Imaging device and method for controlling the imaging device

Abstract

To set an appropriate combination of functions as a combination of functions to be allocated to operations for an operating unit.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus of the present invention has: a first operating unit that can receive a first operation and subsequently a second operation; allocation means for allocating functions to the first operation and the second operation according to a user's selection; and processing means that, according to the first operation and the second operation, executes processing corresponding to the functions allocated to the first operation and the second operations. The electronic apparatus has control means that performs control to, when a function is not allocated to the first operation, cause the user to select a function to be allocated to the second operation from a first function group, and when a function is allocated to the first operation, cause the user to select a function to be allocated to the second operation from a second function group in which selectable functions are limited compared to the first function group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic apparatus and a control method for the electronic apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] An imaging apparatus such as a digital camera can assign a function selected by a user (for example, autofocus) to a predetermined operation unit, and execute the function desired by the user by operating the predetermined operation unit during shooting. The imaging apparatus is provided with a wide variety of functions in addition to autofocus, and the number of functions that users assign to operation units is also increasing.

[0003] Further, some operation units are capable of accepting a second operation following a first operation, and can assign a function to each operation. Patent Document 1 discloses a digital camera provided with a shutter release button that can be pressed down in a first stage and a second stage. It is disclosed that image data representing a moving image is recorded on a recording medium by the first-stage pressing, and image data representing a still image is recorded on the recording medium by the second-stage pressing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] When functions can be assigned to each of the first-stage pressing operation and the second-stage pressing operation of the shutter release button, depending on the combination of functions selected by the user, there is a possibility that the processing executed by the pressing operation may not be what the user intends.

[0006] For example, one could assign an autofocus function to the first-stage press-down operation and an image playback function to the second-stage press-down operation, respectively. In that case, since the image playback process is not executed while the autofocus process is running, the process resulting from the second-stage press-down operation will not be executed.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an electronic device having an operating section capable of receiving a second operation following a first operation, which can assign appropriate functions to the first and second operations, respectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the imaging apparatus of the present invention includes: a first operating unit capable of receiving a second pressing operation following a first pressing operation; an assignment means that assigns functions to the first pressing operation and the second pressing operation, respectively, according to user selection; a processing means that executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the first pressing operation in response to the first pressing operation, and executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the second pressing operation in response to the second pressing operation; and, if no function is assigned to the first pressing operation, a function to be assigned to the second pressing operation. Start autofocus function Functions related to ISO sensitivity The user is prompted to select from a first group of functions, including functions related to playback, in response to the first press-down operation. The aforementioned Autofocus Start If a function is assigned, the function assigned to the second press-down operation shall not include the playback function. Function to initiate the aforementioned autofocus and The aforementioned Includes functions related to ISO sensitivity. , with more limited functionality than the first set of functions mentioned above It is characterized by having a control means that controls the selection of a second set of functions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, in an electronic device having an operating section capable of receiving a second operation following a first operation, it becomes possible to assign appropriate functions when assigning functions to the first operation and the second operation, respectively. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the imaging device 200 according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure shows the configuration of the imaging device 200 according to this embodiment, where (a) is an external view of the front of the imaging device 200, (b) is an external view of the rear of the imaging device 200, and (c) is a diagram showing the configuration of the AF-ON button 212 that can accept multiple operations. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing related to the AF-ON button 212, which can accept multiple operations. [Figure 4] This diagram illustrates setting screen 400, which allows you to assign functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the detailed settings screen 500, which allows you to configure the functions for half-press and full-press for each item from AF-ON1 to AF-ON7. [Figure 6A] This is a flowchart showing the process for assigning functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. [Figure 6B] This is a flowchart showing the process for assigning functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates how to set the functions assigned to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in the present specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof is omitted. In the present embodiment, an imaging apparatus 200 is described as an example of the electronic apparatus, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) [Configuration of Imaging Apparatus 200] The lens unit 100 is a lens unit on which an interchangeable lens 5 is mounted. The lens 5 is normally composed of a plurality of lenses, but here, only one lens is illustrated in a simplified manner.

[0013] The communication terminal 6 is a communication terminal for the lens unit 100 to communicate with the imaging apparatus 200 side, and the communication terminal 10 is a communication terminal for the imaging apparatus 200 to communicate with the lens unit 100 side.

[0014] The lens unit 100 communicates with the system control unit 40 via the communication terminals 6 and 10. Then, the lens system control circuit 4 inside the lens unit 100 controls the aperture 1 via the aperture drive circuit 2, and displaces the position of the lens 5 via the AF drive circuit 3 to focus. In addition, the system control unit 40 acquires the maximum aperture value and the minimum aperture value of the lens unit 100 via the communication terminals 6 and 10.

[0015] The AE sensor 15 measures the luminance of a subject that has passed through the lens unit 100.

[0016] The AF sensor 11 outputs defocus amount information to the system control unit 40. The system control unit 40 controls the lens unit 100 based thereon.

[0017] The quick return mirror 12 is instructed by the system control unit 40 at the time of exposure, and is moved up and down by an actuator (not shown).

[0018] The user can observe the focusing screen 13 through the pentaprism 14 and viewfinder 16 to confirm the focus and composition of the optical image of the subject obtained through the lens unit 100.

[0019] The focal-plane shutter 17 is a focal-plane shutter that allows the exposure time of the image sensor 20 to be freely controlled by the system control unit 40.

[0020] The optical filter 18 is generally composed of a low-pass filter and the like, and cuts out high-frequency components of the light coming in from the focal-plane shutter 17, guiding the subject image to the image sensor 20.

[0021] Generally, CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) are used as the image sensor 20. The image sensor 20 captures the subject image formed on the image sensor 20 through the lens unit 100 by photoelectric conversion and as an electrical signal.

[0022] The AMP circuit 21 amplifies the captured electrical signal with a gain corresponding to the set shooting sensitivity.

[0023] The A / D conversion circuit 22 converts the analog signal, which has been converted into an electrical signal by the image sensor 20, into a digital signal.

[0024] The image processing circuit 23 performs filtering, color conversion, and gamma / knee processing on the image data converted to a digital signal by the A / D conversion circuit 22, and outputs it to the memory controller 27. The image processing circuit 23 also incorporates a D / A conversion circuit. The image processing circuit 23 can also convert the image data converted to a digital signal by the A / D conversion circuit 22 and the image data input by the memory controller 27 into analog signals and output them to the liquid crystal display unit 25 via the liquid crystal drive circuit 24. These image processing and display processes by the image processing circuit 23 are switched by the system control unit 40. The system control unit 40 also performs white balance adjustment based on the color balance information of the captured image.

