A digital imaging system for converting film cameras to digital cameras.

Abstract

This invention provides a method for capturing digital images using a digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera, and a component kit including the digital imaging system. [Solution] The digital imaging system includes an image sensor module and a cartridge module that can be connected to each other by contact pins, the image sensor module includes a processing unit for reading images connected to a sensing array, a first memory for storing digital photographs obtained from the read images, and a sensor for detecting the movement of a film winding crank lever, the cartridge module includes a second memory connected to the first memory by the contact pins for storing the read digital photographs for a long period of time, an on / off switch operable by the rewind lever of a film camera, a battery, and a USB port for charging.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a digital imaging system for converting a film camera into a digital camera, a method for taking digital images with a film camera using the digital imaging system, and a parts kit including the digital imaging system for converting a film camera into a digital camera.

Background Art

[0002] Today, digital cameras are widely popular, but analog film cameras are still in use, and many people enjoy taking pictures with them. This is mainly because digital cameras do not have the complex exposure options that film cameras often offer, and it is due to the challenge of taking good pictures without relying on digital aids such as programmed scene shooting in portrait mode, landscape mode, fireworks mode, etc. However, analog film and the process of developing the film exposed to obtain an image are quite costly and time-consuming. In fact, the processing of traditionally exposed film has been entrusted to professionals and has taken a long time from shooting to obtaining the results.

[0003] Many proposals have been made to solve the above problems. For example, Patent Documents 1 - 3: CN2901369, WO2023 / 228593A1, and US11,233,950 disclose electronic devices for converting a film camera into a digital camera. However, these disclosures are complex to handle and require a large amount of energy and processing power to realize digital images with an analog film camera.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0005] Therefore, there is a strong need for a more effective and reliable device for converting film cameras to digital cameras. The digital imaging system must be easy to handle and install. Furthermore, the digital imaging system must enable complex photography not disclosed in prior art devices. Moreover, an object of the present invention is to provide a digital imaging system that is easily applicable to various types of analog film cameras, particularly film cameras equipped with cartridge systems.

[0006] These objectives, and other objectives not expressly expressed herein but derive and identifiable from the foregoing description, are achieved by a digital imaging system for converting a film camera having all the features described in claim 1 into a digital camera. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Therefore, the present invention provides a digital imaging system for converting a film camera into a digital camera, the digital imaging system comprising an image sensor module and a cartridge module, the image sensor module and the cartridge module being detachable and connectable to each other by contact pins, The image sensor module includes an image sensing array, a processing unit connected to the image sensing array for reading images from the image sensing array, a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs obtained from the images read from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit, and a sensor for detecting the movement of a film advance crank lever. The cartridge module includes a second memory connected to the first memory by the contact pins for long-term storage of digital photographs obtained from images read from the image sensing array, an on / off switch operable by the rewinding lever of a film camera, a battery, and a USB port for charging the battery. The aforementioned digital imaging system includes a sound output unit.

[0008] The digital imaging system converts a film camera into a digital camera. The film camera is preferably a single-lens reflex (SLR) camera using 35mm film. However, the film camera may be any other camera equipped with a mechanical shutter. The film camera is not limited to an SLR camera, and the film is not limited to 35mm film. Mechanical shutters, such as focal-plane shutters and leaf shutters (e.g., Compur shutters), include mechanical components that open and close. Any mechanical shutter may be used as long as it includes a light-blocking curtain (or light-blocking blade) (light path opening / closing device) that opens and closes an aperture through which light passes.

[0009] A film camera preferably includes, as its main components, a camera body, a lens, a shutter button, a shutter speed dial, a film winding crank lever, a rewind lever, a viewfinder, and a rear cover. Within the film camera body, the film camera preferably includes a cartridge chamber, a rewind fork, and a take-up spool.

[0010] The shutter button is used to open and close the shutter curtain. Preferably, the shutter button is located on the upper right side of the camera body when viewed from the back. However, the shutter button may be located in other suitable positions. When the shutter button is pressed, the shutter curtain operates at the shutter speed set by the shutter speed dial. The exposure time of the film is determined by the shutter speed.

[0011] The film winding crank lever is an example of a winding mechanism for winding film. Preferably, the film winding crank lever is located on the top surface of the camera body, next to the shutter speed dial, and is connected to the take-up spool. Each time the film winding crank lever is operated, the take-up spool rotates.

[0012] The above and below characteristics of the film camera are useful when taking photographs with the digital imaging system according to the present invention.

[0013] The image sensor module and cartridge module are detachable and connectable to each other by contact pins. The contact pins supply power to the image sensor module and enable data transfer between the image sensor module and the cartridge module. The number and type of pins vary depending on the requirements of the data protocol used for data and power transfer. These implementations allow the digital imaging system to be tailored to specific needs. In particular, for example, different cartridge modules can be used with a single image sensor module to easily emulate specific ISO values ​​with a particular cartridge module. The same applies to other characteristics of analog film, such as film sharpness. This makes the digital imaging system easy to handle and prevents operational errors. Preferably, the image sensor module and cartridge module are fixed together by magnetic force. Alternatively, the image sensor module and cartridge module may be mechanically fixed together, for example, by plug contacts.

