JP3414515B2 - Signal processing module and anti-shake camera using the same - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a signal processing module used in a camera or the like for detecting a blur condition,
In particular, the present invention relates to a signal processing module that corrects the influence of an offset / drift component of a blur detection sensor and a blur prevention camera using the signal processing module.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, it has been hoped that an image pickup apparatus such as a camera will reduce the influence of camera shake during shooting, and various techniques have been proposed to realize it.
For example, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-50729, a plurality of integrators having high-pass filter characteristics having different time constants are prepared, and the integrators are switched and used to prevent drift and to improve the rising characteristics and DC removal characteristics. A technique related to an improved vibration detection device is disclosed (Prior example 1).

On the other hand, a technique has also been proposed in which the output of the vibration gyro is taken into the control unit via the LPF and the non-inverting amplifier (Prior example 2). In this technique, an analog switch is used for switching the HPF time constant (improving the rising characteristic and removing the DC component).

[0004]

However, in Prior Art 1 described above, the circuit and machine scale become complicated due to the minute characteristic changes. Further, if the signal is amplified as necessary after the drift is removed, the influence of the offset drift due to this amplifier cannot be removed.

Further, in the above-mentioned prior art example 2, since the HPF time constant is switched by a simple switch for the offset removal, there is a problem that a saturated blur signal may be taken in depending on the case and the blur compensation photographing may fail. It was

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to offset the vibration sensor by a configuration in which the reference voltage of the shake detection unit amplifier can be changed based on the vibration information fetched by the CPU. -To correct the drift component.

[0007]

In order to achieve the above object, the signal processing module according to the first aspect of the present invention comprises:
A signal processing module which differentially amplifies an input signal with respect to a predetermined reference voltage and outputs the differential signal, wherein when the amplified output signal is determined not to fall within a predetermined range, the reference voltage value is It is characterized in that it comprises a reference voltage level shift means for shifting based on the output signal, and differentially amplifies the input signal with respect to the level-shifted reference voltage.

The blur prevention camera according to the second aspect is a blur prevention camera using a signal processing module, wherein the detection means detects the blur state of the camera, the output of the detection means and a predetermined reference voltage. Determination means for determining whether or not the output obtained by differentially amplifying is within a predetermined range,
And a control means for generating a signal for changing the output of the reference voltage level shift means when it is determined that the output signal is not within the predetermined range.

Further, in the blur prevention camera according to the third aspect, the detecting means detects blur in at least two axial directions orthogonal to each other on the film surface, and the reference voltage level shifting means corresponds to the output in the axial direction. It is characterized by being provided.

[0010]

That is, in the signal processing module according to the first aspect of the present invention, when the reference voltage level shifting means determines that the amplified output signal is not within the predetermined range, the reference voltage value is set to Shift based on the output signal,
The input signal is differentially amplified with respect to the level-shifted reference voltage.

In the blur prevention camera according to the second aspect, the blurring state of the camera is detected by the detecting means, and the output obtained by differentially amplifying the output of the detecting means and the predetermined reference voltage is within the predetermined range by the judging means. It is determined whether the output voltage is within the predetermined range, and when the control means determines that the output signal is not within the predetermined range, a signal for changing the output of the reference voltage level shift means is generated.

Further, in the shake prevention camera according to the third aspect, the detecting means detects the shake in at least two axial directions orthogonal to each other on the film surface, and the reference voltage level shifting means corresponds to the output in the axial direction. Is provided.

[0013]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. First, FIG. 1 shows a conceptual diagram of an anti-shake camera using the signal processing module of the present invention and will be described. In the figure, the blur detection unit 2 outputs a signal corresponding to the camera shake state of the camera to the signal processing module 1. The signal processing module 1 processes the output signal of the blur detection unit 2 and can be integrated into a circuit.

Then, the camera control unit (hereinafter referred to as CPU) 3 controls some camera shake prevention measures based on the output signal from the signal processing module 1, that is, the information according to the camera shake state. And controls the operation of the entire camera.

The CPU 3 activates the signal processing module 1 by sending a signal to the signal processing module 1 via the line CEN, and changes the signal processing mode in the signal processing module 1 described later by the control information signal.・ Control.

In the signal processing module 1, as described above, the signal processing module 1 is activated by a signal from the CPU 3 via the line CEN. CP above
The control information signal from U3 is sent to the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1. The information input unit 10 takes in the information and sends it to the reference voltage level shift unit 5.

Then, in the reference voltage level shift section 5,
A predetermined voltage corresponding to the information sent from the information input unit 10 is generated and the voltage is sent to the differential amplifier unit 4. The differential amplifier 4 differentially amplifies the above-described predetermined voltage and a voltage generated according to the camera shake state from the shake detector 2 and sends the amplified output signal to the CPU 3. In addition, CP
As for the control information signal from U3, the outputs from the shake detection unit 2 and the reference voltage level shift unit 5 are determined according to the differential amplification result. Details of this will be described later.

In the anti-shake camera adopting the signal processing module having such a configuration, the level of the differential amplification output from the shake detection unit 2 is intentionally changed according to the camera shake of the camera according to the control information from the CPU 3. be able to.

Next, FIG. 2 shows the detailed structure of FIG. 1 for explanation. The same contents as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted. As shown in FIG. 2, the blur detection unit 2 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a blur detection unit 2X and a blur detection unit 2Y in detail, and is formed on the image plane (X axis, Y axis). Detect the effects of blurring. CPU3 is the above-mentioned line C
In addition to EN1, a data bus for sending control information (address, data) to the information input unit 10 and a signal for distinguishing whether the sent information is address information or data information are output. It is connected to the signal processing module 1 via lines AL1 and DL1.

Then, the information input unit 10 determines whether the information sent out through the data bus is address information or data information based on the state of the signal sent through the lines AL1 and DL1, and the information is the address information. If so, the information is sent to the data sending selection unit 9. The data transmission selection unit 9 selects, from the address information, the storage destination of the data information transmitted from the CPU 3 via the data bus, that is, the data latch unit 6X or 6Y to which the data information should be transmitted. To do.

When the data information is sent from the CPU 3 in this way, the data is sent to the data latch units 6X and 6Y selected for use by the data sending selection unit 9 and stored in the data latch units 6X and 6Y. , Not shown D
To the A / A converter (DAC). The DAC orders a predetermined current based on the sent data. The current is sent to a current-voltage (IV) converter and converted into a voltage. The DAC and the IV converter are the reference voltage generator 5
Equivalent to X and 5Y.

Further, the voltage output from the IV converter is sent to the differential amplifiers 4X and 4Y and is differentially amplified with the output voltage from the shake detectors 2X and 2Y as described above. The output after this amplification is sent to the CPU 3 as VX and VY. still,
The DAC, the IV conversion unit, and the differential amplification unit 4 are provided independently corresponding to the shake detection units 2X and 2Y, respectively. The data bus can also be used as a control information transmission unit for modules other than the signal processing module 1.

On the other hand, the interface (ICIF) 21 is activated by a signal via the line CEN2. Motors 22 and 23 and phytointerrupters (PI) 24 to 27 are connected to the IFIC 21 and are used for performing a specific operation of the camera. More specifically, the actuator drive for operating the camera, the PI drive used for detecting the drive state of the driven object, the PI output processing, and the like are performed.

