Imaging device

Abstract

To provide an imaging device that makes it easier to implement image stabilization tailored to the user's preferences. [Solution] The imaging device (100) includes an image sensor (110) that captures an image of a subject via an optical system (200), an image stabilization unit (183) that performs image stabilization in accordance with the shaking of the device itself, a display unit (120) that displays the image captured by the image sensor, an operation unit (130) that receives user operations, and a control unit (140) that controls the image stabilization unit based on user operations on the operation unit. The control unit displays a setting screen on the display unit for setting the correction strength, which indicates the degree to which image stabilization should be performed, and receives user operations on the setting screen via the operation unit and sets the correction strength according to the user operations.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an imaging device having a shake correction function.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an imaging device for creating a state where, in shake correction, when a user selects the strength of correction, even if the correctable area is constant, the range where strong correction is effective is wide. This imaging device includes shake detection means for detecting shake vibration and a correction amount calculation unit. The correction amount calculation unit calculates the correction amount of the shake correction process corresponding to the shake amount data detected by the shake detection means, shake correction type information indicating the strength of the shake correction process, distance relationship information between the current correction position and the end of the correctable range, and correction strengthening flag information.

[0003] Patent Document 2 discloses a video camera aimed at obtaining a more natural moving image for a moving subject while performing shake correction according to the movement of the camera housing or the like. This video camera sets a correction amount upper limit value and a correction ratio based on the image shake amount, zoom magnification, and switch operation amount. In the auto mode, the correction ratio and the correction amount upper limit value can be changed in conjunction with the zoom magnification during shooting, and in the manual mode, the correction ratio can be changed by operating a variable lever or dial. The correction amount upper limit value / correction ratio is displayed on the lower side of the viewfinder screen.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides an imaging device that makes it easier to implement image stabilization that suits the user's preferences. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In this disclosure, the imaging device comprises an image sensor that captures an image of a subject via an optical system, an image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization in accordance with the shaking of the device, a display unit that displays the image captured by the image sensor, an operation unit that receives user input, and a control unit that controls the image stabilization unit based on user input from the operation unit. The control unit displays a setting screen on the display unit for setting the correction strength, which indicates the degree of image stabilization to be performed, and receives user input from the operation unit on the setting screen and sets the correction strength according to the user input. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The imaging device described in this disclosure makes it easier to achieve image stabilization that suits the user's preferences. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Perspective view of a digital camera according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the configuration of the digital camera according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Block diagram showing the configuration of the BIS processing unit in the digital camera of Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Block diagram showing the configuration of the OIS processing unit in the digital camera of Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Flowchart illustrating the operation of the digital camera in Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] This diagram shows an example of the display of the settings menu for image stabilization in a digital camera. [Figure 7] This diagram shows an example of the live view screen display in a digital camera. [Figure 8] A flowchart illustrating the process of setting the correction intensity in a digital camera. [Figure 9] Figure showing an example of a correction strength setting screen in the digital camera of Embodiment 1 [Figure 10] Figure showing an example of a test display screen in a digital camera [Figure 11] Figure showing an example of a correction strength setting screen when the horizontal lock function of the digital camera is enabled [Figure 12] Flowchart exemplifying the reflection process of user settings in a digital camera [Figure 13] Figure exemplifying a data structure for shake synchronization correction in a digital camera [Figure 14] Figure showing an example of a selection screen for correction strength setting in the digital camera of Embodiment 2 [Figure 15] Figure exemplifying a data structure of management information for correction strength in the digital camera of Embodiment 2 [Figure 16] Figure showing an example of a correction strength setting screen in the digital camera of Embodiment 3 [Figure 17] Figure for explaining the reflection process of user settings in the digital camera of Embodiment 3 [Figure 18] Block diagram exemplifying the configuration of an imaging system according to a modification

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with appropriate reference to the drawings. However, in the detailed description, unnecessary parts of the description regarding the prior art and substantially the same configurations may be omitted for the sake of simplicity. Also, the following description and the attached drawings are disclosed so that those skilled in the art can fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter of the claims. [[ID=z38]]

[0010] (Embodiment 1) In Embodiment 1, an example of an interchangeable-lens digital camera having a shake correction function as an example of an imaging device will be described.

[0011] 1. Configuration FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a digital camera 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the digital camera 1 according to Embodiment 1. The digital camera 1 is composed of a camera body 100 and an interchangeable lens 200 that can be attached to and detached from the camera body 100.

[0012] In the following description, the function of moving the correction lens in the interchangeable lens 200 to correct shake is referred to as the "OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) function". Also, the function of moving the imaging element in the camera body 100 to correct shake is referred to as the "BIS (Body Image Stabilizer) function".

[0013] Also, in the following description, the rotational directions corresponding to the horizontal and vertical directions of the imaging element in the digital camera 1 are referred to as the yaw direction and the pitch direction, respectively, and the rotational direction about the rotation axis along the optical axis of the digital camera 1 is referred to as the roll direction (see FIG. 1).

[0014] 1-1. Camera Body The camera body 100 (an example of an imaging device) includes an image sensor 110, a liquid crystal monitor 120, an operation unit 130, a camera control unit 140, a body mount 150, and a card slot 170.

[0015] The camera control unit 140 controls the operation of the entire digital camera 1 by controlling components such as the image sensor 110 in response to an instruction from the release button. The camera control unit 140 transmits a vertical synchronization signal to a timing generator (TG) 112. In parallel with this, the camera control unit 140 generates an exposure synchronization signal. The camera control unit 140 periodically transmits the generated exposure synchronization signal to the lens control unit 240 via the body mount 150 and the lens mount 250. The camera control unit 140 uses a DRAM (RAM) 141 as a work memory during control operations and image processing operations.

[0016] The image sensor 110 is an example of an image sensor that captures an image of a subject incident through the interchangeable lens 200 and generates image data. The image sensor 110 is, for example, a CCD, a CMOS image sensor, or an NMOS image sensor. The generated image data is digitized by an AD converter (ADC) 111. The digitized image data is subjected to predetermined image processing by the camera control unit 140. These predetermined image processing processes include, for example, gamma correction, white balance correction, scratch correction, YC conversion, electronic zoom, and JPEG compression.

[0017] The image sensor 110 operates at timings controlled by the timing generator 112. The image sensor generates still images, moving images, or through images for recording. Through images are mainly moving images and are displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 120 for the user to determine the composition for capturing still images.

[0018] The liquid crystal monitor 120 displays images such as through images and various information such as menu screens. The liquid crystal monitor 120 is an example of a display unit in this embodiment. Other types of display devices, such as an organic EL display device, may be used instead of the liquid crystal monitor.

[0019] The control unit 130 includes various operating components such as a release button for instructing the start of shooting, a mode dial for setting the shooting mode, and a power switch. The control unit 130 also includes a touch panel superimposed on the LCD monitor 120.

[0020] The card slot 170 can accommodate a memory card 171 and controls the memory card 171 based on control from the camera control unit 140. The digital camera 1 can store image data in the memory card 171 and read image data from the memory card 171.

[0021] The body mount 150 is mechanically and electrically connectable to the lens mount 250 of the interchangeable lens 200. The body mount 150 can send and receive data to and from the interchangeable lens 200 via the lens mount 250. The body mount 150 transmits the exposure synchronization signal received from the camera control unit 140 to the lens control unit 240 via the lens mount 250. It also transmits other control signals received from the camera control unit 140 to the lens control unit 240 via the lens mount 250. Furthermore, the body mount 150 transmits signals received from the lens control unit 240 via the lens mount 250 to the camera control unit 140.

[0022] Furthermore, the camera body 100 is configured to implement the BIS function and further includes a gyro sensor 184 (shake detection unit) for detecting camera body 100 shake, and a BIS processing unit 183 for controlling shake correction processing based on the detection result of the gyro sensor 184. In addition, the camera body 100 is equipped with a sensor drive unit 181 for moving the image sensor 110 and a position sensor 182 for detecting the position of the image sensor 110.

[0023] The sensor drive unit 181 can be implemented, for example, by a magnet and a flat coil. The sensor drive unit 181 may also include other motors or actuators. The position sensor 182 is a sensor that detects the position of the image sensor 110 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system. The position sensor 182 can be implemented, for example, by a magnet and a Hall element.

[0024] The BIS processing unit 183 controls the sensor drive unit 181 based on signals from the gyro sensor 184 and the position sensor 182 to shift the image sensor 110 into a plane perpendicular to the optical axis in order to compensate for camera body 100 shaking. There are mechanical limitations to the range in which the image sensor 110 can be driven by the sensor drive unit 181. In the BIS function, the range in which the image sensor 110 can be driven by the sensor drive unit 181 is called the "element drive range".

