

[0007] (2) A digital camera with a printer as in (1), in which the processor generates an image of what the image currently displayed on the display unit would look like if it were printed on a medium in response to a first operation of the first operating member, and controls the display unit to display the generated image in place of the image currently displayed on the display unit.

[0008] (3) A digital camera with a printer as described in (2), in which the processor generates an animation that switches continuously or gradually from the image being displayed on the display unit to an image, and controls the display of the generated animation on the display unit.

[0009] (4) A digital camera with a printer according to (2) or (3), in which the processor controls the movement of the image displayed on the display unit along the media ejection direction when printing is performed.

[0010] (5) A digital camera with a printer according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the processor sets the image being displayed on the display unit as the image to be printed in response to a first operation of the first operating member, and controls the printing of the image to be printed on the printing unit in response to a second operation of the first operating member.

[0011] (6) A digital camera with a printer according to (5), wherein the first operation is an operation of rotating the first operating member to the second position, and the second operation is an operation of releasing the first operating member that has been rotated to the second position.

[0012] (7) A digital camera with a printer according to (5) or (6), wherein the processor starts control to cause the print unit to print the image being displayed on the display unit after a time T has elapsed following the second operation of the first operating member.

[0013] (8) The digital camera with a printer according to (7), wherein the processor accepts an instruction to cancel printing until a time T has elapsed after the second operation of the first operating member.

[0014] (9) The digital camera with a printer according to (8), further comprising a second operating member that is operated by pressing, wherein the processor receives an instruction to cancel printing in response to operation of the second operating member.

[0015] (10) The digital camera with a printer according to (8), wherein the processor receives an instruction to cancel printing in response to a third operation of the first operating member.

[0016] (11) A digital camera with a printer according to any one of (1) to (10), in which the printing unit ejects the printed media in a specified direction along the display surface of the display unit, and the first operating member has a rotation axis arranged perpendicular to the media ejection direction, and the second direction is set to the same direction as the media ejection direction.

[0017] (12) A digital camera with a printer according to any one of (1) to (11), further comprising a third operating member that is rotated and a fourth operating member that is rotated, wherein the processor controls switching of the type of first image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in response to operation of the third operating member, and controls switching of the type of second image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in response to operation of the fourth operating member.

[0018] (13) The digital camera with a printer according to (12), wherein the image being displayed on the display unit is a live view image being captured by the imaging unit.

[0019] (14) A digital camera with a printer according to (1), wherein the processor starts control to sequentially switch and display captured images on the display unit in response to the operation of rotating the first operating member to the second position, and ends control to sequentially switch and display captured images on the display unit in response to the operation of returning the first operating member to the first position.

[0020] (15) The digital camera with a printer according to (14), wherein the processor further controls the speed at which the images are switched depending on the rotation angle of the first operating member.

[0021] (16) A digital camera with a printer according to (1), wherein the processor controls the intensity of image processing applied to the image being displayed on the display unit according to the rotation angle of the first operating member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] Front view of a digital camera with a printer [Figure 2] Rear view of a digital camera with printer [Figure 3] Right side view of digital camera with printer [Figure 4] Left side view of digital camera with printer [Figure 5] Plan view of a digital camera with a printer [Figure 6] Bottom view of digital camera with printer [Figure 7] Left side view of digital camera with printer [Figure 8] Conceptual diagram of switch operating structure [Figure 9] A diagram showing the internal structure of a digital camera with a built-in printer. [Figure 10] Perspective view of an instant film pack [Figure 11] Front view of instant film [Figure 12] Rear view of instant film [Figure 13] Block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a digital camera with a built-in printer [Figure 14] Diagram showing the relationship between the operation of the control lever and the display [Figure 15] Diagram showing how the display changes over time [Figure 16] Diagram showing the relationship between image printing and display on a screen [Figure 17] A diagram showing how the display changes over time during printing [Figure 18] Flowchart showing the print operation procedure in the image capture mode [Figure 19]Diagram showing what appears on the display when the operation ring is operated [Figure 20] Diagram showing what appears on the display when the operation dial is operated [Figure 21] Flowchart showing the printing operation procedure [Figure 22] Slideshow concept [Figure 23] Diagram showing the relationship between operation of the control lever and switching of the display [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the operation of the control lever and the strength of image processing. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] Here, an example will be described in which the present invention is applied to a digital camera with a printer that prints images using instant film.

[0025] [External configuration of digital camera with printer] 1 to 6 are a front view, a rear view, a right side view, a left side view, a plan view, and a bottom view, respectively, of the digital camera with a built-in printer.

[0026] 1 to 6, the printer-equipped digital camera 1 has a vertically long, flat, rectangular parallelepiped camera body 10. The camera body 10 is sized to be portable and can be held in one hand.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, the front of a camera body 10 is provided with a power lever 11, a lens 12, an operation ring 13, a first shutter button 14, a flash 15, a self-timer lamp 16, a selfie mirror 17, and the like.

[0028] The power lever 11 is an operating member that turns on and off the power of the printer-equipped digital camera 1. The power lever 11 is rotated between an ON position and an OFF position to turn the power of the printer-equipped digital camera 1 on and off.

[0029] The lens 12 is an imaging lens. In this embodiment, the lens 12 is a single focal length lens.

[0030] The operation ring 13 is an operation member that is rotated around the optical axis of the lens 12. The operation ring 13 is equipped with a so-called click mechanism. Therefore, the operation is given a clicking sensation. The click stops at regular angular intervals. The operation ring 13 is assigned a predetermined function depending on the mode of the camera. For example, in the image capture mode, the function of selecting an effect to be applied to an image is assigned. Also, in the playback mode, the function of one frame forward and one frame back is assigned. Note that an effect is a process that imparts a certain effect to an image. For example, this includes processes that change the color tone of an image or blur it.

[0031] The first shutter button 14 is a two-stage push button that can be pressed halfway or all the way. When the first shutter button 14 is pressed halfway, the digital camera with printer 1 prepares to capture an image, and when it is pressed all the way, the image is captured. This preparation involves performing auto exposure (AE) and auto focus (AF), among other operations. The first shutter button 14 is primarily used for capturing images in a portrait orientation. Capturing images in a portrait orientation means capturing an image with the long side of the captured image oriented vertically (vertically). In the digital camera with printer 1 of this embodiment, the normal usage is for capturing images in a portrait orientation, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0032] The self-timer lamp 16 is a lamp that is illuminated during self-timer image capture to notify the user of the timing of image capture. The self-timer lamp 16 is also used as an AF assist light lamp. The AF assist light is a light that is illuminated during AF to assist in focusing.

[0033] The selfie mirror 17 is a mirror used when taking an image of oneself as a subject, and is used to check the imaging range.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, the rear surface of the camera body 10 is provided with a film door 20, a display 22, a cross key 23, a MENU / OK button 24, a back button 25, a playback button 26, a function button 27, and the like.

[0035] Film door 20 is a door member that opens and closes a film loading chamber provided in camera body 10. Film door 20 is provided so that it can be opened and closed freely via hinge portion 20A. Camera body 10 is provided with a locking mechanism (not shown) that locks film door 20. When film door 20 is closed, it is automatically locked by this locking mechanism. The lock is released by a sliding lock release lever 21 provided on film door 20.