The control of the IFIC 21 is performed by a signal through the lines CEN2, AL2 and DL2 as well as control information by the data bus. This line AL2, DL2
Are lines AL1 and DL1 in the signal processing module 1.
In the same manner as the above, it is used properly in the form of address information transmission and data information transmission.

The IFIC 21 can be used, for example, for performing a series of operations of the camera, that is, for driving a focusing lens, feeding a film after exposure, etc., and processing the output of the blur detection unit 2 by signal processing. Based on the camera shake information processed by the signal in the module 1, it is used to decenter / tilt a part of the photographic optical system (not shown) in order to correct the image movement on the image plane due to the camera shake. It is also possible.

In this case, the motors 22 and 23 serve as actuators for driving the shake correcting optical device, and the PIs 24 to 27 are used as position detecting means of the shake correcting optical device, and this position information (PI output pulse) is transmitted through another line. CPU
Sent to 3. As a result, the camera control unit 3 performs blur correction control.

Next, FIG. 3 shows the detailed construction of FIGS. 1 and 2 for explanation. The same components as those in FIGS. 1 and 2 are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted. In FIG. 3, the reference constant current generator 11 in the signal processing module 1 is activated based on the signal sent via the line CEN1. The reference constant current generator 11 generates and outputs a constant current to each component for amplification, predetermined voltage generation, analog signal processing such as DAC driving performed in the signal processing module 1.

The operation of the signal processing module 1 becomes possible only when the constant current generated here is supplied to each component. This constant current is also supplied to the constant voltage generator 12B. In the constant voltage generation unit 12B, a predetermined voltage used for performing analog signal processing in the signal processing module 1, a supply voltage to a shake detection unit 2 described later, and an amplification of the differential amplification unit 4 by the CPU 3. Output is A /
It is used to generate an A / D reference voltage for D conversion and loading.

The output voltage of the constant voltage generator 12B is input to the constant voltage generator 12A, non-inverted and amplified to a predetermined voltage, and then supplied to the shake detectors 2X and 2Y as a power supply voltage. As a result, camera shake detection by the shake detection units 2X and 2Y becomes possible for the first time. The output voltage of the constant voltage generator 12B is input to the constant voltage generator 12A, non-inverted and amplified to a predetermined voltage, and then CP
It is supplied to U3 and the camera shake data VX, VY A /
It is used as a D conversion reference voltage.

The outputs of the blur detection units 2X and 2Y are LPF.
After the high frequency noise is removed by 15, it is sent to the differential amplifiers 4X and 4Y. The amplification degree in the differential amplifier 4 is determined by the external resistors R1 and R2 (R3 and R4), and the output is sent to the CPU 3 as VX and VY.

Hereinafter, referring to the flow chart of FIG.
The operation of the CPU 3 that controls the signal processing module 1 will be described. When the operation is started, the CPU 3 first performs initialization (step S1), and determines whether or not the shake prevention shooting mode is selected as the shooting mode of the camera by an operation unit (not shown) (step S2). Here, when the mode is selected, step S5 described later is performed.
Go to step S3, if not selected, go to step S3.
Then, it is determined whether or not the first release button of the camera (not shown) is operated (step S3). And the first
If the release button is operated, the process proceeds to step S4, and if not, the process returns to step S2.

Subsequently, the CPU 3 again judges whether or not the blur prevention photographing mode is selected (step S).
4). Here, if the mode is selected, the process proceeds to step S5, and if it is not selected, the process proceeds to step S23 described later. Then, the CPU3 is the line CEN
The output signal via 1 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". As a result, the signal processing module 1 is activated to supply the power source voltage to the blur detection unit 2 and the A / D conversion reference voltage to the CPU 3 as described above (step S5).

Then, variables REBX and REBY which are variables for carrying out level shift of the amplified output of the shake detection unit 2 and a state monitor which will be described later and become predetermined reference voltage generation data.
The initial value is set to (step S6). Further, a camera photometric unit (not shown) performs a photometric operation, and the exposure time and the aperture value are determined based on the photometric operation (step S7). Further, a distance measuring operation is performed by a camera distance measuring unit (not shown), and the focusing lens is driven according to the result of the distance measuring calculation (step S8).

Next, one loop time of the blur processing loop timer is set. This loop timer executes camera shake detection (sampling by A / D) in the CPU 3, calculation of the A / D result, level shift judgment of the amplified output in the signal processing module 1, etc. within a predetermined cycle. It is used for this purpose (step S9). In this way, the timing of the blurring loop timer set in step S9 is started (step S10), and the blurring data VX and VY from the signal processing module 1 are A / D converted and fetched (step S11). This will be described later with reference to FIG.

Subsequently, the shake data VX and VY obtained by A / D in step S11 are entangled with the values of the above-mentioned level shift variables REBX and REBY to calculate the vibration information data in which the level shift is corrected. Is performed (step S12). This will be described later with reference to FIG.

Then, in step S11, the sizes of the blur data VX and VY that have been A / D converted and taken in are judged,
It is determined whether the signal processing module 1 is level-shifted next. Here, if it is determined that the level shift is necessary, the numerical contents of the variables REBX and REBY are changed, and if not, it is not changed (step S1).
3). This will be described later with reference to FIG.

Further, based on the values of the variables REBX and REBY for level shift in step S13, the data for level shift is sent to the signal processing module 1 (step S14). In response to the data transmission, the signal processing module 1 receives the data from the DACs 8X, 8 as described above.
A predetermined voltage is generated by the Y and IV conversion units 7X and 7Y,
This and the outputs of the shake detection units 2X and 2Y are differentially amplified,
It is taken into the CPU 3 again. This will be described later with reference to FIG.

Subsequently, an HPF calculation for removing the DC component of the vibration information and an LPF calculation for removing the high frequency noise component are performed based on the accurate blur information data obtained by correcting the level shift amount calculated in step S12. Then, the blur prediction calculation is performed based on the blur data up to the present (step S15). Since these calculations are described in detail in Japanese Patent Application No. 6-43655 previously proposed by the present applicant, the description thereof will be omitted here.

Then, a camera shake prevention measure is taken based on the shake information calculated in step S15 (step S16). This blurring prevention measure may be one that prompts the photographer to call out by, for example, displaying the current blurring information of the camera in the viewfinder of the camera. In order to do so, a part of the photographing optical system (not shown) is decentered and tilted based on the calculation result,
It is also possible to show the image stabilization state itself to the photographer through the viewfinder.

Then, it is again determined whether or not the first release button of the camera is operated (step S17). If the first release button is operated, the process proceeds to step S18, and if it is not operated, the step S18 is performed.
Go to 20. Then, it is determined whether or not the second release button of the camera is operated (step S18), and the second release button is operated.
If the release button is operated, the process proceeds to step S26, and if not, the process proceeds to step S19.

Further, it is determined whether or not the blur processing loop timer started in step S10 has passed a predetermined time. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, step S19 is repeated until the predetermined time has elapsed, and if the predetermined time has elapsed, the process returns to step S9 and the blurring loop is repeated (step S19).

