Electronic device, control method thereof, program, and storage medium

Abstract

To avoid change of set values that causes confusion, and give notification of changed set values.SOLUTION: A set value corresponds to an operation amount of a function executed according to operation of a grip zoom 112. A set value changing instruction is accepted via an up button 311, a down button 312 or the like and a set value confirming instruction is accepted via a SET button 314 or the like. A settable size relation of the set values is defined. A system control unit 50 retains the set values for which the changing instruction was given as the accepted instruction if the set value confirming instruction is accepted in the state that the changing instruction for changing to a set value which does not satisfy the settable size relation was accepted. At the same time, the system control unit 50 corrects a set value other than the set value indicated by the changing instruction so as to satisfy the settable size relation, and further gives notification of the corrected set value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, a control method thereof, a program, and a storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] Devices that execute functions according to the amount of operation on an operation member have been proposed. In Patent Document 1, it is possible to set the operation amount of a function executed according to the operation amount, and when a user is instructed to change to an incorrect value with respect to set values with a defined magnitude relationship, another set value is corrected so as to maintain the magnitude relationship. Further, in the device of Patent Document 1, a user can visually recognize the set and corrected set values on a setting screen displayed on a display screen connected to the device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in recent years, devices that can be operated by a touch panel have become widely popular. In the operation by a touch panel, an operation indicated by a UI can be executed by directly touching a UI (user interface) displayed on a display screen. In Patent Document 1, it is conceivable to adopt a specification in which, when a setting value is determined and a setting screen is terminated by an instruction input by direct touch on the UI, for example.

[0005] However, in such a specification, if an instruction to terminate the setting screen is received at a stage where the correction is not reflected, the display of the setting screen ends while the user cannot visually recognize the corrected setting value. Then, the user cannot visually recognize the corrected setting value.

[0006] The present invention aims to avoid changing set values that cause confusion and to notify the changed set values.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a method for controlling an electronic device, comprising: a display step of controlling to display a plurality of items and set values of the plurality of items on a display means; a selection step of selecting an item from the plurality of items in response to a selection operation; a change step of changing the set value of the item selected in the selection step in response to a change operation for changing the set value; a setting step of determining the set value changed in the change step in response to a determination operation for determining the set value and executing a setting process of setting the set values of the plurality of items in the electronic device; In the set values of the plurality of items, the possible magnitude relationships are predefined, when the set value is changed in response to the change operation, in response to the item selected by the selection operation being changed, the possible magnitude relationships based on 、 changing the set value of an item different from the item whose set value has been changed among the plurality of items, so as to satisfy the predefined possible magnitude relationships and executing a correction step of executing a correction process of displaying the changed set value on the display means; when the determination operation is performed, not satisfying the possible magnitude relationships if there is a set value, controlling to perform the correction process without executing the setting process corresponding to the determination operation.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to avoid changing set values that cause confusion and to notify the changed set values.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a digital video camera 10 (hereinafter referred to as camera 10) is exemplified as the electronic device. Also, the camera 10 functions as a display control device.

[0012] The photographing lens 106 is a lens group including a zoom lens and a focus lens. This zoom lens changes the zoom ratio by changing the focal length. The zoom lens is controlled by the zoom control unit 102. The focus lens is a lens for focusing. The focus lens is controlled by the distance measurement control unit 103.

[0013] The imaging unit 104 is an imaging device composed of a CCD, a CMOS element, etc. that convert an optical image into an electrical signal. The A / D converter 105 converts the analog signal output from the imaging unit 104 into a digital signal. The barrier 101 prevents dirt and damage to the imaging system by covering the imaging system including the photographing lens 106 of the camera 10.

[0014] The image processing unit 107 performs resizing processes such as predetermined pixel interpolation and reduction, and color conversion processes on the image data from the A / D converter 105 or the image data from the memory control unit 108. Also, the image processing unit 107 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data, and based on the obtained arithmetic result, the system control unit 50 performs exposure control and distance measurement control. As a result, AF (Auto Focus) processing, AE (Automatic Exposure) processing, and EF (Flash Pre-Firing) processing in the TTL (Through-The-Lens) method are performed. Further, the image processing unit 107 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data, and also performs AWB (Auto White Balance) processing in the TTL method based on the obtained arithmetic result.

[0015] The image data from the A / D converter 105 is directly written into the memory 109 via the image processing unit 107 and the memory control unit 108, or via the memory control unit 108. The memory 109 stores the image data obtained by the imaging unit 104 and converted into digital data by the A / D converter 105, and the image data for display on the display unit 110. The memory 109 has a storage capacity sufficient to store a predetermined number of still images, a moving image for a predetermined time, and audio. Also, the memory 109 serves as an image display memory (video memory) when displaying the image data and OSD (On Screen Display) data read from the recording medium 208 on the display unit 110.

[0016] The D / A converter 123 converts the image data for image display stored in the memory 109 into an analog signal and supplies it to the display unit 110. Therefore, the image data for display written in the memory 109 is displayed by the display unit 110 via the D / A converter 123. The display unit 110 performs display according to the analog signal from the D / A converter 123 on a display such as an LCD. The digital signal that has once been A / D converted by the A / D converter 105 and stored in the memory 109 is analog-converted by the D / A converter 123 and sequentially transferred to and displayed on the display unit 110. Thereby, the function as an electronic viewfinder is realized, and a live view image is displayed. The display unit 110 is a liquid crystal display, but may be another type of display such as an organic EL (Organic Electroluminescence) display. Also, the display unit 110 is an electronic viewfinder, but may be a small (for example, 3.5 inches) liquid crystal monitor, or may be an external output such as HDMI (registered trademark) or SDI. Furthermore, the display unit 110 may have a plurality of these display outputs.

[0017] The non-volatile memory 111 is a memory as an electrically erasable and recordable recording medium, such as an EEPROM or the like. Constants for the operation of the system control unit 50, programs, etc. are stored in the non-volatile memory 111. This program includes programs for executing various flowcharts described later.

