JP2006301201A - Optical device and camera system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve functions better than a rotary dial input device in a fingerprint detection input device. <P>SOLUTION: The fingerprint detection input device 35 has a function to detect "the fingerprint pattern" and "the moving amount and direction of the fingerprint pattern" of the user. Information input, authentication, and special functions are simultaneously achieved by sliding the fingertip on the sensor. The portion specification in the 2-dimensional space is simplified to achieve quick and easy operations for selecting the focusing point detection area in the oblique direction and for specifying the magnifying area of the reproduced image. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a camera information input device and a camera system. Including improvements.

  Conventional pointing devices in photographing equipment such as a digital video camera, a digital still camera, and a silver salt film camera include a rotary type and a cross pointer type. It is used to select an intended part from a plurality of focus detection areas, or to select an intended part from a digital video camera, a digital still camera, or a reproduced image from a digital camera. (See Patent Document 1)

As a pointing device, an information input device of a portable information terminal using a pointing device using a detected fingerprint has been proposed. (See Patent Document 2)
In addition, fingerprint information can be used for a camera by using a fingerprint pattern as an ID in order to surely grasp the owner of a captured image (see Patent Document 3). A digital camera (see Patent Document 4) has been proposed.

  In Patent Document 1, in a focus detection device of a single-lens reflex camera, a focus detection region is selected by a rotation operation member. As a response to the fact that the number of focus detection areas, which had been around six at the time, has evolved into one with a large number of focus detection areas consisting of area sensors, coarse and fine movements are selectively used. I can do it. As a result, the selection of any focus detection area can be quickly switched, the time required for selecting the intended focus detection area from a large number of focus detection areas is shortened, and the chance of shutter time is not missed. Yes.

Specifically, in Patent Document 2, a fingerprint is detected by optical means through a transparent plate, and a pointer on the display screen is moved according to the amount and direction of movement. It works by moving the fingertip while the user puts the fingertip on the plate. Therefore, it is not necessary to operate the operation switch to select the movement direction of the pointer.
Further, by combining a plate as a pointing device with an operation switch that operates in accordance with the push-in operation, the switch operation by the push-in operation becomes a “decision” function of the menu on the display screen indicated by the pointer. As a result, the pointing device can be multi-functional, and the device can be further miniaturized by reducing the number of operation switches on the operation surface of the portable information terminal.

  In Patent Document 3, in order to surely grasp the owner of a photographed image, it is possible to specify a person who is permitted to use each camera, and only a user having an authorized ID can use the camera. I have to. As one of the user ID information, a fingerprint pattern is used because it is different from person to person and there is little change with the passage of time so that the user can be reliably authenticated. It has been proposed to detect a fingerprint pattern without being conscious of fingerprint collation by disposing a fingerprint pattern detection unit on the upper surface of the release button.

  According to Patent Document 4, in a digital camera having a digital watermark embedding function, a user is identified from a physical feature of the user including a fingerprint. By selecting one mode for embedding from a plurality of modes for embedding based on the identified result, a plurality of modes for embedding a digital watermark and setting of data to be embedded are not prepared, and each subject or shooting When it is desired to change the digital watermark setting for each purpose, or when a single camera is used jointly by a plurality of users, the troublesomeness of operation when changing to individual settings is improved. In addition, it is easier and more reliable than the user identification means used so far when the user manually operates a setting button or the like.

JP-A-10-26723 JP 2002-62983 A JP 2000-147623 A JP 2001-144937 A

  As described above, as the pointing device, there are a rotary type, a cross pointer, a fingerprint detection type, and a gaze detection type. The rotary type can be operated smoothly, but there are insufficient points for multifunctionalization and miniaturization of the installed products. On the other hand, since the cross pointer has a feed switch for each of the up / down / left / right pointer movement directions, it can cope with a larger number of selection items, but the pointer moves for each operation, so it takes time and effort.

  In general, in a camera, the shutter time chance is instantaneous, so it is necessary to always observe the target object and be able to release it at any time. Therefore, the switch operation related to the operation setting operation of the camera requires accuracy and speed. For example, it is important to select a focus detection area appropriately even for a subject that moves in a short time so that the focus adjustment apparatus can perform focus adjustment quickly. In this regard, in a focus detection apparatus having about six focus detection areas, it is relatively easy to select a focus detection area even when the operation member is switched to the adjacent focus detection area one by one by one operation. it can.

  However, in the case of a focus detection device having a large number of focus detection areas composed of area sensors, it is difficult to quickly switch to any focus detection area, and during this time, there is a problem of missing the shutter time chance. Also, when the intended subject to be focused is small, it is difficult to switch the focus detection area that captures the slight subject accurately.

  In addition, in the selection of the focus detection area by line-of-sight detection, the time required for the selection of the focus detection area itself is certainly improved. However, it is necessary to improve the detection accuracy of the line of sight as a response to the increase in the number of focus detection areas. Further, as a series of operability of the camera, there is a problem that the labor of calibration, which is correction of individual differences in line of sight, should be simplified.

Furthermore, in digital cameras, a pointing device is used for setting an enlarged portion of a captured / reproduced image displayed on a color liquid crystal panel mounted on the back, and for selecting and setting various operation modes. However, the selection and movement of the moving direction is based on individual operation members, and it is not easy to simply and quickly perform the intended contents.
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an optical apparatus and a camera system that realize a function that exceeds that of a rotary dial input device, particularly with a fingerprint detection type input device.

  The optical apparatus of the present invention is an optical apparatus having a plurality of functions executed in operation of the apparatus, and includes a fingerprint detection type information input device capable of detecting the direction and amount of movement of the user's finger and the fingerprint information thereof, Based on the detected information, the setting and change of the operation target including the operation content of the function and the setting value can be operated and input via the information input device.

  Further, in the optical device of the present invention, the information input device has a contact surface with which at least a part of the finger can come into contact, and the moving direction of the information input device is obtained by sliding the fingertip against the contact surface. And a detection unit capable of outputting a result corresponding to the amount of movement and fingerprint information.

  In the optical device of the present invention, the sliding operation member of the information input device is disposed on the back surface of the device main body.

  In the optical device of the present invention, the ratio of the change amount of the set value to the input information amount is switched according to the function according to the information setting input content from the information input device.

  In the camera system of the present invention, any one of the optical devices described above is configured as a camera, and can be operated with the thumb of the user's right hand while the sliding operation member disposed on the back of the camera body holds the camera. It is arranged at a position.