[0014] Preferably, the contact pins of either the image sensor module or the cartridge module are provided on the strap, and preferably, the contact pins of the image sensor module are provided on the strap. The strap allows the length between the cartridge and the sensor module to be adjusted to suit various types of cameras. Preferably, the strap is slidable within the image sensor module or the cartridge module.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever includes a thong for measuring the rotational movement of the internal take-up spool of the film camera, the thong includes a coil for measuring changes in the magnetic field, the take-up spool of the film camera includes a magnetic element, preferably a magnetic stripe, the magnetic stripe being fixed to the take-up spool, preferably to the take-up shaft of the take-up spool, by adhesive. Such embodiments improve the reliability of the system and reduce the energy consumption of the system. On the other hand, another sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever, such as an image sensor module, can be connected to a roller mechanism pressed against the take-up spool of the film camera by spring elasticity, and the rotation of the take-up spool is measured as the movement of the winding crank lever.

[0016] Preferably, the image sensor module includes a retaining magnet for securing the sensor module to the body of the film camera, more preferably to the back of the shutter. Surprisingly, this feature improves the usability of the digital imaging system. In particular, conversion to a film camera is very easy and operational errors can be prevented. However, other mounting methods for the image sensor module are also possible, for example, by securing the image sensor module to the back cover using an adhesive, preferably a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0017] Furthermore, a cartridge module including a memory card slot, preferably an SD card slot, may be provided.

[0018] Furthermore, a cartridge module including a display, preferably an OLED or LCD display, may be provided.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge module preferably includes a wireless communication module, more preferably a Bluetooth (registered trademark) or WLAN module. Even more preferably, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) module enables pairing with a Bluetooth (registered trademark) headset to transfer audio output. The pairing mode of the cartridge module can be activated, for example, via a control element or an on / off switch.

[0020] This embodiment enables the use of a digital imaging system, for example, in places or situations where causing inconvenience to others is not allowed, such as churches, museums, etc. Alternatively, the image sensor module may include a wireless communication module as described above. However, based on the area required for such a module, it is preferable for the cartridge module to include such a module.

[0021] Furthermore, a cartridge module containing data for adjusting the ISO value may be provided. Preferably, the data for adjusting the ISO value may be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer. Additionally, the data may be fixed so that a specific cartridge module simulates a film having a specific ISO value.

[0022] In another embodiment, an image sensor module containing data for adjusting the ISO value may be provided. Preferably, the data for adjusting the ISO value can be selected by a control element provided in the image sensor module.

[0023] By adjusting the ISO value, the digital imaging system can be adapted to specific lighting and exposure conditions respectively. According to such an embodiment, the handling of the camera can be simplified.

[0024] Furthermore, a cartridge module containing data relating to the activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module may be provided. Preferably, the data relating to the activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer. The digital imaging system requires power when activating the image sensing array. Surprisingly, by changing the activation time, energy can be saved and battery life can be extended. Further improvements obtained through such features, along with the method of acquiring digital images, will be described in more detail below.

[0025] The cartridge module includes a battery. The battery can be selected according to the user's needs and available capacity; there are no particular restrictions. However, conventional commercially available batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, are preferred.

[0026] The cartridge module includes a USB port for charging the battery. Preferably, the USB port of the cartridge module is connected to the cartridge module's second memory and is designed for data transfer.

[0027] The image sensing array can be adjusted to meet specific requirements well known in the industry. Preferably, the image sensing array of the image sensor module is 220 mm². 2 ~870mm 2 Preferably 320 mm 2 ~800mm 2 This includes the area within the specified range.

[0028] Furthermore, a cartridge module containing data for selecting a film simulation for a digital image may be provided. Preferably, the data for selecting a film simulation for a digital image can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer.

[0029] Furthermore, a cartridge module containing data for selecting a sharpness value may be provided. Preferably, the data for selecting the sharpness value can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, a cartridge module containing data for selecting a dynamic range value may be provided. Preferably, the data for selecting the dynamic range value can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment, a cartridge module containing data for adjusting the white balance may be provided. Preferably, the data for adjusting the white balance can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer.

[0032] Preferably, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes a neutral position to which the switch is returned, more preferably by elastic force, after rotational operation.

[0033] More preferably, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes at least one button that is triggered by a rotational motion, and more preferably, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes two buttons that are triggered by a rotational motion, where one button is triggered clockwise and the other button is triggered counterclockwise.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes at least two, preferably at least three rotational positions that define at least two, preferably at least three operating modes.

[0035] Preferably, the on / off switch of the cartridge module may be provided to include a sensor for determining vertical movement.

[0036] Furthermore, a cartridge module may be provided that includes data for selecting an action or operation mode triggered by the movement of the cartridge module's on / off switch. Preferably, the data for selecting the action or operation mode triggered by the movement of the cartridge module's on / off switch can be selected by a control element provided in the cartridge module or by wireless data transfer.

[0037] The operation or operating mode triggered by the movement of the cartridge module's on / off switch will be described in more detail below, along with the method of capturing digital images.