[0025] The liquid crystal display unit 25 is a rear monitor for displaying images. Any display that displays images is not limited to liquid crystal displays; other types of displays, such as organic EL (Electro-Luminescence), may also be used.

[0026] The memory controller 27 stores unprocessed image data input from the image processing circuit 23 in the buffer memory 26, and processed image data in the recording medium (memory) 28. Conversely, it also retrieves image data from the buffer memory 26 or memory 28 and outputs it to the image processing circuit 23.

[0027] The memory controller 27 can store image data sent via the external interface 29 into the memory 28, and conversely, it can output image data stored in the memory 28 to the outside via the external interface 29. Examples of external interfaces include USB, IEEE, and HDMI (registered trademark).

[0028] The memory 28 is a removable recording medium such as a memory card. However, it may also be an internal memory. The system control unit 40 controls the drive timing of the image sensor 20 via the timing control circuit 32.

[0029] The power control circuit 35 is a circuit that controls the power supplied from the AC power supply unit 30 or the secondary battery unit 31. The power control circuit 35 turns the power on and off in response to instructions from the system control unit 40. The power control circuit 35 also notifies the system control unit 40 of the current power status information detected by the power status detection circuit 34 and the current power type information detected by the power type detection circuit 33.

[0030] The system control unit 40 controls the focal plane shutter 17 via the shutter control circuit 36.

[0031] The optical filter vibration control circuit 37 is a circuit that vibrates the piezoelectric element 19 connected to the optical filter 18. The optical filter vibration control circuit 37 vibrates the piezoelectric element 19 with predetermined values ​​for vibration amplitude, vibration time, and vibration axis direction, according to instructions from the system control unit 40.

[0032] The non-volatile memory 38 is a non-volatile recording medium that can store user-defined settings such as shutter speed, aperture value, and shooting sensitivity, as well as other various data, even when the imaging device 200 is not powered on.

[0033] The volatile memory 39 can store data that needs to be temporarily stored, such as the internal state of the imaging device and information from the removable memory 28.

[0034] The in-viewfinder LCD display unit 41, via the in-viewfinder LCD drive circuit 42, displays a frame indicating the autofocus point currently being focused on, as well as icons representing the camera's settings.

[0035] The external LCD display unit 43 displays various camera settings, including shutter speed and aperture, via the external LCD drive circuit 44.

[0036] The control unit 70 consists of various operating components that act as an input unit for receiving user input. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 70 includes a release button 201, a main electronic dial 202, a sub electronic dial 203, a power switch 204, and a protect button 205. The control unit 70 also includes a menu button 206, a delete button 207, a zoom mode button 208, a menu screen instruction button 209, a single / multi switch button 210, a multi controller 211, an AF-ON button 212, and a directional pad.

[0037] The system control unit 40 is a control unit that controls each part included in the imaging device 200. The system control unit 40 executes the various processes described later by loading the program recorded in the non-volatile memory 38 into the volatile memory 39 as work memory and executing it.

[0038] [Description of the external view of the imaging device 200] Figure 2(a) is an external view of the front of the imaging device 200, and Figure 2(b) is an external view of the rear of the imaging device 200.

[0039] The release button 201 is used to give instructions for preparing and taking a picture. Half-pressing the button measures the brightness of the subject and focuses. Fully pressing the button releases the shutter and takes a picture.

[0040] The main electronic dial 202 is a rotating control element. By rotating this main electronic dial 202, the user can set values ​​such as shutter speed and aperture, and fine-tune the magnification in magnification mode.

[0041] The sub-electronic dial 203 is a rotating control element. By rotating this sub-electronic dial 203, the user can set values ​​such as aperture and exposure compensation, or advance images one frame at a time while an image is displayed.

[0042] The power switch 204 is an operating component for turning the power ON and OFF.

[0043] The protect button 205 is a button used to apply processing such as protection and rating to images stored on recording media inside or outside the imaging device 200.

[0044] The delete button 206 is a button that instructs the deletion of images stored on recording media inside or outside the imaging device 200.

[0045] The magnification mode button 207 is a button that accepts commands to transition to magnification mode (instruction to start magnification mode) and to exit magnification mode (instruction to end magnification mode) while in playback mode.

[0046] The playback instruction button 208 is a button that displays images stored on recording media inside or outside the imaging device 200 on the liquid crystal display unit 25.

[0047] The menu button 209 is used to display various settings screens on the LCD display unit 25.

[0048] The viewfinder eyepiece detection means 210 is a sensor for detecting whether or not the user is looking through the viewfinder 16.

[0049] The multi-controller 211 is a multi-directional control element used for setting the autofocus starting point (the distance measurement point) and for moving the magnified frame (the magnified area) when the image is displayed in a magnified view.

[0050] [Configuration of AF-ON button 212] The AF-ON button 212 is an operating component used to instruct the camera to start autofocus on a subject in an image. Figure 2(c) is a diagram showing the configuration of the AF-ON button 212, which allows for multiple operations. This AF-ON button 212 is a two-stage button, and input is possible using the first stage (hereinafter referred to as "half-press") and the second stage (hereinafter referred to as "full-press").

[0051] The keytop 213 is configured to be exposed externally as the first part that the user touches when pressing the AF-ON button 212.

[0052] The conductive member 214 is connected to the keytop 213 and is configured to descend when a force is applied from above.

[0053] The ground spring 215 is connected to the conductive member 214 and is installed in the ground.

[0054] The spring 216 for detecting a half-press of the AF-ON button 212 is configured to contact a conductive member 214 that has descended due to a force applied from the keytop 213. Since the conductive member 214 is connected to a ground spring 215 which is connected to ground, a half-press is detected when the conductive member 214 and the spring 216 for detecting a half-press of the AF-ON button 212 come into contact.

[0055] The spring 217 for detecting a full press of the AF-ON button 212 is configured to contact a conductive member 214 that has descended due to a force applied from the keytop 213. Similar to the spring 216 for detecting a half press of the AF-ON button 212, a full press is detected when the conductive member 214 and the spring 217 for detecting a full press of the AF-ON button 212 come into contact.