[0018] The system control unit 50 controls the entire camera 10. By the system control unit 50 executing the program stored in the non-volatile memory 111, various processes described later are realized. Also, the system control unit 50 performs display control by controlling the memory 109, the D / A converter 123, the display unit 110, etc.

[0019] For example, RAM is used for the system memory 113. Constants for the operation of the system control unit 50, variables, programs read from the non-volatile memory 111, etc. are stored in the system memory 113. The system timer 114 measures the time used for various controls and the time of the built-in clock.

[0020] The operation unit 115 is an operation unit for inputting various operation instructions to the system control unit 50. The operation unit 115 includes a SET key 115a, a cross key 115b (upward key, downward key, leftward key, rightward key), and various function switching buttons such as menu buttons, cancel buttons, AF / MF (not shown in the figure). For example, when the menu button is pressed, various configurable menu screens are displayed on the display unit 110. The user can intuitively perform various settings using the menu screen displayed on the display unit 110, the cross key 115b, the SET key 115a, etc.

[0021] The touch panel 116 is a touch sensor that detects various touch operations on the display surface of the display unit 110 (the operation surface of the touch panel 116). The touch panel 116 and the display unit 110 can be integrally configured. For example, the touch panel 116 is configured so that the light transmittance does not interfere with the display of the display unit 110 and is attached to the upper layer of the display surface of the display unit 110. Then, the input coordinates on the touch panel 116 and the display coordinates on the display surface of the display unit 110 are associated with each other. Thereby, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) can be provided as if the user can directly operate the screen displayed on the display unit 110.

[0022] The mode switch 117 switches the operation mode of the system control unit 50 to any mode such as a video recording mode or a playback mode. The power switch 118 is a push button for switching between power on and power off. The camera 10 is provided with a telescopic grip zoom 112 (zoom key) as a part of the camera body, for example, on the side (described later with reference to FIG. 2).

[0023] The power control unit 119 is composed of a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch circuit for switching the energized block, etc., and detects the presence or absence of a battery, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level. Also, the power control unit 119 controls the DC-DC converter based on the detection result and the instruction of the system control unit 50, and supplies the necessary voltage to each part including the recording medium 208 for the necessary period.

[0024] The power supply unit 120 consists of a primary battery such as an alkaline battery or a lithium battery, a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery, or a Li battery, an AC adapter, etc. The recording medium I / F 121 is an interface with the recording medium 208 such as a memory card or a hard disk. The recording medium 208 is a recording medium for recording the captured image data, and is composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, etc.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of the grip zoom 112. The grip zoom 112 is configured in a telescopic type and is operated by being pushed in by the user. In the camera 10, a zoom speed corresponding to the amount of pushing (operation amount) when the grip zoom 112 is pushed in from the reference position is assigned. Here, the zoom corresponds to the "function" executed according to the operation on the grip zoom 112 as an example of the operation member in the present invention, and the zoom speed corresponds to the "operation amount" of the function.

[0026] The grip zoom 112 has a first operation unit 200a and a second operation unit 200b. The first operation unit 200a is an operation unit when the user zooms in on the telephoto side (T side), and the second operation unit 200b is an operation unit when the user zooms out on the wide-angle side (W side). When the user pushes in the first operation unit 200a, the camera zooms in at the zoom speed assigned to the amount of pushing. On the other hand, when the user pushes in the second operation unit 200b, the camera zooms out at the zoom speed assigned to the amount of pushing.

[0027] The grip zoom 112 is configured to return to the reference position (initial position) when the user releases the pressing of the first operation unit 200a or the second operation unit 200b. The system control unit 50 detects the pressing amounts of the first operation unit 200a and the second operation unit 200b, and controls the zoom control unit 102 to change the position of the imaging lens 106 so that the zoom speed becomes the zoom speed assigned to the pressing amount. In the present embodiment, the larger the pressing amount of the grip zoom 112, the larger the voltage change amount. Therefore, the system control unit 50 detects the pressing amount by detecting the voltage output by the grip zoom 112.

[0028] FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c) are diagrams showing an example of a custom zoom setting screen. When the user selects the setting of the custom zoom from the menu via the operation unit 115 or the touch panel 116, the system control unit 50 displays the custom zoom setting screen 300 on the display unit 110. The custom zoom setting screen 300 is a screen for setting the assignment of the zoom speed (operation amount of the function) to the pressing amount (operation amount) of the grip zoom 112 operated by the user.

[0029] On the custom zoom setting screen 300, a recordable time 301a, a recording state 301b, a recording time code 301c, a zoom bar 301d, a custom zoom setting menu 302, image data 303, etc. are displayed. The recordable time 301a, the recording state 301b, the recording time code 301c, and the custom zoom setting menu 302 are OSD data (OSD: On-screen Display), and are displayed superimposed on the image data 303. The image data 303 is, for example, a live view image captured by the imaging unit 104.

[0030] In this embodiment, in the custom zoom setting menu 302, 17 levels of zoom speeds from "0 to 16" can be assigned to the five levels of the push-in amount of the grip zoom 112. The push-in amount has five levels set for each of the telephoto side (T side) and the wide-angle side (W side). Note that the push-in amount is not limited to five levels, and it may be two levels, three or more levels, or six or more levels. Also, the zoom speed that can be set for each level of the push-in amount is not limited to 17 levels, and it may be other than 17 levels, or it may be levels expressed as "slow, normal, fast", etc., which are different from numerical values.

[0031] Regarding the levels of the push-in amount, from the central position corresponding to the reference position of the grip zoom 112 toward the T side, the first to fifth levels are marked as the push-in amounts "1" to "5". For example, when the user assigns the zoom speed "3" to the push-in amount "1" of the grip zoom 112, the zoom is performed at the zoom speed "3" when the user is pushing in the grip zoom 112 with the push-in amount "1".