[0036] The display 22 is provided on the film door 20. The display 22 is used to display a live view and captured images, as well as to display a setting screen when making various settings. The display 22 is an example of a display unit. The display 22 is configured, for example, by a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence diode display (OLED), or the like.

[0037] The cross key 23 is arranged coaxially with the MENU / OK button 24, and is operated by pressing in four directions, up, down, left, and right, with the MENU / OK button 24 at the center.

[0038] The MENU / OK button 24 is an operating member that functions as both a MENU button and an OK button, and is configured as a push button. The MENU button function is to call up the MENU screen. The OK button function is to instruct the execution of various confirmation items.

[0039] The back button 25, play button 26, and function button 27 are each composed of a push button. The back button 25 is a button that instructs returning to the previous state on a setting screen or the like. The back button 25 also functions as a cancel button and is used to instruct cancellation. The play button 26 is a button that instructs switching to play mode. The function button 27 is a button that instructs execution of a preset function.

[0040] 3, a card slot cover 30 and the like are provided on the right side of the camera body 10. The card slot cover 30 is a cover member that covers a card slot (not shown) provided in the camera body 10. By opening the card slot cover 30, the card slot is exposed.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4, the left side of the camera body 10 is provided with an operating lever 40, a second shutter button 41, a reset button 42, an operating dial 43, an accessory shoe 44, and the like.

[0042] The operating lever 40 is an operating member that is rotated about a rotation axis. In this embodiment, the operating lever 40 is an example of a first operating member. The operating lever 40 is located in a corner on the rear side of the lower end of the left side of the camera body 10, and is rotated within a predetermined angular range around an axis that is perpendicular to the left side. As will be described later, the instant film is ejected upward from the top surface of the camera body 10. Therefore, the rotation axis of the operating lever 40 is perpendicular to the ejection direction of the instant film. Furthermore, the instant film is ejected parallel to the rear surface of the camera body 10. Therefore, the rotation axis of the operating lever 40 is arranged parallel to the instant film being ejected from the camera body 10.

[0043] The operating lever 40 has a shape that imitates the film winding lever in a film camera, and has a disk-shaped main body 40A and a rod-shaped lever 40B extending from the main body 40A.

[0044] The end face of main body 40A is disposed on substantially the same plane as the left side face of camera body 10. The corner between the rear and bottom faces of camera body 10 has an arc shape (a so-called radiused shape) that follows the circumferential surface of main body 40A. Main body 40A is supported by camera body 10 so as to be rotatable about its central axis.

[0045] Lever portion 40B has a linear lever main body 40b1 that extends tangentially from the outer periphery of main body 40A, and a lever tip 40b2 provided at the tip of lever main body 40b1. Lever tip 40b2 has a shape that curves outward (toward the back surface of camera body 10) toward the tip relative to lever main body 40b1. While lever main body 40b1 forms substantially the same surface as the left side surface of camera body 10, lever tip 40b2 has a shape that protrudes slightly from the left side surface of camera body 10 (see FIG. 2). By having the tip protrude slightly from the left side surface of camera body 10 in this way, it is easier to grip with your fingers during operation.

[0046] The operating lever 40 is biased by a biasing mechanism (not shown) and is rotated within a predetermined angular range. The operating direction CCW is the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 4. On the other hand, the biasing direction by the biasing mechanism is the clockwise direction. Therefore, when released, the operating lever 40 rotates clockwise. The operating direction CCW is an example of a first direction. Also, the biasing direction is an example of a second direction. For example, a mechanism using a torsion coil spring or the like can be used as the biasing mechanism.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows the state in which the operating lever 40 is located at the reference position. In the non-operating state, the operating lever 40 is stationary at the reference position. As shown in FIG. 4, when the operating lever 40 is located at the reference position, it is housed in a cutout portion 10a formed in the camera body 10. When the operating lever 40 is housed in the cutout portion 10a, its lever main body portion 40b1 forms substantially the same surface as the rear surface of the camera body 10. Meanwhile, its lever tip portion 40b2 protrudes slightly from the rear surface of the camera body 10.

[0048] The operating lever 40 is rotated between a reference position and a command execution position. In this embodiment, the reference position is an example of a first position. The command execution position is an example of a second position.

[0049] Furthermore, the operation of rotating the operating lever 40 to the command execution position against the biasing force of the biasing mechanism is an example of a first operation, and the operation of releasing the operating lever 40 that has been rotated to the command execution position against the biasing force is an example of a second operation.

[0050] 7 is a left side view of the digital camera with a printer, showing the state when the operation lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position.

[0051] When the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position shown in the figure, the rotation is restricted by a stopper (not shown).

[0052] Furthermore, when the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position shown in the figure, the contact portion 40a provided inside the lever main body 40b1 contacts the switch SW disposed inside the camera body 10, turning on the switch SW. FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram of the switch operating structure. FIG. 8(A) shows the relationship between the contact portion 40a and the switch SW when the operating lever 40 is in the reference position. FIG. 8(B) shows the relationship between the contact portion 40a and the switch SW when the operating lever 40 is in the command execution position. As shown in FIG. 8(A), when the operating lever 40 is in the reference position, the contact portion 40a is separated from the switch SW. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8(B), when the operating lever 40 is in the command execution position, the contact portion 40a contacts the switch SW. This turns on the switch SW. The switch SW is turned off when the contact portion 40a is separated from the switch SW.

[0053] As described above, the operating lever 40 is biased in the direction opposite to the operating direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 4) (clockwise in FIG. 4) by a biasing mechanism (not shown). Therefore, the operation is performed against the biasing force of the biasing mechanism. Furthermore, if the operation is released midway, i.e., if the finger is released, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism returns the operating lever 40 to the reference position. Therefore, if the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position and the finger is released, the switch SW is automatically turned off.

[0054] The operating lever 40 is further provided with an operation sound generating mechanism (not shown), which generates a predetermined operation sound when operated. The operation sound is a so-called ratchet sound, and is the same type of sound that is generated when winding film in a film camera. The operation sound generating mechanism mechanically generates the operation sound (ratchet sound).

[0055] Predetermined functions are assigned to the operating lever 40 depending on the state of the camera, as will be described in detail later.

[0056] The second shutter button 41, like the first shutter button 14, is a two-stage push button that can be pressed halfway or fully. The function of the second shutter button 41 is the same as that of the first shutter button 14. The second shutter button 41 is mainly used for capturing images in the landscape position. Capturing images in the landscape position means capturing images with the long side of the captured image oriented horizontally.

[0057] The reset button 42 is a button for instructing to reset various settings. The reset button 42 is configured as a push button.

[0058] The operation dial 43 is an operation member that is rotated around an axis perpendicular to the left side surface of the camera body 10. The operation dial 43 is equipped with a so-called click mechanism. Therefore, the operation of the dial gives a clicking sensation. The operation dial also clicks and stops at regular angular intervals. The operation dial 43 is assigned a predetermined function depending on the camera mode. For example, in image capture mode, the function of selecting an effect to apply to an image is assigned. Also, in playback mode, the function of one frame forward and one frame back is assigned.