[0056] Furthermore, the spring 217 for detecting a full press of the AF-ON button 212 is configured to be lower in height than the spring 216 for detecting a half press of the AF-ON button 212. With this configuration, when a full press of the AF-ON button 212 is detected, a half press of the AF-ON button 212 is also always detected. In other words, when a half press and a full press are detected in sequence, the function assigned to the half press and the function assigned to the full press are started in sequence, and while the function assigned to the full press is running, the function assigned to the half press continues.

[0057] [Processing related to AF-ON button 212] First, the process related to the AF-ON button 212, which can accept multiple operations, will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 3. This flowchart shows the process related to the AF-ON button 212 in the shooting mode of the imaging device, and in parallel with this process, other processes such as shooting are also executed in response to shutter button operation. Furthermore, this process is realized by the system control unit 40 executing a program that has been stored in the non-volatile memory 38 by loading it into the volatile memory 39.

[0058] In S301, the system control unit 40 determines whether the power switch 204 is in the ON state. If it is ON, the system proceeds to S302; otherwise, it returns to S301.

[0059] In S302, the system control unit 40 determines whether or not the user has instructed the system to assign functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. If it determines that the user has instructed the system to assign functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212, the system proceeds to S303; otherwise, it proceeds to S304.

[0060] In S303, the system control unit 40 performs a setting process to assign functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. This process will be explained in detail later.

[0061] In S304, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON button 212 has been half-pressed by the user. If it determines that the AF-ON button 212 has been half-pressed, the process proceeds to S305; otherwise, it returns to S302.

[0062] In S305, the system control unit 40 determines whether a function is assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212. If it determines that a function is assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212, the process proceeds to S306; otherwise, the process in S306 is skipped and the process proceeds to S307. If no function is assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212, the item that displays the function set for the half-press of the AF-ON button 212 in the setting screen 400 and the detailed setting screen 500, described later, will display "Disabled".

[0063] In S306, the system control unit 40 executes processing corresponding to the function assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212.

[0064] In S307, the system control unit 40 determines whether the half-press of the AF-ON button 212 has been released. If it determines that the half-press of the AF-ON button 212 has been released, it returns to S302; otherwise, it proceeds to S308.

[0065] In S308, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON button 212 has been fully pressed by the user. If it determines that the AF-ON button 212 has been fully pressed, the process proceeds to S309; ​​otherwise, it returns to S307.

[0066] In S309, the system control unit 40 determines whether a function is assigned to the full press operation of the AF-ON button 212. If it determines that a function is assigned to the full press operation of the AF-ON button 212, the process proceeds to S310; otherwise, the process in S310 is skipped and the process proceeds to S311.

[0067] In S310, the system control unit 40 executes processing corresponding to the function assigned to the full press operation of the AF-ON button 212.

[0068] In S311, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON button 212 has been released from its fully pressed state. If it determines that the AF-ON button 212 has been released from its fully pressed state, the system proceeds to S312; otherwise, it returns to S311. Alternatively, if the AF-ON button 212 is released from its fully pressed state in S311, the system may return to S304, and if the AF-ON button 212 is still being half-pressed, the system may execute the function assigned to the half-press.

[0069] In S312, the system control unit 40 determines whether the power switch 204 is in the OFF state. If it determines that the power switch 204 is in the OFF state, it terminates the process; otherwise, it returns to S302.

[0070] [Regarding setting screen 400 for assigning functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button] Figures 4(a) to 4(c) show the setting screen 400 for assigning functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button. The setting screen 400 for assigning functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button displays items 421 to 427 as combinations of functions that can be set for half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. The setting screen 400 for assigning functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button also displays a cursor 401 indicating the selected item, a display area 410 for the settings of the selected item, an advanced settings icon 402, and an OK icon 403.

[0071] The user can change the selected item by operating the directional keys to move cursor 401 to one of items 421 to 427. Items 421 to 427 correspond to AF-ON1 to AF-ON7, respectively. The combinations of functions that can be set to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button for AF-ON1 to AF-ON7 are predetermined as shown in Figure 4(d) and stored in the non-volatile memory 38. However, the "User Settings" set for half-press of AF-ON1, full-press of AF-ON2, and full-press of AF-ON6 are initially set to "Metering / AF Start". Nevertheless, the user can change the functions set for half-press of AF-ON1, full-press of AF-ON2, and full-press of AF-ON6. When the function is changed, the system control unit 40 updates the information of the combinations of functions that can be set to half-press and full-press stored in the non-volatile memory 38. Furthermore, the system control unit 40 reads the information on the combinations of functions that can be set to half-press or full-press, which is stored in the non-volatile memory 38, and identifies the function set for each item.

[0072] The setting display area 410 displays the setting 411 for half-pressing the AF-ON button and the setting 412 for fully pressing the AF-ON button for the selected item. For setting 411 and setting 412, if the user can change them, they are displayed normally; if they cannot be changed, they are displayed in gray. In this embodiment, the cases that cannot be changed are displayed in gray, but other methods may be used to distinguish them.

[0073] Figure 4(a) shows that AF-ON1 (item 421) is selected by cursor 401, and the function set to half-press the AF-ON button is "Metering and AF Start" by default. Since no function is set for a full press of the AF-ON button, it is displayed as "Disabled".

[0074] The function assigned to a half-press of the AF-ON button can be changed to a function of the user's choice. On the other hand, a full press of the AF-ON button has no function assigned to it and cannot be changed by the user. Therefore, setting 411 is displayed normally, and setting 412 is displayed in gray.

[0075] Figure 4(b) shows that AF-ON2 (item 422) is selected by cursor 401, and since no function is assigned to a half-press of the AF-ON button, "Disabled" is displayed. No function is assigned to a half-press of the AF-ON button, and this cannot be changed by the user. The function assigned to a full press of the AF-ON button is "Metering / AF Start" by default. The function assigned to a full press of the AF-ON button can be changed to a function of the user's choice. Therefore, setting 411 is displayed in gray, and setting 412 is displayed normally.

[0076] Figure 4(c) shows the state where AF-ON6 (item 426) is selected by cursor 401, and the function set to half-press the AF-ON button is "Metering and AF Start". The function set to fully press the AF-ON button is also "Metering and AF Start" by default. The function set to half-press the AF-ON button is fixed and cannot be changed by the user. However, the function set to fully press the AF-ON button can be changed to a function of the user's choice. For this reason, setting 411 is displayed in gray, and setting 412 is displayed normally.