[0032] The system control unit 50 obtains a numerical value in the range from "-127" to "+127" by converting the voltage detected when the grip zoom 112 is pushed in. For example, when the system control unit 50 obtains a numerical value of "0 to 25" or "-25 to 0", the push-in amount is set to "1". The correspondence between the voltage or numerical value and the push-in amount is stored in the non-volatile memory 111 in advance. Here, a negative numerical value indicates the state of being pushed in on the W side, and a positive numerical value indicates the state of being pushed in on the T side. Also, the voltage numerical value "0" indicates the state of not being operated.

[0033] Note that the relationship between the five levels of the push-in amount and the numerical value may be such that the resolution of the push-in amount and the numerical value for each level is equal, or it may be weighted according to the levels. The case of weighting according to the levels means, for example, widening the range of the numerical values corresponding to the push-in amounts "1" and "5" compared to other push-in amounts.

[0034] In addition to the custom zoom setting, the camera 10 can set the overall zoom speed to "high, medium, low". That is, the zoom speed of "0 to 16" set on the custom zoom setting screen 300 is changed according to the "high, medium, low" setting. Further, the camera 10 can set a variable-speed zoom that operates at a zoom speed assigned to the amount of pressing and a fixed-speed zoom that operates at a specific zoom speed regardless of the amount of pressing.

[0035] FIG. 3(a) is an example of the custom zoom setting screen 300 that is first displayed, corresponding to the state where the grip zoom 112 is not operated. In the custom zoom setting menu 302, the first display area 305 and the second display area 306 are configured on the same screen.

[0036] In the first display area 305, the amount of pressing when the grip zoom 112 is operated is displayed in an identifiable manner. In the first display area 305, an indicator 307 and a pressing level display 308 are displayed as OSD data. The indicator 307 is a display item indicating the current amount of pressing of the grip zoom 112 by the user. The pressing level display 308 is a display item indicating the level of the amount of pressing in five steps to identify the amount of pressing. The pressing level display 308 is displayed separately for the amount of pressing of the first operation unit 200a on the T side and the amount of pressing of the second operation unit 200b on the W side. The indicator 307 is, for example, the one among the pressing level displays 308 indicating the level of the amount of pressing that is displayed in a different display mode (different color, etc.) from the others. The system control unit 50 displays the indicator 307 based on the amount of pressing detected when the grip zoom 112 is operated. In FIG. 3(a), since the grip zoom 112 is not operated, the indicator 307 is located at the center in the left-right direction.

[0037] In the second display area 306, the zoom speed assigned to the pushing amount is visibly displayed. In the second display area 306, the zoom speed 309 corresponding to each pushing position, the item cursor 310, the up button 311, and the down button 312 are displayed as OSD data. The pushing position corresponds to a five-step pushing amount. The item cursor 310 is currently positioned at the zoom speed 309 that is the target of setting change, and the up button 311 and the down button 312 are displayed above and below the item cursor 310.

[0038] The zoom speed 309 corresponds to an example of a set value corresponding to the operation amount, and the displayed numerical value of "0 to 16" indicates the zoom speed. The zoom speed 309 is displayed for each pushing position. For example, in FIG. 3(a), the zoom speed "1" is assigned as the set value at the position where the push on the T side is the shallowest. Therefore, by referring to the second display area 306, the user can visually recognize the zoom speed 309 assigned to each step of the pushing amount. The larger the set value of the zoom speed 309, the faster the corresponding zoom speed.

[0039] In the second display area 306, a reset button 313 and a SET button 314 are further displayed as OSD. The reset button 313 is a button for returning the settings to the factory shipment state. The SET button 314 is a button for finalizing and saving the settings. An example of the screen transition of the custom zoom setting including the operation of these buttons will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0040] In Fig. 3(a), the item cursor 310 is positioned at the shallowest push-in position (immediately to the right of the central position) on the T side. Therefore, in this state, the zoom speed 309 at the shallowest position is the target for setting change, and the user can assign a desired set value. Specifically, the user can perform a "set value change operation" to change the zoom speed 309 targeted for setting change from "1" to a different zoom speed by operating the up or down arrow keys (vertical arrow keys) of the cross key 115b of the operation unit 115. Alternatively, the user can also perform the set value change operation by touching the up button 311 or the down button 312 via the touch panel 116. The cross key 115b, the up button 311, and the down button 312 correspond to an example of the first reception means for receiving an instruction to change the set value.

[0041] The user can perform a movement operation of the item cursor 310 to change the item cursor 310 from the current shallow push-in position to another push-in position by operating the left or right arrow keys (horizontal arrow keys) of the operation unit 115. Also, the movement operation of the item cursor 310 can be performed by touching any one of the five-stage zoom speeds 309 via the touch panel 116. The user can similarly target a desired push-in position for setting change and perform a set value change operation on the zoom speed 309 targeted for setting change.

[0042] Fig. 3(b) is an example of a custom zoom setting screen 300 displayed when the first operation unit 200a on the T side of the grip zoom 112 is operated. In the example shown in Fig. 3(b), since the first operation unit 200a of the grip zoom 112 is pushed in, the indicator 307 has moved to the T side with respect to the example shown in Fig. 3(a). Specifically, the indicator 307 is positioned at a position corresponding to the push-in amount "3" on the T side in the push-in level display 308.

[0043] Figure 3(c) is an example of a custom zoom setting screen 300 that is displayed when the second operation unit 200b on the W side of the grip zoom 112 is operated. In the example shown in Figure 3(c), since the second operation unit 200b of the grip zoom 112 is pushed in, the indicator 307 has moved to the W side with respect to the example shown in Figure 3(a). Specifically, since the second operation unit 200b is pushed in to the limit, the indicator 307 is located at the W-side end (push-in amount "5") in the push-in level display 308.