  The camera system of the present invention includes an image sensor in which a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements are arranged one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally, and each image sensor includes a focus detection unit that forms an independent focus detection region, and the information Focus adjustment is performed on the focus detection region of the part selected by the operation of the input device.

  The camera system according to the present invention further comprises user information detection means for detecting user information based on a fingerprint pattern of the user detected by the information input device, and identifies the user based on an output from the user information detection means. Then, the operation content and the function content are set in the user-specific usage conditions stored in advance.

  Further, the camera system of the present invention is characterized by having a visual line detection function configured to detect a user's visual line.

  In the camera system of the present invention, the operation is performed in accordance with information based on the fingerprint pattern detected first after the power switch is operated and the system enters the operating state.

A digital camera system according to the present invention is a digital camera system including any one of the above-described cameras as a digital camera and a recording unit to which a plurality of recording devices can be connected. The user is identified based on the output, checked against the user information recorded in advance on the attached recording medium, and if it matches, the captured image and this are stored in the corresponding folder of the matching recording medium. The accompanying data is recorded, and if they do not match, after warning and confirmation to the user, a folder is newly created and the captured image and the accompanying data are recorded.
A pointing device is provided.

  According to one aspect of the present invention, when the focus detection area is selected, the information input member provided on the back surface of the camera is changed by the content of the signal information input by touching and sliding the fingertip. As a result, even if the focus detection area to be selected in the future is any of the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, and the diagonal direction from the currently selected focus detection area, the focus detection area can be quickly selected and the usability is improved. There is an effect of not missing a chance at the shutter speed.

  In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, since the fingerprint detection function can be superimposed, the user can be identified and authenticated at the same time without being aware of a series of camera operations. This has the effect of improving the reliability of the camera with a simple operation.

  Further, according to another aspect of the present invention, the position of the signal is input by touching and sliding the information input member provided on the back of the camera with an enlargement operation function necessary for confirming the captured image. Can be specified. As a result, operations on a two-dimensional plane can be performed more easily and quickly than conventional operations, and user information including fingerprint information can be stored in a detachable functional device without being conscious of a series of camera operations. Identify users. Since the image data taken in the corresponding area of the functional device and the data associated therewith can be recorded, there is an effect of improving the reliability of the camera with a simple operation.

  Furthermore, according to another aspect of the present invention, it is difficult to be affected by dust, dust, water droplets, etc., and the installation space can be reduced as compared with the rotary information input method such as the main electronic dial and the sub electronic dial. In particular, when installed on the back, a great effect can be obtained as a space saving.

  Further, as the information input means, analog operation linked to the sliding speed is possible as compared with the electronic dial type. As a result, an effect of reflecting the user's intention more accurately can be obtained.

  DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following description will be given in the case of a digital still camera. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and includes contents that can be applied to conventional general cameras and video cameras using a silver salt film, for example. .

[First Embodiment]
In the present embodiment, a digital still camera that selects a focus detection area and an exposure control value based on the detected movement amount and direction of a fingerprint pattern will be described.
FIG. 1 is a rear view of the camera according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a top view of the camera of FIG. In FIGS. 1 and 2, 11 is a camera body, 1 is an information input dial, 2 is a release button, and 8 is an exposure control mode selection button for selecting one of the exposure control modes. Reference numeral 9 denotes a focus mode selection button for performing focus detection. Reference numeral 10 denotes a photometric mode selection button.

  Reference numeral 21 denotes a power switch, 32 denotes an eyepiece, 35 denotes a fingerprint detection type input device, 36 denotes a top LCD panel, and 39 denotes a focus detection area selection button for selecting one of focus detection areas described later. Reference numeral 41 is a menu button, 42 is a selection button, 43 is a reproduction display button, 44 is an enlargement display button, 46 is a rear LCD panel, and 50 is a memory card slot cover.

  The selection of each mode of the above-described camera such as the focus mode selection (one-shot or servo in the focus mode) is performed by pressing any one of the above-described various buttons 39, 10, 8, 9 and the upper surface of the camera body 11. It can be selected by rotating the information input dial 1 arranged at.

  Further, when both the exposure control mode button 8 and the photometry mode selection button 10 are depressed, a mode for selecting the film ISO sensitivity is set. The film ISO sensitivity can be selected by rotating the information input dial 1 disposed on the upper surface of the camera body 10 with both the exposure control mode button 8 and the photometry mode selection button 10 depressed. Become. The upper LCD panel 36 is a display unit for the operation mode of the camera and the like, and the photographer can know the setting contents of the camera from this display content.

  When the focus detection area selection button 39 is depressed, the focus detection area selection mode for selecting one of the focus detection areas described later is selected, and the focus detection area can be selected by operating and inputting the fingerprint detection type input device 35. . In addition, after the release button 2 is pressed halfway or after the exposure control mode button 8 or the photometry mode selection button 10 is operated, the operation of the fingerprint detection type input device 35 and the selection of the exposure control value by the input are performed. It becomes possible.

The fingerprint detection type input device 35 is for inputting various information including digital information. The lock switch 34 has a function of prohibiting input from the fingerprint detection type input device 35.
By operating the two buttons of the menu button 41 and the select button 42 and the operation of the fingerprint detection type input device 35, the white balance is adjusted based on the compression ratio and resolution setting when the captured image is converted to a JPEG image, and the rear LCD panel 46 It is possible to perform a series of image processing after shooting, such as brightness selection, and function setting of each switch.

The reproduction display button 43 is operated when the captured image is reproduced and displayed on the rear LCD panel 46 of the 46. The enlargement display button 44 enlarges the reproduced display image in combination with the operation of the fingerprint detection type input device 35 or the operation of the information input dial 1 arranged on the upper surface of the camera body.
When the memory card slot cover 50 is opened, there are two memory card slots inside. When a memory card is inserted in the memory card slot, it is possible to record and read captured images, data associated therewith, camera setting information, and user information.

  FIG. 3 shows an electrical block diagram of the digital still camera. The microprocessor 304 is, for example, a one-chip computer (hereinafter abbreviated as a microcomputer) in which a CPU (central processing unit), RAM, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable ROM), video controller, input / output port, and the like are arranged. ) And a series of operations are performed based on the sequence program stored in the flash memory 306.

  The imaging unit 301 includes an imaging element of a CCD area image sensor or a CMOS area image sensor, a sensor driving unit that drives the imaging element, an analog signal processing unit such as AGC, and an A / D conversion unit. After performing analog processing suitable for the read photoelectric conversion output, it is converted into a digital signal.