[0038] Another subject of the present invention is a method for capturing digital images with a film camera using the digital imaging system according to the present invention.

[0039] Preferably, the rotation of the film winding crank lever activates the image sensing array of the image sensor module. More preferably, the rotation of the film winding crank lever generates a sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready. In another embodiment of the present invention, the image sensing array of the image sensor module is activated by operating an on / off switch that can be operated by the rewind lever of the film camera.

[0040] Preferably, the completion of the image detection procedure can be indicated by the operation of the film winding crank lever of the film camera, the image of the image sensing array is read out and processed by the processing unit, the digital photograph obtained from the image read out of the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit is stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing the digital photograph, the image sensing array of the image sensor module is reactivated for additional images, and an audible signal indicating that the image detection procedure is ready is restarted. Preferably, the digital photograph based on the image processed by the image sensor module and stored in the first memory connected to the readout circuit is transferred to a second memory of the cartridge module after the completion of the image detection procedure, and an audible signal indicating the transfer of the digital photograph is provided. This embodiment brings about remarkable improvements in terms of the efficiency and operability of the digital imaging system. The digital imaging system not only provides the user with clear and immediate feedback on the operating status, but also provides the ability to quickly capture many images in a short time. Furthermore, the processing load is low.

[0041] Preferably, the image from the image sensing array of the image sensor module is read out and processed by the processing unit only when the image sensing array is in active mode, and more preferably, the active mode is indicated by a sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready. In the digital imaging system, it is preferable not to process the image if the activation of the film winding crank lever or rewind lever of the film camera is not detected within a predetermined time. According to this embodiment, the operation of the digital imaging system can be simplified and energy can be saved.

[0042] Preferably, the image sensing array of the image sensor module may be deactivated after a predetermined time, and / or the active mode of the image sensing array of the image sensor module may end after a predetermined time.

[0043] Preferably, according to one embodiment, the predetermined time is in the range of 10 to 120 seconds, preferably 20 to 40 seconds. According to another preferred embodiment, the predetermined time is in the range of 60 to 1200 seconds, preferably 120 to 600 seconds. The predetermined time varies depending on the type of photograph to be taken. In double exposure or long exposure situations, it is preferable to select a longer predetermined time. Conversely, for general daytime photographs, a shorter predetermined time is more appropriate. In a preferred embodiment, the operation of the film winding crank lever of the film camera indicates the end of the image detection procedure, and the image sensing array of the image sensor module is reactivated for additional images, so that in this embodiment, many photographs can be taken in a short time.

[0044] Preferably, the image sensing array of the image sensor module may be deactivated after a predetermined time, and / or after the active mode of the image sensing array of the image sensor module has ended after a predetermined time, the system may be configured so that no data is stored or processed.

[0045] Furthermore, the rotation of the rewind lever may act on an on / off switch of the cartridge module, preferably to deactivate the image sensing array of the image sensor module. More preferably, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to stop any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready. Depending on the operating mode, the image may be discarded or processed and stored.

[0046] Furthermore, the rotation of the rewind lever may act on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to deactivate the image sensing array of the image sensor module, causing images that were measured by the image sensing array and acquired by pressing the shutter button of the film camera, but were not processed by the processing unit and stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit, to be discarded. Preferably, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to stop any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready. Preferably, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to stop any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready and provide a sound indicating that there are no stored digital photographs.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module, causing the image from the image sensing array to be read and processed by the processing unit, and the digital photograph obtained from the image read from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit is stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing the digital photograph, and the rotation of the rewind lever may be configured to deactivate the image sensing array of the image sensor module. Preferably, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to stop any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready, and the digital photograph stored in the first memory connected to the readout circuit is transferred to a second memory of the cartridge module after the image detection procedure is completed. More preferably, the rotation of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to stop any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready, the digital photograph stored in the first memory connected to the readout circuit is transferred to a second memory of the cartridge module after the image detection procedure is completed, and a sound is provided indicating that the digital photograph has been stored.

[0048] In another preferred embodiment, rotation of the rewind lever in a specific direction acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module, deactivating the image sensing array of the image sensor module, and causing images that were measured by the image sensing array and acquired by pressing the shutter button of the film camera, but not processed by the processing unit and stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit, to be discarded. In a more preferred embodiment, rotation of the rewind lever in the opposite direction to discard an image acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module, causing the image of the image sensing array to be read out and processed by the processing unit, the digital photograph obtained from the image read out of the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit to be stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs, and the rotation of the rewind lever deactivates the image sensing array of the image sensor module.

[0049] In another preferred embodiment, rotation of the rewind lever in a specific direction acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to deactivate the image sensing array of the image sensor module, discard an image measured by the image sensing array and acquired by pressing the shutter button of the film camera, but not processed by the processing unit, and stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit, and any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready is stopped, and a sound is provided indicating that there are no stored digital photographs. In a more preferred embodiment, rotation of the rewind lever in the opposite direction to discard an image acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module, causing the image of the image sensing array to be read out and processed by the processing unit, and the digital photograph obtained from the image read out of the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit to be stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs, and rotation of the rewind lever deactivates the image sensing array of the image sensor module, stops any sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready, and the digital photograph stored in the first memory connected to the readout circuit is transferred to a second memory of the cartridge module after the image detection procedure is completed, and a sound is provided indicating that a digital photograph has been stored. The rotational movement of the rewind lever for discarding images may be clockwise or counterclockwise. Preferably, the user may select the direction of discard or storage by changing the corresponding data in the cartridge module.