[0044] In this way, the amount of push when the user actually pushes in the first operation unit 200a or the second operation unit 200b of the grip zoom 112 can be identified by the display position of the indicator 307 in the push-in level display 308.

[0045] Here, in the present embodiment, the zoom speeds as set values assigned to the five-stage zoom speed 309 have a magnitude relationship according to the stages. Here, the configurable magnitude relationship is predetermined. Information on the configurable magnitude relationship is stored, for example, in the system memory 113.

[0046] Specifically, in the order from the push-in amount "1" to "5", including equality, the zoom speed increases. The configurable magnitude relationship is: the set value of the push-in amount "1" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "2" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "3" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "4" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "5". The camera 10 corrects the set value so that while changing the set value of the zoom speed 309 to be set to the set value assigned by the user, the other set values maintain the above magnitude relationship. The correction of the set value will be described later.

[0047] Maintaining the magnitude relationship in this way is, for example, to prevent the set value from decreasing or increasing contrary to the user's expectation of an increase or decrease in the set value according to the operation. Specifically, when the user further presses the grip zoom 112, it is to prevent the occurrence of a region where the zoom speed becomes slower contrary to the expectation that the zoom speed will increase. Similarly, when the user loosens the pressing of the grip zoom 112, it is to prevent the occurrence of a region where the zoom speed becomes faster contrary to the user's expectation that the zoom speed will decrease.

[0048] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of screen transition and an example of a preset pattern. The screens to be transitioned are roughly classified into three categories: classification 400, classification 410, and classification 420.

[0049] In classification 400, a menu screen 401 is displayed on the image data 303 by OSD. Further, menu items 402 and 403 are displayed on the menu screen 401 by OSD. The menu item 402 is a menu for setting the type of grip zoom speed. In the menu item 402, it is possible to switch between a fixed speed mode, a variable speed mode, and a custom zoom mode. Here, the fixed speed mode is a mode that operates at a fixed speed. The variable speed mode is a mode that operates at a preset (forced) variable speed with respect to the operation amount. The custom zoom mode is a mode that operates with the set value of the zoom speed assigned by the user for each of the above-described pressing positions. When "User" is displayed on the right side of the grip zoom speed in the menu item 402, it indicates that the operation is in the custom zoom mode.

[0050] Menu item 403 is a menu for checking and editing custom zoom settings. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the cursor is positioned on menu item 403. When the SET key 115a included in the operation unit 115 is pressed in this state, it means that the setting screen start operation has been performed, and the screen transitions to the next screen (category 410). Note that the user can also perform the setting screen start operation by touching menu item 403 via the touch panel 116.

[0051] Next, in category 410, a setting selection screen for checking and switching settings is displayed. The user can switch the desired setting pattern by performing left and right operations using the left and right arrow keys included in the operation unit 115. Also, the user can switch the desired setting pattern by touching the left button 414 or the right button 415. Although it is assumed that there are three patterns of custom zoom settings, it is not limited to three patterns (users 1, 2, 3), and one pattern or three or more patterns may be provided.

[0052] On screens 411, 412, and 413 included in category 410, the operation amount and the set value of the zoom speed corresponding to the operation amount, as described in FIG. 3, are displayed on the OSD. The user can check what kind of selected setting pattern it is. Further, an OK button and an edit button are displayed on the OSD on each screen included in category 410. The user selects these buttons using the cross key 115b included in the operation unit 115 and performs a confirmation operation using the SET key 115a included in the operation unit 115. Also, the user can perform the confirmation operation by touching each button via the touch panel 116.

[0053] Hereinafter, the "confirmation operation" used includes both the operation of pressing the SET key 115a with the display button selected by the cursor and the operation of directly touching the display button.

[0054] When a confirmation operation is performed on the OK button, the selected setting pattern is switched to, and the screen returns to Classification 400. The setting pattern is stored in the memory 109. Also, when a confirmation operation is performed on the Edit button, the screen transitions to Classification 420, which is a setting screen for changing the setting values based on the currently displayed settings. Edit mode processing is executed in Classification 420.

[0055] Note that the settings shown in Screen 411, Screen 412, and Screen 413 in Classification 410 are examples of the initial values at the time of factory shipment. For example, in Screen 411, the zoom speeds of "1, 5, 9, 13, 16" are assigned as the initial values in order for the pushing-in amount. This initial value setting is a basic setting where the zoom speed changes according to the pushing amount, and the maximum zoom speed is achieved when the operation amount by pushing is the largest.

[0056] In Screen 412, the zoom speeds of "3, 3, 3, 3, 16" are assigned as the initial values in order for the pushing-in amount. This setting is used when you want to set the maximum zoom speed only when the push is the maximum. For example, in a video shooting scene, it is a suitable setting when you want to operate at a fixed zoom speed during shooting and move the zoom to the end when not shooting. With this setting, the user can achieve a fixed speed with a certain margin of operation and move the zoom to the end at high speed without changing the zoom speed in the menu.

[0057] In Screen 413, the zoom speeds of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16" are assigned as the initial values in order for the pushing-in amount. This setting is suitable for scenes where you want to operate at high speed when the push is the maximum and at low speed when the pushing amount is the minimum. Basically, the setting in Screen 413 can be used in the same way as the setting in Screen 412, but by making it low speed in the area where the operation amount is particularly small, the usability of the shooting scene is improved.

[0058] Note that in the screen 413, the setting pattern of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16" was taken as an example for the initial value, but it may also be "1, 7, 7, 7, 16" or "0, 7, 7, 7, 16". In the case of "1, 7, 7, 7, 16", it operates at a low speed when the pressing amount is the minimum, and in the case of "0, 7, 7, 7, 16", it does not operate when the pressing amount is the minimum. By setting it like "0, 7, 7, 7, 16", the first push can be treated as a dead zone, and the user can clearly know the operation amount at which the zoom starts to move.

[0059] In this way, a plurality of effective settings suitable for the assumed shooting scenes can be prepared in advance. Furthermore, since the setting values can be changed based on the above initial values, the user can realize the desired setting state with fewer operation steps.