[0025] 1-2. Interchangeable lenses The interchangeable lens 200 comprises an optical system, a lens control unit 240, and a lens mount 250. The optical system includes a zoom lens 210, an OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) lens 220, a focus lens 230, and an aperture 260.

[0026] The zoom lens 210 is a lens for changing the magnification of the subject image formed by the optical system. The zoom lens 210 consists of one or more lenses. The zoom lens 210 is driven by a zoom drive unit 211. The zoom drive unit 211 includes a zoom ring that can be operated by the user. Alternatively, the zoom drive unit 211 may include a zoom lever and an actuator or motor. The zoom drive unit 211 moves the zoom lens 210 along the optical axis of the optical system in response to user operation.

[0027] The focus lens 230 is a lens used in the optical system to change the focus state of the subject image formed on the image sensor 110. The focus lens 230 is composed of one or more lenses. The focus lens 230 is driven by the focus drive unit 233.

[0028] The focus drive unit 233 includes an actuator or motor and moves the focus lens 230 along the optical axis of the optical system based on the control of the lens control unit 240. The focus drive unit 233 can be implemented using a DC motor, stepping motor, servo motor, or ultrasonic motor, etc.

[0029] The OIS lens 220 is a lens used in the OIS function to correct blur in the subject image formed by the optical system of the interchangeable lens 200. The OIS lens 220 reduces blur in the subject image on the image sensor 110 by moving in a direction that cancels out the blur of the digital camera 1. The OIS lens 220 is composed of one or more lenses. The OIS lens 220 is driven by the OIS drive unit 221.

[0030] The OIS drive unit 221 shifts the OIS lens 220 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system, under control from the OIS processing unit 223. There are mechanical limitations to the range in which the OIS lens 220 can be driven by the OIS drive unit 221. The range in which the OIS lens 220 can be driven by the OIS drive unit 221 is called the "lens drive range". The OIS drive unit 221 can be implemented, for example, by a magnet and a flat coil. The position sensor 222 is a sensor that detects the position of the OIS lens 220 in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the optical system. The position sensor 222 can be implemented, for example, by a magnet and a Hall element. The OIS processing unit 223 controls the OIS drive unit 221 based on the output of the position sensor 222 and the output of the gyro sensor 224 (shake detection unit).

[0031] The aperture 260 adjusts the amount of light incident on the image sensor 110. The aperture 260 is driven by an aperture drive unit 262, which controls the size of its opening. The aperture drive unit 262 includes a motor or actuator.

[0032] The gyro sensor 184 or 224 detects shake (vibration) in the yaw, pitch, and roll directions based on the angular change per unit time, i.e., angular velocity, of the digital camera 1. The gyro sensor 184 or 224 outputs an angular velocity signal indicating the amount of shake (angular velocity) detected to the BIS processing unit 183 or OIS processing unit 223. The angular velocity signal output by the gyro sensor 184 or 224 may contain a wide range of frequency components due to camera shake, mechanical noise, etc. Other sensors capable of detecting shake in the digital camera 1 can be used instead of the gyro sensor. Furthermore, the gyro sensor 224 of the interchangeable lens 200 does not need to detect shake in the roll direction.

[0033] The camera control unit 140 and the lens control unit 240 may be configured as hardwired electronic circuits or as a microcomputer using a program. For example, the camera control unit 140 and the lens control unit 240 can be implemented using various processors such as a CPU, MPU, GPU, DSU, FPGA, or ASIC.

[0034] 1-3. Image stabilization mechanism The image stabilization mechanism, which is configured to realize the various image stabilization functions of the digital camera 1 in this embodiment, will be explained with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0035] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the BIS processing unit 183 in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the OIS processing unit 223 in the digital camera 1. 1-3-1. BIS Processing Unit The configuration of the BIS processing unit 183 in the camera body 100 will be explained using Figure 3. The BIS processing unit 183 includes an HPF (high-pass filter) 406, a phase compensation unit 407, an integrator 408, and a PID control unit 410.

[0036] The HPF406 blocks drift components by, for example, blocking predetermined low-frequency components contained in the signal received from the gyro sensor 184.

[0037] The phase compensation unit 407 corrects the phase delay caused by the sensor drive unit 181 and other components in the signal received from the HPF 406.

[0038] The integrator 408 integrates the signal indicating the angular velocity of the vibration input from the phase compensation unit 407 to generate a signal indicating the angle of the vibration (hereinafter referred to as the "vibration detection signal"). The vibration detection signal from the integrator 408 is input to the PID control unit 410. Here, the BIS processing unit 183 may use or add filter configurations other than the above configuration, such as an LPF (low-pass filter).

[0039] The PID control unit 410 generates a drive signal to shift the image sensor 110 based on the output from the position sensor 182 and the output from the integrator 408, and outputs it to the sensor drive unit 181. The sensor drive unit 181 drives the image sensor 110 based on the drive signal. For example, the PID control unit 410 generates a drive signal to perform PID control based on the difference between the shake detection signal from the integrator 408 and the current position information of the sensor drive unit 181.

[0040] In the BIS processing unit 183 of this embodiment, for example, when a correction coefficient such as correction intensity or correction ratio, described later, is set by the camera control unit 140, the PID control unit 410 generates a drive signal indicating the amount of image stabilization obtained by multiplying the amount of image stabilization to cancel out the entire difference by the correction coefficient. In this way, the BIS processing unit 183 of this embodiment can perform image stabilization that reflects the correction coefficient.

[0041] 1-3-2. OIS Processing Unit The configuration of the OIS processing unit 223 in the interchangeable lens 200 will be explained using Figure 4. The OIS processing unit 223 includes an HPF 306, a phase compensation unit 307, an integrator 308, and a PID control unit 310.

[0042] The HPF306 blocks a predetermined low-frequency component contained in the signal received from the gyro sensor 224, for example, to block drift components.

[0043] The phase compensation unit 307 corrects the phase delay caused by the OIS drive unit 221 and other factors in the signal received from the HPF 306.

[0044] The integrator 308 integrates the signal indicating the angular velocity of the shake input from the phase compensation unit 307 to generate a shake detection signal indicating the angle of the shake. The shake detection signal from the integrator 308 is input to the PID control unit 310. Here, the OIS processing unit 223 may use or add filter configurations other than the above configuration, such as an LPF.

[0045] The PID control unit 310 performs PID control based on, for example, the difference between the shake detection signal and the current position information of the OIS lens 220 received from the position sensor 222, and generates a drive signal for the OIS drive unit 221. The OIS drive unit 221 drives the OIS lens 220 based on the drive signal.

[0046] In the OIS processing unit 223 of this embodiment, for example, when a correction coefficient is set by the lens control unit 240, the PID control unit 310 generates a drive signal indicating the amount of image stabilization obtained by multiplying the amount of image stabilization to cancel out the entire difference by the correction coefficient. The lens control unit 240 receives the correction coefficient from the camera control unit 140, for example, via the lens mount 250. In this way, the OIS processing unit 223 of this embodiment can perform image stabilization that reflects the correction coefficient set by the camera control unit 140.

[0047] 2. Operation The operation of the digital camera 1, configured as described above, will be explained below.

[0048] The digital camera 1 of this embodiment performs various operations to deliberately weaken the degree of image stabilization, i.e., the stabilization strength, in order to meet the user's preference, for example, to leave a certain degree of camera shake in order to create a sense of realism during video recording. The operation of image stabilization in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment will be described below.

[0049] 2-1. Overall Operation The overall operation of image stabilization in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment will be explained using Figures 5 to 7.

[0050] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of digital camera 1 in this embodiment. The processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 5 are executed, for example, by the camera control unit 140 of digital camera 1.

[0051] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, first, the camera control unit 140 receives a user operation, for example, from the operation unit 130, to instruct the setting of the correction strength (S1). The instruction to set the correction strength in step S1 is performed, for example, by a user operation in the setting menu of the digital camera 1. An example of the display of the digital camera 1 in step S1 is shown in Figure 6.

[0052] Figure 6 illustrates the setting menu for image stabilization in the digital camera 1. For example, the LCD monitor 120 of the digital camera 1 displays menu items such as "Correction Strength Setting" or "Horizontal Lock" in the setting menu shown in Figure 6. For example, the user can input a command to the control unit 130 to select the menu item "Correction Strength Setting" from these setting menus (YES in S1).