On the other hand, in step S17, if the first release button of the camera is not operated, it is determined whether or not the anti-shake photography mode has been released (step S20). If the anti-shake photography mode has been canceled, the process proceeds to step S22, which will be described later, and if not, the process proceeds to step S21. Then, it is determined whether or not the first release button has not been operated for a predetermined time or more (step S21). Here, the reason for making the determination is as follows. That is, the photographer
Even if the first release button is off, I often think that the anti-shake photography mode is still running. When the signal processing module 1 is turned off when the first release button is off, immediately after this, the first and second release buttons are turned off. When all the operations are performed at once, the signal processing module 1 is started. Therefore, it takes time for the outputs of the blur detection unit 2 and the signal processing module 1 to stabilize, and there is a possibility that photographing may fail due to the blur prevention measures based on inaccurate blur information. Therefore, after the first release button is turned off, the process proceeds to step S19 for a predetermined period of time, and when the predetermined period of time has elapsed, it is determined that there is no intention of photographing, and the process proceeds to step S22.

Then, the output signal from the line CEN1 is changed from low level "L" to high level "H" (step S22). As a result, the signal processing module 1 is stopped, and in conjunction with this, the supply of the power supply voltage to the vibration detector 2 and the supply of the reference voltage for A / D conversion to the CPU 3 are also stopped, and the process returns to step S3.

Next, if the first release button is operated in step S3 and it is determined in step S4 that the camera shake prevention photographing mode is not in effect, a photometric operation is performed by a camera photometry unit (not shown), and The exposure time and the aperture value are determined based on (step S23). Next, a distance measurement operation is performed by the distance measurement unit of the camera (not shown), and the result of the distance measurement calculation is
The focusing lens is driven as necessary (step S24).

Then, it is determined whether or not the second release button of the camera is operated. If it is operated, the process proceeds to step S28, and if not, the process returns to step S3 (step S25). Then, the exposure operation of the camera is performed (step S28), the film winding operation is performed,
After the winding is completed, the process returns to step S2 (step S2
7). If it is determined in step S18 that the second release button has been operated, the exposure operation is performed with a blur prevention measure (step S26).

The anti-shake measure here is to move the image on the image plane due to the shake by, for example, decentering or tilting a part of the photographic optical system (not shown) based on the result of the above-described shake calculation. Can be offset,
For example, the exposure operation may be permitted at a timing when the blurring is small based on the calculation result of the blurring, and as a result, the photographing with the blurring may be prevented. After the predetermined exposure time elapses, the process proceeds to step S9.

Next, the operation of the subroutine executed in steps S11 to S14 in FIG. 4 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the subroutine "AD" which is executed when the blur data VX and VY are A / D converted and fetched in step S11 of FIG.

In this subroutine, when using the A / D conversion function of the CPU 3, an instruction to activate the A / D conversion unit is executed (step S41), and the blur data VX, VY are executed.
Is taken in (steps S42, S43), this VX, V
After Y / A-converting Y, it is transferred to the RAMs ADX and ADY (steps S44 and S45). Then, the A / D converter started in step S41 is stopped, and the process returns to step S12 in FIG. 4 (step S46).

Next, in FIG. 6, the blur data VX and VY in step S12 of FIG.
7 is a flowchart showing an operation of a subroutine “data correction” executed when calculating blur information data in which the amount of level shift is corrected by tangling the value of BY. In this subroutine, the blur information previously transferred to the ADX is read (step S51), the level shift of the amplified output of the blur detection unit 2 and the status monitor variable REBX are read (step S52), and the arithmetic expression ( ADXX ← AD
X + k × REBX) is used to calculate blurring information data in which the amount of level shift has been corrected, and the result is transferred to ADXX (step S53).

As described above, the variable REBX means the current level shift state, and if REBX = 0, the value of ADX read in step S51 becomes the calculation result ADXX as it is. Here, k is a coefficient corresponding to the level shift amount in a state where the output of the blur detection unit 2 is amplified by the differential amplification unit 4 in the signal processing module 1. For example, if there is one level shift to the negative side, REB
X = −1, and one level shift is subtracted from the pre-level shift blur data ADX read in step S51 to obtain ADXX, that is, accurate blur information. In this way, similar processing is performed for the Y axis of the image plane as in steps S51 to S53 (steps S54 to S56), and when the operation of step S56 ends, step S1 of FIG.
Return to 3.

Next, in FIG. 7, the blur data VX, V acquired by A / D conversion, which is executed in step S13 of FIG.
7 is a flowchart showing an operation of a subroutine "data level determination" for determining whether or not to perform a level shift next from Y to the signal processing module 1. In this subroutine, it is determined whether or not the blur data ADX captured by A / D conversion is larger than the level shift upper limit predetermined value TH + (step S61). If it is determined that ADX> TH +, it is necessary to perform the level shift and drop the output from the signal processing module 1 by one level shift. In this case, the process proceeds to step S65 and the value of REBX is incremented. On the other hand, if ADX <TH +, the process proceeds to step S62. Then, it is determined whether or not the blur data ADX is smaller than the level shift lower limit predetermined value TH- (step S62).

Here, if it is determined that ADX <TH-, it is necessary to perform the level shift and raise the output from the signal processing module 1 by one level shift. In this case, the process proceeds to step S66 to decrement the value of the variable REBX. If ADX> TH-, the process proceeds to step S63.
Regarding steps S63, 64, 67 and 68, similar processing is performed for the Y axis of the image as in steps S61, 62, 64 and 65. Thus, steps S64, 67,
When any of 68 is completed, the process returns to step S14 of FIG.

Next, FIG. 8 shows a variable REBX for level shift, which is executed in step S14 of FIG.
9 is a flowchart showing an operation of a subroutine "level shift" for sending data for level shift to the signal processing module 1 based on the value of REBY. In this subroutine, when the variable REBX for generating the reference voltage when amplifying the output of the shake detection unit 2X is transmitted to the signal processing module 1, the address information of the transmission destination of this data is set. Specifically, the address information is set by being loaded on the data bus in FIG. 3 (step S71).

Then, the signal on the line AL1 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". As a result, the address information set in the data bus in step S71 is taken into the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1.
In response to this, in the signal processing module 1, the data transmission selection unit 9 selects the data latch unit (the data latch unit 6X in the case of step S72) which stores the variable REBX for generating the reference voltage which is transmitted thereafter. Yes (step S72).

Further, by changing the signal of the line AL1 from the low level "L" to the high level "H", even if the variable REBX for generating the reference voltage is set in the data bus next time, it is confused with the address information. No longer occurs (step S73).

Then, in step S13 of FIG. 4, that is, the value of the variable REBX determined in FIG. 7 is read and converted into binary data so that the information can be set in the data bus. Here, the signal processing module 1 is connected via the data bus.
Assuming that the information for generating the reference voltage to be sent to the terminal is in a 3-bit format, if REBX = ± 0, then [100] b, and if REBX = + 2, [110] b, REBX =
If it is -3, the form is [001] b. That is,
The upper bits corresponding to the MSB serve as a code (step S74).