[0060] Next, in the classification 420, the custom zoom setting screen 300 is displayed. As described with reference to FIG. 3, the user can set the zoom speed corresponding to the operation amount of the grip zoom 112. The user can set the set value of the zoom speed as desired by operating the left-right keys, the SET key 115a included in the operation unit 115, or a touch operation via the touch panel 116.

[0061] Taking the transition from the screen 412 corresponding to "User 2" as an example for explanation. When a confirmation operation is performed on the edit button of the screen 412, the screen 422 of the classification 420 is displayed. Note that although the screen 422 is taken as an example for explanation, the basic editing operations are the same for the screens 421 and 423. Since the settings of the screen 412 are changed based on it, the same setting state is maintained between the screen 412 and the screen 422 immediately after the transition. On the screen 422, as described with reference to FIG. 3, a plurality of zoom speeds 309, a reset button 313, and a SET button 314 are displayed in the OSD.

[0062] On the screen of classification 420, when an operation other than the confirmation operation and the set value change operation by pressing the SET key 115a with the reset button 313 (described later) selected, if the set value needs to be corrected, the set value is corrected. For example, even when the cursor is moved by operating the cross keys 115b, if the set value needs to be corrected, the set value is corrected.

[0063] On the screen 422, when the down key among the cross keys 115b is pressed or the down button 312 is touched via the touch panel 116, the set value of the zoom speed 309 where the selection cursor hits changes as shown in the screen 424. For example, the set value changes from 3 to 2. At the same time, the shape (height of the bar shape) of the corresponding push-in level display 308 also changes.

[0064] The reset button 313 and the SET button 314 can be selected by the cross keys 115b included in the operation unit 115, and the user performs the confirmation operation by the SET key 115a included in the operation unit 115. Also, the user can perform the confirmation operation by touching each button via the touch panel 116. On this screen 424, when the confirmation operation of the reset button 313 is performed, the set value of the zoom speed is changed to the factory shipment state (initial value) of "3, 3, 3, 3, 16", so the value at the location where the cursor hits returns to the initial value (the value changes from 2 to 3).

[0065] On any screen in classification 420, if no correction of the setting value is required, the setting value is confirmed as it is by the confirmation operation of the SET button 314, saved in the settings, the setting screen ends, and the process returns to classification 400. When the setting is saved, it becomes valid as a custom zoom setting and is stored in the memory 109. Also, if correction of the setting value is required, the setting is not saved immediately. For example, a state where the change of the setting value is instructed by the up button 311 or the down button 312, etc. is a provisional setting state. If this provisional setting state does not satisfy the above-described settable magnitude relationship, it corresponds to the case where correction of the setting value is required. Therefore, even if a confirmation operation of the setting value is instructed when correction of the setting value is required, the setting value is not confirmed and the setting is not saved.

[0066] Here, the "setting value confirmation instruction", which is a confirmation operation for confirming the setting value, has at least two modes: the "first confirmation instruction" and the "second confirmation instruction". The first confirmation instruction is an operation of pressing the SET key 115a included in the operation unit 115 with the cursor positioned on the SET button 314. The second confirmation instruction is a touch operation on the SET button 314. The SET key 115a and the SET button 314 correspond to an example of a second reception means for receiving a setting value confirmation instruction for confirming the change of the received setting value. The setting value confirmation instruction is also an instruction to end the reception of the change of the setting value, and is also an instruction to end the display of the custom zoom setting screen 300 and end the edit mode process.

[0067] In addition, in this embodiment, when the first confirmation instruction is given, it is necessary to select the SET button 314 in advance by operating the cross keys 115b, and the necessary set values are corrected in response to that operation. Therefore, when the first confirmation instruction is given and the set value does not need to be corrected, setting storage is always performed. On the other hand, in the temporary setting state where the change of the set value is instructed using the up button 311 or the down button 312, etc., when the second confirmation instruction is given, it is determined whether or not the set value needs to be corrected depending on whether or not the settable magnitude relationship is satisfied. If the set value does not need to be corrected when the second confirmation instruction is given, setting storage is performed. However, if the set value needs to be corrected when the second confirmation instruction is given, the correction is made so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship.

[0068] Next, an example of correcting the set value will be described.

[0069] When the system control unit 50 receives a touch operation-based set value confirmation instruction (second confirmation instruction) in a state where a set value change operation that does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship is received, it determines that the set value needs to be corrected. That is, the system control unit 50 determines that correction is necessary when the magnitude relationship of the set value of the zoom speed 309 (one of the first set value and the second set value) for which a change instruction is received by the set value change operation does not satisfy the relationship of the set value of the push-in amount "1" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "2" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "3" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "4" ≤ the set value of the push-in amount "5". When it is determined that correction is necessary, the system control unit 50 controls as follows.

[0070] The system control unit 50 first leaves the set value of the zoom speed 309 (one of the first set value and the second set value) for which a change instruction is received by the set value change operation as it is. On the other hand, for the set value of the zoom speed 309 adjacent to the zoom speed 309 for which a change instruction is received, the system control unit 50 changes (corrects) it so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship. Further, the system control unit 50 notifies the value after the change (correction) of the set value of the adjacent zoom speed 309.

[0071] Take screen 423 as an example. Assume that on screen 423, in the setting state of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16" in order with respect to the pushing-in amount, an instruction to change the third setting value from the shallower side to "8" is received. In this case, it becomes "3, 7, 8, 7, 16", and between the third and fourth from the shallower side, the size relationship that can be set is not satisfied. Therefore, the system control unit 50 corrects the fourth setting value from the shallower side to "8" to make it "3, 7, 8, 8, 16". Also, assume that in the setting state of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16", an instruction to change the third setting value from the shallower side to "6" is received. In this case, it becomes "3, 7, 6, 7, 16", and between the second and third from the shallower side, the size relationship that can be set is not satisfied. Therefore, the system control unit 50 corrects the second setting value from the shallower side to "6" to make it "3, 6, 6, 8, 16".