[0053] If no instruction is given to set the correction strength (NO in S1), the camera control unit 140 performs normal image stabilization control without specifically setting the correction strength, for example, during operation in a shooting mode for video recording or still image recording (S2). An example of the display in step S2 is shown in Figure 7(A).

[0054] Figure 7(A) shows an example of the live view screen displayed in the shooting mode of the digital camera 1. The live view screen in step S2 includes a through image 40 and an image stabilization icon 41, as shown in Figure 7(A), for example. The live view screen is displayed, for example, in the shooting standby state or shooting state of the digital camera 1. The through image 40 is a moving image captured in real time by the image sensor 110. The image stabilization icon 41 indicates that image stabilization is being performed.

[0055] In step S2, the camera control unit 140 displays, for example, the live view screen shown in Figure 7(A) on the LCD monitor 120 and performs control of various shooting modes, such as image stabilization control. In step S2, it is possible to shoot videos and the like with maximum image stabilization without setting (i.e., limiting) the stabilization strength.

[0056] On the other hand, if a correction strength setting instruction is input (YES in S1), the camera control unit 140 accepts user operation to adjust the correction strength and sets the correction strength to the digital camera 1 according to the user operation (S3). In the correction strength setting process (S3) in this embodiment, the digital camera 1 is provided with an operating mode that allows the user to adjust the correction strength in various directions and check the status during adjustment in order to achieve the user's desired level of image stabilization (see Figures 9-10). Details of the correction strength setting process (S3) will be described later.

[0057] Next, the camera control unit 140 reflects the user-defined correction strength to the image stabilization mechanism (S4) based on the result of the correction strength setting process (S3). In the user setting reflection process (S4) in this embodiment, the user-defined correction strength is applied to the BIS processing unit 183 and / or OIS processing unit 223 according to the characteristics of the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the camera body 100. Details of the user setting reflection process (S4) will be described later.

[0058] Next, the camera control unit 140 performs image stabilization control with a set correction strength, for example, during operation in the same shooting mode as in step S2, according to the processing results of steps S3 and S4 (S5). An example of the display of the digital camera 1 in step S5 is shown in Figure 7(B).

[0059] Figure 7(B) illustrates the live view screen when the correction strength is set in the digital camera 1. The live view screen in step S5 includes an image stabilization strength setting icon 42 instead of the normal image stabilization icon 41 in the live view screen in step S2 (Figure 7(A)). This image stabilization icon 42 is an example of identification information that indicates that image stabilization control limited by the correction strength setting is being performed.

[0060] In step S5, the display of the image stabilization strength limit icon 42 on the live view screen (Figure 7(B)) allows the user to easily understand that the digital camera 1 being used is intentionally operating with reduced image stabilization, and therefore, camera shake may remain in the through image 40. In step S4, the camera control unit 140 reflects the user-set stabilization strength in the image stabilization control and performs various shooting mode controls similar to those in step S2 (S5). In step S5, the BIS / OIS processing units 183 and 223 perform image stabilization operations similar to those in step S2, with the stabilization strength limited to the user-set strength (S4).

[0061] The camera control unit 140 terminates the processing of the flowchart illustrated in Figure 5 after executing various controls, such as the image stabilization control in steps S2 and S5.

[0062] According to the operation of the digital camera 1 described above, the correction strength desired by the user is set in the digital camera 1 (S3), and image stabilization control is performed with a weakened correction strength according to the user setting (S4). As a result, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment makes it easier to achieve image stabilization that intentionally leaves some camera shake, in accordance with the user's preference.

[0063] The image stabilization icons 41 and 42 in steps S2 and S5 above are examples, and are not limited to the display examples in Figures 7(A) and (B), but may be displayed in various ways. The display of the image stabilization icons 41 and 42 may be changed depending on the type of image stabilization, for example, they may be used to identify the state in which both or one of BIS and OIS is operating. Also, if the image stabilization operation is stopped (OFF) in the digital camera 1, the image stabilization icons 41 and 42 do not need to be displayed.

[0064] 2-2. Setting the Correction Intensity The details of the correction intensity setting process in step S3 of Figure 8 will be explained using Figures 8 to 11. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the correction intensity setting process (S3) in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment.

[0065] First, the camera control unit 140 obtains the current setting information of the digital camera 1 from, for example, the flash memory 142, and displays a screen for user setting of the correction strength on the liquid crystal monitor 120 based on the obtained setting information (S10). An example of such a correction strength setting screen is shown in Figure 9.

[0066] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the correction strength setting screen includes, for example, a yaw adjustment unit 5A, a pitch adjustment unit 5B, a roll adjustment unit 5C, a correction effect test button 55, a setting registration button 56, and a back button 57, as shown in Figure 9. Each of the adjustment units 5A to 5C is a part that accepts adjustments of various correction strengths on the correction strength setting screen.

[0067] The yaw adjustment unit 5A accepts user input to adjust the correction strength in yaw-direction image stabilization. The pitch adjustment unit 5B accepts user input to adjust the correction strength in pitch-direction image stabilization. The roll adjustment unit 5C accepts user input to adjust the correction strength in roll-direction image stabilization.

[0068] Each adjustment unit 5A to 5C is configured to allow setting the correction strength in each direction by numerical values, for example, with 100% representing the maximum state of image stabilization and 0% representing the OFF state. For example, each adjustment unit 5A to 5C includes a correction strength bar 51, an adjustment head 52, and a setting display area 53.

[0069] The correction strength bar 51 displays the range in which the correction strength can be set, for example, from 100% (the strongest) to 0% (the weakest). The adjustment head 52 accepts user operations to change the correction strength, for example, by moving its position on the correction strength bar 51.

[0070] The setting display area 53 displays the correction strength corresponding to the position of the adjustment head 52 on the correction strength bar 51 as the setting value being adjusted. For example, during the execution of the correction strength setting process (S3), the camera control unit 140 manages the setting value indicating the correction strength being adjusted in RAM 141. For example, the initial value of the correction strength being adjusted is 100%.

[0071] The camera control unit 140, for example, displays the settings screen shown in Figure 9 on the liquid crystal monitor 120, and the operation unit 130 accepts various user operations on the settings screen (S11-S13). For example, the camera control unit 140 determines whether or not an operation to change the correction strength for camera shake in various directions has been input on the correction strength setting screen (Figure 9) (S11).

[0072] The correction strength change operation in step S11 is a user operation that changes the setting value while the correction strength is being adjusted, and is achieved, for example, by touch operation on each adjustment unit 5A to 5C via the touch panel on the operation unit 130. For example, the user can input to the digital camera 1 an operation to move the adjustment head 52 to a desired position on each correction strength bar 51 in the yaw adjustment unit 5A, pitch adjustment unit 5B, and roll adjustment unit 5C by touch operation on the correction strength setting screen (Figure 9) (S11).

[0073] When such a correction strength change operation is input (YES in S11), the camera control unit 140 updates the setting value of the correction strength being adjusted according to, for example, the position of the adjustment head 52 after movement (S14). In step S14, the camera control unit 140 rewrites the setting value of the correction strength managed in, for example, RAM 141 and updates the display in the setting display field 53 to the new setting value being adjusted.

[0074] Furthermore, the camera control unit 140 determines whether or not the correction effect test button 55 has been operated on the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) (S12). The correction effect test button 55 accepts user operation, for example, via touch operation, to execute an operation mode for testing the effect of the correction intensity being adjusted, i.e., a test mode.

[0075] When the user operates the correction effect test button 55 (YES in S12), the camera control unit 140 reflects the correction strength being adjusted to the image stabilization mechanism (S15). In step S15, the camera control unit 140 performs the same processing as in step S4 of Figure 5, based on the setting value being adjusted managed by, for example, RAM 141, and then starts the image stabilization operation that reflects the correction strength being adjusted.

[0076] Furthermore, the camera control unit 140 transitions from the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) to the liquid crystal monitor 120 to display a screen for test mode (S16). An example of the display of the digital camera 1 in step S16 is shown in Figure 10.

[0077] The test display screen includes, for example, a through image 60 and a correction effect test completion button 61, as shown in Figure 10. The through image 60 in step S16 is captured by the image sensor 110 during the execution of the image stabilization operation (S15) that reflects the correction strength being adjusted. The test display screen (Figure 10) that displays this through image 60 allows the user to concretely see how effective the image stabilization is based on the correction strength of the currently adjusted setting.

[0078] The camera control unit 140 determines, for example, whether the correction effect test end button 61 has been pressed when the test display screen (Figure 10) is displayed (S17). The correction effect test end button 61 accepts user input to end the test mode, for example, via touch operation.