[0059] The accessory shoe 44 is used to attach an external accessory such as an external flash.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 5, a slit-shaped film outlet 50 is provided on the top surface of camera body 10. Film outlet 50 is arranged parallel to the back surface of camera body 10. Instant film with an image printed on it is ejected upward from film outlet 50. At this time, the film is ejected with the viewing surface facing the back surface, and is ejected along the back surface (see FIG. 16). Note that a display 22 is provided on the back surface of camera body 10, and therefore the instant film is ejected along the display surface of display 22. In this embodiment, upward is an example of a specified direction.

[0061] 6, a power terminal 60 and the like are provided on the bottom surface of the camera body 10. The power terminal 60 is used when receiving power from an external power source.

[0062] [Internal structure of a digital camera with a printer] 9 is a diagram showing the general internal configuration of the digital camera with a printer, showing the main components related to the digital camera and printer in the digital camera with a printer 1.

[0063] Inside the printer-equipped digital camera 1, components related to the digital camera include a lens 12 and an image sensor 70. Components related to the printer include an instant film pack 90, a film loading chamber 80, a film feeding mechanism 82, a film transport mechanism 84, and a print head 86.

[0064] [Digital camera related configuration] As described above, the lens 12 is configured as a single focal length lens. The focus of the lens 12 is adjusted by moving the focus lens back and forth along the optical axis. The lens 12 is equipped with an aperture and a shutter (not shown). The aperture adjusts the amount of light passing through the lens 12. The shutter blocks light passing through the lens 12.

[0065] A color image sensor is used as the image sensor 70. As an example, in this embodiment, a color CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor is used. Alternatively, a color CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or the like can be used as the image sensor 70.

[0066] [Printer-related configuration] The film loading chamber 80 is a loading section for the instant film pack 90. ​​The film loading chamber 80 has a recessed space into which the instant film pack 90 fits, and is opened and closed by the film door 20. When the film door 20 is closed, the film loading chamber 80 is sealed in a darkroom state.

[0067] The instant film pack 90 has a structure in which a plurality of instant films 92 are housed in a case 94.

[0068] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an instant film pack. Fig. 11 is a front view of the instant film. Fig. 12 is a rear view of the instant film. In Figs. 10 to 12, the direction indicated by arrow F is the feed direction of the instant film 92. The instant film 92 is fed in the direction indicated by arrow F and ejected from the case 94.

[0069] The instant film 92 is a so-called "mono-sheet type" (also called a sheet film system, integral film, etc.) instant film, in which an image appears on the back of the exposed surface.

[0070] 11 and 12, the instant film 92 of this embodiment has a vertically long card shape. One side of the instant film 92 is configured as an exposure surface 92a, and the other side is configured as an observation surface 92b. The exposure surface 92a is the surface on which an image is recorded by exposure, and the observation surface 92b is the surface on which the recorded image is observed.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 12, an exposure surface 92a of the instant film 92 is provided with an exposure area 92c, a pod portion 92d, and a trap portion 92f.

[0072] The exposure area 92c is an area where an image is recorded by exposure. A pod portion 92d and a trap portion 92f are disposed on either side of the exposure area 92c in the feeding direction F.

[0073] The pod section 92d is disposed on the front side of the exposure area 92c in the feeding direction F. The pod section 92d contains a developing solution pod 92e containing a developing solution therein.

[0074] The trap portion 92f is disposed on the rear side of the exposure region 92c in the feeding direction F. The trap portion 92f contains an absorber 92g.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 11, an observation area 92h is provided on the observation surface 92b of the instant film 92. The observation area 92h is an area where an image is displayed. In the instant film 92 of this embodiment, the observation area 92h has a vertically long shape with an aspect ratio of 4:3 (length:width). An image is displayed in the observation area 92h by developing the exposure area 92c. The observation area 92h is arranged to correspond to the exposure area 92c. A frame 92i is provided around the observation area 92h. Therefore, the image is displayed within the frame. Furthermore, the observation area 92h is set slightly narrower than the exposure area 92c (set to be slightly smaller). Therefore, if an image is recorded over the entire exposure area 92c, the image will be printed with the periphery cropped.

[0076] The instant film 92 is viewed with the trap portion 92f facing up and the pod portion 92d facing down. Therefore, the image is printed with the trap portion 92f facing up and the pod portion 92d facing down. As shown in Figure 11, the pod portion 92d is wider than the trap portion 92f. Therefore, the viewing surface 92b has a wide margin on the pod portion 92d side.

[0077] After exposure, the instant film 92 is developed by spreading the developing solution in the pod portion 92d in the exposure area 92c. The developing solution in the pod portion 92d is squeezed out of the pod portion 92d by passing the instant film 92 between the spreading roller pair 84b, and spread in the exposure area 92c. Any remaining developing solution during the spreading process is captured in the trap portion 92f.

[0078] The case 94 has a rectangular box shape. The case 94 has a rectangular exposure opening 94a on the front side. The case 94 also has a slit-shaped discharge opening 94b on the top side. The instant films 92 are stacked and stored inside the case with the exposure surface 92a facing the front side of the case 94 (the exposure opening 94a side) and the pod section 92d facing the top side of the case 94 (the discharge opening 94b side). The case 94 also has a slit-shaped claw opening 94c on the bottom side. The instant films 92 stored in the case 94 are fed one by one toward the discharge opening 94b by inserting the claw 82a through this claw opening 94c, and are discharged from the discharge opening 94b.

[0079] One instant film pack 90 contains a plurality of (for example, 10) instant films 92.

[0080] The film feeding mechanism 82 feeds out the instant films 92 one by one from the instant film pack 90 loaded in the film loading chamber 80. The film feeding mechanism 82 has a claw 82a that moves back and forth along the feeding direction of the instant films 92, and the claw 82a scrapes out the instant films 92 one by one from the case, feeding the instant films 92 out of the instant film pack 90.

[0081] The film transport mechanism 84 transports the instant film 92 sent out from the instant film pack 90 by the film delivery mechanism 82 at a constant speed. The film transport mechanism 84 includes a transport roller pair 84a and an unfolding roller pair 84b. The transport roller pair 84a is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown) and grips both sides of the instant film 92 to transport it. The unfolding roller pair 84b is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown) and grips the entire instant film 92 to transport it. As the instant film 92 is transported by the unfolding roller pair 84b, the pod portion 92d is crushed and the film is developed.

[0082] The print head 86 records an image on the instant film 92 fed out of the instant film pack 90. ​​The print head 86 is composed of a line-type exposure head. The print head 86 irradiates the exposure surface 92a of the instant film 92, which is transported by the film transport mechanism 84, with printing light, line by line, to record an image on the instant film 92 in a single pass.

[0083] [Electrical configuration of a digital camera with a printer] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an outline of the electrical configuration of a digital camera with a printer.

[0084] As shown in the figure, the digital camera 1 with printer includes an imaging unit 101, a printing unit 102, a display unit 103, a memory unit 104, a communication unit 105, an operation unit 106, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 107, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 108, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 109.

[0085] The imaging unit 101 constitutes the digital camera portion of the digital camera with printer 1. The imaging unit 101 includes a lens 12, an image sensor 70, etc., and electrically captures an image of a subject.

[0086] The print unit 102 constitutes the printer portion of the printer-equipped digital camera 1. The print unit 102 includes a film feeding mechanism 82, a film transport mechanism 84, a print head 86, etc., and prints an image on instant film and ejects it.