  Through the optical system of the detachable lens 401, the light flux from the imaging region is imaged on the image sensor, and the image sensor photoelectrically converts this to an electrical signal, which is converted into a digital value by the A / D converter. And output to the image processing IC 303. The image processing IC 303 performs a series of image processing such as color interpolation processing and filtering on the digital output data from the imaging unit 301. The JPEG IC 307 receives the output from the image processing IC 303 and compresses the image. The output of the image processing IC 303 is compressed by the JPEG IC 307 via the data bus 311 and then stored in the DRAM 308.

  The data bus 311 includes a microprocessor 304, a removable memory card 313 for storing a plurality of image data and accompanying data, and user information, a memory card I / F 310 to the memory card 314, a personal computer via a serial bus, and the like. An external serial I / F 309 is connected to exchange data with an external device.

  The LCD monitor 203 displays information related to the switch group 101 (various operation members) including the fingerprint detection type input device 100, and is a various setting input screen at the shooting preparation stage. That information is displayed.

  Since the microprocessor 304 performs an operation content set by operating the switch group 101 (various operation members) and a series of photographing operations by the operation, it detects from the content of the switch group 101 that the release button 2 has been half-pressed. Then, the lens 401 is adjusted to the optimum focus adjustment position by communicating with the detachable lens 401 wearing the focus adjustment information by the focus adjustment unit 103. Thereafter, the lens 401 communicates with the removable lens 401 wearing photometric information from the photometric unit 102 to adjust the aperture of the lens 401 so as to obtain an appropriate amount of light.

  1 and 2, the switch group 101 (various operation members) corresponds to the various operation members shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and the fingerprint detection type input device 100 includes the fingerprint detection type information input device of FIG. 35 corresponds. The LCD monitor 203 corresponds to the camera operation mode display LCD 36, the finder LCD, and the rear LCD 46 arranged on the upper surface.

Next, the relationship between the focus detection area and the viewfinder field will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 4A shows a state in which a finder is viewed from the eyepiece 32 shown in FIG. FIG. 4B is a diagram in which necessary parts are extracted from FIG. In the figure, FIMSK is a field mask for forming a finder field area, and FIARA is an observation area where a subject can be observed through a lens attached.

  The FDSP is an LCD in the finder for displaying photographing information in the finder, and displays the aperture value of the lens, the exposure correction value, the state in which the strobe can emit light, and the focus detection result in a lit state. The focus detection result is represented by the lighting state of the focus mark FAF. The focus detection result lights when the focus is in focus, and blinks when focus adjustment is impossible.

  This figure shows the state where all the display units are lit for the sake of explanation. During the operation of the camera, it is turned on or off independently according to the operating state, and all the displays are lit as shown in the figure. Never do. Each display constituting the above FDSP has the same contents on the camera operation mode display LCD 36 described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 4C shows the focus detectable range AFARA of FIG. 4B extracted for the sake of explanation. As shown in FIG. 4C, a plurality of focus detection areas are two-dimensionally arranged, and the focus detectable range is composed of L focus detection areas AFPNT in the horizontal direction and K in the vertical direction. ing. The upper left end of FIG. 4B is the focus detection area AFP_11.

  The photographer selects an arbitrary focus detection area from a plurality of focus detection areas AFPNT constituting the focus detectable range AFARA. When each of AFP_11 to AFP_KL is selected as the focus detection area, the selected focus detection area AFPNT is a peripheral area inside the quadrilateral in a short time that can be sufficiently confirmed by the photographer with an optical system and an illumination device (not shown). Lights red.

Next, the operation of the fingerprint detection type input device 35 of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C show a state in which the finger is in contact with the fingerprint detection sensor of the above-described fingerprint detection type input device and is slid in the direction of the arrow shown in the drawing. . For the sake of explanation, the fingerprint detection sensor is represented as being on the top of the finger. Actually, as shown in FIG. 5D, the finger and the fingerprint detection sensor are in contact with each other. FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating a state viewed from a direction orthogonal to the sliding direction in FIG.

  At this time, the output from the fingerprint sensor is slightly different depending on the state of each figure, but when the output from the fingerprint sensor is developed on a two-dimensional plane and the common part of the developed data is obtained, the amount of change can be determined. Information that can be handled as fingerprint data can be obtained by combining the developed data so that the common portions are overlapped. (For details of the fingerprint detection method, refer to Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-289304, etc.).

FIG. 5E shows an example when the two-dimensional coordinates are developed. Here, since the sliding direction is a straight line from the upper part to the lower part in FIG. 5 (E), if the initial position immediately before FIG. 5 (A) is the coordinate center position indicated by “point_def”. The state immediately after FIG. 5C is the coordinate position indicated by “point_end”.
At this time, the time required for the change from FIG. 5 (A) to FIG. 5 (B) and FIG. 5 (C) is also obtained at the same time, and three pieces of information of the shift amount, speed, and direction are obtained from the fingerprint detection type input device. As output. If the sliding direction is the direction opposite to that in FIG. 5, the movement direction when expanded into two-dimensional coordinates is changed from the coordinate position indicated by “point_end” to the coordinate position indicated by “point_def”.

Next, the focus detection area selection operation using the fingerprint detection type input device 35 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
6 (A), 6 (B), 6 (C), and 6 (D) show a state in which an arrow shown in the figure shows a state in which a finger touches the fingerprint detection sensor that is the above-described fingerprint detection type input device 35. It shows how a finger slides in the direction.

  The focus detection area selection button 39 in FIG. 1 is pressed to switch the camera operation mode to the focus detection area selection mode. Once in the focus detection area selection mode, the camera maintains this state unless the lock switch 34, the fingerprint detection type input device 35, or the switches except the release button 2 are operated. When the finger is slid as shown in FIG. 6A, the microprocessor 304 receives the moving direction and the moving amount by the output from the fingerprint detection type input device, and the moving direction of the focus detection area is a straight line from the top to the bottom. As shown in FIG. 6B, the focus detection area is moved from the previous AFP_KA position to the AFP_KB position.

  The microprocessor 304 receives the output from the fingerprint detection type input device at regular intervals, and moves the focus detection area at any time according to the moving direction and moving amount at that time. At this time, the moving speed from the position of AFP_KA to the position of AFP_KB is proportional to the sliding speed of sliding with the finger touching the fingerprint detection sensor.

  FIG. 6C and FIG. 6D show a state during the movement of the focus detection region from the position of AFP_KA to the position of AFP_KB. AFP_M1 and AFP_M2 in the figure are focus detection areas. The time required for the state shown in FIG. 6C or FIG. 6D differs depending on whether the sliding speed when the finger is slid with the finger touching the fingerprint detection sensor is slow or fast.