Subsequently, the value-encoded one of the variable REBX read in step S74 is set on the data bus (step S75). And the line DL1
Signal from the high level to the low level "L". As a result, the reference voltage generation data REBX set in the data bus in step S75 is taken into the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1. In response to this, the signal processing module 1 receives the data latching unit (in this case, the data latching unit 6) selected by the data transmission selecting unit 9 described in step S72.
The reference voltage generation data REBX is sent to (X). The data of the data latch unit 6X in the signal processing module 1 is
It is sent to the DAC8X as it is. And DAC8X,
A predetermined voltage based on REBX is generated by the IV conversion unit 7X and input to the differential amplification unit 4X, and the shake detection unit 2
The output voltage of X is differentially amplified (step S76).

Next, the line DL1 is set to the low level "L".
To high level "H". As a result, even if the destination address information to which the variable REBY for generating the reference voltage when amplifying the output of the shake detection unit 2Y is set in the data bus next time, it is confused with the variable REBX for generating the reference voltage. (Step S77). Then, the same processing is performed for the Y axis of the image plane as in steps S71 to S77 (steps S78 to S84). When this step S84 ends, the process moves to step S15 in FIG.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8,
Although the operation is performed such that the process about the image plane X axis is performed after the process about the image plane X axis, the process is not limited to this, and the process corresponding to FIGS. 5 to 8 is performed only about the image plane X axis. After this process is completed, the same process may be performed on the Y axis of the image plane.

Further, in FIG. 7, when there is no increment / decrement of the variables REBX and REBY, the level shift state continues as it is, and therefore the processing of FIG. 8 is not necessary. Good.
Further, when the state of either the variable REBX or REBY changes, it goes without saying that the process of FIG. 8 may be performed only for the changed axis.

Next, the outline of the operation in the signal processing module 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
When the signal from the high level “H” to the low level “L” via the line CEN1 connecting the signal processing module 1 and the CPU 3 is changed, the signal processing module 1 is activated. That is, the reference constant current generator 11 is activated in response to the change of the signal from the high level “H” to the low level “L” via the line CEN1, and serves as a reference for each component in the signal processing module 1. Supply of electric current is started (step 10).
1).

Subsequently, the constant voltage generator 12B receives the supply current from the reference constant current generator 11 and generates a predetermined reference voltage, which serves as a reference for each component in the signal processing module 1. Supplied as voltage. In addition, the constant voltage generator 12A non-inverts and amplifies the voltage from the constant voltage generator 12B to generate a predetermined voltage. This voltage is output from the signal processing module 1 to the two shake detection units 2X and 2Y so as to be supplied as the power supply voltage of the shake detection units 2X and 2Y. The constant voltage generator 12C non-inverts and amplifies the voltage from the constant voltage generator 12B to generate a predetermined voltage. Since this voltage is supplied as the A / D conversion reference voltage of the CPU 3, the signal processing module 1 sends CP
It is output to U3 (step 102).

Further, the signal on the line AL1 connected to the CPU 3 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L".
In response to the change of the address data of the used latch set in the data bus connected to the CPU 3, the data transmission selection unit 9 uses the data latch unit based on the address data set in the data bus ( The data latch units 6X and 6Y in FIG. 3 are selected (step 10).
3).

Then, in response to the change of the signal from the high level "H" to the low level "L" via the line DL1 connected to the CPU3, the signal is set to the data bus connected to the CPU3. The data to be stored in the used latch is fetched, and the data is sent to the data latch units 6X and 6Y previously selected in step S103 (step 104).

The data sent out in step 104 is stored in the data latch units 6X and 6Y and D
It is sent to AC8X, 8Y. From this point onward, it is common for both the X-axis and the Y-axis, the DAC 8 outputs a current based on the data sent from the data latch unit 6, and the output current is a voltage in the IV conversion unit 7. Is converted to. Then, the voltage-converted output is sent to the blur detection unit 2 in the differential amplification unit 4.
Of the output from the LPF 15 and the high-frequency noise component removed therefrom are differentially amplified. The amplification degree here is determined from the relationship between the external resistors R1 and R2, and the output after differential amplification is output to the CPU 3 as the voltages VX and VY (step 105).

If there is no change in the data to be sent to the data latch unit 6 in steps S103 and S104, the DAC 8 and the IV converter 7 continue to output a constant voltage to the differential amplifier 4. . In this signal processing module 1, the reference constant current generating unit 11 causes each signal within the signal processing module 1 to change when the signal from the CPU 3 via the line CEN1 changes from the low level "L" to the high level "H". Since the current supply to the components is stopped, all the operations in the signal processing module 1 described above are stopped. Along with this, the camera shake state of the camera is not detected by the camera shake detection unit 2 and the camera shake state is not grasped by the CPU 3.

Next, changes in the variables ADXX, ADX, REBX when the above-mentioned level shift is performed will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10A shows the locus of the variable ADXX. That is, the actual shake trajectory in which the shake output detected by the shake detection unit 2 is amplified by the signal processing module 1 and the level shift is corrected is shown. Here, the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents voltage. If the shake detection unit 2 is, for example, an angular velocity sensor, the voltage information [V] on the vertical axis is the angular velocity [DSG / SEC].

FIG. 10B shows the locus of the variable ADX. The camera shake output detected by the shake detection unit 2 is amplified by the signal processing module 1 in a level-shifted form,
This is a signal sent as VX to U3. This is also Figure 1
As in 0 (a), the vertical axis represents voltage [V] and angular velocity [D
SG / SEC]. 10A and 10B, the REF level is a point where the angular velocity is zero (that is, zero blur).

Looking at the trajectories in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the variables ADXX (actual blurring state) can be seen in T0 to T1.
Is between the level shift upper limit predetermined value TH + and the level shift lower limit predetermined value TH-, and the value of the variable REBX is ±
It is 0. The variable ADX is the same as the variable ADXX. If you follow the ADX trajectory from T0 to T1,
There is a point T1 that is above +. The point blocking TH + is detected by the above-mentioned subroutine of FIG. 7 (step S6).
1), the value of the variable REBX is incremented (step S62). This is also clear from FIG. 10 (c). That is, in the figure, the value of the variable REBX is ± 0 to +1
It has become.

As described above with reference to the flow chart of FIG. 9, the value of the variable REBX is sent to the signal processing module 1, and the signal processing module 1 receives this and generates a predetermined voltage to output the differential signal of the shake detection unit 2. Is amplified. here,
Since the content of the variable REBX is one step larger than that in the previous state, the result of the differential amplification is one level shift, that is, the voltage drops by (“TH +” − “TH−”) [V].

This can be understood from the fact that the locus of the variable ADX in FIG. 10B changes from TH + [V] to TH- [V] at the point of T1. Then, the variable ADXX indicating the actual vibration state is the above-mentioned calculation formula (ADXX ← ADX +
k × REBX). Here, the coefficient k is actually (“TH +” − “TH−”) [V].

This transition to T1 is a repetition of the above, and when the variable ADX blocks TH +, the variable REBX is used.
Is incremented with respect to the previous state, and when TH- is interrupted, the value of the variable REBX is decremented with respect to the previous state.

Then, according to the above-mentioned calculation formula of ADXX,
It is possible to grasp the accurate vibration state even if the level is shifted. As a result, it is possible to widen the blur detection range while apparently amplifying the output of the blur detection unit 2 at a high magnification. Therefore, even if the blur detection unit 2 drifts due to a temperature change or the like, the CPU 3 can accurately grasp the blur state.