[0087] The display unit 103 includes the display 22 and its drive circuit. As described above, the display 22 is used to display a live view and captured images, as well as to display a setting screen when making various settings.

[0088] The storage unit 104 is used to store captured image data as well as various other data. The storage unit 104 is composed of an internal memory and an external memory. The internal memory is composed of, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) incorporating such a semiconductor memory. The external memory is composed of a memory card inserted into a card slot.

[0089] The communication unit 105 communicates wirelessly with external devices. As an example, short-range wireless communication is used for communication. Specifically, Bluetooth (registered trademark) is used. Alternatively, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), infrared communication, etc. can also be used for communication. Furthermore, communication can also be configured to be performed via a wired connection.

[0090] The operation unit 106 includes a power lever 11, an operation ring 13, a first shutter button 14, a cross key 23, a MENU / OK button 24, a back button 25, a playback button 26, a function button 27, an operation lever 40, a second shutter button 41, a reset button 42, an operation dial 43, etc. Each operation member outputs a signal to the CPU 107 according to its operation.

[0091] The CPU 107 controls the overall operation of the printer-equipped digital camera 1. The CPU 107 also performs various processes related to image capture, playback, and printing.

[0092] When capturing an image, the CPU 107 performs image capture control such as AE and AF, display control such as live view, and recording control of the captured image. When capturing an image, the CPU 107 also performs processing to generate image data from the output of the image sensor 70. Furthermore, when capturing an image, the CPU 107 also performs processing to process the image data in accordance with instructions from the user.

[0093] During playback, the CPU 107 also processes image data in accordance with instructions from the user, and controls the recording of the processed image data.

[0094] The CPU 107 performs print-related controls such as feeding control of the instant film 92, transport control of the instant film 92, and drive control of the print head 86. When printing, the CPU 107 also performs processing to generate data for printing. That is, it performs processing to generate data for printing the target image on the instant film by the print head 86.

[0095] The ROM 108 stores programs executed by the CPU 107 and various data required for control and the like.

[0096] The RAM 109 is used as a work area when the CPU 107 performs various processes.

[0097] [Basic operation of a digital camera with a printer] Here, the basic operations of the printer-equipped digital camera 1 for capturing images, playing back images, and printing will be described.

[0098] [Image capture] Imaging is performed by setting the printer-attached digital camera 1 to an imaging mode. When the printer-attached digital camera 1 is turned on, it starts up in imaging mode.

[0099] When the imaging mode is set, a live view is displayed on the display 22. That is, an image captured by the image sensor 70 via the lens 12 is displayed on the display 22 in real time.

[0100] When the first shutter button 14 or the second shutter button 41 is pressed halfway while a live view is displayed on the display 22, preparations for image capture are made. That is, controls for AE, AF, etc. are performed. When the first shutter button 14 or the second shutter button 41 is pressed halfway and then fully pressed, actual image capture is performed. That is, an image for recording is captured.

[0101] The image obtained by the actual imaging is recorded in the storage unit 104. Furthermore, when the actual imaging is performed, the captured image is displayed on the display 22 for a certain period of time (so-called post-view). When a certain period of time has passed since the start of the post-view, or when the first shutter button 14 or the second shutter button 41 is half-pressed while the post-view is being displayed, the post-view display ends and switches to a live-view display.

[0102] The captured image may also be recorded in response to a user instruction. In this case, the captured image is displayed on the display 22 (a so-called preview). The user instructs whether or not to record the image displayed on the display 22. For example, the user instructs recording by pressing the MENU / OK button 24, and instructs cancellation by pressing the back button 25.

[0103] Whether or not the captured image is automatically recorded is determined by a user setting, which is performed, for example, on a menu screen.

[0104] When a print command is issued during post-view or preview, the image being post-viewed or previewed is printed. In other words, the captured image is printed. The print command is issued using the operation lever 40. This will be described later.

[0105] [reproduction] A captured image can be played back by setting the mode of the printer-equipped digital camera 1 to playback mode. Switching from the capture mode to the playback mode is performed by pressing the playback button 26.

[0106] When playback mode is set, the last captured image is displayed on the display 22. After that, when the operation ring 13 or the operation dial 43 is rotated forward, the image is advanced by one frame. That is, the next image is played back. When the operation ring 13 or the operation dial 43 is rotated backward, the image is rewound by one frame. That is, the previous image is played back.

[0107] When a print command is issued during image playback, the image being played back, i.e., the image displayed on the display 22, is printed. The print command is issued using the operating lever 40. This will be described later.

[0108] [Print] As described above, printing is performed using the operating lever 40. That is, while the target image is being displayed on the display 22, operating the operating lever 40 commands printing. A command to print using the operating lever 40 is issued by rotating the operating lever 40 to the command execution position and then releasing it. Specifically, the command is issued by rotating the operating lever 40 to the command execution position and then releasing the finger. The operating lever 40 is biased by a biasing mechanism in the direction opposite to the operating direction, so that releasing the finger returns it to the reference position. Furthermore, during operation, an operating sound (ratchet sound) is generated at regular angular intervals. This more clearly notifies the user that an operation has been performed.

[0109] In the digital camera with printer 1 of this embodiment, the display on the display 22 changes in conjunction with the print operation using the operating lever 40. That is, a predetermined display is made on the display 22 so that the user can see that the image being displayed will be printed. The print operation using the operating lever 40 and the display on the display 22 will be described in detail below.

[0110] Here, printing in the image capture mode will be described, particularly in the case where a captured image is printed in a mode in which the captured image is post-viewed.

[0111] Figure 14 shows the relationship between the operation of the control lever and the display. Figure 14(A) shows the state during post-viewing, and Figure 14(B) shows the state immediately before issuing a command to execute printing.

[0112] 14(A), in the mode for post-viewing a captured image, once the image is captured, it is displayed on the display 22. The image is displayed for a certain period of time. This period may be set by the user.

[0113] In the figure, the symbol FR denotes a remaining film indicator that shows the amount of instant film remaining. The remaining film indicator FR is made up of dots arranged horizontally at regular intervals. The number of dots is the same as the number of instant films loaded in an unused instant film pack. The color changes from left to right with each use. For example, it changes from gray to white. Figure 14(A) shows a state where three films have been used. The remaining film indicator FR is also displayed in live view images, etc.

[0114] If the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position while the captured image is being displayed on the display 22, the image being displayed is set as the image to be printed.

[0115] The fact that the operating lever 40 has been rotated to the command execution position is detected by the switch SW. As described above, the switch SW turns ON when the operating lever 40 has been rotated to the command execution position. Therefore, by detecting that the switch SW has turned ON, it can be detected that the operating lever 40 has been rotated to the command execution position.

[0116] When the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position and the displayed image is set as the image to be printed, preparation for printing begins. First, data for printing is generated. That is, data is generated for printing the image to be printed on instant film using the print head 86. At the same time, as shown in FIG. 14(B), a print image PI is generated and displayed on the display 22. The print image PI is an image representing the print result, as shown in FIG. 14(B). In this embodiment, since the image is printed on instant film, an image of the instant film on which the image to be printed is printed is generated as the print image PI. More specifically, an image of the instant film on which the image to be printed is displayed in the observation area of ​​the observation surface is generated as the print image PI. This image is an image in which the image to be printed is framed. The frame is similar in shape to the frame 92i that constitutes the observation surface 92b of the instant film 92.