Next, the focus detection area selection operation using the fingerprint detection type input device will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 8A, 8B, and 8C show the direction and sliding of the finger contact with the fingerprint detection sensor, respectively. Shows direction. Although the directions of contact between the fingerprint detection sensor and the finger are different from each other, the movement direction of the finger sliding the contact portion is an oblique direction from the upper left to the lower right with respect to the fingerprint detection sensor. At this time, the focus detection region selection operation according to the moving direction of the finger sliding the contact portion is also an oblique direction from the upper left to the lower right while looking through the viewfinder, and FIG. 9 (A) and FIG. 9 (B). become that way. That is, regardless of the direction of contact between the fingerprint detection sensor and the finger, if the sliding direction is the same, it is determined that both are sliding in the same oblique direction as shown in the arrow, and as a result, the focus detection area is It moves in the diagonal direction which is AFP_KL from the position of AFP_AB so far. In addition, if the movement direction of the finger is a direction perpendicular to FIG. 6A, it should be added that the movement direction of the focus detection region is also perpendicular to FIG. 6B.

Next, an exposure control value selection operation using the fingerprint detection type input device 35 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
First, the release button 2 is half-pressed once, or the exposure control mode button 8 or the photometry mode selection button 10 is operated so that the exposure control value can be selected by operating and inputting the fingerprint detection type input device 35. When the finger is slid as shown in FIG. 6A, the microprocessor 304 receives the movement direction and the movement amount, which are outputs from the fingerprint detection type input device. At this time, even in the case of sliding in the oblique direction as shown in FIG. 8, FIG. 9, and FIG. 10, the switching of the set value is the same as when the sliding in the vertical direction shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 shows an exposure control value when the exposure control mode of the camera is the shutter speed priority mode, that is, a switching operation at the shutter speed.
In the camera of the present embodiment, the shutter time can be set in 29 steps from 1/500 seconds to 30 seconds. In state 1, the shutter time of the camera is set to 1/125 seconds. It is shown. At this time, “125” is displayed in 7 segments indicating the shutter speed of the top LCD panel 36 shown in FIG.

  Here, when the sliding from the top to the bottom as shown in FIG. 6A is performed, the microprocessor 304 repeatedly receives the movement amount as the output from the fingerprint detection type input device at a predetermined interval. Then, the setting of the shutter speed is switched based on a value obtained by multiplying the amount of movement when received by the focus detection area by a larger coefficient than at the time of selection, and the setting value immediately before the sliding is state 1 in FIG. The state is switched from 1/125 seconds to 1/90 seconds of state 2, and further to states 3 and 4. When the sliding is further continued, the switching proceeds sequentially, and the switching stops in the state 5 1/10 seconds when the sliding is finished. When the release button 2 in FIG. 2 is pushed in this state, the camera takes a picture with a shutter speed of 1/10 second.

  When sliding from bottom to top in the opposite direction to sliding from top to bottom as shown in FIG. 6 (A), state 5 in FIG. 10; from state 1/10 seconds to state 6; 15 seconds, state 7; sequentially switched to 1/20 second, state 8 when sliding is finished; switching stops at 1/30 second.

  As described above, even when the focus detection area is selected, even if it is a two-dimensional coordinate, if the above method is used, the moving direction can be realized by a common single operation in the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal directions. Can do. In particular, the oblique direction is greatly improved from the conventional operation in which the moving operation is performed in two separate directions, horizontal and vertical. It is also possible to select an exposure control value, the switching operation at the time of selection corresponds to the sliding speed, and the reflection of the sliding amount on the set value is different from that when selecting the focus detection area. Operation during selection is smooth and accurate.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, a camera including a fingerprint detection type input device that selects a focus detection area based on the detected movement amount and direction of a fingerprint pattern has been described. In the present embodiment, as an example of a personal identification function for a camera, a personal identification function using a fingerprint or an authentication function is used. Digital still camera that performs fingerprint pattern detection without user awareness from a series of camera operations, and identifies calibration values that can be said to be user-specific gaze correction amounts necessary for gaze detection based on the results Will be described.

  The operation of the camera having the line-of-sight detection device will be described using the two flowcharts shown in FIGS. The focus adjustment area is selected by a known line-of-sight detection method, a manual method, or the like. Since the description of each function of the camera has already been made in the first embodiment, it is omitted here.

First, FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the operation of the camera having the line-of-sight detection device, and will be described below based on these.
The power of the camera is turned on by rotating the power switch 21 (this embodiment will be described based on the case where the shutter speed is set to the priority AE) (# 100). The camera then performs a series of initial settings including calibration data (# 200).

  It is checked whether the touch sensor which is a fingerprint detection type input device is operated (# 202). When not operated, a series of camera operation contents are set so as to perform an operation based on the initial setting contents (# 204). When the touch sensor is touched, it is determined whether or not the calibration data is the initial setting (# 203), and when the initial setting remains, the user's fingerprint information is detected (# 301). The initial setting is immediately after the power is turned on, or when the user does not touch the touch sensor or when performing a series of settings for shooting, the user's fingerprint information is detected by operating the touch sensor. It is thought that the contents of the time were indistinguishable.

  When the detected fingerprint information can be identified, the user is identified from the contents, and if there is corresponding calibration data, it is read out from the flash memory 306 and put into use as one of the camera functions (# 303 to # 308). Further, when the identification data can be identified but the corresponding calibration data is not present or cannot be identified, the contents of the calibration data remain at the initial settings. In this way, appropriate calibration data is set without the user's awareness during a series of camera setting operations.

  The camera waits until the release button 2 is pressed and the switch SW1 is turned on (# 102). When the switch group 101 detects that the release button 2 is pressed and the switch SW1 is turned on, the microprocessor 304 confirms with the line-of-sight detection unit 104 (# 104). The line-of-sight detection unit 104 performs line-of-sight detection (# 104). Here, the line of sight detected by the line-of-sight detection unit 104 is converted into the point of interest coordinates on the focus plate. The microprocessor 304 selects a focus detection area close to the gazing point coordinates, transmits a signal to a display circuit (not shown), and causes the focus detection area mark to blink using a superimpose LED (# 105).

  The focus adjustment unit 103 uses the detected line-of-sight information to perform focus detection of one or more focus detection areas, is capable of focus adjustment, and the focus adjustment state of the focus detection area selected by a predetermined algorithm matches. If not in focus, a signal is sent to the lens 401 to drive the photographing lens 401 by a predetermined amount (# 107). After the lens is driven, the focus adjustment unit 103 performs focus detection again, and determines whether or not the photographing lens 401 is in focus.