[0079] If the correction effect test end button 61 is not pressed (NO in S17), the camera control unit 140 repeats the process from step S16 onwards at a predetermined interval (e.g., frame interval). In this way, the test display screen of the through image 60 in image stabilization, which reflects the correction strength being adjusted, is updated and displayed sequentially (S16).

[0080] On the other hand, when the correction effect test completion button 61 is pressed (YES in S17), the camera control unit 140 returns to step S10, for example. In this way, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) with the setting values ​​being adjusted used on the test display screen is displayed again on the liquid crystal monitor 120, and various user operations on this screen become input via the operation unit 130.

[0081] For example, while the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) is displayed, the camera control unit 140 determines whether or not the setting registration button 56 has been operated (S13). The setting registration button 56 accepts user operations, such as touch operations, to register the setting value as a result of adjusting the correction intensity.

[0082] When the user operates the setting registration button 56 (YES in S13), the camera control unit 140 registers the correction intensity setting of the adjustment result (S18). For example, the camera control unit 140 stores the final correction intensity setting value managed in RAM 141 in the setting information in flash memory 142 (S18).

[0083] Once the camera control unit 140 sets the correction strength based on these user settings (S18), it terminates the correction strength setting process (S3 in Figure 5) and proceeds to the process of reflecting the user settings to the image stabilization control in the digital camera 1 (S4).

[0084] According to the correction strength setting process (S3) described above, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment accepts user operations (S11) on the correction strength setting screen (S10) to adjust the correction strength in detail. In this way, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment makes it easy for the user to set the correction strength to the desired level of image stabilization.

[0085] For example, with the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, in a shooting scene where the photographer is shooting video while running or walking, it is possible to set a desired correction strength that enhances the sense of realism. For example, in a shooting scene where the photographer is running and shooting from behind the subject, it may be desirable to leave some vertical shake to enhance the sense of realism, while firmly correcting shake in other directions. In this case, with the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, for example, by adjusting the correction strength in the pitch direction to "30%" and the correction strength in the yaw and roll directions to "100%", the desired image stabilization that improves the image quality of the above scene can be achieved.

[0086] Another example is a shooting scene where the photographer walks alongside a subject, capturing their profile while simultaneously reducing the lateral image stabilization while maximizing image stabilization in other directions. In this case, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment allows the user to achieve the desired image stabilization for the shooting scene by adjusting the yaw correction strength to "50%" and the pitch and roll correction strengths to "100%". The digital camera 1 of this embodiment allows for a wide range of correction strength adjustments, not limited to the above example, making it easier to achieve image stabilization that aligns with the user's intentions.

[0087] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, for example, the correction strength in the yaw, pitch, and roll directions can be individually adjusted using the adjustment units 5A to 5C on the correction strength setting screen (Figure 9). Furthermore, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the correction strength in each direction can be quantitatively confirmed by setting the numerical values ​​of the correction strength in the adjustment units 5A to 5C, making it easier to ensure the reproducibility of the correction strength settings.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 9, the pitch adjustment unit 5B has the adjustment head 52 at the weakest position of 0% on the correction strength bar 51, and OFF is displayed in the setting display area 53. In this setting, the camera control unit 140 controls the image stabilization mechanism to stop image stabilization in the pitch direction.

[0089] As described above, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, each adjustment unit 5A to 5C allows the user to easily switch to a setting where image stabilization in that direction is stopped by moving the adjustment head 52 to the weakest position on the correction strength bar 51. This reduces the burden of complicated menu operations, such as when turning image stabilization ON / OFF in a separate menu item from the correction strength setting, and enables simple menu operation.

[0090] Furthermore, according to the test mode in this embodiment, the user can move from the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) to the test display screen (Figure 10) by operating the correction effect test button 55 (YES in S12), and immediately confirm the effect of the correction intensity being adjusted. It is also easy to return from the test display screen (Figure 10) to the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) by operating the correction effect test end button 61 (YES in S17).

[0091] In contrast, if there is no test mode, there is a concern that users will have to perform cumbersome menu operations, such as switching between the live view screen and the settings menu, to check the effect of the correction strength being adjusted. The digital camera 1 of this embodiment avoids this burden of cumbersome menu operations and makes it easier to adjust the correction strength.

[0092] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, user operation of the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) or the test display screen (Figure 10) is not limited to touch operation. For example, instead of touch operation, the operations in steps S11 to S13 and S17 may be input to the digital camera 1 by physical button operation or key operation on the operation unit 130.

[0093] In this embodiment, the user operations accepted by the digital camera 1 on the correction strength setting screen (Figure 9) are not limited to the operations in steps S11 to S13. For example, the operation of the back button 57 to interrupt the correction strength setting process (S3) may also be input. In the example in Figure 9, when the back button 57 is operated, the camera control unit 140 transitions the liquid crystal monitor 120 to the display screen before the start of the correction strength setting process (S3) without performing correction strength setting registration (S18), and returns to step S1 in Figure 5, for example.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the correction intensity setting process (S3) may be performed in accordance with the settings of various functions in the digital camera 1. Such modifications will be explained with reference to Figure 11.

[0095] Figure 11 illustrates the correction strength setting screen when the horizontal lock function of the digital camera 1 is set to ON (enabled). The horizontal lock function is a function that uses the roll-direction image stabilization mechanism to maintain the horizontal angle of view relative to the orientation of the digital camera 1. When the horizontal lock function is ON, for example, the correction strength in the roll direction is fixed at 100%.

[0096] Based on the settings of this horizontal lock function, the camera control unit 140, in the correction strength setting process (S3), controls the roll adjustment unit 5C to a display mode indicating that user settings are unavailable, such as grayed out, as shown in Figure 11, and displays the correction strength setting screen (S10). Furthermore, in step S11, the camera control unit 140 disables the roll adjustment unit 5C and does not accept user operations. In addition, the setting display field 53 of the roll adjustment unit 5C may indicate that the correction strength is fixed by the horizontal lock function.

[0097] 2-3. Processing to apply user settings In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the process of reflecting user settings (S4) performed on the interchangeable lens image stabilization mechanism according to the results of the correction intensity setting process (S3 in Figure 5) will be explained with reference to Figures 12 to 13.

[0098] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the process of applying user settings (S4) in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the data structure for synchronized image stabilization in the digital camera 1.

[0099] First, the camera control unit 140 sets the correction strength in the roll direction to the BIS processing unit 183, for example (S30). Meanwhile, the correction strengths in the yaw direction and pitch direction are set to one or both of the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223, according to the characteristics of the interchangeable lens 200.

[0100] For example, the camera control unit 140 acquires lens information regarding the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the camera body 100 (S31). The lens information in step S31 includes, for example, whether the interchangeable lens 200 is capable of performing synchronized image stabilization, whether the interchangeable lens 200 allows setting the stabilization strength, and the current focal length of the interchangeable lens 200.

[0101] In step S31, the camera control unit 140 may receive lens information from the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150. Alternatively, this information may be received when the interchangeable lens 200 is attached to the camera body 100, or when the digital camera 1 is powered on. The lens information thus obtained may be stored in the flash memory 142, and in step S31, the camera control unit 140 may read the stored information from the flash memory 142.

[0102] The camera control unit 140 refers to the acquired lens information and determines whether the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the camera body 100 is capable of performing synchronized image stabilization (S32). Synchronized image stabilization is image stabilization performed in sync between the BIS processing unit 183 of the camera body 100 and the OIS processing unit 223 of the interchangeable lens 200. Synchronized image stabilization of the digital camera 1 will be explained using Figure 13.

[0103] Figure 13 illustrates the data structure of the correction ratio data D1 for synchronized image stabilization in digital camera 1. Synchronized image stabilization is performed using a BIS correction ratio and an OIS correction ratio, as shown in Figure 13, for example. The BIS correction ratio indicates the allocation of the BIS processing unit 183 in synchronized image stabilization. The OIS correction ratio indicates the allocation of the OIS processing unit 223 in synchronized image stabilization.

[0104] In the correction ratio data D1 shown in Figure 13, the BIS correction ratio and OIS correction ratio are set to a total of 100% for normal synchronized image stabilization where no specific correction strength is set. The correction ratio data D1 manages the correspondence between the BIS correction ratio and the OIS correction ratio for each focal length of the digital camera 1, for example. This correction ratio data D1 is pre-stored in the flash memory 142 of the camera body 100, for example.