[0117] The display 22 displays an animation of the image to be printed being switched over to the image picture PI continuously or step by step.

[0118] 15 is a diagram showing how the display changes over time on the display 22 when the image being displayed on the display is set as the image to be printed.

[0119] As shown in the figure, an animation is displayed showing the image set as the image to be printed gradually switching to the image PI. Specifically, an animation is displayed showing the image being displayed on the display 22 gradually shrinking and fitting into the frame of the instant film.

[0120] When the print image PI is displayed on the display 22, information IC for canceling the print is displayed in the margin area (the area surrounding the print image PI) as shown in FIG. 14(B).

[0121] As shown in the figure, the information IC for canceling a print is composed of the word "Cancel" and a predetermined symbol. This information is displayed to the left of the bottom of the print image PI.

[0122] In the printer-equipped digital camera 1 of this embodiment, printing is canceled by pressing the back button 25. If the back button 25 is pressed after setting the image to be printed but before issuing a command to print, the setting of the image to be printed is released and the printing is canceled. The symbol displayed together with the text information "Cancel" as information for canceling the print is a symbol printed on the surface of the back button 25. This allows the user to recognize that printing can be canceled by pressing the back button 25. In this embodiment, the back button 25 is an example of a second operating member.

[0123] As described above, printing is performed by releasing the operating lever 40 that has been rotated to the command execution position. When a command to print is issued, the printing process begins. That is, the instant film 92 is unwound from the instant film pack 90, and the print head 86 prints (exposes) an image on its exposed surface. The printed image is ejected upward from the film ejection opening 50 provided on the top surface of the camera body 10. At this time, the instant film 92 is ejected with the observation surface 92b facing the rear surface of the camera body 10 and parallel to the rear surface of the camera body 10 (parallel to the display surface of the display 22).

[0124] The release of the operating lever 40 is detected by the switch SW. As described above, the switch SW turns ON when the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position. Therefore, by detecting that the switch SW has changed from ON to OFF, it is possible to detect that the operating lever 40 has been released. The released operating lever 40 automatically rotates in the direction opposite to the operating direction due to the biasing force of the biasing mechanism, and returns to the reference position.

[0125] When printing is performed, the display on the display 22 also changes.

[0126] Figure 16 shows the relationship between printing an image and what is displayed on the display. Figure 16(A) shows what is displayed on the display immediately after a print command is issued. Figure 16(B) shows what is displayed on the display during printing.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 16, in conjunction with the ejection of the instant film 92, the image PI being displayed on the display 22 moves along the ejection direction FF of the instant film 92.

[0128] 17 shows how the display changes over time during printing. (A) in the figure shows the display 22 just before printing begins. (B) to (D) in the figure show the display 22 during printing. (E) in the figure shows the display 22 after printing is complete.

[0129] 17(B) to 17(D), when printing is performed, an animation is displayed of the print image PI moving upward (= in the ejection direction of the instant film) and disappearing from the upper side of the display 22. The timing at which the print image PI disappears from the display 22 and the timing at which printing is completed (the timing at which the instant film is completely ejected) roughly coincide.

[0130] When printing is complete, the display on the display 22 switches to a live view, as shown in Fig. 17(E), which makes it possible to take the next image.

[0131] The printed instant film 92 is not completely ejected from the camera body 10, but rather a portion of it remains inside the camera body as it is ejected through the film ejection opening 50. More specifically, the trailing end of the film in the transport direction is held between the pair of unfolding rollers 84b as it is ejected. The user manually pulls out and collects the ejected instant film 92.

[0132] 18 is a flowchart showing the print operation procedure in the image capture mode, which shows the print operation procedure in the mode for post-viewing captured images.

[0133] First, an image is captured (step S1). After the image is captured, the captured image is post-viewed (step S2). That is, the captured image is displayed on the display 22. The post-viewing is performed for a certain period of time.

[0134] During the post-view, it is determined whether the operating lever 40 has been operated (step S3). Specifically, it is determined whether the operating lever 40 has been rotated to the command execution position.

[0135] If it is determined that the operating lever 40 has been operated during the post-view, the image being post-viewed (the image being displayed on the display 22) is set as the image to be printed (step S5).

[0136] On the other hand, if it is determined that the operating lever 40 has not been operated, it is determined whether or not the post-view has ended (step S4). If the post-view is continuing, the process returns to step S3, and it is determined whether or not the operating lever 40 has been operated.

[0137] The postview ends when a certain time has elapsed since it started, or when the first shutter button 14 or the second shutter button 41 is pressed halfway.

[0138] When the operation lever 40 is operated and the image in the post view is set as the image to be printed, preparation for printing is carried out (step S6). That is, data for printing the image set as the image to be printed is generated. At the same time, an image of the print is generated and displayed on the display 22 (see FIG. 14). The image of the print is displayed as an animation (see FIG. 15).

[0139] Thereafter, it is determined whether or not an instruction to cancel the print has been given (step S7). An instruction to cancel the print is given by operating the back button 25. Therefore, whether or not an instruction to cancel the print has been given is determined depending on whether or not the back button 25 has been operated.

[0140] When a command to cancel printing is given, the process ends. In this case, printing will not be performed even if the operation lever 40 is released. When the process ends, the display 22 switches to a live view display.

[0141] On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no instruction to cancel, it is determined whether there is an instruction to execute printing (step S8), that is, it is determined whether the operation lever 40 has been released.

[0142] If it is determined that the operating lever 40 has been released, the printing process is executed (step S9). That is, the image instructed to be printed (a captured image in this example) is printed on the instant film 92 and discharged from the film discharge port 50. In conjunction with this printing process, the image PI being displayed on the display 22 moves along the discharge direction of the instant film 92 and disappears from the screen (see FIG. 17).

[0143] The above is the procedure for printing in the mode for post-viewing a captured image, but the captured image can also be printed using the same procedure in the mode for previewing a captured image. That is, the captured image can be printed by operating the control lever 40 (rotating it to the command execution position and releasing it) during preview. Also, in playback mode, the image you want to print can be printed by operating the control lever 40 (rotating it to the command execution position and releasing it) while the image is displayed on the display 22.

[0144] As described above, with the printer-equipped digital camera 1 of this embodiment, an image displayed on the display 22 can be printed simply by operating the operating lever 40. The operating lever 40 is operated by simply rotating it to a predetermined position and then releasing it, making it easy to issue a command to print. Furthermore, the direction in which the operating lever 40 rotates when released coincides with the ejection direction of the instant film, making the operation easy to understand.

[0145] [Functions of the operation ring and operation dial] The operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43 function as operation means for frame advance and frame rewind in playback mode, and also have the following function in image capture mode. That is, both have the function of selecting the type of image processing to be performed on the captured image (including live view images). However, the types of image processing that can be selected with the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43 are different.

[0146] The operation ring 13 mainly functions as an operation means for selecting the type of lens-based image processing. Lens-based image processing (lens effect) refers to image processing that produces an effect similar to that obtained when a specific lens is used. Examples include processing to produce an image with reduced peripheral light intensity, a soft-focus image, a so-called toy camera-style image, a high-key image, a low-key image, etc. In this embodiment, the operation ring 13 is an example of a third operation member. Furthermore, the image processing (lens-based image processing) that can be selected by operating the operation ring 13 is an example of a first image processing.