[0077] The advanced settings icon 402 indicates that pressing the INFO button (not shown) on the digital camera 100 will take you to the advanced settings. You can also access the advanced settings by touching the advanced settings icon 402. When the user presses the INFO button or touches the advanced settings icon 402, the advanced settings screen 500 (Figure 5), described later, will be displayed.

[0078] The OK icon 403 indicates that pressing the SET button (not shown) on the digital camera 100 will determine the settings for half-pressing and fully pressing the AF-ON button. The settings for half-pressing and fully pressing the AF-ON button can also be determined by touching the OK icon 403. In other words, when the user presses the SET button or touches the OK icon 503, the settings 411 and 412 displayed in the setting display area 410 are determined as the settings for half-pressing and fully pressing the AF-ON button, respectively.

[0079] [Detailed settings screen 500 for configuring the functions of half-press and full-press for each item of AF-ON1 to AF-ON7] Figure 5 shows the detailed settings screen 500 for changing and setting the functions for half-press and full-press of each item from AF-ON1 to AF-ON7 by user operation. The detailed settings screen 500 displays the name of the item to be set in detail 501, the setting for half-pressing the AF-ON button 502, the setting for full-pressing the AF-ON button 503, the detailed settings icon 504, and the back icon 505.

[0080] Figure 5(a) shows the detailed settings screen 500 for AF-ON1, so item 501 displays an icon indicating AF-ON1. The half-press setting 502 is "User setting," and the user can change the setting. Figure 5(a) shows the state where the default setting, "Metering / AF Start," is set to half-press the AF-ON button. The full-press setting 503 displays "Disabled," indicating that no function is set to fully press the AF-ON button.

[0081] The half-press setting for AF-ON1 can be changed by the user and is therefore normally displayed, while the full-press setting for AF-ON1 cannot be changed by the user and is therefore grayed out.

[0082] The detailed settings icon 504 indicates that pressing the INFO button (not shown) on the digital camera 100 will take you to the detailed settings. You can also access the detailed settings by touching the detailed settings icon 504. When the user presses the INFO button or touches the detailed settings icon 504, a function list screen 506 is displayed in the AF-ON1 section, showing which functions can be set to half-press (Figure 5(b)).

[0083] The function list screen displays the operation name (half-press or full-press) 507 to which the function selected on this screen is set, a function icon 508 corresponding to the configurable function, a cursor 509, text 510 indicating the function selected by the cursor 509, and an OK icon 511.

[0084] The function list screen 506 in Figure 5(b) is the screen for setting a function for the half-press of the AF-ON1 item, so the operation name 507 displays "Half-press". In addition, the function icons 508 corresponding to the configurable functions are displayed, which are the function icons of the first function group. When the user presses the SET button or touches the OK icon 511 on the function list screen 506, the function set for the half-press of the AF-ON1 item changes to the function selected by the cursor 509, and the user returns to the detailed settings screen 500. The half-press setting 502 on the detailed settings screen 500 displays the function selected on the function list screen 506. When the user presses the MENU button or touches the back icon 505 on the detailed settings screen 500, the user returns to the settings screen 400.

[0085] Figure 5(c) shows the detailed settings screen 500 for AF-ON2, so item 501 displays an icon indicating AF-ON2. The half-press setting 502 displays "Disabled," indicating that no function is set for half-pressing the AF-ON button. The full-press setting 503 is "User setting," and the user can change the setting. Figure 5(c) shows the state where the default setting, "Metering / AF Start," is set for full-pressing the AF-ON button.

[0086] The AF-ON2 full-press setting 503 can be changed by the user and is therefore normally displayed, while the AF-ON2 half-press setting 502 cannot be changed by the user and is therefore grayed out.

[0087] When the user presses the INFO button or touches the detailed settings icon 505, a function list screen 512 is displayed for the AF-ON2 item, which can be set to full press (Figure 5(d)).

[0088] The function list screen 512 in Figure 5(d) is for setting a function for pressing all buttons on the AF-ON2 item, so the operation name 507 displays "Press All Buttons". In addition, the function icons 508 corresponding to the configurable functions are displayed, which are the function icons of the third function group. When the user presses the SET button or touches the OK icon 511 on the function list screen 512, the function set for pressing all buttons on the AF-ON2 item changes to the function selected by the cursor 509, and the user returns to the detailed settings screen 500. The function selected on the function list screen 512 is then displayed in the press all button setting 503 on the detailed settings screen 500. When the user presses the MENU button or touches the back icon 505 on the detailed settings screen 500, the user returns to the settings screen 400.

[0089] Figure 5(e) shows the detailed settings screen 500 for AF-ON6, so item 501 displays an icon indicating AF-ON6. The half-press setting 502 shows that the "Metering / AF Start" function is set to half-press the AF-ON button. The full-press setting 503 is "User Settings," and the user can change the setting. Figure 5(e) shows the state where the "Metering / AF Start" function is set as the default setting when the AF-ON button is fully pressed.

[0090] The AF-ON6's full-press setting 503 can be changed by the user and is therefore normally displayed, while the AF-ON6's half-press setting 502 cannot be changed by the user and is therefore grayed out.

[0091] When the user presses the INFO button or touches the detailed settings icon 504, a screen 513 listing the functions that can be set to full press on the AF-ON6 is displayed (Figure 5(f)).

[0092] The function list screen 513 in Figure 5(f) is the screen for setting a function for the full press of the AF-ON6 item, so the operation name 507 displays "Full Press". In addition, the function icons 508 corresponding to the configurable functions are displayed, which are the function icons of the second function group. When the user presses the SET button or touches the OK icon 511 on the function list screen 512, the function set for the full press of the AF-ON button is changed to the function selected by the cursor 509, and the user returns to the detailed settings screen 500. Then, the full press setting 503 on the detailed settings screen 500 displays the function selected on the function list screen 513.

[0093] When the user presses the MENU button or touches the back icon 505 on the detailed settings screen 500, the user returns to the settings screen 400.

[0094] In the case of AF-ON6, the function set to half-press the AF-ON button is fixed to "Metering / AF Start," so the functions set to fully press the AF-ON button are limited to functions that can be executed simultaneously with "Metering / AF Start." Therefore, the number of functions in the second function group displayed on the function list screen 513 is less than the number of functions in the first and third function groups displayed on the function list screens 506 and 512.