[0105] Normal synchronized image stabilization is performed, for example, by the camera control unit 140 referring to the correction ratio data D1 and setting the BIS correction ratio and OIS correction ratio corresponding to the current focal length of the digital camera 1 to the BIS / OIS processing units 183 and 223, respectively. The BIS processing unit 183 performs image stabilization for the portion of the total image stabilization amount that cancels out the amount of shake of the digital camera 1 that corresponds to the set BIS correction ratio. The OIS processing unit 223 performs image stabilization for the portion of the total image stabilization amount that corresponds to the set OIS correction ratio. In this way, the digital camera 1 as a whole can perform image stabilization for the entire amount of image stabilization. The correction ratios may be set separately for the yaw direction and the pitch direction.

[0106] Returning to Figure 12, if the interchangeable lens 200 is capable of performing synchronized image stabilization (YES in S32), the camera control unit 140 calculates the effective distribution between BIS and OIS based on the set stabilization strength and stabilization ratio data D1 and the current focal length (S35).

[0107] In step S35, the camera control unit 140 obtains the BIS correction ratio and OIS correction ratio corresponding to the current focal length from, for example, the correction ratio data D1, and multiplies the BIS correction ratio and OIS correction ratio by the correction strength (1 / 100th of the strength). For example, for a focal length of 200mm, with a BIS correction ratio of 30% and an OIS correction ratio of 70%, if the correction strength is 70%, the effective BIS distribution is calculated to be 21%, and the OIS distribution is calculated to be 49%. The calculation in step S35 is performed, for example, in the yaw direction and pitch direction, based on their respective correction strengths.

[0108] Next, the camera control unit 140 sets the calculated BIS distribution as a correction coefficient instead of the BIS correction ratio in the BIS processing unit 183 (S36). In this way, the BIS processing unit 183 performs image stabilization according to the set BIS distribution instead of the BIS correction ratio.

[0109] Furthermore, the camera control unit 140 transmits an instruction to the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150 to set the calculated OIS distribution to the OIS processing unit 223 (S37). In step S37, the lens control unit 240 of the interchangeable lens 200 sets the OIS distribution received from the camera body 100 via the lens mount 250 to the OIS processing unit 223. The OIS processing unit 223 performs image stabilization according to the set OIS distribution instead of the OIS correction ratio.

[0110] According to the settings in steps S36 and S37, synchronized image stabilization between the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223 allows the digital camera 1 as a whole to perform image stabilization that is limited by the correction intensity from the total amount of image stabilization.

[0111] On the other hand, if the interchangeable lens 200 is not capable of performing synchronized image stabilization (NO in S32), the camera control unit 140 determines, based on the lens information acquired in step S31, whether or not the interchangeable lens 200 can set the stabilization strength (S33).

[0112] If the interchangeable lens 200 allows for setting the correction strength (YES in S33), the camera control unit 140 determines whether the current focal length is greater than a predetermined OIS threshold (S34). The OIS threshold is pre-set to a reference focal length at which the OIS processing unit 223 is expected to perform image stabilization more efficiently than the BIS processing unit 183, for example, 50 to 1000 mm (see Figure 13).

[0113] If the current focal length is greater than the OIS threshold (YES in S34), the camera control unit 140 sets the BIS processing unit 183 to OFF (disabled) (S38). In this case, the BIS processing unit 183 stops the image stabilization operation.

[0114] Furthermore, the camera control unit 140 sends an instruction to the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150 to turn on (enable) the OIS processing unit 223 and set the user-defined correction strength (S39). In step S39, the lens control unit 240 configures the OIS processing unit 223 according to the instruction from the camera body 100. In this way, the OIS processing unit 223 performs limited image stabilization according to the set correction strength.

[0115] On the other hand, if the current focal length is below the OIS threshold (NO in S34), the camera control unit 140 turns on the BIS processing unit 183 and sets the user-defined correction strength (S40). In this case, the BIS processing unit 183 performs limited image stabilization according to the set correction strength.

[0116] Furthermore, the camera control unit 140 sends an instruction to the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150 to set the OIS processing unit 223 to OFF (S41). In step S41, the lens control unit 240 controls the OIS processing unit 223 to not operate, in accordance with the instruction from the camera body 100. In this way, the OIS processing unit 223 stops its image stabilization operation.

[0117] Furthermore, if the interchangeable lens 200 does not allow for setting the correction strength (NO in S33), the camera control unit 140 turns on the BIS processing unit 183 to set the user-defined correction strength (S40). The camera control unit 140 also sends an instruction to turn off the OIS processing unit 223 (S41).

[0118] After configuring the BIS processing unit 183 and OIS processing unit 223 as described above, the camera control unit 140 completes the user setting reflection process (S4) shown in the flowchart of Figure 12 and proceeds to step S5 in Figure 5, for example. In this way, the digital camera 1 performs the shooting mode operation with image stabilization limited by the set correction strength (S5).

[0119] According to the user setting reflection process (S4) described above, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment sets the user-defined correction strength in either the BIS processing unit 183 or the OIS processing unit 223 or both, according to the characteristics of the attached interchangeable lens 200 (S36-S41). This makes it possible to reflect the user-defined correction strength in the image stabilization operation in the interchangeable lens digital camera 1, taking advantage of the characteristics of the interchangeable lens 200.

[0120] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, some of the processes shown in the flowchart of Figure 12 may be performed before the correction intensity setting process (S3), not just after. For example, the camera control unit 140 may perform some or all of the processes in steps S31 to S34 while lens information can be acquired from the interchangeable lens 200.

[0121] 3. Summary As described above, the digital camera 1 and camera body 100, which are examples of imaging devices in this embodiment, each include an image sensor 110, which is an example of an image sensor; a BIS processing unit 183 or OIS processing unit 223, which is an example of an image stabilization unit; a liquid crystal monitor 120, which is an example of a display unit; an operation unit 130; and a camera control unit 140, which is an example of a control unit. The image sensor 110 captures an image of a subject via an interchangeable lens 200 including various optical systems. The image stabilization unit performs image stabilization according to the shaking of the imaging device. The liquid crystal monitor 120 displays the image captured by the image sensor 110. The operation unit 130 accepts user operations. The camera control unit 140 controls the image stabilization unit based on the user operations in the operation unit 130. The camera control unit 140 displays an example of a setting screen for setting the correction strength (Figure 9) on the LCD monitor 120 (S10), and the operation unit 130 receives user input on the setting screen and sets the correction strength according to the user input (S11-S18).

[0122] With the above imaging device, by accepting user input on the correction strength setting screen and setting the correction strength accordingly, it becomes easier to achieve image stabilization that suits the user's preferences.

[0123] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 has a test mode, which is an example of a first operating mode performed before the correction strength is set on the setting screen. In the test mode, the image stabilization unit performs image stabilization while limiting it according to the correction strength being adjusted on the setting screen (S15), and the liquid crystal monitor 120 displays a through image 60, which is an example of an image captured by the image sensor 110, while image stabilization is being performed according to the correction strength being adjusted (S16). With this test mode, the user of the digital camera 1 can visually confirm the effectiveness of image stabilization according to the correction strength being adjusted, making it easier to achieve image stabilization that suits the user's preferences.

[0124] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 transitions the liquid crystal monitor 120 from the setting screen to the test mode display screen, i.e., the test display screen, in response to the operation of the correction effect test button 55, which is an example of a first user operation on the correction intensity setting screen (YES in S12). The camera control unit 140 returns the liquid crystal monitor 120 from the test display screen to the correction intensity setting screen (SS10) in response to the operation of the correction effect test end button 61, which is an example of a second user operation on the test display screen (YES in S17). This allows the user to easily transition the digital camera 1 between the correction intensity setting screen and the test display screen, making it easier to adjust the correction intensity.

[0125] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 has a shooting mode, which is an example of a second operating mode separate from the test mode. In the shooting mode after the correction strength has been set, the image stabilization unit performs image stabilization while limiting it according to the set correction strength (S5), and the liquid crystal monitor 120 displays a through image 40, which is an example of an image captured by the image sensor 110, while image stabilization is being performed according to the set correction strength (see Figure 7(B)). This allows the user to check the effect of the correction strength being adjusted in a test mode separate from the shooting mode, making it easier to adjust the correction strength.

[0126] In this embodiment, the correction strength setting screen includes various adjustment units 5A to 5C, which are examples of multiple adjustment units. Each of the various adjustment units 5A to 5C adjusts the correction strength for the camera shake component in the yaw, pitch, and roll directions, as an example of multiple different types of correction strengths. The camera control unit 140 receives user operations on the multiple adjustment units 5A to 5C on the correction strength setting screen and sets each of the correction strengths adjusted in each of the adjustment units 5A to 5C (S11 to S18, see Figure 9). As a result, the user of the digital camera 1 can independently adjust the correction strength for camera shake correction in each direction, making it easier to achieve the camera shake correction desired by the user.