[0147] On the other hand, the operation dial 43 mainly functions as an operation means for selecting the type of film-based image processing. Film-based image processing (film effect) refers to image processing that produces an effect similar to that obtained when changing the film in a so-called film camera. Examples include processing to monochrome or sepia tones. In addition, film-based image processing includes processing that changes the color tone (shade and intensity of color), gradation (softness and hardness), etc. In this embodiment, the operation dial 43 is an example of a fourth operation member. Moreover, the image processing that can be selected by operating the operation dial 43 (film-based image processing) is an example of a second image processing.

[0148] The operation ring 13 has a default setting of "no processing," and the type of image processing selected changes with each click of rotation. The operation dial 43 also has a default setting of "no processing," and the type of image processing selected changes with each click of rotation.

[0149] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing what appears on the display when the operation ring is operated.

[0150] As shown in the figure, when the operation ring 13 is operated, a lens effect GUI (Graphical User Interface) is displayed on the display 22. The lens effect GUI is composed of a circle C with a partially cut-out shape and multiple dots displayed at regular intervals on the circle C.

[0151] Circle C is displayed so that a part of it can be seen from the right side of display 22. Circle C is also located at a position substantially at the same height as the optical axis of lens 12 in the height direction (up-down direction) of camera body 10. In other words, circle C is located at the same height as the rotation axis of operation ring 13.

[0152] The dots are composed of one large dot dot1 and multiple small dots dot2. The large dot dot1 is positioned at a position substantially at the same height as the optical axis of the lens 12 in the height direction of the camera body 10. When the operation ring 13 is operated, the small dots dot2 move on the circle C in the operation direction.

[0153] Information IL about the type of image processing currently selected is displayed inside circle C. This information IL is made up of "Lens #n XXXX." "Lens" indicates that the image processing was selected by operating the operation ring 13. The "n" in "#n" displays the number of the selected image processing. "XXXX" displays the name of the selected image processing. The example shown in Figure 19 shows an example where image processing numbered "1" and named "Claredon" has been selected.

[0154] When the operation ring 13 is operated, the lens effect GUI appears from the left side of the screen, is displayed for a predetermined time, and then disappears from the screen, sinking into the left side of the screen as it disappears.

[0155] FIG. 20 shows what appears on the display when the operation dial is operated.

[0156] As shown in the figure, when the operation dial 43 is operated, a film effect GUI is displayed on the display 22. The film effect GUI is composed of a straight line L extending in the vertical direction of the display 22 and a number of dots displayed at regular intervals on the straight line L. The straight line L is positioned near the right edge of the display 22. The direction in which the straight line L extends coincides with the operation direction (vertical direction) of the operation dial 43 on the back of the camera body 10.

[0157] The dots are made up of one large dot dot1 and multiple small dots dot2. The large dot dot1 is located at a position in the height direction of the camera body 10 that is substantially the same height as the position of the rotation axis of the operation dial 43. When the operation dial 43 is operated, the small dot dot2 moves on a straight line L in the operation direction.

[0158] At the right end of the display 22, information IF about the type of image processing currently selected is displayed along a straight line L. This information IF is composed of "Film #n XXXX." "Film" indicates that the image processing was selected by operating the operation dial 43. The "n" in "#n" displays the number of the selected image processing. "XXXX" displays the name of the selected image processing. The example shown in Figure 20 shows an example where image processing number "2" and name "Monochrome" has been selected.

[0159] When the operation dial 43 is operated, the film effect GUI appears from the right side of the screen, is displayed for a predetermined time, and then disappears from the screen, sinking into the right side of the screen as it disappears.

[0160] Two image processing methods can be combined and used using the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43. Therefore, for example, if m types of image processing can be selected using the operation ring 13 and n types of image processing can be selected using the operation dial 43, a total of n×m types of image processing are possible.

[0161] If the operation dial 43 is operated while the lens effect GUI is displayed, the display on the display 22 switches to the film effect GUI. When the display switches, the lens effect GUI disappears from the left side of the screen, and instead the film effect GUI appears from the right side of the screen.

[0162] Furthermore, if the operation ring 13 is operated while the film effect GUI is being displayed, the display on the display 22 switches to the lens effect GUI. When the display switches, the film effect GUI disappears on the right side of the screen, and instead the lens effect GUI appears on the left side of the screen.

[0163] The lens effect GUI and film effect GUI are displayed as semi-transparent images superimposed on the image currently being displayed on the display 22.

[0164] Image processing is also performed on live view images. That is, operations of the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43 are immediately reflected in the live view image. Therefore, the user can confirm what kind of image processing will be performed by checking the live view image.

[0165] [Variations] [Cancel Print] In the above embodiment, the back button 25 is operated before issuing a command to cancel printing, but the command may also be cancelled after printing has been issued. For example, a waiting time may be provided when starting printing, allowing the user to cancel printing during the waiting time. The waiting time is an example of the time T.

[0166] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the print operation procedure.

[0167] First, the operation lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position (step S11), and the image being displayed on the display 22 is set as the image to be printed (step S12). Also, the image being displayed on the display 22 is set as the image to be printed, and preparation for printing is performed (step S13).

[0168] Here, it is determined whether or not a cancellation instruction has been given before a print execution instruction has been given (step S14). That is, it is determined whether or not the back button 25 has been operated. If a cancellation instruction has been given before a print execution instruction has been given, the process ends.

[0169] On the other hand, if there is no instruction to cancel, it is determined whether there is an instruction to execute printing (step S15), that is, it is determined whether the operation lever 40 has been released.

[0170] When a command to execute printing is issued, the printing process starts after the waiting time T has elapsed. Therefore, when a command to execute printing is issued, timing is started to confirm the elapse of the waiting time T (step S16).

[0171] After timing starts, it is determined whether or not a cancellation instruction has been given after the print execution instruction has been given (step S17). A cancellation instruction is given by operating the back button 25, just as before the print execution instruction has been given. If a cancellation instruction has been given, the process ends.

[0172] On the other hand, if there is no instruction to cancel, it is determined whether or not the waiting time T has elapsed (step S18). If the waiting time T has not elapsed, the process returns to step S17, and it is determined whether or not there is an instruction to cancel.

[0173] On the other hand, if the waiting time T has elapsed, the printing process is started (step S19).

[0174] In this way, a configuration can be adopted in which a print command can be cancelled even after it has been issued. This allows the command to be cancelled afterwards even if the command to execute a print is issued by mistake. Also, for example, even if the operation lever 40 is operated unintentionally (for example, if the operation lever 40 is caught on something and is operated), the print can be cancelled afterwards.

[0175] Note that, as in this example, when cancellation after a print instruction is made possible, cancellation before the instruction may not be possible. In other words, cancellation may only be possible after the instruction is made. This setting may also be configured to be selectable by the user. When cancellation only before a print instruction is made possible, there is no need for a waiting time, so printing can be performed quickly. On the other hand, when cancellation after a print instruction is made possible, as described above, a print instruction caused by an erroneous operation can be canceled after the fact.