[0050] Furthermore, the sound indicating that no digital photographs are stored may be set to be different from the sound indicating that digital photographs are stored. In addition, the sound indicating that the active mode or image detection procedure is ready may be different from the sound indicating that digital photographs are stored and / or the sound indicating that no digital photographs are stored.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the clockwise rotation of the rewind lever acts on the on / off switch of the cartridge module, activating the image sensing array of the image sensor module, setting a first predetermined time, after which the image sensing array of the image sensor module is deactivated.

[0052] Furthermore, the counterclockwise rotation of the rewind lever may act on the on / off switch of the cartridge module to activate the image sensing array of the image sensor module, set a second predetermined time, and deactivate the image sensing array of the image sensor module after the second predetermined time.

[0053] Preferably, the sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready is started after the rewind lever has been rotated, and the sound output in response to clockwise movement is different from the sound output in response to counterclockwise movement.

[0054] Furthermore, the downward movement of the rewind lever may act on an on / off switch in the cartridge module to activate a sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever of a digital imaging system, particularly an image sensor module, for converting a film camera into a digital camera.

[0055] Preferably, the upward movement of the rewind lever acts on an on / off switch of the cartridge module to deactivate a sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever of the digital imaging system, in particular the image sensor module, for converting the film camera into a digital camera.

[0056] Furthermore, the on / off switch of the cartridge module may preferably include a neutral position to which the switch is returned by elastic force after rotational movement, and the holding time of the rotational movement may be measured and the operation or operating mode triggered by the rotational movement of the on / off switch of the cartridge module may be selected based on the holding time of the rotational movement.

[0057] Preferably, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes a neutral position to which the switch is returned by an elastic force after a rotational movement, the number of rotational movements is measured within a predetermined time, and an operation or operating mode triggered by the number of rotational movements of the on / off switch of the cartridge module is selected based on the holding time of the rotational movement.

[0058] In another preferred embodiment, the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes at least one button triggered by a rotational motion, preferably the on / off switch of the cartridge module includes two buttons triggered by a rotational motion, one button being triggered clockwise and the other button being triggered counterclockwise, and more preferably, different operations or operating modes are triggered depending on the holding time and / or the number of rotational motions of either button.

[0059] Preferably, the processing unit of the image sensor module determines the exposure time based on the detection of light measured by the image sensing array.

[0060] Furthermore, the data for setting the white balance is selectable, and this data may be configured to include lighting values ​​for "daylight," "cloudy," "shade," "twilight," and "fluorescent light."

[0061] Furthermore, the data for setting the sharpness is selectable, and this data may be configured to include sharpness values ​​for "very fine," "fine," "standard," "smooth," and "very smooth."

[0062] Furthermore, it may be possible to select data for setting the dynamic range, and such data may be provided to include dynamic range values ​​for "very high," "high," "standard," "low," and "very low."

[0063] Preferably, a film camera may be used that has a button to suppress the rotation of the take-up spool when the winding crank lever is operated to tension the shutter curtain, and after the first image is taken, the button to suppress the rotation of the take-up spool is pressed, and after the winding crank lever is operated, a second image is taken. Preferably, the image sensing array of the image sensor module is deactivated after a predetermined time, the predetermined time being in the range of 60 seconds to 1200 seconds, preferably 120 seconds to 600 seconds.

[0064] Preferably, the image data stored in the first memory is retained until the data is transferred to the second memory or discarded as described above. When the accurate transfer to the second memory is complete, it is preferable to discard the first memory. Preferably, discarding the image data includes erasing the first memory.

[0065] Another subject of the present invention is a component kit including a digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, and a cartridge dock.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the cartridge dock includes a display.

[0067] Furthermore, the cartridge dock may be provided to include a charging device.

[0068] Preferably, the cartridge dock includes buttons for operating the cartridge module settings.

[0069] Furthermore, the cartridge dock may be provided to include a USB port or wireless communication module, preferably Bluetooth® or WLAN module, for transferring images stored in the cartridge module.

[0070] Furthermore, the cartridge dock may be provided to include a printing system for printing images stored in the cartridge module.

[0071] More preferably, the kit includes a magnetic strip that can be fixed to the winding spool by adhesive. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0072] [Figure 1] This is a schematic front view of the film camera being converted. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a rear view illustrating the camera shown. [Figure 3] This is a schematic rear perspective view of the digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, in a separated state. [Figure 4] This is a schematic front perspective view of the digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, in a separated state. [Figure 5] This is a schematic rear perspective view of the digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, in a separated state. [Figure 6] This is a schematic side perspective view of the digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, in a separated state. [Figure 7] This is a schematic perspective view of a kit including a digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera and a cartridge dock, according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0073] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. The present invention can preferably be implemented throughout the entire scope of the claims and is not limited to the drawings presented herein.