[0127] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 disables user operation on the roll adjustment unit 5C among the multiple adjustment units 5A to 5C, depending on the state in which the horizontal lock function is enabled, which is an example of a predetermined setting state regarding the orientation of the imaging device (see Figure 11). This allows the correction strength to be adjusted without interfering with the horizontal lock function, making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0128] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 sets the camera control unit 140 to turn OFF (stop) image stabilization when the correction intensity of a type corresponding to any of the adjustment units 5A to 5C is adjusted to 0% of an example of a predetermined value (see 5B in Figure 9). This allows the user to also set the camera to stop image stabilization in various directions on the correction intensity setting screen, making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0129] In this embodiment, the camera body 100 is equipped with an interchangeable lens 200 including an optical system, and further includes a body mount 150, which is an example of a communication unit that communicates data with the equipped interchangeable lens 200. The camera control unit 140 sets the correction strength for at least one of the camera body 100 and the interchangeable lens 200 based on lens information, which is an example of information received from the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150 (S4). This makes it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user in an interchangeable lens digital camera 1.

[0130] In this embodiment, the above-mentioned image stabilization unit is designated as the BIS processing unit 183, an example of the first image stabilization unit, and the interchangeable lens 200 is equipped with an OIS processing unit 223, an example of the second image stabilization unit. The OIS processing unit 223 performs image stabilization by shifting the OIS lens 220, an example of a correction lens included in the optical system. The camera control unit 140 sets the correction strength on the camera body 100 and the interchangeable lens 200 so as to limit the correction strength of the image stabilization performed simultaneously by the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223 (S35-S37). This allows the correction strength to be reflected in the synchronized image stabilization by the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223, making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0131] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 sets the correction intensity on the imaging device or interchangeable lens 200 so that it switches between operating the BIS processing unit 183 or the OIS processing unit 223 according to the focal length of the interchangeable lens 200 (S34, S38~S41). This allows the user-set correction intensity to be reflected even when switching between using the BIS processing unit 183 or the OIS processing unit 223, making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0132] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140, based on information received from the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150, determines that it is not possible to set the correction strength on the interchangeable lens 200 (NO in S33), and then sets the correction strength on the camera body 100 (S40-S41). This makes it possible to perform image stabilization that reflects, for example, a user-set correction strength, even when using an interchangeable lens 200 that does not allow for setting the correction strength, thereby making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0133] In this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 displays an image stabilization intensity setting icon 42 on the liquid crystal monitor 120 as an example of identification information indicating whether or not the correction intensity has been set while the image stabilization unit is performing image stabilization (S5). This allows the user to explicitly understand that the imaging device is in a state where the correction intensity has been set, making it easier to use image stabilization using the correction intensity.

[0134] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 of this disclosure will be described below with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Embodiment 1 described a digital camera 1 in which the correction intensity can be set by the user. Embodiment 2 describes a digital camera 1 in which multiple settings for the correction intensity can be registered.

[0135] Hereinafter, descriptions of the configuration and operation similar to those of the digital camera 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be omitted as appropriate, and the digital camera 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0136] Figure 14 shows an example of the display of the correction intensity setting selection screen in the digital camera 1 of Embodiment 2. The digital camera 1 of this embodiment provides the user with the results of past setting registrations (S18 in Figure 8) in the correction intensity setting process (S3) similar to that of Embodiment 1, for example. For example, the correction intensity setting selection screen as illustrated in Figure 14 is displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 120 before the correction intensity setting screen (Figure 9) is displayed (S10 in Figure 8) when the menu item "Correction Intensity Setting" is selected from the setting menu (see Figure 6).

[0137] The selection screen in Figure 14 includes user-selectable options such as "Setting 1," "Setting 2," and "New Registration," as well as a setting application button 71 and a setting editing button 72. For example, "Setting 1" has the setting name "For Up and Down Swing," and the correction strength setting value is already recorded accordingly. The digital camera 1 of this embodiment manages these correction strength settings for each interchangeable lens 200.

[0138] Figure 15 illustrates the data structure of the correction intensity management information D2 in the digital camera 1 of Embodiment 2. The correction intensity management information D2 records various correction intensity settings for each interchangeable lens 200, associated with a lens ID that identifies the interchangeable lens 200, as shown in Figure 15, for example. This correction intensity management information D2 is stored, for example, in the flash memory 142 of the digital camera 1.

[0139] For example, the camera control unit 140 reads the correction strength setting that matches the lens ID of the attached interchangeable lens 200 from the correction strength management information D2 and displays the corresponding option on the correction strength selection screen (Figure 14). In the example in Figure 15, the correction strength management information D2 manages each lens ID by associating it with a "setting number," "setting name," and "correction strength setting parameters." The correction strength setting parameters include, for example, the setting values ​​for the correction strength in the yaw, pitch, and roll directions.

[0140] In the selection screen shown in Figure 14, for example, when the user selects an option such as "Setting 1" or "Setting 2" and operates the setting application button 71, the camera control unit 140 reflects the correction strength setting value based on that selection to the image stabilization mechanism, similar to Embodiment 1. In this way, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment can immediately utilize previously adjusted correction strength settings.

[0141] On the other hand, if the setting edit button 72 is operated while one of the above options is selected, the camera control unit 140, for example, will use the selected correction intensity setting value as the initial value and transition the LCD monitor 120 to the correction intensity setting screen.

[0142] Furthermore, if the user selects the option "New Registration," the camera control unit 140, for example, transitions the LCD monitor 120 to the correction intensity setting screen with predetermined initial values. Subsequently, the camera control unit 140 accepts input for the name of the newly registered setting, for example, when the setting registration button 56 is operated. The camera control unit 140 updates the correction intensity management information D2 to store these new correction intensity settings.

[0143] As described above, in this embodiment, the digital camera 1 or camera body 100 further includes a flash memory 142 that stores correction strength management information D2 as an example of management information that associates the correction strength setting value with the interchangeable lens 200. This makes it possible to manage the correction strength setting for each interchangeable lens 200 that is attached, making it easier to achieve the correction strength desired by the user.

[0144] (Embodiment 3) Hereinafter, Embodiment 3 of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17. In a variable focal length interchangeable lens 200, the correction strength may be set separately for each focal length. Embodiment 3 will describe a modified version of such a digital camera 1.

[0145] Hereinafter, descriptions of the configuration and operation similar to those of the digital camera 1 in Embodiments 1 and 2 will be omitted as appropriate, and the digital camera 1 according to this embodiment will be described.

[0146] Figure 16 shows an example of the display of the correction strength setting screen in the digital camera 1 of Embodiment 3. In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, for example, in the correction strength setting process (S3) similar to that of Embodiment 1, the digital camera 1 accepts user settings for the correction strength in relation to the focal length of the interchangeable lens 200.

[0147] For example, the correction strength setting screen in this embodiment has a configuration similar to the setting screen in Figure 9, and further includes a focal length field 58 that displays the current focal length, as shown in Figure 16. For example, the camera control unit 140 sequentially receives the current focal length from the interchangeable lens 200 via the body mount 150 and displays it in the focal length field 58.

[0148] While the correction strength setting screen in this embodiment is displayed, the user can input a user operation to the digital camera 1 to adjust the correction strength when the desired focal length is set, for example, by operating the zoom ring of the interchangeable lens 200. In this way, the camera control unit 140 in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment acquires the user setting of the correction strength for one or more focal length states on a single interchangeable lens 200.

[0149] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, for example, the camera control unit 140, in the shooting mode set by the user as described above, sequentially refers to the current focal length of the interchangeable lens 200 and reflects the correction strength corresponding to that focal length in the image stabilization mechanism to perform image stabilization control.

[0150] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the process of applying user settings in the digital camera 1 of Embodiment 3. The example in Figure 17 illustrates the case where user settings for correction intensity have been made at three focal lengths f1, f2, and f3.

[0151] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, for example, the camera control unit 140 performs interpolation for the focal lengths f1 to f2 (or f2 to f3) between two adjacent points, as illustrated in Figure 17, to calculate the correction strength corresponding to the focal length. Furthermore, for focal lengths smaller than the minimum focal length f1 set by the user, the camera control unit 140 adopts, for example, the same correction strength as the minimum focal length f1. Also, for focal lengths larger than the maximum focal length f2 set by the user, the camera control unit 140 adopts, for example, the same correction strength as the maximum focal length f2. These correction strengths for each focal length can be appropriately managed as setting parameters for the correction strength in, for example, the correction strength management information D2.