[0176] [Instruction to cancel printing] In the above embodiment, the operation of the back button 25 is used to instruct the printer to cancel printing, but the method of operation to instruct the printer to cancel printing is not limited to this. The operation of another button may also be used to instruct the printer to cancel printing. The operation of the control lever 40 may also be used to instruct the printer to cancel printing. For example, the operation of the control lever 40 may be used to instruct the printer to cancel printing by slowly returning the control lever 40 to its reference position. In this case, a separate means for detecting the amount of operation or speed of operation of the control lever 40 per unit time is provided. Furthermore, if a waiting time is provided, the printer may also be cancelled by operating the control lever 40 again during the waiting time. These operations are examples of the third operation.

[0177] [Image processing] In the above embodiment, the function of the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43 in the image capture mode is to perform predetermined image processing on the image to be captured when the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43 are operated. Similarly, predetermined image processing may be performed on an image that has already been captured by operating the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43. Note that if the frame forward and frame back functions are assigned to the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43, the mode is switched to the image processing mode and the image processing function is assigned to the operation ring 13 and the operation dial 43. Switching to the image processing mode is performed, for example, by pressing the function button 27. Also, returning to the playback mode is performed by pressing the playback button 26.

[0178] [Other embodiments] [Operation lever function] In the above embodiment, the operation lever is used to operate the print function, but the functions that can be assigned to the operation lever are not limited to this. Below, we will explain the case where the operation lever is assigned to operate other functions.

[0179] (1) Slideshow operation As another example of the use of the operating lever 40, the operating lever 40 can be used to operate a slide show.

[0180] FIG. 22 is a conceptual diagram of a slide show.

[0181] A slide show is a form of a method for playing back captured images, in which a series of captured images are displayed on a display by switching between them in sequence.

[0182] As shown in FIG. 22, in this example, images displayed in a horizontal row slide horizontally at a constant speed, thereby switching between images one after another.

[0183] In the playback mode, when the operating lever 40 is rotated to the command execution position, the mode changes to the slide show mode and the slide show starts.

[0184] The slide show continues while the operating lever 40 is operated to the command execution position. In other words, the slide show continues while the switch SW is ON. On the other hand, the slide show ends when the operating lever 40 is released and the switch SW is turned OFF.

[0185] In this way, the operating lever 40 can also be used to operate the slide show, which makes it easy to run the slide show.

[0186] If a means for detecting the rotation angle of the operating lever 40 is provided, the following control can be further performed. That is, the speed of the slide show can be varied according to the rotation angle of the operating lever 40. The rotation angle of the operating lever 40 is the angle of rotation from the reference position. Therefore, it is at its maximum at the command execution position. The rotation angle of the operating lever 40 is detected using a known detection means such as an encoder.

[0187] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the relationship between the operation of the control lever and the switching of the display.

[0188] In this example, the speed of the slide show increases as the rotation angle of the operating lever 40 increases. The faster the slide show speed, the faster the images change.

[0189] 10A shows the state of the display 22 and the operating lever 40 before the slide show starts. In this state, one frame of a captured image is displayed on the display 22. The operating lever 40 is not yet operated (rotation angle: 0 degrees).

[0190] FIG. 2B shows the state of the display 22 and the control lever 40 immediately after the start of a slide show. As shown in the figure, by rotating the control lever 40 to the command execution position, the mode switches to slide show mode and the slide show begins. The slide show starts playback from the image that was displayed immediately before. Images are played back in the order in which they were captured (recorded). In this example, when the mode switches to slide show mode, images are displayed at a smaller size than in normal playback mode, with portions of the previous and next images displayed on both sides. The previous image refers to the image immediately before the image being played back in the image playback order. In slide show mode, a portion of the previous image is displayed to the left of the image being played back. The next image refers to the image immediately after the image being played back in the image playback order. In slide show mode, a portion of the next image is displayed to the right of the image being played back. In addition, in slide show mode, the word "Slideshow" is displayed in the blank area at the top of the screen to notify users that the mode is slide show mode.

[0191] FIG. 1C shows how the image changes. As shown in the figure, in this example, the image slides to the left and changes to the next image. The figure also shows a state in which the slide show speed has been slowed down. In this case, the operating lever 40 is returned to the reference position, and the rotation angle is reduced.

[0192] 10D shows a state in which the speed of the slide show is further slowed down. In this case, the operating lever 40 is returned to the reference position side, and the rotation angle is further reduced.

[0193] 10(E) shows the state after the slide show has ended. As shown in the figure, the slide show ends when the operating lever 40 is returned to the reference position. When the slide show ends, the normal playback mode is restored. At this time, the image that was displayed just before the slide show ended is displayed on the display 22 as a single frame.

[0194] In this way, by varying the speed of the slide show in accordance with the rotation angle of the operating lever 40, the operability of the slide show can be further improved.

[0195] In the above example, the slideshow format is configured such that the images being played are switched by sliding them horizontally, but the format of the slideshow is not limited to this. It is also possible to adopt a format in which the images displayed on the display 22 are switched one by one in order. In this case, the speed of the slideshow is the speed at which the images are switched. The faster the image switching speed, the shorter the display time for each image.

[0196] (2) Image editing operations If the operating lever 40 is provided with a means for detecting the rotation angle, the operating lever 40 can be used to operate image processing. Specifically, it can be used to adjust the strength (degree of processing) of image processing.

[0197] Depending on the type of image processing, changing the processing strength may change the effect on the image. Therefore, by performing this adjustment operation using the operation lever 40, good operability can be provided.

[0198] In this example, the intensity of image processing is adjusted by the rotation angle of the operating lever 40. Specifically, the intensity of image processing increases as the rotation angle of the operating lever 40 increases. Therefore, the intensity is set to the maximum at the command execution position.

[0199] 24 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the operation of the control lever and the strength of image processing, showing an example of image processing that reduces peripheral illumination.

[0200] 1A shows the unprocessed state, in which the operating lever 40 is in the reference position (rotation angle: 0 degrees).

[0201] (B) to (D) in the same figure show the state where the strength of image processing has been increased. (C) in the same figure shows the state where the strength of image processing has been increased even more than in (B) in the same figure. (D) in the same figure shows the state where the strength has been increased even more than in (C) in the same figure. Note that (D) in the same figure shows the case where the strength is set to the maximum.

[0202] As shown in (B) to (D) of the same figure, the strength of image processing increases as the rotation angle of the operation lever 40 increases. Also, as shown in (D) of the same figure, the strength is maximum at the command execution position.

[0203] After adjusting the intensity of image processing using the operation lever 40, the adjusted intensity is confirmed by pressing the MENU / OK button 24.

[0204] The adjusted intensity may be confirmed by releasing the operating lever 40. That is, the adjusted intensity is confirmed by releasing the finger from the operating lever 40 when the adjustment is completed.

[0205] To readjust, the operating lever 40 is again rotated. When the operating lever 40 is operated again, the intensity previously adjusted is reset, and the intensity is again adjusted according to the rotation angle.

[0206] In this way, by changing the intensity of image processing in accordance with the rotation angle of the operating lever 40, it is possible to further improve the operability when processing images.

[0207] (3) Other Additionally, in playback mode, the operating lever 40 can also be used to operate the image frame by frame. That is, each time the operating lever 40 is operated (rotated to the command execution position and released), the image being played back is advanced by one frame.

[0208] It can also be used to switch to auto print mode in the image capture mode. Auto print mode is a mode in which a captured image is automatically printed. Therefore, when the operation lever 40 is operated once to capture an image, printing is performed without any print command.