[0074] Therefore, the following drawings illustrate the present invention in more detail, but do not limit the scope of the invention or its claims.

[0075] In the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrated with reference to the drawings, some identical or similar components in different exemplary embodiments and some different individual components are given the same reference numerals in order to facilitate comparison and readability of the exemplary embodiments.

[0076] This disclosure will be best understood by referring to the following detailed description together with the accompanying drawings. Further embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to seven schematicly shown figures, and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0077] Figure 1 is a front view showing a film camera 10 that can be converted into a digital camera by the digital imaging system according to the present invention.

[0078] In the following explanation, we define the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, which is a rectangular coordinate system, as shown in the diagram. For convenience of explanation, the positive (+) side in the Z direction will be referred to as the top, the negative (-) side in the Z direction as the bottom, the positive (+) side in the Y direction as the front, and the negative (-) side in the Y direction as the back. The X direction is the horizontal direction, and the Z direction is the vertical direction. However, these references do not imply universal up-and-down, front-and-back, or vertical-horizontal relationships.

[0079] The film camera 10 is preferably a single-lens reflex camera that uses 35mm film. The film camera 10 mainly includes a camera body 12, a lens 14 (lens group 16 and lens barrel 18), a shutter button 20, a shutter speed dial 22, a film advance crank lever 24, and a rewinding lever 26.

[0080] Figure 2 shows a rear view of the film camera 10 shown in Figure 1. In addition to Figure 1, Figure 2 preferably shows that the film camera 10 includes a viewfinder 48 and a rear cover 28. As shown in Figure 2, the film camera 10 includes a cartridge chamber 34, a rewinding fork 36, a take-up spool 38, a shutter curtain 42, and a shutter opening 44 inside the camera body 12. These components are visible when the rear cover 28 is open, as shown in Figure 2.

[0081] For illustrative purposes, Figure 2 also shows a film cartridge 50. In this specification, cartridge 52 is a substantially cylindrical container capable of housing the film 56 in a wound state, and the combination of cartridge 52 and film 56 constitutes a film cartridge 50.

[0082] The functions of the film camera 10 will be described in more detail below in order to clearly explain the functions of the digital imaging system according to the present invention. It should be noted that the movement of the film winding crank lever 24 can be detected by a sensor provided in the image sensor module. Furthermore, the movement of the rewind lever 26 can be detected by an on / off switch provided in the image cartridge module.

[0083] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the camera body 12 is part of the housing of the film camera 10. With the lens 14 attached and the rear cover 28 closed, the camera body 12 is optically sealed to protect the film 56 from light, except when the film 56 is exposed. Together with the rear cover 28, the camera body 12 constitutes the housing of the film camera 10.

[0084] The lens 14 includes a lens group 16 and a lens barrel 18. The multiple optical lenses included in the lens group 16 are held in optically determined positions by the lens barrel 18, and the lens barrel 18 is mounted on the positive side in the Y direction of the camera body 12. The surface to which the lens barrel 18 is mounted is the front surface of the film camera 10. The lens barrel 18 includes an aperture adjustment mechanism for adjusting the aperture (f-number) and a focus adjustment mechanism for adjusting the focus. The lens barrel 18 may further include a zoom function and the like.

[0085] The shutter button 20 is used to open and close the shutter curtain 42. The shutter button 20 is located on the upper right side of the camera body 12 when viewing the film camera 10 from the back (see Figure 2). When the shutter button 20 is pressed, the shutter curtain 42 operates at the shutter speed set by the shutter speed dial 22. The exposure time of the film 56 is determined by the shutter speed.

[0086] The shutter speed dial 22 is located on the top surface of the camera body 12, around the shutter button 20. By rotating the shutter speed dial 22, the shutter speed is set to the desired shutter speed.

[0087] The film winding crank lever 24 is an example of a winding mechanism for winding film. The film winding crank lever 24 is located on the top surface of the camera body 12, next to the shutter speed dial 22, and is coupled to the take-up spool 38. Each time the film winding crank lever 24 is turned, the film 56 wound on the take-up spool 38 is advanced by one frame.

[0088] The rewind lever 26 is an example of an operating part that is operated externally from the camera body 12. The rewind lever 26 is located on the upper left side of the camera body 12 when viewing the film camera 10 from the rear (see Figure 2). The rewind lever 26 is coupled to the rewind fork 36 in the cartridge chamber 34.

[0089] When the rewind lever 26 is pulled up, the rewind fork 36 is raised inside the cartridge chamber 34 (from the state shown in Figure 2), and the cartridge chamber 34 becomes ready to accommodate the cartridge 52.

[0090] After the film camera 10 has finished shooting, when the rewind lever 26 is rewound, the rewind fork 36 winds the film 56 from the take-up spool 38 into the cartridge 52.