[0095] For example, the first and third function groups include functions for displaying settings screens, functions for assisting with settings, and functions related to playback. Functions for displaying settings screens include those for displaying the shooting mode setting screen, menu screen, quick settings screen, and white balance setting screen. Functions for assisting with settings include those related to display panel illumination and switching of information on the display panel. Functions related to playback include those for image playback, zooming in on played-back images, deleting played-back images, and rating played-back images. These functions are not related to "metering / AF start" and are therefore not included in the second function group.

[0096] [Regarding the setting process for assigning functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button] Figures 6A and 6B are flowcharts for the setting process (process S303) for assigning functions to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. As shown in Figure 4(d), the combinations of functions that can be set for the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212 are pre-set. The user can select a function from these combinations to assign to the half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button 212. In Figure 4(d), the parts labeled "User Settings" allow the user to set the function by selection. The process in Figure 6 is realized by the system control unit 40 executing the program stored in the non-volatile memory 38 after it has been loaded into the volatile memory 39.

[0097] In the S601, the system control unit 40 displays a setting screen 400 for assigning functions to half-press and fully-press the AF-ON button.

[0098] In S602, the system control unit 40 determines whether the directional keys have been operated and whether the user has entered an instruction to change the selection of an item (AF-ON1 to AF-ON7) on the AF-ON button setting screen 400. If it is determined that an instruction to change the selection of an item has been entered, the system proceeds to S603; otherwise, it proceeds to S604.

[0099] In S603, the system control unit 40 moves the cursor 401 on the setting screen 400, which assigns functions to half-press and full-press of the AF-ON button, from the currently selected item to another item, thereby changing the selected item. The system control unit 40 then displays the setting settings 411 for half-pressing the AF-ON button and 412 for full-pressing the AF-ON button, which are set for the selected item, in the setting details display area 410.

[0100] In S604, the system control unit 40 determines whether the SET button has been pressed on the AF-ON button setting screen 400. If it determines that the SET button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S605; otherwise, it proceeds to S606.

[0101] In S605, the system control unit 40 assigns the functions displayed in the setting content display area 410 on the setting screen 400 to the half-press and full-press operations of the AF-ON button 212. In other words, it assigns the functions set for the selected item on the setting screen 400 to the half-press and full-press operations of the AF-ON button 212. If the user decides that the pre-set combination of functions is acceptable, the pre-set functions can be assigned to the half-press and full-press operations. However, if the user's desired combination of functions is not among the pre-set combinations, the user can set the desired functions for the operation labeled "User Setting" in Figure 4(d) through processing from S606 onward. As a result, the user's desired combination of functions can be assigned to the half-press and full-press operations.

[0102] In S606, the system control unit 40 determines whether the INFO button has been pressed on the settings screen 400. If it determines that the INFO button has been pressed, it proceeds to S607; otherwise, it returns to S601.

[0103] In S607, the system control unit 40 displays a detailed settings screen 500 for setting the half-press and full-press functions for the selected item. That is, the system control unit 40 displays a detailed settings screen 500 corresponding to the item selected in S602 and S603 (for example, Figures 5(a), (c), (e)). The detailed settings screen 500 displays the item name 501, the setting for half-pressing the AF-ON button 502, and the setting for full-pressing the AF-ON button 503 for the selected item that is the subject of detailed settings. In addition, a detailed settings icon 504 and a back icon 505 are displayed. The half-press setting 502 and the full-press setting 503 display the functions that have been set in advance, as shown in Figure 4(d). For "User Settings", the currently set function (initial setting function or function changed by the user) is displayed.

[0104] In S608, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen is displayed for each item. If it determines that the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen is displayed, it proceeds to S609; otherwise, it proceeds to S618.

[0105] In S609, the system control unit 40 determines whether the MENU button has been pressed on the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen. If it determines that the MENU button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S610; otherwise, it proceeds to S612.

[0106] In S610, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 and proceed to S601. Here, since the system returns to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 from the AF-ON1 detailed setting screen 500, the cursor 401 on the AF-ON button setting screen 400 is set to select AF-ON1, as shown in Figure 4(a). When returning to the AF-ON button setting screen 400, the functions currently set for half-press and full-press of AF-ON1, and displayed in setting 502 for half-press and setting 503 for full-press, respectively, are displayed in setting 411 and setting 412, respectively.

[0107] In S611, the system control unit 40 determines whether the INFO button has been pressed on the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen. If it determines that the INFO button has been pressed, it proceeds to S612; otherwise, it returns to S609.

[0108] In S612, the system control unit 40 displays a function list screen 506 (Figure 5(b)) in the AF-ON1 item, which shows a first group of functions that can be selected as functions that can be set to half-press the AF-ON button 212.

[0109] In S613, the system control unit 40 determines whether the directional keys have been operated and whether the user has entered an instruction to change the selection of function icons on the function list screen 506. If it is determined that an instruction to change the selection of function icons has been entered, the process proceeds to S614; otherwise, it proceeds to S615.

[0110] In S614, the system control unit 40 moves the cursor 509 from the currently selected function icon to another function icon on the function list screen 506, which displays the first set of functions that can be set to half-press the AF-ON button, and changes the selected function icon.

[0111] In S615, the system control unit 40 determines whether the SET button has been pressed on the function list screen 506, which displays a first set of functions that can be set to be performed by half-pressing the AF-ON button. If it is determined that the SET button has been pressed, the system proceeds to S616; otherwise, it returns to S613.

[0112] In S616, the system control unit 40 sets the function selected on the function list screen 506 to be triggered by a half-press of AF-ON1.

[0113] In S617, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen 500 and proceed to S609. Here, the half-press setting 502 on the AF-ON1 detailed settings screen 500 displays the function selected in S614.

[0114] In S618, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen is displayed for each item. If it determines that the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen is displayed, it proceeds to S619; otherwise, it proceeds to S628.

[0115] In S619, the system control unit 40 determines whether the MENU button has been pressed on the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen. If it determines that the MENU button has been pressed, it proceeds to S620; otherwise, it proceeds to S621.