  If the photographic lens 401 is in focus in the predetermined focus detection unit, the microprocessor 304 sends a signal to the LCD drive circuit to light the focus mark on the LCD in the finder and focus the focus detection area in focus. In-focus display.

  At this time, the blinking display of the focus adjustment site selected by the line of sight is turned off. In many cases, the focus adjustment portion displayed in focus and the focus adjustment portion selected by the line of sight coincide with each other, so that the focus focus adjustment portion is set to the lit state so that the photographer can recognize that the focus has been achieved. Is done. When the photographer sees that the focused focus adjustment part is displayed in the finder, recognizes that the focus adjustment part is not correct, and releases the release button 2 to turn off the switch SW1 (# 120), it continues. The camera waits until the switch SW1 is turned on (# 102).

  If the photographer sees the focus adjustment site displayed in focus and continues to turn on the switch SW1, the microprocessor 304 transmits a signal to the photometry unit 102 to perform photometry (# 117). In the case of this embodiment, the photometric calculation weighted to the photometric region including the focus adjustment part is performed, and the aperture value (F5.6) is displayed using the seven segments 74 and the decimal point 75 as the calculation result (not shown). .

  Further, it is determined whether or not the release button 2 is pressed and the switch SW2 is turned on (# 118). If the switch SW2 is in the OFF state, the state of the switch SW1 is confirmed again (# 120). If the switch SW2 is turned on, the microprocessor 304 transmits signals to a shutter time control unit and a diaphragm driving unit (not shown).

  Then, after the main mirror is raised and the aperture is narrowed down, a series of shooting operations such as energizing MG1 and opening the front curtain at the shutter speed are performed (# 120). At this time, the aperture value of the aperture and the shutter speed of the shutter are determined from the exposure value detected by the photometry unit 102 and the set sensitivity. Imaging data converted into a digital value by the built-in A / D conversion unit is output from the imaging unit, and image processing (# 121) is performed by the image processing IC 303.

  Further, after that, the image is compressed by the JPEG_IC 307, temporarily stored in the DRAM 308, and then stored in the memory card 313 via the memory card I / F 310 (# 122). Photographed image data is stored in the memory card 313, and a series of photographing operations per time is completed. Thereafter, the camera waits until the switch SW1 is turned on again (# 102). The above is the description of the flowchart of the operation of the camera having the line-of-sight detection device.

Next, the calibration shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of line-of-sight calibration. Conventionally, line-of-sight calibration has been performed by detecting the line of sight when the photographer gazes at two or more targets. In the present embodiment, gaze calibration is executed by having two gazes gaze twice with different viewfinder brightness and detecting the gaze at that time. This will be described below with reference to FIG.

  When the photographer operates the index while looking at the rear LCD 46 and moves the target to the CAL position, the line-of-sight calibration mode is set. The calibration mode includes an “ON” mode in which the calibration operation is performed and an “OFF” mode in which the calibration operation is not performed. The calibration mode switching between “ON” and “OFF” is selected by the photographer moving the index position while looking at the rear LCD 46 (# 601).

  First, in the “ON” mode, “CAL” is displayed using 7 segments for displaying the shutter time, seconds, and seconds of the upper LCD panel 36 shown in FIG. 2, and all other fixed segment display portions are turned off. . At this time, if calibration data is not input, “CAL” displayed on the upper LCD panel 36 blinks. On the other hand, if calibration data has already been input, “CAL” displayed on the upper LCD panel 36 is displayed. "Is fully lit.

  Next, in the “OFF” mode, the 7-segment portion is displayed as “OFF”, and the line-of-sight prohibition mode is set as in the case where the calibration data is not always input. This is effective for prohibiting information input by gaze and taking pictures in order to prevent malfunctions caused by mistakes in the gaze detection position, such as when someone suddenly takes a picture during a commemorative photo. is there.

  Subsequently, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 checks the shooting mode via the switch group 101. When it is confirmed that the photographer has switched to a shooting mode other than the line-of-sight calibration mode (# 604), the “CAL” display on the viewfinder LCD is turned off, and the camera returns to the main routine of camera shooting. To do.

  If “CAL” is displayed on the top LCD panel 36 and the camera is switched to another photographing mode (priority AE during shutter seconds), the line of sight is detected using the calibration data, and the above line of sight information is obtained. The shooting operation used can be performed. As described above, the camera (optical device) controls various driving related to photographing according to the property of the calibration data (line-of-sight correction data) stored in the built-in RAM of the microprocessor 304.

  In the line-of-sight detection unit 104, the line-of-sight calibration is set to start when fingerprint information can be detected by sliding the fingertip on the touch sensor of the fingerprint detection type input device after switching the switch SW1 from ON to OFF. Before the photographer is ready to calibrate the line of sight, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 checks the state of the switch SW1 to prevent the camera from starting calibration (# 610). If the switch SW1 is being pressed by the release button 2 and is in the ON state, it waits until the switch SW1 is in the OFF state (# 611).

  After the switch SW1 is turned off, the photographer can detect the fingerprint information by sliding the fingertip on the touch sensor of the fingerprint detection type input device while gazing at the target 1 (not shown) (# 612). The line-of-sight calibration is started (# 615). The line-of-sight detection operation itself is described, for example, in JP-A-6-82681.

The line-of-sight detection unit 104 stores the rotation angles θ _x and θ _{y of} the eyeball, the pupil diameter r _p and the reliability of each data, which are the return values from the line-of-sight detection subroutine (# 616).
Subsequently, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 checks whether fingerprint information has been obtained from the touch sensor of the fingerprint detection type input device 35 (# 620). If the fingerprint information is obtained, the line-of-sight detection of the target 1 is terminated.

  In order to perform calibration with high accuracy, it is necessary for the photographer to pay attention to one point as much as possible. Index 1 and index 2 are not shown, but are for that purpose. The dot marks are respectively arranged at the right end and the left end of the viewfinder field, and these dot marks are provided so that one point can be easily observed.

The line-of-sight detection unit 104 subsequently performs line-of-sight detection of the target 2 (# 623). The line-of-sight detection unit 104 stores the rotation angles θ _x and θ _{y of} the eyeball, the pupil diameter r _p, and the reliability of each data, which are the return numbers from the line-of-sight detection subroutine (# 624). Thus, the line-of-sight detection for the visual targets 1 and 2 is performed once.