[0072] Also, assume that in the setting state of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16", an instruction to change the second setting value from the shallower side to "8" is received. In this case, it becomes "3, 8, 7, 7, 16", and between the third to fifth from the shallower side, the size relationship that can be set is not satisfied. Therefore, the system control unit 50 corrects the fourth and fifth setting values from the shallower side to "8" respectively to make it "3, 8, 8, 8, 16". On the other hand, assume that in the setting state of "3, 7, 7, 7, 16", an instruction to change the fourth setting value from the shallower side to "8" is received. In this case, it becomes "3, 7, 7, 8, 16", and since the size relationship that can be set is satisfied, the system control unit 50 leaves the instruction to change as it is and does not correct other setting values either.

[0073] In this way, when correction is necessary, the system control unit 50 corrects the setting values of the zoom speed 309 adjacent to the zoom speed 309 for which the change instruction is received so as to satisfy the size relationship that can be set. Even if there are still other setting values that do not satisfy the size relationship that can be set among other setting values, the system control unit 50 corrects the other setting values as well. If, as a result of correcting other setting values, the relationship between other setting values is no longer satisfied, the system control unit 50 further corrects the other setting values.

[0074] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the editing mode process. This process is realized by the system control unit 50 reading out the program stored in the non-volatile memory 111 and expanding and executing it in the system memory 113. Further, this process is started when the user performs a confirmation operation on the edit button in the classification 410 (FIG. 4). In FIG. 5, the numbers with "S" attached mean step numbers. In this process, the system control unit 50 corresponds to an example of the control means.

[0075] In S501, the system control unit 50 controls to display the custom zoom setting screen 300 of the classification 420 (FIG. 4) on the display unit 110.

[0076] In S502, the system control unit 50 determines whether a key operation by the operation unit 115 or a touch operation via the touch panel 116 has been performed by the user. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S503 when an operation has been performed, and to transition to S513 when no operation has been performed.

[0077] In S503, the system control unit 50 determines whether the operation performed by the user is a confirmation operation (first confirmation instruction or second confirmation instruction) by the SET button 314. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S504 when the operation performed by the user is a confirmation operation by the SET button 314, and to transition to S505 otherwise.

[0078] In S504, the system control unit 50 determines whether correction of the set value of the zoom speed 309 is unnecessary. As described above, when a second confirmation instruction is received in a state where a set value change operation that does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship is received, it is determined that correction of the set value is necessary. The system control unit 50 controls to transition to S515 when correction is unnecessary, and to transition to S507 when correction is necessary. Therefore, setting storage is not performed in a state where the settable magnitude relationship is not satisfied, and the custom zoom setting screen 300 is not terminated.

[0079] In S505, the system control unit 50 determines whether the operation performed by the user is a movement operation of the item cursor 310. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S506 if the operation performed by the user is a movement operation of the item cursor 310, and to transition to S508 otherwise.

[0080] In S506, the system control unit 50 controls to move the position of the item cursor 310 according to the movement operation.

[0081] In S507, if correction of the set value is necessary, the system control unit 50 controls to perform the correction process of the set value. As described above, the system control unit 50 corrects the set value of the zoom speed 309 adjacent to the zoom speed 309 for which a change instruction has been received so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, and further corrects other set values so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship if necessary. Therefore, when a movement operation of the item cursor 310 is performed in a temporarily set state where the settable magnitude relationship is not satisfied, the correction makes the settable magnitude relationship satisfied.

[0082] In S508, the system control unit 50 determines whether the operation performed by the user is a confirmation operation of the reset button 313. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S509 if the operation performed by the user is a confirmation operation of the reset button 313, and to transition to S510 otherwise.

[0083] In S509, the system control unit 50 controls to return the current each set value (set pattern) to the factory shipment state (initial value).

[0084] In S510, the system control unit 50 determines whether the operation performed by the user is a setting value change operation. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S511 if the operation performed by the user is a setting value change operation, and to transition to S507 if not. Even when transitioning from S510 to S507, if necessary, the setting value is corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship.

[0085] In S511, the system control unit 50 controls to change the setting value of the zoom speed 309 where the current item cursor 310 is located according to the setting value change operation. After S507, S509, and S511, the process transitions to S512.

[0086] In S512, the system control unit 50 controls to update the display of the zoom speed 309 and the push-in level display 308 based on the current setting value. As a result, since the corrected setting value is notified, the user can visually recognize the corrected setting value. Note that the mode of notifying the corrected setting value may be only one of numerical display and bar length change, or may be by voice.

[0087] In S513, the system control unit 50 determines whether there is a change in the push-in amount of the grip zoom 112. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S514 if there is a change in the push-in amount, and to transition to S502 if there is no change.

[0088] In S514, the system control unit 50 controls to update the position of the indicator 307 based on the push-in amount of the grip zoom 112. After S514, the process returns to S502.

[0089] In S515, the system control unit 50 performs setting storage according to the current setting value, and controls to end the custom zoom setting screen 300 (end the edit mode process). After this, the screen transitions to classification 400 (Figure 4).

[0090] In this way, even when a user gives an instruction to confirm the set value, if the settable magnitude relationship is not satisfied, the set value is corrected and displayed without ending the setting screen, so that the user can visually recognize the corrected set value (the set value to be saved).

[0091] According to the present embodiment, when an instruction to confirm the set value is received in a state where an instruction to change the set value that does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship is received, the system control unit 50 accepts the set value with the received instruction as it is. At the same time, the system control unit 50 corrects the set values other than the set value with the change instruction so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship (S504→S507), and further notifies the corrected set value (S512).