[0116] In S620, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 and proceed to S601. Here, since the system returns to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 from the AF-ON2 detailed setting screen 500, the cursor 401 on the AF-ON button setting screen 400 is set to select AF-ON2, as shown in Figure 4(b). When returning to the AF-ON button setting screen 400, the functions currently set for half-press and full-press of AF-ON2, and displayed in setting 502 for half-press and setting 503 for full-press, respectively, are displayed in setting 411 and setting 412, respectively.

[0117] In S621, the system control unit 40 determines whether the INFO button has been pressed on the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen. If it determines that the INFO button has been pressed, it proceeds to S622; otherwise, it returns to S619.

[0118] In S622, the system control unit 40 displays a function list screen 512 (Figure 5(d)) in the AF-ON2 item, which shows a third set of functions that can be selected as functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button 212. Note that the third set of functions includes the same functions as the first set of functions. In other words, the first set of functions and the third set of functions have the same number and types of functions included in them.

[0119] As will be explained later, AF-ON1 and AF-ON2 are options that users can choose to use either a half-press or a full-press operation. When users only want to use one type of operation, it is convenient for them if the set of functions that can be assigned to the half-press or full-press operation is the same.

[0120] In S623, the system control unit 40 determines whether the directional keys have been operated and whether the user has entered an instruction to change the selection of function icons on the function list screen 512. If it is determined that an instruction to change the selection of function icons has been entered, the system proceeds to S624; otherwise, it proceeds to S625.

[0121] In S624, the system control unit 40 moves the cursor 509 from the currently selected function icon to another function icon on the function list screen 512, which displays a third set of functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button, thereby changing the selected function icon.

[0122] In S625, the system control unit 40 determines whether the SET button has been pressed on the function list screen 512, which displays a third set of functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button. If it is determined that the SET button has been pressed, the system proceeds to S626; otherwise, it proceeds to S623.

[0123] In S626, the system control unit 40 sets the function selected on the function list screen 512 to be triggered by fully pressing AF-ON2.

[0124] In S627, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen 500 and proceed to S619. Here, the full-press setting 503 on the AF-ON2 detailed settings screen 500 displays the function selected in S624.

[0125] In S628, the system control unit 40 determines whether the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen is displayed for each item. If it determines that the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen is displayed, it proceeds to S629; otherwise, it proceeds to S638.

[0126] In S629, the system control unit 40 determines whether the MENU button has been pressed on the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen. If it determines that the MENU button has been pressed, it proceeds to S630; otherwise, it proceeds to S631.

[0127] In S630, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 and proceed to S601. Here, since the system returns to the AF-ON button setting screen 400 from the AF-ON6 detailed setting screen 500, the cursor 401 on the AF-ON button setting screen 400 is set to select AF-ON6, as shown in Figure 4(c). When returning to the AF-ON button setting screen 400, the functions currently set for half-press and full-press of AF-ON6, and displayed in setting 502 for half-press and setting 503 for full-press, respectively, are displayed in setting 411 and setting 412, respectively.

[0128] In S631, the system determines whether the INFO button was pressed on the AF-ON6's detailed settings screen. If it determines that the INFO button was pressed, the system proceeds to S632; otherwise, it returns to S629.

[0129] In S632, the system control unit 40 displays a function list screen 513 (Figure 5(f)) in the AF-ON6 item, which shows a second set of functions that can be selected as functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button 212.

[0130] Here, as shown in S304-S310 of Figure 3, when a half-press operation and a full-press operation are performed in sequence, the function assigned to the half-press operation and the function assigned to the full-press operation are executed in sequence. That is, after the function assigned to the half-press operation is executed, the functions related to that function are executed consecutively. Therefore, the second group of functions is limited to functions that can be executed after the function assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button has been executed. Alternatively, instead of limiting the second group of functions to functions that can be executed after the function assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button has been executed, it may be limited to functions related to the function assigned to the half-press operation of the AF-ON button. Since the half-press operation and the full-press operation are consecutive operations on the same AF-ON button 212, related operations offer better operability. In this way, because the second group of functions is limited, the number of functions in the second group of functions is smaller than the number of functions in the first and third groups of functions.

[0131] In S633, the system control unit 40 determines whether the directional keys have been operated and whether the user has entered an instruction to change the selection of function icons on the function list screen 513. If it is determined that an instruction to change the selection of function icons has been entered, the system proceeds to S634; otherwise, it proceeds to S635.

[0132] In S634, the system control unit 40 moves the cursor 509 from the currently selected function icon to another function icon on the function list screen 513, which displays a second set of functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button, thereby changing the selected function icon.

[0133] In S635, the system control unit 40 determines whether the SET button has been pressed on the function list screen 513, which displays a second set of functions that can be set to fully press the AF-ON button. If it is determined that the SET button has been pressed, the system proceeds to S636; otherwise, it proceeds to S633.

[0134] In S636, the system control unit 40 sets the function selected on the function list screen 513 to be activated when AF-ON6 is fully pressed.

[0135] In S637, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen 500 and proceed to S629. Here, the function selected in S634 is displayed in the full-press setting 503 on the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen 500.

[0136] In the S628, if it is determined that the AF-ON6 detailed settings screen 500 is not displayed, then the detailed settings screen 500 for either AF-ON3, AF-ON4, AF-ON5, or AF-ON7 will be displayed. In the detailed settings screen 500 for AF-ON3, AF-ON4, AF-ON5, and AF-ON7, functions are pre-set for half-press and full-press and cannot be changed by the user, so the half-press setting 502 and full-press setting 503 are grayed out. Since neither the half-press setting 502 nor the full-press setting 503 can be changed, the detailed settings icon 504 is not displayed, and operating the INFO button will not transition to the function list screen.

[0137] In S638, the system control unit 40 determines whether the MENU button has been pressed while displaying one of the detailed settings screens for AF-ON3, AF-ON4, AF-ON5, or AF-ON7. If it determines that the MENU button has been pressed, it proceeds to S639; otherwise, it returns to S638.

[0138] In S639, the system control unit 40 controls the system to return to the setting screen 400, which assigns functions to half-pressing and fully pressing the AF-ON button, and proceeds to S601.