  In the present embodiment, the lens is narrowed down in order to perform line-of-sight detection for each target with different viewfinder brightness. That is, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 transmits a signal to a diaphragm drive circuit (not shown) via the microprocessor 304, and sets the diaphragm of the photographing lens 401 to the minimum diaphragm (# 626). At this time, the photographer feels that the viewfinder has become dark and widens the pupil. In this state, by repeating the operations of # 611 to # 624, the line-of-sight calibration data for the visual targets 1 and 2 is obtained in a state where the brightness of the finder is different, and the visual line detection ends.

When the line-of-sight detection is completed, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 transmits a signal to the aperture driving circuit to set the aperture of the photographing lens 401 to an open state (# 630). Further, line-of-sight calibration data is calculated from the eyeball rotation angles θ _x and θ _y and the pupil diameter r _p stored in the line-of-sight detection unit 104 (# 631). The method for calculating the gaze calibration data is as follows.

The coordinates of the targets 1 and 2 on the focusing screen 7 are (x ₁ , 0) and (x ₂ , 0), respectively, and the rotation angle of the eyeball when each target stored in the line-of-sight detection unit 104 is watched. (θ _x, θ _y) mean value of _{(θ x1, θ y1),} (θ x2, θ y2), (θ x3, θ y3), (θ x4, θ y4), the average pupil diameter r ₁ , R ₂ , r ₃ , r ₄ . Where (θ _x1 , θ _y1 ) and (θ _x3 , θ _y3 ) are average values of the rotation angles of the eyeballs detected when the photographer gazes at the target 1, (θ _x2 , θ _y2 ), (θ _x4 , Θ _y4 ) represents the average value of the rotation angle of the eyeball detected when the photographer gazes at the target 2.

Similarly, r ₁ and r ₃ are average values of pupil diameters detected when the photographer gazes at the target 1, and r ₂ and r ₄ are pupil diameters detected when the photographer gazes at the target 2. Is the average value. Suffixes 1 and 2 attached to the average value of each data indicate that the data is detected when the camera finder is bright, and suffixes 3 and 4 are when the camera finder is dark and the line of sight is detected. It shows that it is data of.

The calibration data for the gaze calibration data in the horizontal direction (x direction) differs depending on the pupil diameter at the time of data acquisition, and is calculated as follows.
(2) When (r ₃ + r ₄ ) / 2> r _x > (r ₁ + r ₂ ) / 2 k ₀ = − {(θ _x3 + θ _x4 ) − (θ _x1 + θ _x2 )} / {2 × r _x − (R ₁ + r ₂ )}
a _x = (x ₃ −x ₄ ) / m / (θ _x3 −θ _x4 )
bO _x = − (θ _x3 + θ _x4 ) / 2
When r _x ≧ (r ₃ + r ₄ ) / 2> (r ₁ + r ₂ ) / 2 k ₀ = − {(θ _x3 + θ _x4 ) − (θ _x1 + θ _x2 )} / {(r ₃ + r ₄ )-(r ₁ + r ₂ )}
a _x = (x ₃ −x ₄ ) / m / {θ _x3 −θ _x4 + k ₀ × (r ₃ −r ₄ )}
bO _x = −k ₀ × {(r ₃ + r ₄ ) / 2−r _x } − (θ ₃ + θ ₄ ) / 2

Further, the calibration data of the line of sight in the vertical direction (y direction) is calculated as follows.
k _y = − {(θ _y3 + θ _y4 ) − (θ _y1 + θ _y2 )} / {(r ₃ + r ₄ ) − (r ₁ + r ₂ )}
bO _y = {(θ _y1 + θ _y2 ) × (r ₃ + r ₄ ) − (θ _y3 −θ _y4 ) × (r ₁ + r ₂ )} / 2 /
{(R ₁ + r ₂ ) − (r ₃ + r ₄ )}

  When it is determined that the calculated gaze calibration data is inappropriate (# 632), the gaze detection unit 104 further transmits a signal to the LCD drive circuit via the microprocessor 304 to display “CAL” on the LCD in the viewfinder. Blinks to warn that the line-of-sight calibration has failed (# 640). Then, the process proceeds to the initial step (# 601) of the calibration routine, and is set in a state where the line-of-sight calibration can be executed again.

  If the calculated line-of-sight calibration data is appropriate (# 632), the line-of-sight detection unit 104 displays “END” on the LCD in the viewfinder via the LCD drive circuit, and ends the calibration (# 632). ).

  The line-of-sight detection unit 104 further stores the calculated line-of-sight calibration data, the photographer's glasses information, and the reliability of the calculated line-of-sight calibration data on the RAM address corresponding to the calibration data (# 635). ). At this time, if the line-of-sight calibration data is already stored on the RAM address to be stored, the calibration data is updated.

  The fingerprint information obtained by the touch sensor is stored in a pair with the calibration data. In this way, the line-of-sight correction data and the user can be specified using fingerprint information, so that high-precision control of the optical device can be performed with a simple operation.

  After the series of line-of-sight calibration is completed, if the camera selects another shooting mode by the photographer, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 detects the change of the shooting mode via the switch group 101 (# 637), and the main routine is performed. Return to. When returning to the main routine, if calibration data is not input, the line-of-sight detection unit 104 forcibly sets the line-of-sight prohibition mode.

  As described above, in user-specific calibration, which is necessary when using the eye-gaze detection function effectively, the fingerprint information obtained without having to be aware of the calibration data and the user's alignment from a series of camera operations. Can be used.

[Third Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, as an example of a personal identification function for a camera, a calibration value that can be said to be a user-specific gaze correction amount required for gaze detection using a personal identification and authentication function using a fingerprint. A digital still camera that identifies the above has been described. In the third embodiment, the camera body shown in the first embodiment is used to set the operation content of the camera according to the movement amount and direction of the fingerprint pattern, and the fingerprint pattern is detected without the user being conscious. Then, based on the detection result, the operation content of the camera is set, and further, a captured image is taken on a medium or an area inside the medium registered in advance by the user among a plurality of connected storage media or storage areas. The operation for recording the image without the user's awareness will be described.

First, an example of a camera setting operation will be described with reference to FIGS. 13, 14, and 15.
13, 14 and 15 all show the contents displayed on the LCD 46 in FIG. FIG. 13A shows the display contents when the menu button 41 in FIG. 1 is pressed after the power switch 21 in FIG. 1 is turned on. During the setting and selection of “jpeg image quality” in “mode 1”. State. Subsequently, by pressing the select button 42 in FIG. 1, the setting content of “jpeg image quality” can be selected.