Next, with reference to FIG. 11, another configuration of the reference voltage generator 5 of the signal processing module 1 will be described.
In the same figure, the data latch unit 6X and the DAC 8X have a two-stage configuration for one axis of the image plane.

As for the operation, as described with reference to FIG. 3, the destination of the data for generating the reference voltage is determined by the address information of the used data latch unit from the CPU 3, and the DACs 8A, 8B are responsive to this data. A current corresponding to the transmitted data is output, and the combined output current is combined with the output current from the constant current generation unit 28 and sent to the IV conversion unit 7 to a predetermined voltage. It is converted.

Here, the data latch unit 6 and the DAC 8 have a two-stage configuration, and either one of the DACs 8A and 8 is used.
By configuring B with a high precision (that is, a large circuit scale), it is possible to handle a wide range and generate a highly accurate reference voltage.

Next, the operation in the case of the two-stage configuration of the data latch unit 6X and the DAC 8X will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. The basic part is based on FIGS. 4 to 8 described above.

As a characteristic, since it corresponds to the two-stage configuration of the DAC, the variable REBX which is a variable for performing the level shift and the state monitor and serving as predetermined reference voltage generation data.
Is the variable REBXB ("B" is B of Big), REBX
There are two types, S (“S” is S for Small), and these two are used properly according to the level shift state. For level shift changes of about one step, use the variable REBXS that can perform high-precision level shift with a small change pitch, and if the variable REBXS output level shift compatible range is used up, level shift of large pitch is possible Variable REBX
Use B. Note that the description is given only for the portion corresponding to the X axis of the image plane, but it goes without saying that the same processing can be performed for the Y axis of the image plane.

First, FIG. 12 is a flow chart for explaining the initial setting of the variables REBXB and REBXS described above. Step S6 'corresponds to step S6 of FIG. 4, and here, variables REBXB, REBX are set.
Set initial values for S, REBYB, and REBYS. Then, when this step S6 'is completed, step S of FIG.
Proceed to 7.

Next, FIG. 13 corresponds to step S12 of FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, in which blur data VX and VY are corrected with respect to the level shift amount by entwining the values of the level shift variables REBXB and REBXS. This is a subroutine for calculating data.

In step S44 of FIG. 5, blur data AD
X is read (step S111). The variable REBXB for executing the level shift of the amplified output of the blur detection unit 2 and the state monitor is read (step S112).

Next, the blur information data in which the level shift of the large pitch is corrected is calculated by an arithmetic expression (ADXX ← ADX
+ Kb × REBXB). As mentioned above, the variable RE
BXB means the current large pitch level shift state, and if REBXB = 0, step S11.
The value of ADX read in 1 is the calculation result ADXX as it is.
Becomes Here, kb is a coefficient corresponding to a large-pitch level shift amount when the output of the shake detection unit 2 is amplified by the differential amplification unit 4 in the signal processing module 1. For example, when the large-pitch level shift is performed by one step to the negative side, REBXB = −1, and one large-pitch level shift is subtracted from the pre-level-shift blur data ADX read in step S111. Thus, ADXX, that is, accurate blur information is obtained (step S113). Level shift execution of the amplified output of the shake detection unit 2 and the status monitor variable REBXS are read (step S11).
4).

Then, the arithmetic expression (ADXX ← ADXX + k
The blur information data in which the level shift of the small pitch is corrected is calculated by (s × REBXS). As described above, the variable REBXS means the current small pitch level shift state, and REBXXS = 0 and REBXB = 0.
If so, the value of ADX read in step S111 becomes the calculation result ADXX as it is. Here, ks is a coefficient corresponding to a small-pitch level shift amount when the output of the blur detection unit 2 is amplified by the differential amplification unit 4 in the signal processing module 1. For example, if a small pitch level shift is performed to the minus side by one stage, REBXS = -1,
One level shift of a small pitch is subtracted from the blur data ADX before the level shift read in step S111. Then, step S113 and step S115
After that, ADXX, that is, accurate blur information is obtained (step S115). After that, similar processing is performed for the Y axis of the image plane (steps S116 to S120), and when this is completed, the process proceeds to step S13 in FIG.

FIG. 14 corresponds to step S13 of FIG. 4 and FIG. 7, and whether the level shift is next performed for the signal processing module 1 from the blur data VX and VY captured by the A / D conversion. It is a flow chart which shows the sequence of a subroutine "data level judgment" which judges whether or not.

Blurred data AD obtained by A / D conversion
It is determined whether X is larger than the level shift upper limit predetermined value TH +. If it is determined that ADX> TH +, it is necessary to perform the level shift and drop the output from the signal processing module 1 by one level shift. In this case, the process proceeds to step S123 and the value of the variable REBXS is incremented. If ADX <TH +, the process proceeds to step S122 (step S121). Then, step S123
When REBXS is incremented, it is determined in step S124 whether the value of REBXS is in a predetermined state. This must be dealt with by changing the level of the large pitch when REBXS overflows on the plus side, that is, when the level shift of the small pitch to the plus side can no longer be performed. In this case, step S1
Go to 25. On the other hand, if the value of the variable REBXS does not overflow to the plus side, the process proceeds to step S131.

In step S125, the value of variable REBXB is incremented. That is, the level change of the large pitch is performed by one step. Then, step S126
At step S124, the value of the variable REBXS that overflows is reset (initialized). As a result, the large pitch level change is corrected in step S125, and the small pitch level is changed to one stage in steps S125 and S126.

To explain the above in detail, first, R
Consider EBXB = ± 0, REBXS = ± 0. For example, REBXB = [10
0] b and REBXS = [100] b. Here, it is considered that the variable REBXS takes a value of +3 to -3. The encoded data at this time is [111] b to [001] b. Here, as in step S124, the variable REBX
If an attempt is made to increment the value of S to +4, the carry will be [1000] b, and it will not be possible to deal with 3 bits (overflow). Therefore, in this case R
EBXB = + 1, [101] b, and variable REBXS
Is set to ± 0 to be [100] b. By this, step S
The large pitch level change is corrected at 125 and the small pitch level is changed to one stage at steps S125 and S126. The encoded data described above is actually the data for generating the reference voltage that is sent from the CPU 3 to the signal processing module 1 via the data bus. That is, in the signal processing module 1, the number of stages of the data latch unit 6A and the DAC 8A is configured according to this data format (the number of bits). Then, the value of the variable REBXB is +1 (that is, one step of the large pitch level shift) and the value of the variable REBXS is +4 (that is, four steps of the small pitch level shift).
1 DAC 8A, 8B so that the same current output
AC is configured.

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the blur data ADX captured by A / D is smaller than the level shift lower limit predetermined value TH- (step S122). Where ADX
If it is determined to be <TH-, it is necessary to perform level shift and raise the output from the signal processing module 1 by one level shift. In this case, the process proceeds to step S127 and the variable R
Decrement the value of EBXS. If ADX> TH-, the process proceeds to step S131. And this step S
When the variable REBXS is decremented at 127,
It is determined whether the value of REBXS is in a predetermined state (step S128). This must be dealt with by changing the level of the large pitch when REBXS is in the negative side predetermined state, that is, when the small pitch level shiftable width to the negative side is in the predetermined state. In this case, step S1
Proceed to 29. On the other hand, if the REBXS value does not overflow to the negative side, the process proceeds to step S131.