[0139] As described above, if a function is not assigned to either the half-press or full-press operation, as is the case with AF-ON1 and AF-ON2, there is no need to restrict the choice of function to assign to the other operation. This increases the flexibility of the functions that can be assigned to the AF-ON button 212. If a user only uses the half-press operation, where the button is pressed with light force, and wants to execute the function assigned to the half-press operation, it is possible to set it so that no function is assigned to the full-press operation. If a user only uses the full-press operation, where the button is pressed with strong force, and wants to execute the function assigned to the full-press operation, it is possible to set it so that no function is assigned to the half-press operation. In this way, it is possible to switch and use combinations of functions assigned to the half-press and full-press operations according to the user's usage.

[0140] Furthermore, in cases like the AF-ON6, where a function is assigned to either a half-press or a full-press operation, and the other operation is designated as "User Setting," the following restrictions are applied: The selection of functions that can be set for the other operation, which is designated as "User Setting," is restricted to match the function assigned to the other operation. This makes it possible to assign appropriate combinations of functions to half-press and full-press operations.

[0141] In the above embodiment, when AF-ON6 is pre-set to "Metering / AF Start" for half-press and "User Setting" for full-press, the functions that can be set for full-press in AF-ON6 are limited to functions related to "Metering / AF Start". However, it is also possible to provide an item for AF-ON8 where functions such as "Metering / AF Start" are pre-set for full-press and "User Setting" for half-press. In this case, when setting a function for half-press in AF-ON8 using the function list screen, it is preferable to configure the settings to limit the configurable functions from the second group of functions to a restricted group of functions that are related to the function set for full-press and can be executed simultaneously.

[0142] (Embodiment 2) Since the basic configuration of the imaging device 200 in Embodiment 2 is the same as in Embodiment 1, a description will be omitted. In Embodiment 2, in addition to selecting from AF-ON1 to AF-ON7, which are combinations of functions that can be set to half-press and full-press operations, as in Embodiment 1, it is also possible for the user to set a desired combination of functions for half-press and full-press operations. (1) When the user has set "Shooting Mode Setting" for the half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212 Figure 7 shows the detailed settings screen for the AF-ON button. When the user sets "Shooting Mode Setting" for a half-press operation of the AF-ON button 212 (Figure 7(a)), a function list screen is displayed showing the fourth set of functions that can be set for a full press of the AF-ON button (Figure 7(b)). The icon 701 for the shooting mode selection function, which is included in the fourth set of functions, is grayed out with an "X" displayed, as shown in Figure 7(b), and cannot be selected.

[0143] If the same process is executed by two separate operations, the process may become invalid if the user performs the operation twice. To avoid this, the functions that can be set to half-press and full-press are different. Functions that can be set to full-press cannot be selected if they are set to half-press. This prevents the shooting mode setting screen from disappearing even if the user accidentally performs a full-press operation after performing a half-press operation. (2) When the user has set the "Protect Button" to half-press the AF-ON button 212. Figure 7 shows the detailed settings screen for the AF-ON button. If the user has set the "Protect Button" to be used for half-pressing the AF-ON button 212 (Figure 7(c)), a function list screen is displayed showing the fifth set of functions that can be set for full-pressing the AF-ON button (Figure 7(d)). The icon 702 for the image deletion function, which is included in the fifth set of functions, is grayed out with an "X" displayed, as shown in Figure 7(d), and cannot be selected.

[0144] If an image protected by the function that marks important images is accidentally deleted, it will cause harm to the user. Therefore, the image deletion function will be disabled in the fifth set of functions. This prevents images from being deleted even if the user accidentally performs a full press after a half-press operation.

[0145] (Other embodiments) Although the present invention has been described in detail above based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms that do not depart from the spirit of the invention are also included in the present invention. Some of the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

[0146] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0147] Furthermore, the disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configurations and methods.

[0148] (Composition 1) A first operating unit capable of receiving a second operation following a first operation, Assignment means for assigning functions to the first operation and the second operation, respectively, according to user selection, The system includes processing means that, in response to the first operation, executes processing corresponding to the function assigned to the first operation, and in response to the second operation, executes processing corresponding to the function assigned to the second operation. If no function is assigned to the first operation, the function to be assigned to the second operation is selected from the first set of functions. If a function is assigned to the first operation, a control means controls the function assigned to the second operation to be selected from a second set of functions, in which the selectable functions are more limited than those of the first set of functions. An electronic device characterized by having the following features.

[0149] (Configuration 2) The electronic device according to Configuration 1, characterized in that the processing means does not perform processing in response to the first operation if the assignment means does not assign a function to the first operation.

[0150] (Composition 3) The electronic device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the second set of functions includes functions related to the function assigned to the first operation.

[0151] (Composition 4) If the function assigned to the first operation is a function for performing autofocus, The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the control means is controlled to select from the second group of functions related to autofocus.

[0152] (Composition 5) The electronic device according to configuration 1, characterized in that, when no function is assigned to the second operation, the control means controls the device to select a function to assign to the first operation from a third group of functions different from the second group of functions.

[0153] (Composition 6) The electronic device according to configuration 5, characterized in that the first functional group and the third functional group are the same.

[0154] (Composition 7) The electronic device according to configuration 6, characterized in that the number of functions in the second functional group is less than the number of functions in the first functional group.

[0155] (Composition 8) The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, further comprising a second operating section different from the first operating section, the second operating section capable of receiving the first operation and the second operation.

[0156] (Composition 9) The electronic device according to configuration 8, characterized in that the second operating section is a shutter button.

[0157] (Composition 10) The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the first operation is a half-press operation on the first operating part, and the second operation is a full-press operation on the first operating part.

[0158] (Composition 11) The assignment means selects from a plurality of items, each with a function to be assigned to the first operation and the second operation, The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that a function set for one item selected in response to user operation is assigned to the first operation and the second operation, respectively.

[0159] (Composition 12) The aforementioned multiple items include items for which functions to be assigned to the first operation and the second operation are pre-configured, and for either the first operation or the second operation, The electronic device according to configuration 11, characterized in that it includes an item that allows the function to be assigned to be set according to user operation.

[0160] (Composition 13) The control means allows setting, according to user operation, a function to be assigned to either the first operation or the second operation from among the plurality of items, The electronic device according to configuration 12, characterized in that the function set for one of the operations in the item is changed according to user operation.

[0161] (Composition 14) The control means is In an item where no function is set for the first operation, but the function can be set by user operation for the second operation, a function selected from the first set of functions is set for the second operation. If a function is set for the first operation and the function can be set by user operation for the second operation, the function selected from the second set of functions is set for the second operation. The electronic device according to configuration 12 or 13, characterized in that it is controlled in such a manner.