  13B shows the fingerprint detection type input device 35 shown in FIG. 1 while the menu button 41 shown in FIG. 1 is pressed after the display state shown in FIG. 13A. FIG. 5C shows the display contents when the finger is slid, and the portion displayed with high brightness is switched from “jpeg image quality” to “confirmation of photographed image”. When the finger continues to slide, the portion displayed with high brightness moves to the “auto power off off” display section shown in FIG.

  When the menu button 41 shown in FIG. 1 is stopped and the select button 42 shown in FIG. 1 is pressed, the display state shown in FIG. After that, when the finger is slid as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the display state shown in FIG. 14B is obtained. The selection of “photographed image confirmation time” is switched from 4 seconds to 10 seconds. When the pressing of the select button 42 in FIG. 1 is stopped, the display content shown in FIG. 14C is switched and the “photographed image confirmation time 10 seconds” is determined. “The captured image confirmation time of 10 seconds” indicates that the captured image is displayed on the rear LCD panel 46 for 10 seconds immediately after shooting.

  Further, when the finger slides in the direction orthogonal to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C and from the left to the right when the camera is held, FIG. ), As shown in FIG. 15B, the portion indicated by high luminance is switched in order of “mode2” and “mode3”. And the setting content set by each mode is displayed. When the sliding is further continued, the display content shown in FIG. When the finger sliding direction is reversed, the mode is switched from “mode3” to “mode2”, “mode1”, “mode3”.

  When the fingerprint detection input device 35 of FIG. 1 is slid in the direction opposite to the direction shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C in the state of FIG. It should be added that the selection of “photographed image confirmation time” is switched from 4 seconds to 2 seconds. Also, when a finger is slid as shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 8A, 8B, and 8C. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the same display screen switching operation is performed.

Next, the operation of the camera will be described using the flowchart shown in FIG.
The same number is attached | subjected to the same operation | movement as FIG. 11 demonstrated in 2nd Embodiment. In addition, since the operation from # 204 is the same as that of FIG. 11 described in the second embodiment, the description thereof is omitted here.

  The power switch 21 is rotated to turn on the camera (# 100). The camera then performs a series of initial settings (# 200). Whether or not the touch sensor which is a fingerprint detection type input device is operated is checked (# 202). When the touch sensor is not operated, a series of camera operation contents are set so that the operation is based on the initial setting contents (# 204).

  When the touch sensor is touched, it is determined whether or not a series of settings of the camera remains at the initial settings (# 205), and when the initial settings remain at the initial settings, fingerprint information of the user is detected (# 301). The initial setting is immediately after turning on the power, or without touching the touch sensor, or operating the touch sensor when performing a series of settings for shooting and detecting the user's fingerprint information. It is thought that the contents at that time were indistinguishable.

  When the detected fingerprint information can be identified, the user is identified from the contents. If the camera setting information is stored, the information corresponding to the user is read from the flash memory 306 and used as one of the camera functions (# 503 to # 508). The operation of saving the camera setting contents in the flash memory 306 as user information including the fingerprint information of the user is performed by selecting and operating and setting “save camera settings” shown in FIG. The above is the description of the flowchart shown in FIG.

Next, the confirmation operation of the memory cards to be inserted into the card slot 1 and the card slot 2 inside the memory card slot cover 50 in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
A series of memory card checking operations is performed whenever it is detected that the memory card slot cover of FIG. 1 is closed. In the memory card checking operation, it is detected that the memory card slot cover is closed, and it is first checked that a memory card is inserted in the internal slot 1 (# 400). If it is mounted, the presence of a user folder is checked (# 401). The user folder is a dedicated folder for recording captured images and data associated with the capturing. When a memory card is not inserted in slot 1 or when a user folder is not found even if a memory card is inserted in slot 1, it is checked whether a memory card is inserted in slot 2 (# 410). ).

  Also, even if a memory card is installed in the slot 1 and there is a user folder, the user code is not found, or the user code based on the detected fingerprint information does not match the user code based on the recorded fingerprint information. Sometimes, the memory card in the slot 2 is checked for the presence or absence.

  When the user code based on the detected fingerprint information matches the user code based on the recorded fingerprint information (# 402), it is determined that the memory card mounted in the slot 1 can be recorded and read (# 403). .

  Returning to the confirmation of whether or not the memory card in slot 2 is installed. In the slot 2, confirmation is performed in the same procedure as the confirmation operation in the slot 1 (# 411) and (# 412). When the user code based on the detected fingerprint information matches the user code based on the recorded fingerprint information (# 412), it is determined that the memory card mounted in the slot 2 can be recorded and read (# 413). ).

  Recording and reading cannot be performed when the user folder is installed in the memory card installed in the slot 2 and when no memory card is installed in the slot 2 (# 410). For this reason, a memory card non-installation message is displayed on the LCD panel 46 of FIG. 1 (# 430), and it is determined that recording / reading on the memory card is impossible (# 431).

  When a memory card is installed in slot 2 (# 410) and there is no user holder (# 411), and even if there is a user holder, the user code based on the detected fingerprint information and the recorded fingerprint information If the user code does not match (# 412), the operation moves to a user folder creation operation. That is, if user folder creation is permitted in the camera settings (# 420), it is confirmed whether or not the user folder permitted to create user folders in the camera settings has priority to slot 1 (# 421). If a memory card is inserted in slot 1 with the priority setting of slot 1 (# 422), a user holder is created on the memory card in slot 1 (# 423) and the memory card inserted in slot 1 is recorded. It is determined that reading is possible (# 403).

  If the slot 1 priority setting is not set (# 421), or if the slot 1 priority setting is not set in the slot 1 (# 422), a user holder is created on the memory card in the slot 2 At the same time, it is determined that recording and reading of the memory card mounted in the slot 2 are possible (# 413).

  When folder creation is not permitted in the camera settings, recording and reading cannot be performed in # 420, so a memory card unavailable message is displayed on the LCD panel 46 of FIG. 1 (# 425), and recording to the memory card is performed. It is determined that reading is impossible (# 431). In creating user holders # 423 and # 424, a user code based on the detected fingerprint information is recorded as part of a series of user information. The above is the confirmation operation of the memory card.

  In FIG. 16, the camera function is set based on the user information stored in the storage device built in the camera. However, the setting is based on the user information stored in the removable memory card described in FIG. It doesn't matter.