[0152] As described above, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the optical system includes a zoom lens 210 that changes the focal length. The camera control unit 140 receives a user operation on the correction strength setting screen to adjust the correction strength according to the focal length of the optical system and sets the correction strength (see Figure 16). As a result, even when the focal length is changed in the digital camera 1, the correction strength is set in a timely manner, making it easier to achieve the image stabilization desired by the user.

[0153] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiments 1 to 3 have been explained as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, substituted, added, or omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiments 1 to 3 above. Therefore, other embodiments will be illustrated below.

[0154] In embodiments 1 to 3 described above, examples of setting the correction strength when performing image stabilization in the digital camera 1 were explained, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. When performing image stabilization using an external configuration of the digital camera 1, the correction strength may be set in the external configuration of the digital camera 1. Such modifications will be explained with reference to Figure 18.

[0155] Figure 18 illustrates the configuration of a modified imaging system 10. The imaging system 10 comprises a digital camera 1 and a gimbal device 500 that provides image stabilization through attitude control of the digital camera 1. In this embodiment, the digital camera 1, for example, has the same configuration as in Embodiment 1, and further includes a communication unit 152 in the camera body 100 that communicates data with the gimbal device 500.

[0156] The gimbal device 500 is a device that rotatably supports the digital camera 1. As shown in Figure 18, for example, the gimbal device 500 comprises a camera support unit 50, a gyro sensor 510, a drive unit 520, a communication unit 530, an operation unit 540, a gimbal control unit 550, and a storage unit 560. The gimbal device 500 also includes, for example, a grip (not shown) for the user to hold.

[0157] The camera support unit 50 includes a mounting base to which the digital camera 1 is detachably attached. The camera support unit 50 is configured such that the attached digital camera 1 is supported so as to be rotatable in three axes, for example, in the pitch, yaw, and roll directions. The gyro sensor 510 of the gimbal device 500 is configured similarly to, for example, the gyro sensor 184 of the camera body 100. The gyro sensor 510 detects angular velocity in the pitch, yaw, and roll directions, for example.

[0158] The drive unit 520 drives a part of the camera support 50 in the gimbal device 500, for example in the pitch, yaw, and roll directions, to control the orientation of the mounted digital camera 1. The drive unit 520 includes, for example, a motor or actuator for rotational drive in three axes. The communication unit 530 is a circuit for communicating the digital camera 1 to the gimbal device 500. The communication unit 530 transmits and receives various information with the communication unit 152 of the digital camera 1 according to a predetermined communication standard. The operation unit 540 includes, for example, operating members such as switches and buttons provided on the exterior of the gimbal device 500. When the operation unit 540 receives an operation from the user, it transmits a signal corresponding to the user operation to the gimbal control unit 550.

[0159] The gimbal control unit 550 includes, for example, a CPU, and controls the operation of the entire gimbal device 500. The gimbal control unit 550 reads data and programs stored in the memory unit 560 and performs various calculations to realize various functions. The memory unit 560 is a recording medium that stores data and programs necessary to realize the functions of the gimbal control unit 550, and is composed of, for example, flash memory. The memory unit 560 may also include RAM, and may temporarily store data and function as a work area for the gimbal control unit 550.

[0160] In this imaging system 10, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment may also reflect user settings for the correction strength of the gimbal device 500 in the image stabilization operation, similar to the embodiments described above. For example, the camera control unit 140 may manage the gimbal device 500 attached to the digital camera 1, similar to the case of the interchangeable lens 200 in Embodiment 2. This management information for the correction strength of the gimbal device 500 is stored, for example, in the flash memory 142.

[0161] In the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the camera control unit 140 may identify the gimbal device 500 attached to the digital camera 1 by data communication via the communication unit 152, similar to the case of the interchangeable lens 200 in Embodiment 2. Also, the camera control unit 140 of this embodiment may, similar to Embodiment 2, display a selection screen to the user that presents the correction strength previously set on the gimbal device 500, or send an instruction to the gimbal device 500 to set the correction strength.

[0162] As described above, in this embodiment, the digital camera 1 may further include a communication unit 152 that communicates data with the gimbal device 500, and a flash memory 142 that stores management information that associates the set value of the correction strength with the gimbal device. This allows the correction strength to be set for the image stabilization of the gimbal device 500, making it easier to achieve the correction strength desired by the user.

[0163] In the embodiments described above, an example was explained in which the correction strength setting screen includes three adjustment units 5A, 5B, and 5C corresponding to three rotational directions: yaw, pitch, and roll. However, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment is not particularly limited to this. For example, the correction strength setting screen of this embodiment may be configured by omitting an adjustment unit for any one of the three rotational directions. That is, in the imaging device of this embodiment, the multiple types of correction strength may include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions among the yaw, pitch, and roll directions of the imaging device.

[0164] Alternatively, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the multiple types of correction strength may include correction strength in the translational direction as well as the rotational direction. That is, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, the multiple types of correction strength may include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions of the horizontal translational direction and the vertical translational direction of the digital camera 1. Furthermore, in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment, an adjustment unit may be used to adjust the correction strength for each frequency component, such as high-frequency components or low-frequency components.

[0165] In the above embodiment 1, an example of synchronous image stabilization was explained using Figure 13, but the synchronous image stabilization in the digital camera 1 of this embodiment is not limited to the above example. For example, the digital camera 1 of this embodiment may perform synchronous image stabilization in which the high-frequency and low-frequency components of camera shake are shared between the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223. When setting the correction strength in such synchronous image stabilization, the camera control unit 140 may set a common correction strength for the BIS processing unit 183 and the OIS processing unit 223 instead of the BIS distribution and OIS distribution in steps S35 to S37.

[0166] In the embodiments described above, the BIS processing unit 183 was described as an example of the image stabilization unit in the camera body 100, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The camera body 100 in this embodiment may, for example, include an EIS processing unit that implements an EIS (Electronic Image Stabilizer) function as a functional configuration of the camera control unit 140. The EIS function is a function that corrects blur by adjusting the area from which image data is extracted by the image sensor. The image stabilization unit in this embodiment may be such an EIS processing unit. The EIS processing unit may be composed of an image processing circuit. Furthermore, when the OIS processing unit 223 is operated in the digital camera 1, a configuration such as a body mount 150 that transmits instructions related to image stabilization from the camera body 100 to the interchangeable lens 200 may function as the image stabilization unit in the camera body 100.

[0167] In each of the embodiments described above, an example of the setting screen for the digital camera 1, such as the correction strength setting screen, is shown in Figure 9, but the setting screen of this embodiment is not particularly limited to this. The setting screen of this embodiment is not limited to a full-screen display, but may be a window, dialog, or pop-up display, or it may be displayed superimposed on a various display screen.

[0168] Furthermore, the adjustment section in the setting screen of this embodiment is not limited to the configuration illustrated in Figure 9, etc. For example, it does not have to be a configuration that changes the position of the adjustment head 52 on the correction strength bar 51. For example, it may be an increase / decrease button for numerical input, or it may be a selection format of options that are not limited to numerical values ​​for the correction strength. Also, the setting display field 53 may be removed from the adjustment section as appropriate.

[0169] In the embodiments described above, a lens-interchangeable digital camera was explained as an example of an imaging device, but the imaging device in these embodiments may be a digital camera that is not particularly lens-interchangeable. Furthermore, the concept of this disclosure is not limited to digital cameras, but can also be applied to movie cameras, and to various electronic devices with imaging functions such as camera-equipped mobile phones, smartphones, or PCs.

[0170] (Example of a particular form) The various aspects of this disclosure are listed below.

[0171] The first aspect of this disclosure is an imaging device comprising an image sensor that captures an image of a subject via an optical system, an image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization in accordance with the shaking of the device itself, a display unit that displays the image captured by the image sensor, an operation unit that receives user input, and a control unit that controls the image stabilization unit based on user input from the operation unit. The control unit displays a setting screen on the display unit for setting the correction strength, which indicates the degree of image stabilization to be performed, and receives user input from the operation unit on the setting screen and sets the correction strength according to the user input.

[0172] In a second embodiment, the imaging device described in the first embodiment has a control unit which has a first operating mode which is performed before the correction strength is set on the setting screen. In the first operating mode, the image stabilization unit performs image stabilization while limiting it according to the correction strength being adjusted on the setting screen, and the display unit displays the image captured by the image sensor while image stabilization is being performed according to the correction strength being adjusted.

[0173] In the third embodiment, in the imaging apparatus described in the second embodiment, the control unit transitions the display unit from the setting screen to the display screen of the first operating mode in response to a first user operation on the setting screen, and returns the display unit from the display screen of the first operating mode to the setting screen in response to a second user operation on the display screen of the first operating mode.