[0162] (Composition 15) A selection means for selecting one item from the aforementioned multiple items in accordance with user operation, A display control means that controls the display of the combination of functions set for the first operation and the second operation in the item selected by the selection means, An electronic device according to any one of configurations 12 to 14, characterized by having the above.

[0163] (Composition 16) The electronic device according to configuration 15, characterized in that the assignment means assigns the functions set for the selected item to the first operation and the second operation, respectively, in response to a user operation for determining the item selected by the selection means.

[0164] (Composition 17) The display control means is When an item that allows the function to be assigned to either the first operation or the second operation to be set according to the user operation is selected by the selection means, In response to a user operation performed to change the function set for one of the aforementioned operations, the system controls the display of a screen listing the functions that can be set for one of the aforementioned operations. If no function is set for the first operation, and an item that can be set by user operation is selected by the selection means for the second operation, In response to a user operation being performed to change the function set in the second operation, the system controls the display of the first set of functions on the list screen. When a function is set for the first operation and an item that can be set by user operation for the second operation is selected by the selection means, In response to a user operation being performed to change the function set in the second operation, the system controls the display of the second set of functions on the list screen. The electronic device according to configuration 15 or 16, characterized by the features described herein.

[0165] (Composition 18) An assignment step for assigning functions to the first operation and the second operation, respectively, that the first operation unit can accept, according to user selection, The process includes a processing step that, in response to the first operation, executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the first operation, and in response to the second operation, executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the second operation. If no function can be assigned to the first operation, the function to be assigned to the second operation is selected from the first set of functions. If a function is assigned to the first operation, a control step is taken to control the system so that the function assigned to the second operation is selected from a second set of functions, the set of functions available for selection being more limited than that of the first set of functions. A method for controlling electronic equipment, characterized by having the following features.

[0166] (Composition 19) A program for causing a computer to perform the control methods of the electronic devices described in Configuration 18.

[0167] (Composition 20) A computer-readable recording medium containing a program for causing a computer to perform the control method of the electronic device described in configuration 18.

Claims

1. A first operating section capable of receiving a second pressing operation following a first pressing operation, Assignment means for assigning functions to the first and second pressing operations respectively, according to user selection, Processing means that, in response to the first pressing operation, executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the first pressing operation, and in response to the second pressing operation, executes a process corresponding to the function assigned to the second pressing operation, If no function is assigned to the first press-down operation, the function to be assigned to the second press-down operation is selected from a first group of functions, including a function to start autofocus, a function related to ISO sensitivity, and a function related to playback. If the function to start the autofocus is assigned to the first press-down operation, a control means controls the function to be assigned to the second press-down operation to be selected from a second set of functions that is more limited in function than the first set of functions, which does not include the playback function but includes the function to start the autofocus and the ISO sensitivity function. An imaging device characterized by having the following features.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the processing means does not perform processing in response to the first pressing operation if the assignment means does not assign a function to the first pressing operation.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the control means controls the function to be assigned to the first push-down operation to be selected from a third function group different from the second function group when no function has been assigned to the second push-down operation.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the first functional group and the third functional group are the same.

5. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising a second operating unit different from the first operating unit, the second operating unit capable of receiving the first pressing operation and the second pressing operation.

6. The imaging device according to claim 5, characterized in that the second operating section is a shutter button.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the first pressing operation is a half-press operation on the first operating part, and the second pressing operation is a full-press operation on the first operating part.

8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the assignment means assigns to the first and second pressing operations, respectively, a function set in one item selected according to user operation from a plurality of items, each having a function set to be assigned to the first pressing operation and the second pressing operation.

9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the plurality of items include items for which functions to be assigned to the first pressing operation and the second pressing operation are predetermined, and items for which the function to be assigned to either the first pressing operation or the second pressing operation can be set according to user operation.

10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the control means changes the function set for one of the operations in the item, which allows the user to set the function to be assigned to either the first or second pressing operation, according to the user's operation.

11. The control means is In an item where no function is set for the first press-down operation, but the function can be set by user operation for the second press-down operation, a function selected from the first group of functions is set for the second press-down operation. If a function is assigned to the first press-down operation and the function can be assigned to the second press-down operation by user operation, the function selected from the second set of functions is assigned to the second press-down operation. The imaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that it is controlled in such a manner.

12. A selection means for selecting one item from the aforementioned multiple items in accordance with user operation, A display control means that controls the display to show the combination of functions set for the first press-down operation and the second press-down operation in the item selected by the selection means, The imaging device according to claim 9, characterized by having the following features.

13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the assignment means assigns the function set for the selected item to the first press-down operation and the second press-down operation, respectively, in response to a user operation for determining the item selected by the selection means.

14. The display control means is When an item that allows the function to be assigned to either the first or second press-down operation is selected by the selection means, the system controls the display of a list of functions that can be set for the first operation in response to a user operation being performed to change the function set for the first operation. When no function is set for the first press-down operation, and an item for which a function can be set by user operation is selected by the selection means for the second press-down operation, the system controls the display of the first set of functions on the list screen in response to a user operation to change the function set for the second press-down operation. When a function is set for the first press-down operation, and an item for which a function can be set by user operation for the second press-down operation is selected by the selection means, the system controls the display of the second set of functions on the list screen in response to a user operation being performed to change the function set for the second press-down operation. The imaging apparatus according to feature 13.

15. An assignment step for assigning functions to the first and second push-down operations that the first operating unit can accept, according to user selection, The process includes: executing a process corresponding to the function assigned to the first press-down operation in response to the first press-down operation, and executing a process corresponding to the function assigned to the second press-down operation in response to the second press-down operation; If no function is assigned to the first press-down operation, the function to be assigned to the second press-down operation is selected from a first group of functions, including a function to start autofocus, a function related to ISO sensitivity, and a function related to playback. If the function to start autofocus is assigned to the first press-down operation, the control step is to control the system so that the function to be assigned to the second press-down operation is selected from a second set of functions that is more limited in function than the first set of functions, including the function to start autofocus and the function related to ISO sensitivity, but not the function related to playback. A control method for an imaging device, characterized by having the following features.

16. A program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the imaging apparatus described in claim 15.

17. A computer-readable recording medium that stores a program for causing a computer to execute the control method of the imaging apparatus described in claim 15.

Images