Then, the value of the variable REBXB is decremented. That is, the level of the large pitch is changed by one step (step S129), and the value of the variable REBXS that overflowed at step S128 is reset (initialized) (step S130). Thereby, step S129
To correct the large pitch level change in step S
129, S130 is set to the same state as when the small pitch level is changed by one step. To explain the above in detail, first, REBXB = ± 0, REBXS =
Consider ± 0. For example, a 3-bit coded version of these is REBXB = [100] b, REBXS = [10
0] b. Here, it is considered that REBXS takes a value of +3 to -3. The encoded data at this time is [11
1] b to [001] b. If you try to decrement the REBXS value to -4, [00
It becomes 0] b and it is not impossible to deal with 3 bits, but as mentioned above, the plus side overflows at +4 and REBX
It is necessary to switch to B and deal with what is being dealt with. Therefore, in this case, REBXB = −1 and [01
1] b, and REBXS is ± 0 and is [100] b.
As a result, the amount of the large pitch level change is corrected in step S129, and the small pitch level is changed to the same state as that of one step in steps S125 and S126. After that, similar processing is performed for the Y axis of the image plane (steps S131 to S140), and when this is completed, the process proceeds to step S14 in FIG.

Next, FIG. 15 corresponds to step S14 of FIG. 4 and FIG. 8, and based on the values of the variables REBXB and REBXS for level shifting, the signal processing module 1 is subjected to level shifting. It is a flowchart which shows the sequence of the subroutine "level shift" which sends out data.

When the data REBXB for generating the reference voltage when amplifying the output of the shake detection unit 2X is sent to the signal processing module 1, the address information of the destination of this data is set. Specifically, the address information is set so as to be loaded on the data bus in FIG. 3 (step S141).

Then, the signal on the line AL1 is changed from the high level "H" to "L". Thereby, step S14
The address information set in the data bus in 1 is taken into the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1. In response to this, the signal processing module 1 receives the data transmission selection unit 9
Thus, the data latch unit (step S
In the case of 142, the data latch unit 6A) is selected (step S142).

Further, the signal on the line AL1 is changed from the low level "L" to the high level "H". As a result, even if the data REBXB for generating the reference voltage is set in the data bus next time, it will not be confused with the address information (step S143).

Then, step S13 in FIG. 4, that is, the value of REBXB determined in FIG. 14 is read and converted into binary data so that this information can be set in the data bus. Here, if the information for generating the reference voltage sent to the signal processing module 1 via the data bus is 3
If it is a bit format, [100] b is set if REBXB = ± 0, and [11] if REBXB = + 2.
0] b and REBXB = −3, the form is [001] b. That is, the upper bits corresponding to the MSB serve as a code (step S144).

Then, the encoded value of REBXB read in step S144 is set in the form of being placed on the data bus (step S145). And line D
The signal of L1 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". As a result, the reference voltage generation data REBXB set in the data bus in step S145 is taken into the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1. In response to this, the signal processing module 1 receives the data latching unit selected by the data transmission selecting unit 9 described in step S142 (in this case, the data latching unit 6A).
The reference voltage generation data REBXB is sent to. The data of the data latch unit 6A in the signal processing module 1 is sent to the DAC 8A as it is. The DAC 8A uses the reference voltage generation data REBXS, which will be described later, as the DAC 8B.
And is sent to the IV converter 7 to generate a predetermined voltage (step S146).

Further, the signal on the line DL1 is changed from low level "L" to high level "H". As a result, even if the address information of the destination of sending the data REBXS for generating the reference voltage is set in the data bus next time, it will not be confused with the data REBXB for generating the reference voltage (step S147).

Further, when the data REBXS for generating the reference voltage when amplifying the output of the blur detection unit 2X is sent to the signal processing module 1, the address information of the destination of this data is set. Specifically, the address information is set by being loaded on the data bus in FIG. 3 (step S148).

Then, the signal on the line AL1 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". As a result, the address information set in the data bus in step S148 is taken into the information input unit 10 in the signal processing module 1. In response to this, the signal processing module 1 selects, by the data transmission selection unit 9, the data latch unit (data latch unit 6B in the case of step S149) which stores the data REBXS for generating the reference voltage transmitted thereafter. Yes (step S149). Further, by changing the signal of the line AL1 from the low level “L” to the high level “H”, even if the data REBXS for generating the reference voltage is set in the data bus next time, it will not be confused with the address information. (Step S150).

Then, in step S13 of FIG. 4, that is, the value of REBXS determined in FIG. 14 is read, and this information is converted into binary data so that it can be set in the data bus (step S151). The encoded value of REBXS read in step S151 is set in a form of being loaded on the data bus (step S152).

Then, by changing the signal on the line DL1 from the high level "H" to the low level "L", the reference voltage generation data REBXS set in the data bus in step S152 is added to the information input section 10 in the signal processing module 1.
Is taken into. In response to this, the signal processing module 1 receives the reference voltage generation data RE in the selected data latch section (in this case, the data latch section 6B) by the data transmission selecting section 9 described in step S149.
BXS is sent. The data of the data latch 6B in the signal processing module 1 is sent to the DAC 8B as it is.
Then, the DAC 8B has the above-described reference voltage generation data R
Combined with the current output of DAC8A by EBXB, I-
The voltage is sent to the V converter 7 and a predetermined voltage is generated. Then, it is sent to the differential amplifier 4X (step S153).

Further, by changing the signal on the line DL1 from the low level "L" to the high level "H", the data REBYB for generating the reference voltage corresponding to the Y axis of the image plane is next sent to the data bus. Even if the address information is set, it will not be confused with the data REBXS information for generating the reference voltage (step S154). Thereafter, similar processing is performed for the Y axis of the image plane with the variables REBYB and REBYS (steps S155 to S168), and when this is completed, the process proceeds to step S15 in FIG.

Next, referring to the flowcharts of FIGS. 16 and 17, by utilizing a common data bus, the camera 3 detects the camera shake while controlling the signal processing module 1 and the IFIC 21, and the influence of the shake. The operation for correction will be described.
Incidentally, the basic part of the operation is based on the flowchart of FIG. 4, and it is premised that the shake prevention shooting mode is selected.

First, in the sequence of FIG. 16, the operation up to step S17 of FIG. 4 is as described above. Following this, it is determined whether or not the second release button of the camera is operated (step S171). Here, if it is operated, the process proceeds to step S172,
If it is not operated, the process proceeds to step S19 of FIG.

Then, preparations for driving the shutter for performing the exposure operation of the camera are started. Regarding this operation, it is assumed that the actual exposure is started after a predetermined time, and the detailed description thereafter is omitted (step S172). Next, as in step S9 of FIG. 4, one loop time of the blur processing loop timer is set (step S173). This loop timer detects the camera shake in the CPU 3 (A /
Sampling by D conversion), calculation of A / D conversion result,
The signal processing module 1 is used to execute the level shift judgment of the amplified output and the like within a predetermined cycle.