[0091] The viewfinder 48 is located at the top center of the back of the camera body 12 (see Figure 2). The shutter opening 44 is for viewing the subject through the lens 14. The rear cover 28 is provided to open and close the back of the camera body 12 (see Figure 2) almost completely. The rear cover 28 is hinged to the camera body 12 via a hinge 30. A pressure plate 32 is located on the inner surface of the rear cover 28 (the positive side in the Y direction when the rear cover 28 is closed). The pressure plate 32 presses the film 56 in front of the shutter opening 44.

[0092] Depending on the thickness of the image sensor module of the digital imaging system, the pressure plate 32 may be adjusted or removed. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the image sensor module of the digital imaging system may be attached to the back cover 28 or the adjusted pressure plate 32 using, for example, an adhesive, preferably a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0093] In Figure 2, the film cartridge 50 is not loaded into the film camera 10, but the film cartridge 50 or digital imaging system of the present invention may be loaded into the film camera 10 by opening the rear cover 28, or removed from the film camera 10. As shown in Figure 2, with the rear cover 28 open, the rear of the cartridge chamber 34, rewind fork 36, take-up spool 38, shutter curtain 42, and shutter opening 44 is all open.

[0094] The cartridge chamber 34 is a space for housing the cartridge 52, and the lower end of the rewind fork 36 protrudes into the cartridge chamber 34 from above. The cartridge 52 is loaded into the cartridge chamber 34 with the rewind lever 26 raised, and the rewind fork 36 is raised within the cartridge chamber 34 (from the state shown in Figure 2). When the rewind lever 26 is pushed down in this state, the rewind fork 36 is inserted into the groove of the spool (shaft) 54 of the cartridge 52. Similarly, a digital imaging system including an image sensor module and a cartridge module can be mounted on the film camera 10.

[0095] The rewind fork 36 is an example of a movable part (a predetermined operating part) that is linked to the movement of the rewind lever 26, which is operated from outside the camera body 12. The rewind fork 36 is connected to the rewind lever 26 via a through hole in the upper surface of the camera body 12.

[0096] The rewind fork 36 is rotatable around the Z-axis and can move in the Z-axis direction in response to the operation of the rewind lever 26. After the film camera 10 has finished shooting with the film 56, the rewind fork 36 rotates when the film 56 is rewound in the cartridge 52.

[0097] The take-up spool 38 is connected to the film winding crank lever 24 via a through-hole on the top surface of the camera body 12. The take-up shaft 40 of the take-up spool 38 is a rod-shaped part that winds the film 56 and has a slit into which the leading edge (leader portion) of the film 56 wound in the cartridge 52 is inserted. When the film 56 is pulled out from the cartridge 52 loaded in the cartridge chamber 34 and the leading edge (leader portion) of the film 56 is inserted into the slit of the take-up spool 38, the film 56 moves to a position that overlaps with the shutter curtain 42. When the film winding crank lever 24 is wound up with the leading edge (leader portion) of the film 56 inserted into the slit of the take-up spool 38, the film 56 is wound up one frame at a time by the take-up spool 38. The shutter curtain 42 is an example of a mechanical shutter and is located on the rear side (negative side in the Y direction) of the shutter opening 44. The shutter opening 44 is located approximately in the center of the camera body 12 in the horizontal direction when the rear cover 28 is open.

[0098] The shutter curtain 42 is a focal-plane shutter in which the shutter curtain 42 moves laterally relative to the shutter opening 44 by a shutter mechanism.

[0099] The closed state of the shutter curtain 42 is when the shutter curtain 42 obstructs the shutter opening 44. The open state of the shutter curtain 42 is when the shutter curtain 42 moves laterally relative to the shutter opening 44, so that the shutter opening 44 does not overlap with the shutter curtain 42. The shutter curtain 42 is driven by the shutter mechanism and moves laterally to open and close.

[0100] The shutter opening 44 is located behind the lens 14 (negative Y-direction) (see Figure 1). Since the film 56 is located behind the shutter curtain 42 (negative Y-direction), the film 56 is exposed by light incident through the lens 14 and the shutter opening 44 while the shutter curtain 42 is open.

[0101] The exposure time is the amount of time the shutter curtain 42 is open (open time). Since the exposure time is determined by the shutter speed, the open time of the shutter curtain 42 is set by the shutter speed dial 22.

[0102] Although this specification describes a film camera 10 in which shutter speed, aperture (f-number), and focus are adjusted manually, it should be noted that the present invention can also be applied to film cameras in which some or all of these adjustments are automated.

[0103] Figure 3 is a schematic rear perspective view of the digital imaging system 70 for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, in a disassembled state. Figure 3 shows the rear of the digital imaging system 70 facing the lid of a film camera as shown in Figure 2. The digital imaging system 70 includes a cartridge module 72 and an image sensor module 74.

[0104] The cartridge module 72 includes a second memory, an on / off switch, a battery (not shown), and a USB port 76 for charging the battery. The cartridge module 72 preferably has a shape substantially identical to a conventional cartridge of cartridge film, as shown in Figure 2, so that it can be loaded into the cartridge chamber of a film camera as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0105] The USB port 76 for charging the battery is located in the cartridge section, which has the shape of a spool (shaft). However, the USB port 76 may be located in other parts of the cartridge module 72.