[0092] That is, even if the user performs a SET button operation (confirmation operation), the set value confirmation instruction is not uniformly given, and the set value is corrected so as to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship in response to the confirmation operation. In response to the user performing the confirmation operation again after correcting the set value, the set value is confirmed with the corrected set value. By such control, the user can visually recognize the corrected set value, and it is possible to reduce the confusion caused by the set value being set to a corrected set value different from the set value that the user thought was set.

[0093] Also, even if the SET button operation is not performed, if the set value does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, when the item cursor is operated, the set value is corrected so as to satisfy the magnitude relationship as the item cursor moves. By correcting the set value when the item cursor is operated, the corrected set value can be appropriately notified to the user, and furthermore, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of changes to the set value that do not satisfy the further magnitude relationship for the set value that the user intends to set subsequently.

[0094] When these are expressed by focusing on two set values (the first set value and the second set value), it is as follows. When the system control unit 50 receives a set value confirmation instruction in a state where an instruction to change one of the first and second set values is received so as not to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, the system control unit 50 sets the one of the first and second set values as it is according to the received instruction. At the same time, the system control unit 50 changes (corrects) the other of the first and second set values so that the first and second set values satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, and further notifies the changed other value.

[0095] As a result, setting storage in a state where the settable magnitude relationship is not satisfied is avoided, and it is also avoided that the setting screen ends without knowing the corrected set value even when corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship. Therefore, it is possible to avoid changing the set value that causes confusion and to notify the changed set value.

[0096] Further, when the system control unit 50 receives a set value confirmation instruction in a state where a set value change instruction that satisfies the settable magnitude relationship is received, the system control unit 50 sets the set value with the change instruction as it is according to the received instruction and does not correct the other set values. Then, the system control unit 50 determines these set values and stores the settings (S504 → S515 after passing through S511).

[0097] In addition, when the system control unit 50 receives a set value confirmation instruction in a state where it can receive a set value change instruction and each set value satisfies the settable magnitude relationship, the system control unit 50 also determines and stores the current each set value (S504 → S515). Such cases are assumed to be before the first set value change instruction is received in the edit mode process, or immediately after the necessary set value correction is made in response to the movement of the item cursor 310 or the like. By making the necessary set value correction in response to the movement of the item cursor 310 or the like, the user can confirm the corrected set value at a stage where no set value change instruction is issued. Note that it is not essential to provide a configuration in which the necessary set value correction is made in response to the movement of the item cursor 310 or the like on the screen.

[0098] In addition, although it was assumed that the second confirmation instruction is made by the touch operation of the SET button 314, it may be made not only by the SET button 314 but also by the touch operation of a predetermined button displayed on the screen.

[0099] In addition, the display mode of a predetermined button may be made different between the state in which a setting value change instruction that satisfies the configurable magnitude relationship is received and the state in which a setting value change instruction that does not satisfy the configurable magnitude relationship is received. For example, differences may be provided in the display mode of a predetermined button depending on color, shape, characters, marks, display position, etc. For example, the characters displayed on the SET button 314 may be changed and displayed as "correction" or the like. In this way, when giving the second confirmation instruction, the user can know in advance whether the setting value will be corrected.

[0100] In addition, the configurable magnitude relationship was a setting pattern in which the setting value on the deeper side is greater than or equal to the setting value on the shallower side, but it may be a setting pattern in which the setting value on the deeper side is greater than the setting value on the shallower side. Also, the magnitude relationship may be the reverse of these examples. Also, a relationship in which "<" and "≦" are mixed, that is, a setting pattern in which there are some cases where the same value exists between adjacent setting values in terms of the magnitude relationship, may be used. For example, a magnitude relationship such as the setting value of the pushing amount "1" < the setting value of the pushing amount "2" ≦ the setting value of the pushing amount "3" ≦ the setting value of the pushing amount "4" < the setting value of the pushing amount "5" may be used.

[0101] (Second Embodiment) In the second embodiment of the present invention, the editing mode process is different from that of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, when the configurable magnitude relationship is not satisfied, after correcting and displaying the setting value without ending the setting screen, the setting screen is ended after a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0102] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the editing mode process. The execution subject, execution conditions, and start requirements of this process are the same as those of the editing mode process shown in FIG. 5. In FIG. 6, the same S numbers are assigned to the same processing steps as in FIG. 5. The description of the same processing as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0103] First, in S601, the system control unit 50 controls to set the screen end flag, which is a variable stored in the system memory 113, to 0. After that, the process transitions to S501.

[0104] If it is determined in S504 that correction is not required, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S602. In S602, the system control unit 50 controls to set the screen end flag to 1. After S602, the process transitions to S507.

[0105] If it is determined in S513 that there is no change in the amount of depression of the grip zoom 112, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S603. Also, after S514, the process transitions to S603.

[0106] In S603, the system control unit 50 determines whether the screen end flag is 1. Then, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S604 if the screen end flag is 1, and to transition to S502 if it is not.

[0107] In S604, the system control unit 50 controls to start driving (timing) the system timer 114. In the present embodiment, as an example, the set time (predetermined time) of the timer is 1 second. However, since the purpose is to enable the user to recognize the corrected set value while maintaining the user's operation feeling, the set time is not limited to 1 second. Here, the set time is the time from when the confirmation operation of the SET button 314 is performed until the set value is saved. Note that the set time may be the time from when the corrected set value is notified until the corrected set value is saved when the set value is corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship. Therefore, the starting point of the set time measurement may be the point in time when the corrected set value is displayed.

[0108] In S605, the system control unit 50 determines whether or not the count of the timer has ended (the set time has elapsed). Note that in S604, after the timing starts, until the timing ends in S605, the timing is not restarted. Then, when the count of the timer has ended, the system control unit 50 controls to transition to S515, and when it has not ended, to return to S513. Therefore, when the set value is corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, after the changed set value is displayed for the set time, the setting is saved.

[0109] According to the present embodiment, it is possible to avoid changing the set value that causes confusion and to achieve the same effect as the first embodiment with regard to notifying the changed set value.