Then, the blur processing loop timer set in step S173 is started (step S17).
4) Then, following this, the blur detection after the second release button of the camera is operated and the influence of the blur is corrected. Note that this will be described later (step S175). Then
It is determined whether or not the actual exposure operation previously started in step S172 has already started (step S176). Here, if the actual exposure has not been performed due to the release time lag, the process proceeds to step S178 described below, and the loop for detecting blur and correcting the influence of blur is repeated,
If actual exposure has already started, the process proceeds to step S177.

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the exposure operation has passed a predetermined time (step S177). If the predetermined time has passed, the process proceeds to step S179, and if the predetermined time has not passed, the process proceeds to step S178. Then, the process returns to step S173 if a predetermined time period for determining whether or not the blur processing timer started in steps S173 and S174 has passed a predetermined time period. If the predetermined time period has not elapsed, the predetermined time period elapses. Step S178 is repeated (step S178).

If it is determined in step S177 that the predetermined exposure time has elapsed, the exposure operation is ended (step S179), and post-processing for preventing blurring is performed. In particular,
It is conceivable to return the shake correction device (not shown) to the initial state, that is, perform centering (step S180). In this way, the film winding operation is performed, and after the winding is completed, the process returns to step S2 of FIG. 4 (step S181).

Next, referring to the flow chart of FIG.
The sequence of the subroutine "blurring prevention measure" described in step S175 of FIG. 16 will be described. Here, the actuators that drive the shake correction device (not shown) are the motors 22 and 23 connected to the IFIC 21 in FIG. 3, which correspond to the X axis and the Y axis on the film surface, respectively. Further, the motor has an applied voltage value and a time width P of the applied voltage.
Actual driving is performed by the WM.

In this subroutine, step S in FIG.
11, that is, similar to the subroutine of FIG. 5, the blur data VX and VY from the signal processing module 1 are A / D converted and fetched (step S201), and step S1 of FIG.
2, that is, the same as the subroutine of FIG. 6, step S11
With respect to the frame data VX and VY that have been A / D-converted and taken in, the values of the level shift variables REBX and REBY are entangled to calculate the blur information data in which the level shift is corrected (step S202).

Then, step S13 of FIG. 4, that is, FIG.
Similar to the subroutine of step S151, the size of the blur data VX and VY obtained by A / D conversion and taken in is determined in step S151, and it is determined whether the signal processing module 1 is to be level-shifted next. Here, if it is determined that the level shift is necessary, the numerical contents of the variables REBX and REBY are changed, and if not, it is not changed. This is as described with reference to FIG. 7 (step S203).

Furthermore, step S13 of FIG. 4, that is, FIG.
Similar to the subroutine of, the data for level shift is sent to the signal processing module 1 based on the values of the variables REBX and REBY for level shift in step S203. In response to this data transmission, as described above, the signal processing module 1 generates a predetermined voltage by the DAC and the IV conversion unit, and this and the output of the shake detection unit 2 are differentially amplified and taken into the CPU 3 again. It will be.
Note that this is as described with reference to FIG. 8 (step S204).

Then, as in step S15 of FIG. 4, the DC of the vibration information is calculated based on the accurate blur information data in which the level shift amount calculated in step S202 is corrected.
The HPF calculation for component removal, the LPF calculation for removal of high frequency noise components, and the vibration prediction calculation based on the vibration data up to the present are performed (step S205).

Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the position information of the blur correction lens (not shown) is included in the form of interruption. This is specifically the P connected to the IFIC 21 of FIG.
I24 to I27 are used as the position detection unit of the shake correction lens, and the output waveform (pulse) is captured by the CPU 3 via the IFIC 21. When the position information (pulse) is included, it is necessary to calculate the drive speed of the shake correction lens in order to compare the current shake state with the current drive speed state of the shake correction lens. Therefore, in this case, the process proceeds to step S207, and if not, the process proceeds to step S208 (step S206). Then, the drive speeds LSX and LSY of the shake correction lens are calculated. Specifically, the calculation is performed from the PI input (pulse) interrupt input interval in step S206 (step S207).

Further, the current blur data ADXX calculated in step S202 and the current blur correction lens drive speed information LSX are read out (steps S208, S).
209), comparing the two, and then determining how much the shake correction lens should be moved. As a result, by controlling the drive of the camera shake compensation lens so that the current camera shake state and the drive speed state of the camera shake compensation lens have different signs and are synchronized, the film surface caused by the camera vibration that is currently occurring It is possible to cancel the image movement in (step S210).

Based on the conditions of the blur correction lens to be driven next determined in step S210, a drive table (not shown) is referred to (step S211), and the blur correction motor drive voltage information VMX and the blur correction lens are used. Motor PW
The M information PWMX is determined (step S212). Then, it is determined whether or not the shake correction motor drive voltage information VMX determined in step S212 is different from the previous value. This is because if the shake correction motor drive voltage value is different from the previous value, the IFIC2
This is to control the motor 22 so that the motor 22 is driven at a predetermined voltage. If it is determined that they are different, the process proceeds to step S214, and if not, step S214 is performed.
The procedure advances to step 221 (step S213).

Furthermore, since it is determined in step S213 that the shake correction motor drive voltage value is different from the previous value, the address information to which this drive voltage information is sent is set to the CPU3.
To the data bus connected to the signal processing module 1 and the IFIC 21 (step S21)
4). Further, the signal on the line AL2 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". Thereby, step S2
The address information set in the data bus at 14 is IFIC2.
Taken in 1. In response to this, the IFIC 21 selects the storage destination of the data for generating the drive voltage of the motor 23, which is subsequently transmitted, by means equivalent to the data transmission selection unit 9 of the signal processing module 1. Here, when sending information to the IFIC 21, AL2 is used instead of the previous line AL1. As a result, even if the data bus common to the signal processing module 1 is used, transmission information will not be confused (step S215).

Then, the signal on the line AL2 is changed from low level "L" to high level "H". As a result, even if the data VMX for generating the drive voltage of the motor 22 is set in the data bus next time, it will not be confused with the previous address information (step S216). Then, step S
Vibration correction motor drive voltage information VM determined in 212
X is read (step S217). Then, the shake correction motor drive voltage information VMX read in step S217 is set in a form of being loaded on the data bus (step S218).

Then, the signal on the line DL2 is changed from the high level "H" to the low level "L". As a result, the shake correction motor drive voltage data VMX set in the data bus in step S218 is taken into the IFIC 21 (step S219). In response to this, the IFIC 21 sets the shake correction motor drive voltage data VMX to the destination (predetermined address) of the VMX selected in step S215. As a result, a predetermined voltage is applied to the motor 22.

Then, the signal on the line "DL2" is changed from low level "L" to high level "H". This allows
Next, even if the information (address) to which the blur correction motor drive voltage information data VMY to be applied to the motor 23Y corresponding to the Y axis of the image plane is sent is set in the data bus, the blur correction motor drive voltage information data VMX is set. Will not be confused with (step S220).

Further, the shake correction motor PWM information PWMX previously determined in step S212 is read (step S221). Then, it is determined whether or not the blur correction motor PWM information PWMX read in step S211 is different from the previous value. This is because when PWMX is different from the previous value, a new value is set and the motor 22
This is because it is necessary to perform PWM driving of X (step S222).