[0106] The cartridge module 72 preferably includes an SD card slot 78. The SD card is connected to the first memory by contact pins and is a useful second memory for long-term storage of digital photographs obtained from images read from the image sensing array. Furthermore, the second memory, connected to the first memory by contact pins and for long-term storage of digital photographs obtained from images read from the image sensing array, may be fixed to the cartridge module 72.

[0107] Furthermore, the cartridge module 72 includes, for example, a control element 80 such as a small button, and a display 82 which is preferably an OLED or LCD display. The control element 80 is useful for, for example, adjusting the ISO value, adjusting or selecting the activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module, selecting a film simulation for a digital image, selecting a sharpness value, selecting a dynamic range value, adjusting the white balance, and so on. The display 82 preferably displays the provided selectable or adjustable data.

[0108] The cartridge module 72 and the image sensor module 74 are detachably and connectably connected to each other by contact pins 84. The contact pins of the cartridge module 72 are not shown in Figure 3. The contact pins 84 of the image sensor module 74 are located on a strap 86. The strap 86 allows the length between the cartridge and the sensor module to be adjusted to suit different types of film cameras. Preferably, the strap 86 is slidable within the image sensor module or the cartridge module, as shown in Figure 3.

[0109] Furthermore, the image sensor module 74 includes a processing unit 90 connected to an image sensing array for reading images from the image sensing array, and a first memory 92 connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs obtained from the images read from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit.

[0110] The image sensor module 74 includes a sensor 94 for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever. The sensor 94 for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever, shown in Figure 3, includes a string 96 that can be positioned near the internal take-up spool 100 of the film camera, as shown in Figure 2, and the string 96 includes a coil 98 that measures the change in the magnetic field due to the rotational movement of a magnetic element 102, preferably a magnetic stripe attached to the take-up spool 100 by adhesive, and preferably attached to the take-up shaft of the take-up spool 100. The take-up spool 100 having the magnetic element 102 is shown for illustrative purposes.

[0111] Figure 4 shows a schematic front perspective view in a separated state of the digital imaging system 70 for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, as also shown in Figure 3. Figure 4 shows the front of the digital imaging system 70 facing the shutter of the film camera, as shown in Figure 2. The digital imaging system 70 includes a cartridge module 72 and an image sensor module 74.

[0112] The cartridge module 72 includes a second memory, an on / off switch, contact pins, a battery (not shown), and a USB port 76 for charging the battery. The cartridge module 72 preferably has a shape substantially identical to a conventional cartridge of cartridge film, as shown in Figure 2, so that it can be loaded into the cartridge chamber of a film camera as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0113] The cartridge module 72 and the image sensor module 74 are detachable and connectable to each other by contact pins 84. The contact pins 84 of the image sensor module 74 are magnetically fixed to the contact pins of the cartridge module 72 and are provided on the strap 86 as described in more detail above.

[0114] The image sensor module 74 includes an image sensing array 104. The image data measured by the image sensing array 104 is processed by a processing unit connected to the image sensing array for reading images from the image sensing array, and by a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs obtained from the images read from the image sensing array.

[0115] Furthermore, the image sensor module 74 includes a sensor 94 for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever. The sensor 94 for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever includes a string 96 that can be positioned near the internal take-up spool 100 of the film camera, as shown in Figure 2.

[0116] Figure 5 is a schematic rear perspective view of the digital imaging system 70 in its separated state, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The rear of the digital imaging system 70 is shown so that the side facing the top end of the film camera is visible. The digital imaging system 70 includes a cartridge module 72 and an image sensor module 74.

[0117] The cartridge module 72 includes a second memory, a USB port for charging the battery, a battery (not shown), and an on / off switch 106.

[0118] The cartridge module 72 preferably includes an SD card slot 78, control elements 80 such as small buttons, and a display 82 preferably such as an OLED or LCD display. The cartridge module 72 and the image sensor module 74 are detachably connected to each other by contact pins. The contact pins 84 of the image sensor module are provided on the strap 86.

[0119] Furthermore, the image sensor module 74 includes a processing unit 90 connected to an image sensing array for reading images from the image sensing array, and a first memory 92 connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs obtained from the images read from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit.

[0120] The image sensor module 74 includes a sensor 94 for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever. The sensor 94 includes a string 96 having a coil 98, as described in more detail above.

[0121] For illustrative purposes, a film camera take-up spool 100 having a magnetic element 102 is also shown, preferably with a magnetic stripe attached with adhesive.

[0122] Figure 6 shows a schematic side perspective view of the digital imaging system 70 for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, as shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, in a separated state.

[0123] Figure 6 shows a side view of the digital imaging system 70 facing the bottom of the film camera, as shown in Figure 2. The digital imaging system 70 includes a cartridge module 72 and an image sensor module 74.