[0110] Also, even when the set value is corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, the set value is corrected and displayed without immediately ending the setting screen. Then, after the set time has elapsed, the setting screen (edit mode process) ends. In the first embodiment, when the set value was corrected to satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, it was necessary to give a set value confirmation instruction again to end the setting screen, but this is not necessary in the present embodiment. Therefore, the number of user operations required for the setting screen (edit mode process) can be reduced.

[0111] Figures 7(a) and 7(b) are diagrams showing modified examples of the setting selection screen in Classification 410. The setting selection screen of Classification 410 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4. For example, as shown in FIG. 7(a), a screen displaying a setting list may be used. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7(b), while displaying the setting list, the setting values may not be displayed, and only the indicators related to the values may be displayed.

[0112] Note that the present invention is applicable not only to cameras but also to various electronic devices. In particular, in each of the above embodiments, although the operation amount of the function executed according to the operation on the operation member corresponded to the zoom speed according to the amount of depression of the grip zoom 112, it is not limited thereto. For example, the operation member is not limited to one that performs a pressing operation such as the grip zoom 112, and may be one that is slid or rotated. The function is not limited to zoom, and the operation amount of the function is not limited to the zoom speed.

[0113] Note that the control of the system control unit 50 may be performed by one piece of hardware, or the control of the entire apparatus may be performed by a plurality of pieces of hardware sharing the processing.

[0114] In addition, although the present invention has been described in detail based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included in the present invention. Furthermore, each of the above-described embodiments merely shows one embodiment of the present invention, and it is also possible to appropriately combine the embodiments.

[0115] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus via a network or a non-transitory storage medium, and causing one or more processors of a computer of the system or apparatus to read and execute the program. The above program and the storage medium storing the above program constitute the present invention. In addition, the present invention can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

Explanation of Symbols

[0116] 50 System Control Unit 112 Zoom with Grips 115a SET Key 115b Cross Key 311 Up Button 312 Down Button 314 SET Button

Claims

1. A method for controlling an electronic device, comprising: a display step of controlling to display a plurality of items and set values of the plurality of items on a display means; a selection step of selecting an item from the plurality of items in response to a selection operation; a change step of changing the set value of the item selected in the selection step in response to a change operation for changing the set value; a setting step of determining the set value changed in the change step in response to a confirmation operation for confirming the set value, and executing a setting process of setting the set values of the plurality of items in the electronic device; in the set values of the plurality of items, the possible magnitude relationship is predetermined, and when the set value is changed in response to the change operation, in response to the change of the item selected by the selection operation, based on the possible magnitude relationship, the set value of an item different from the item whose set value has been changed among the plurality of items is changed so as to satisfy the predetermined possible magnitude relationship, and a correction step of executing a correction process of displaying the changed set value on the display means; a control step of controlling to perform the correction process without executing the setting process corresponding to the confirmation operation when there is a set value that does not satisfy the possible magnitude relationship when the confirmation operation is performed. A method for controlling an electronic device, characterized by comprising the above steps.

2. The plurality of items are items corresponding to the operation amount on an operation member, The set value is a set value corresponding to the operation amount of a function executed when the operation member is operated with the operation amount corresponding to the item. The method for controlling an electronic device according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

3. In the display step, the plurality of items and the set values of the plurality of items are controlled to be displayed as a setting screen for setting the set values of the plurality of items, In the setting step, when executing the setting process, the display of the setting screen is terminated. The method for controlling an electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. The display means has touch detection means capable of detecting a touch operation, The selection operation, the change operation, and the confirmation operation can be either a touch operation on the display means or a pressing operation on a button provided on the electronic device. The control method of the electronic device according to claim 3 is characterized by this.

5. In the display step, it is controlled to display a first item corresponding to the confirmation operation on the setting screen. In the case of a pressing operation on the button, the first item can be selected according to the selection operation, and a pressing operation on a specific button in a state where the first item is selected corresponds to the confirmation operation. In the case of the touch operation, even in a state where the first item is not selected, a touch operation on the first item corresponds to the confirmation operation. The control method of the electronic device according to claim 4 is characterized by this.

6. In the control step, when the confirmation operation is performed, if there is a set value that does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, the correction process is executed without executing the setting process corresponding to the confirmation operation, and when the confirmation operation is performed again, it is controlled to execute the setting process. The control method of the electronic device according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

7. In the control step, when the confirmation operation is performed, if there is a set value that does not satisfy the settable magnitude relationship, the correction process is executed without executing the setting process corresponding to the confirmation operation, and then, when a predetermined time has elapsed, it is controlled to execute the setting process. The control method of the electronic device according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

8. The electronic device is an imaging device. The plurality of items are items corresponding to the operation amount on the operation member for zooming. The control method of an electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the set value is a set value corresponding to a zoom speed of a zoom function executed when the operation member is operated with an operation amount corresponding to an item.

9. A program for causing a computer to execute the control method of an electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of an electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. An electronic device, display control means for controlling to display a plurality of items and set values of the plurality of items on a display means; selection means for selecting an item from the plurality of items in response to a selection operation; changing means for changing a set value of an item selected by the selection means in response to a change operation for changing the set value; setting means for determining the set value changed by the changing means in response to a determination operation for determining the set value, and executing a setting process for setting the set values of the plurality of items in the electronic device; In the set values of the plurality of items, the possible magnitude relationship is predetermined. When the set value is changed in response to the change operation, in response to the change of the item selected by the selection operation, based on the possible magnitude relationship, the set value of an item different from the item whose set value has been changed among the plurality of items is changed to satisfy the predetermined possible magnitude relationship, and correction processing for displaying the changed set value on the display means is executed; control means for controlling to execute the correction processing without executing the setting process corresponding to the determination operation when there is a set value that does not satisfy the possible magnitude relationship when the determination operation is performed.

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