If it is determined that the value is different from the previous value, the value of PWMX is changed and the motor 22X is driven with a predetermined PWM value. On the other hand, if it is determined that the PWM value is the same as the previous value, the process directly proceeds to step S224, and the PWM value PWMX used so far is continued (step S22).
3). Incidentally, the subsequent steps S224 to S23
Reference numeral 9 is a sequence relating to the Y-axis of the image plane, which is the same as the sequence corresponding to the X-axis of the image plane described so far in steps S218 to S223, and therefore the description thereof is omitted here.

As described above, when the camera shake prevention measure is taken, the level of the output of the signal processing module 1 is changed based on the camera shake detection result of the camera shake detection unit 2 (specifically, in the signal processing module 1). Change of the reference voltage generated by the camera) and the change of the applied voltage of the actuator for driving the shake correction device based on the vibration (shake) state of the camera.
Since this can be done via a common data bus, it is possible to save control lines.

As described in detail above, according to the present invention, when the camera shake state is detected and amplified to the desired state by the camera shake signal processing module, the camera control unit amplifies the amplified signal based on the amplification result. The control signal is determined, the reference signal of the amplifier is generated on the basis of the control signal in the blur signal processing module, and the amplifier amplifies based on the reference voltage, so that feedback is applied. As a result, even if the output of the shake detection unit that includes the offset / drift component is amplified at a relatively high magnification, it is possible to detect only the shake information of the camera accurately and in a wide range without signal saturation. This is possible only with the camera control unit and one module, and high-precision blur detection is possible with a small number of parts.

Further, since the signal processing module can be started / stopped by only one control line "CEN", and the signal processing module can be used only when detecting the blur information, it is possible to save power when the blur detection is unnecessary. Be useful.

Then, the predetermined voltage, which is required in the signal processing module and is required for the differential amplification with the output of the shake detection unit, is stored in the data latch unit with only one voltage generation command data. Since the predetermined voltage is generated until the operation is performed, it is not necessary to continuously send the voltage generation instruction data, and it is possible to cope by performing communication only when necessary.

Further, by simply switching a predetermined terminal of the signal processing module, it can be used as a simple amplifier for the output of the shake detecting section with the amplification degree determined by the external resistance of the signal processing module. As a result, even in a relatively inexpensive camera that does not have a plurality of control lines, it is possible to amplify the camera shake information with one signal processing module.

Further, by having two or more reference voltage generators per axis corresponding to the image plane, and at least one of the reference voltage generators having high precision, the reference voltage generators generate these. Since the differential voltage is amplified between the generated voltage and the output of the shake detection unit, the level shift can be performed in a wide range and with high accuracy, and the camera control unit can accurately grasp the shake information.

Then, in one set of control signal lines (data bus, AL, DL) for the signal processing module,
It is possible to perform signal processing (differential amplification with level shift) of the outputs of the plurality of shake detection units, and save control signal lines.

Further, the control data line (data bus) for the signal processing module can be shared with the other interface ICs other than the signal processing module, whereby the control data line (data bus) can be saved.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to these and various improvements and modifications can be made. For example, according to the above embodiment of the present invention, the following configurations can be obtained. (1) In an anti-shake camera having a plurality of detecting means for detecting shake states in a plurality of directions, the output of the detecting means differentially amplified with respect to a predetermined reference voltage indicates the output fluctuation amount of the detecting means. By including it, it corresponds to the judging means for judging whether it is within the predetermined range and the plurality of detecting means respectively when it is judged that the output signal is not within the predetermined range. Storage means for storing the output from the determining means in time series, and reference voltage changing means for changing the reference voltage for differentially amplifying the output of the detecting means based on the output of the storing means. An anti-shake camera, wherein the input signal is differentially amplified with respect to the changed reference voltage. (2) The blur prevention camera according to (1), wherein the output fluctuation amount is at least one of an offset component that is not related to blurring, a drift component, or the influence of blurring itself. (3) Since the output of the detecting means for detecting the shake state and the detecting means differentially amplified with respect to the predetermined reference voltage includes the output fluctuation amount of the detecting means, it falls within the predetermined range. Whether the output signal is not within the predetermined range or not is determined by the camera control means for controlling the sequence of the entire camera and the camera control means. A reference voltage changing unit that changes a reference voltage for dynamic amplification, an actual operation control unit that controls an actual operation related to photographing based on the output of the camera control plan, and an output from the camera control unit. An image stabilization camera, comprising: a common signal line that can be transmitted to the reference voltage changing unit and the actual operation control unit. (4) The anti-shake camera according to (3), characterized in that the signal reception timing of the reference voltage changing means or the actual operation control means is controlled by the output from the camera control means.

[0131]

According to the present invention, a signal processing module for correcting an offset / drift component of a vibration sensor and a signal processing module for correcting the offset / drift component of a vibration sensor by a structure capable of changing a reference voltage of a shake detection unit amplifier based on vibration information fetched by a CPU. It is possible to provide the anti-shake camera used.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of an anti-shake camera using a signal processing module of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a more detailed configuration of the anti-shake camera shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a more detailed configuration of the blur prevention camera shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation of a CPU controlling a signal processing module.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “AD”.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “data correction”.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “data level determination”.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “level shift”.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an outline of an operation in the signal processing module.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a locus of changes in variables ADXX, ADX, REBX.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another configuration of the reference voltage generator of the signal processing module.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a sequence of initial setting of variables REBXB and REBXS.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “data correction”.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “data level determination”.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “level shift”.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing an operation for detecting camera shake by the CPU 3 and correcting the effect of this shake.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing an operation for detecting camera shake by the CPU 3 and correcting the effect of this shake.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a sequence of a subroutine “anti-blurring measure”.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Blur signal processing module, 2 ... Blur detection part, 3 ... Camera control part, 4 ... Differential amplification part, 5 ... Reference voltage generation part, 6
... data latch section, 7 ... IV conversion section, 8 ... DAC, 9
... data transmission selection section, 10 ... information input section, 11 ... reference constant current source generation section, 12 ... constant voltage generation section, 22, 23 ... motor, 24-27 ... photo interrupter.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (58) Fields surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G03B 5/00 G03B 17/00

Claims (3)

(57) [Claims] 1. A signal processing module which differentially amplifies an input signal with respect to a predetermined reference voltage and outputs the amplified signal, wherein when the amplified output signal is judged not to be within a predetermined range, Signal processing, comprising: a reference voltage level shift means for shifting the reference voltage value based on the output signal, and differentially amplifying the input signal with respect to the level-shifted reference voltage. module. 2. An anti-shake camera using the signal processing module according to claim 1, wherein a detection means for detecting a camera shake state, and an output of the detection means and a predetermined reference voltage are differentiated. A determination means for determining whether the amplified output is within a predetermined range, and a signal for changing the output of the reference voltage level shift means when it is determined that the output signal is not within the predetermined range. An anti-shake camera, comprising: a control unit that generates the image. 3. The detecting means detects blurring in at least two axial directions orthogonal to each other on a film surface, and the reference voltage level shifting means is provided corresponding to outputs in the axial directions. The anti-shake camera according to claim 2.