[0174] In the fourth embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the first to third embodiments, the control unit has a second operating mode separate from the first operating mode. In the second operating mode after the correction intensity has been set, the image stabilization unit performs image stabilization while limiting it according to the set correction intensity, and the display unit displays the image captured by the image sensor while image stabilization is being performed according to the set correction intensity.

[0175] In the fifth embodiment, in the imaging apparatus described in any of the first to fourth embodiments, the setting screen includes a plurality of adjustment units that adjust multiple different types of correction intensities. The control unit receives user operations on the plurality of adjustment units in the setting screen and sets each of the correction intensities adjusted in each adjustment unit.

[0176] In the sixth embodiment, in the imaging device described in the fifth embodiment, the multiple types of correction intensities include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions among the yaw direction, pitch direction and roll direction of the imaging device.

[0177] In the seventh embodiment, in the imaging device described in the fifth or sixth embodiment, the multiple types of correction intensities include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions among the horizontal translational direction and the vertical translational direction of the imaging device.

[0178] In the eighth aspect, in the imaging device described in any of the fifth to seventh aspects, the control unit disables user operation on a specific adjustment unit among a plurality of adjustment units according to a predetermined setting state regarding the orientation of the imaging device.

[0179] In the ninth aspect, in the imaging device described in any of the fifth to eighth aspects, the control unit sets the device to stop image stabilization of a given type when the correction intensity of a type corresponding to any of the multiple adjustment units is adjusted to a predetermined value.

[0180] In the tenth embodiment, the imaging device described in any of the first to ninth embodiments is further equipped with an interchangeable lens including an optical system, and includes a communication unit that communicates data with the attached interchangeable lens. The control unit sets a correction intensity for at least one of the imaging device and the interchangeable lens based on information received from the interchangeable lens via the communication unit.

[0181] In the eleventh embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the first to tenth embodiments, the above-mentioned image stabilization unit is designated as the first image stabilization unit, and the interchangeable lens includes a second image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization by shifting a corrective lens included in the optical system. The control unit sets the correction intensity for the imaging device and the interchangeable lens so as to limit the image stabilization performed simultaneously by the first and second image stabilization units to the correction intensity.

[0182] In the twelfth embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the first to eleventh embodiments, the image stabilization unit is designated as the first image stabilization unit, and the interchangeable lens is provided with a second image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization by shifting a corrective lens included in the optical system. The control unit sets the correction intensity of the imaging device or the interchangeable lens so as to switch between operating the first or second image stabilization unit according to the focal length of the interchangeable lens.

[0183] In the 13th embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the 1st to 12th embodiments, if the control unit determines, based on information received from the interchangeable lens via the communication unit, that it is not possible to set a correction intensity on the interchangeable lens, it sets a correction intensity on the imaging device.

[0184] In the 14th embodiment, the imaging device described in any of the 1st to 13th embodiments further comprises a storage unit that stores management information for managing the correction intensity setting value in association with interchangeable lenses.

[0185] In the 15th embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the 1st to 14th embodiments, the control unit causes the display unit to display identification information indicating whether or not the correction strength has been set while the image stabilization unit is performing image stabilization.

[0186] In the sixteenth embodiment, in the imaging device described in any of the first to fifteenth embodiments, the optical system includes a zoom lens that changes the focal length. The control unit receives a user operation on the setting screen to adjust the correction strength according to the focal length of the optical system and sets the correction strength.

[0187] In the 17th embodiment, the imaging device described in any of the 1st to 16th embodiments further comprises a communication unit that communicates data with a gimbal device attached to the imaging device, and a storage unit that stores management information for managing the correction intensity setting value in association with the gimbal device.

[0188] As described above, embodiments have been explained as examples of the technology in this disclosure. For this purpose, accompanying drawings and a detailed description have been provided.

[0189] Therefore, the components described in the attached drawings and detailed descriptions may include not only components essential for solving the problem, but also components that are not essential for solving the problem, provided that they illustrate the technology described above. For this reason, the mere presence of these non-essential components in the attached drawings and detailed descriptions should not be immediately assumed to mean that they are essential.

[0190] Furthermore, since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents. [Industrial applicability]

[0191] The concept of this disclosure can be applied to electronic devices with imaging capabilities that include image stabilization (imaging devices such as digital cameras and camcorders, mobile phones, smartphones, etc.). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0192] 1 Digital camera 100 Camera Body 110 Image Sensor 140 Camera Control Unit 120 LCD monitor 130 Operation section 183 BIS Processing Unit 200 interchangeable lenses 210 zoom lens 220 OIS lens 223 OIS Processing Unit

Claims

1. An image sensor that captures an image of a subject via an optical system, A camera shake correction unit that corrects camera shake in accordance with the shaking of the device itself, A display unit that displays the image captured by the image sensor, An operating unit that receives user input, A control unit controls the image stabilization unit based on user operation in the aforementioned operation unit. Equipped with, The control unit, A setting screen for setting the correction strength, which indicates the degree to which the aforementioned image stabilization is performed, is displayed on the display unit. The operation unit receives user input on the settings screen and sets the correction strength in accordance with the user input. Imaging device.

2. The control unit has a first operating mode that is performed before the correction intensity is set on the setting screen, In the first operating mode described above, The image stabilization unit performs the image stabilization while limiting it according to the stabilization strength being adjusted on the settings screen. The display unit displays the image captured by the image sensor while image stabilization is being performed according to the correction intensity being adjusted. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, In response to a first user operation on the settings screen, the display unit is transitioned from the settings screen to the display screen for the first operating mode. In response to a second user operation on the display screen of the first operation mode, the display unit returns from the display screen of the first operation mode to the settings screen. The imaging device according to claim 2.

4. The control unit has a second operating mode different from the first operating mode, In the second operating mode after the correction intensity has been set, The image stabilization unit performs the image stabilization while limiting it according to the set stabilization strength. The display unit displays the image captured by the image sensor while image stabilization is being performed according to the set correction strength. The imaging device according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned settings screen includes multiple adjustment units for adjusting multiple different types of correction intensities, The control unit receives user operations on the settings screen for the multiple adjustment units and sets the respective correction strengths adjusted in each adjustment unit. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned multiple types of correction intensities include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions among the yaw, pitch, and roll directions of the imaging device. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned multiple types of correction intensities include the degree of image stabilization in at least one or more directions among the horizontal translation direction and the vertical translation direction of the imaging device. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5.

8. The control unit disables user operation on a specific adjustment unit among the plurality of adjustment units, depending on a predetermined setting state regarding the orientation of the imaging device. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5.

9. The control unit sets the system to stop image stabilization of a particular type when the correction intensity of one of the multiple adjustment units is adjusted to a predetermined value. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5.

10. The system includes an interchangeable lens with the aforementioned optical system, and further comprises a communication unit that communicates data with the attached interchangeable lens. The control unit sets the correction intensity in at least one of the imaging device and the interchangeable lens based on the information received from the interchangeable lens via the communication unit. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The aforementioned image stabilization unit is designated as the first image stabilization unit, and the interchangeable lens is equipped with a second image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization by shifting the corrective lens included in the optical system. The control unit sets the correction intensity to the imaging device and the interchangeable lens so as to limit the image stabilization performed simultaneously by the first image stabilization unit and the second image stabilization unit to the correction intensity. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The aforementioned image stabilization unit is designated as the first image stabilization unit, and the interchangeable lens is equipped with a second image stabilization unit that performs image stabilization by shifting the corrective lens included in the optical system. The control unit sets the correction intensity on the imaging device or the interchangeable lens so that it switches between operating the first or second image stabilization unit according to the focal length of the interchangeable lens. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

13. If the control unit determines, based on information received from the interchangeable lens via the communication unit, that the correction intensity cannot be set on the interchangeable lens, it sets the correction intensity on the imaging device. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

14. The system further includes a storage unit that stores management information for managing the set value of the correction intensity in association with the interchangeable lens. The imaging apparatus according to claim 10.

15. The control unit causes the display unit to display identification information indicating whether or not the correction strength has been set while the image stabilization unit is performing the image stabilization. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

16. The optical system includes a zoom lens that changes the focal length, The control unit receives a user operation on the setting screen to adjust the correction strength according to the focal length of the optical system, and sets the correction strength. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

17. A communication unit that performs data communication with a gimbal device attached to the imaging device, The system further comprises a storage unit that stores management information for managing the set value of the correction intensity in association with the gimbal device. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1.

Images