[0209] [Shape of the first operating member] The first operating member is not limited to a shape that imitates a film winding lever as in the above embodiment, but may be in various shapes, for example, a dial shape.

[0210] [Printing method] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which instant film is used as the medium and an image is printed using an exposure head, but the medium and printing method used are not limited to this. Alternatively, for example, a method using thermal paper as the medium and printing an image using a thermal head (so-called direct thermal printing method) can be employed. This method includes the ZINK (Zero Ink) method, etc. It is also possible to employ a method using an ink ribbon and a thermal head to print on the medium (so-called thermal transfer method), a method using an inkjet head to print on the medium (inkjet method), etc.

[0211] [Processor] The hardware that realizes the control unit and processing units of a digital camera with a printer can be composed of various processors. These processors include a central processing unit (CPU), which is a general-purpose processor that executes programs and functions as various processing units; a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacturing; and a dedicated electrical circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), which is a processor with a circuit configuration specifically designed to perform specific processing. A processing unit constituting an inspection support device may be composed of one of the above-mentioned processors, or may be composed of two or more processors of the same or different types. For example, a processing unit may be composed of multiple FPGAs or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA. Alternatively, multiple processing units may be composed of a single processor. A first example of multiple processing units being composed of a single processor is a configuration in which a single processor is composed of one or more CPUs and software, as typified by computers such as client and server computers, and this processor functions as multiple processing units. Second, there is a form using a processor that realizes the functions of an entire system including multiple processing units on a single IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, as typified by a System on Chip (SoC). In this way, various processing units are configured as a hardware structure using one or more of the above-mentioned various processors. Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors is, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements. [Explanation of symbols]

[0212] 1. Digital camera with printer 10 Camera Body 10a Notch 11 Power Lever 12 Lenses 13 Operation ring 14 First shutter button 15 Strobe 16 Self-timer lamp 17 Selfie Mirror 20 Film Door 20A Film door hinge 21 Unlock lever 22 Display 23 D-pad 24 OK button 25 buttons 26 Play button 27 Function button 30 Card slot cover 40 Operating lever 40A Operating lever body 40B Lever part of the operating lever 40a Contact part of operating lever 40b1 Lever body of the lever 40b2 Lever tip of lever 41 Second shutter button 42 Reset button 43 Operation Dial 44 Accessory shoe 50 Film outlet 60 Power terminal 70 Image Sensor 80 Film loading chamber 82 Film delivery mechanism 82a Claw 84 Film transport mechanism 84a conveying roller pair 84b Spreading roller pair 86 print head 90 instant film packs 92 instant film 92a Instant film exposure surface 92b Instant film viewing surface 92c Instant film exposure area 92d instant film pod 92e Instant Film Processing Solution Pod 92f Instant film trap 92g instant film absorber Observation area of ​​92h instant film 92i instant film viewing frame 94 cases 94a Case exposure opening 94b Case outlet 94c Case Claw Opening 101 Imaging unit 102 Printing Department 103 Display section 104 Storage section 105 Communications Department 106 Operation section 107 CPU 108 ROM 109 RAM C. The circles that make up the lens effect GUI CCW operation direction of the control lever F Instant film feed direction FF Instant film ejection direction FR film remaining display Information for canceling IC print IF Image processing type information IL Image processing type information L Line that makes up the film effect GUI PI image SW switch dot1 large dot dot2 small dot S1~S9 Printing procedure in the image capture mode S11~S19 Printing procedure

Claims

1. A digital camera with a printer, An imaging unit; a printing unit that prints images on media and ejects them; A display unit; a first operating member that is rotated about a rotation axis from a first position in a first direction against a biasing force, and that, when released, is rotated by the biasing force in a second direction opposite to the first direction and returns to the first position; a third operating member that is rotated; a fourth operating member that is rotated; a processor; Equipped with The processor: performing control to switch the type of first image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in response to an operation of the third operation member; performing control to switch the type of second image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in response to an operation of the fourth operation member; a control for changing the intensity of image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in accordance with the rotation angle of the first operation member; Digital camera with printer.

2. the image being displayed on the display unit is a live view image being captured by the imaging unit; 2. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 1.

3. The first operating member has a lever portion, and the lever portion is rotated around the rotation axis from the first position in the first direction against an urging force, and when the lever portion is released, the urging force causes the lever portion to rotate in the second direction opposite to the first direction and return to the first position.

3. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 1.

4. the third operating member is rotated around the optical axis of the lens, the fourth operating member is rotated along the ejection direction of the medium, the first image processing is a lens system image processing, The second image processing is a film-based image processing.

4. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 1.

5. When the first operating member is rotated again after receiving an operation to confirm the adjusted intensity, the processor resets the adjusted intensity and performs control to change again the intensity of the image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit according to the rotation angle of the first operating member.

5. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 1.

6. A digital camera with a printer, An imaging unit; a printing unit that prints images on media and ejects them; A display unit; a first operating member that is rotated about a rotation axis from a first position in a first direction against a biasing force, and that, when released, is rotated by the biasing force in a second direction opposite to the first direction and returns to the first position; An operating member; a processor; Equipped with The processor: Controlling switching of the type of image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in response to an operation of the operation member; performing control to change the intensity of image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit in accordance with the rotation angle of the first operation member; When the first operating member is rotated again after receiving an operation to confirm the adjusted intensity, the adjusted intensity is reset, and control is performed to change again the intensity of the image processing to be performed on the image being displayed on the display unit according to the rotation angle of the first operating member. Digital camera with printer.

7. A digital camera with a printer, An imaging unit; a printing unit that prints images on media and ejects them; A display unit; a first operating member that is rotated about a rotation axis from a first position in a first direction against a biasing force, and that, when released, is rotated by the biasing force in a second direction opposite to the first direction and returns to the first position; a processor; Equipped with The processor: In response to an operation of rotating the first operating member to a second position, a control is started to sequentially switch and display the captured images on the display unit at a predetermined speed; ending the control of sequentially switching and displaying the captured images on the display unit at a predetermined speed in response to an operation of returning the first operating member to the first position; Digital camera with printer.

8. The processor further performs control to change the speed at which the images are switched in accordance with the rotation angle of the first operation member.

8. The digital camera with a built-in printer according to claim 7.

9. The first operating member has a lever portion, and the lever portion is rotated around the rotation axis from the first position in the first direction against an urging force, and when the lever portion is released, the urging force causes the lever portion to rotate in the second direction opposite to the first direction and return to the first position.

9. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 7 or 8.

10. Further provided is an operation member for performing frame forward and frame back operations, The processor: In a playback mode, control is performed to sequentially switch and display captured images on the display unit in response to an operation of the operation member; in a playback mode, in response to an operation of rotating the first operating member to a second position, start a control of sequentially switching and displaying the captured images on the display unit at a predetermined speed, and in response to an operation of returning the first operating member to the first position, end the control of sequentially switching and displaying the captured images on the display unit at a predetermined speed.

10. The digital camera with a built-in printer according to claim 7.

11. the printing unit ejects the printed medium in a specified direction along the display surface of the display unit; the first operating member is disposed so that the rotation axis is perpendicular to the ejection direction of the medium, and the second direction is set to the same direction as the ejection direction of the medium; 11. The digital camera with a printer according to claim 1.

Images