Next, an operation for enlarging the photographed image displayed on the rear LCD panel 46 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 18A shows display contents before the enlargement operation. When the main dial 1 in FIG. 2 is rotated from the left to the right as viewed in FIG. 2 while the enlargement button 44 in FIG. 1 is pressed, the display image is displayed as shown in FIG. It is enlarged and displayed around the center. When the rotation is further continued, the display image is further enlarged as shown in FIG. When the main dial 1 is rotated in the opposite direction, the display image is reduced as shown in FIGS. 18 (C) to 18 (B). When the main dial 1 is further rotated, as shown in FIG. Return to display contents. The small image shown in the lower right corner of the captured image display in FIGS. 18B and 18C is for showing the enlarged display area, and the area surrounded by the thick line is enlarged and displayed. It is an area.

  FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C show the state when the enlarged display position is moved, and FIG. 19A is the same as FIG. 18C. . In this state, when the fingerprint detection type input device 35 of FIG. 1 is operated and the finger is slid as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the enlarged display position is at the bottom. It moves to a direction and it will be in the state shown in FIG. Next, when the finger is slid in the direction orthogonal to FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C and from the right to the left when the camera is held, FIG. 19C ).

  20 (A), 20 (B), and 20 (C) show the fingerprint detection type input device 35 of FIG. 1 as shown in FIGS. 7 (A), 7 (B), 7 (C), and 8. (A), FIG. 8 (B), and FIG. 8 (C) show the movement of the display position when the finger is slid. If the sliding direction is oblique, the enlarged display position The moving direction is also an oblique direction. As described above, in a two-dimensional region such as an enlarged display, a change is made according to the sliding direction and the sliding amount of the finger.

[Other Embodiments]
In addition, in the second embodiment for the purpose of specifying a user, the line-of-sight detection device has been described as an example. However, even if the camera is not a digital camera but a silver salt film camera or a video camera, the line-of-sight detection device is provided. Anything can be used.
Needless to say, the user-specific purpose is not limited to the line-of-sight detection device.
In addition, the description is valid only for the three users A, B, and C, but is not limited to three.

Moreover, although embodiment was shown as update of the rotary dial type information input device in the conventional camera, it is not specified as this as an information input device.
Also, the information input device is particularly effective when used for a two-dimensional device. When a reproduced image after photographing is displayed on the rear LCD and a specific part is to be enlarged and displayed, the part is instructed and inputted. Can also be used as an information input device.

[Correspondence between the present invention and the embodiment]
In each of the above embodiments, the fingerprint detection type input device 100 corresponds to the fingerprint detection type information input unit and the information input unit of the present invention, the focus adjustment unit 103 corresponds to the focus detection unit of the present invention, and the line-of-sight detection unit 104. Corresponds to the line-of-sight detection means of the present invention, and the memory cards 313 and 314 correspond to the removable storage device of the present invention.

  The above is the correspondence between each configuration of the embodiment and each configuration of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the embodiment, and even if it differs from the contents shown in the embodiment, the claims Needless to say, any configuration that can achieve the functions shown in FIG.

It is a camera rear view in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a camera top view in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electric system in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state which looked at the finder of the camera in the 1st Embodiment of this invention, and the relationship of the focus detection area | region at that time. It is a figure shown about the fingerprint detection and manual direction in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the sliding direction and focus detection area movement in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the sliding direction and focus detection area movement in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the sliding direction and focus detection area movement in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the sliding direction and focus detection area movement in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the setting condition of the camera in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the setting content of the camera in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the setting content of the camera in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the setting content of the camera in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the flowchart in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state of the expansion reproduction display of the picked-up image in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state of the expansion reproduction display of the picked-up image in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state of the expansion reproduction display of the picked-up image in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Dial type | mold information input switch 2 Shutter second button 8 Exposure control mode selection button 9 Focus mode selection button 10 Photometry mode selection button 11 Camera main body 21 Power switch 32 Eyepiece part 35 Fingerprint detection type input device 36 Upper surface LCD panel 39 Focus detection Area selection button 41 Menu button 42 Select button 46 Rear LCD panel 50 Memory card slot cover 301 Imaging unit 303 Image processing unit 304 Microprocessor 307 jpeg image data generation unit 308 DRAM
309 External interface 310 Memory card interface 311 Data bus 313 Memory card 314 Memory card 100 Fingerprint detection type input device 101 Switch group 102 Metering unit 103 Focus adjustment unit 104 Line of sight detection unit 203 LCD monitor 401 Removable lens

Claims (10)

An optical device having a plurality of functions executed in operation of the device,
It is equipped with a fingerprint detection type information input device that can detect the direction and amount of movement of the user's finger and its fingerprint information, and the operation contents and setting values of the function can be obtained via the information input device based on the detected information. An optical device characterized in that it can be operated and input to set and change an operation target.   The information input device has a contact surface with which at least a part of the finger can come into contact, and the result is a fingerprint and a result according to the moving direction and the moving amount by sliding the fingertip against the contact surface. The optical apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit capable of outputting information.   The optical device according to claim 1, wherein a sliding operation member of the information input device is disposed on a back surface of the device main body.   The optical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ratio of a change amount of a set value to an input information amount is switched according to the function according to information setting input content from the information input device. .   The optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 is configured as a camera, and can be operated with a thumb of a user's right hand in a state where a sliding operation member disposed on the back of the camera body holds the camera. A camera system characterized by being arranged at a position. A plurality of photoelectric conversion elements including an image sensor arranged one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally, and each image sensor includes a focus detection unit that forms an independent focus detection region;
The camera system according to claim 5, wherein focus adjustment is performed on the focus detection region of a part selected by operating the information input device.   User information detecting means for detecting user information based on the fingerprint pattern of the user detected by the information input device is provided, the user is identified based on the output from the user information detecting means, and the user specific information stored in advance 7. The camera system according to claim 5, wherein operation contents and function contents are set in the use conditions.   The camera system according to claim 5, further comprising a gaze detection function configured to detect a user's gaze.   8. The camera system according to claim 7, wherein the camera system is operated in accordance with information based on a fingerprint pattern detected first after the power switch is operated and the system is in an operating state. A digital camera system comprising the camera according to any one of claims 7 to 9 as a digital camera, and comprising recording means to which a plurality of recording devices can be connected,
Based on the output from the user information detection means, the user is identified and collated with user information recorded in advance on the mounted recording medium. If they match, the image is taken in the corresponding folder of the matching recording medium. The recorded image and the accompanying data are recorded, and if there is a discrepancy, after warning and confirmation to the user, a new folder is created and the image taken and the associated data are recorded Digital camera system.

Images