[0124] The USB port 76 for charging the battery is located on the cartridge section, which has the shape of a spool (shaft). It is also connected to each other by contact pins 84 and 108. The contact pins 108 on the cartridge module 72 and 84 on the image sensor module 74 allow the cartridge module 72 and the image sensor module 74 to be separated. The strap 86, which has the contact pins 84 on the image sensor module 74, allows the length between the cartridge and the sensor module to be adjusted to suit different types of film cameras.

[0125] Further elements of the image sensor module 74, such as the sensor 94, include the string 96 described in more detail above.

[0126] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of a kit 110, which includes a digital imaging system 70 for converting a film camera to a digital camera according to the present invention, and a cartridge dock 112. The digital imaging system 70 was described in more detail in Figures 3 to 6 above.

[0127] The cartridge dock 112 includes a cartridge chamber 114 into which the cartridge module 72 is loaded. Data transfer between the cartridge dock 112 and the cartridge module 72 occurs via pins 116 of the cartridge dock 112 and pins of the cartridge module 72 (the pins of the cartridge module 72 are not shown in Figure 7). For example, data from the cartridge module 72, such as ISO value, activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module, film simulation of the digital image, sharpness value, dynamic range value, and white balance, can be adjusted by the control element 118 of the cartridge dock. Data stored in the memory (second memory) of the cartridge module 72 is read out and displayed on the display 120 of the cartridge dock. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 10 Film Cameras 12 Camera body 14 lenses 16 lens groups 18 Lens barrel 20 Shutter button 22 Shutter Speed ​​Dial 24. Film winding crank lever 26 Rewind lever 28 Back lid 30 hinges 32 Pressing plate 34 Cartridge Chamber 36 Rewind Fork 38 Spool 40 winding shaft 42 Shutter curtain 44 Shutter opening 48 Viewfinder 50 film cartridges 52 cartridges 54 Spool (Shaft) 56 film 70 Digital Imaging Systems 72 Cartridge Modules 74 Image sensor module 76 USB ports 78 SD card slots 80 control elements 82 displays 84 Contact pins of the image sensor module 86 Straps 90 processing units 92 First Memory 94. Sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever. 96 string 98 coils 100 spools 102 Magnetic elements 104 Image Sensing Array 106 On / Off Switch 108 Contact pins of the cartridge module 110 Kit 112 Cartridge Dock 114 Cartridge Chamber of Cartridge Dock 116 Cartridge dock pins 118 Control elements for the cartridge dock 120 Cartridge Dock Display

Claims

1. A digital imaging system for converting a film camera to a digital camera, The digital imaging system includes an image sensor module and a cartridge module, the image sensor module and the cartridge module being detachable and connectable to each other by contact pins. The image sensor module includes an image sensing array, a processing unit connected to the image sensing array for reading images from the image sensing array, a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs obtained from the images read from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit, and a sensor for detecting the movement of a film advance crank lever. The cartridge module includes a second memory connected to the first memory by the contact pins for long-term storage of digital photographs obtained from images read from the image sensing array, an on / off switch operable by the rewinding lever of a film camera, a battery, and a USB port for charging the battery. The digital imaging system includes a sound output unit. A digital imaging system characterized by the following features.

2. The image sensor module and the cartridge module are fixed together by magnetic force. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

3. The sensor for detecting the movement of the film winding crank lever includes a string for measuring the rotational movement of the internal take-up spool of the film camera, the string includes a coil for measuring changes in the magnetic field, and the take-up spool of the film camera includes a magnetic element, preferably a magnetic strip fixed to the take-up spool by adhesive. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

4. The image sensor module includes a retaining magnet for fixing the sensor module to the body of the film camera, preferably on the back surface of the shutter. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

5. The contact pins of either the image sensor module or the cartridge module are provided on the strap, preferably the contact pins of the image sensor module are provided on the strap. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

6. The cartridge module includes data for adjusting the ISO value, and / or The image sensor module includes data for adjusting the ISO value. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

7. The cartridge module includes data relating to the activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module, and / or The image sensor module includes data relating to the activation time of the image sensing array of the image sensor module. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

8. The on / off switch of the cartridge module includes a neutral position to which the switch returns after rotational operation. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

9. The on / off switch of the cartridge module includes at least two, preferably at least three rotational positions that define at least two, preferably at least three operating modes. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

10. The on / off switch of the cartridge module includes a sensor for determining vertical movement. The digital imaging system according to claim 1.

11. A method for capturing a digital image with a film camera using the digital imaging system described in claim 1.

12. The rotational movement of the film winding crank lever activates the image sensing array of the image sensor module. The method according to claim 11.

13. The operation of the film winding crank lever of the film camera indicates the end of the image detection procedure, the image from the image sensing array is read out and processed by the processing unit, the digital photograph obtained from the image read out from the image sensing array and processed by the processing unit is stored in a first memory connected to the processing unit for storing digital photographs, the image sensing array of the image sensor module is reactivated for additional images, and the sound indicating that the image detection procedure is ready is restarted. The method according to claim 11.

14. The image sensing array of the image sensor module is deactivated after a predetermined time. The method according to claim 11.

15. A digital imaging system for converting a film camera as described in claim 1 into a digital camera, and a cartridge dock are included. A parts kit characterized by the following features.

Images