JP4199837B2 - Compound equipment - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an electronic apparatus having a plurality of functions of, for example, an electronic still camera that electronically captures an image and a communication terminal such as a mobile phone.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, images captured by a CCD are converted into digital data and stored in an internal memory, and displayed on a permanent display unit or an external display unit as needed, or stored image data is externally stored. An electronic still camera (digital camera) that transfers data to other devices is known. In the electronic still camera (digital camera), generally, image data is transferred to another device by connecting directly by a cable or by infrared communication. In addition, when transferring image data to another remote device, a communication terminal such as a mobile phone has been connected to the electronic still camera via a cable or the like and transferred via a telephone line network.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, in the above-described prior art, when transferring image data to a remote place, an electronic still camera and a communication terminal such as a mobile phone are connected by a cable or the like, so that there is a problem that an operation until communication is complicated. is there. Therefore, it is conceivable to integrally configure the electronic still camera and the communication terminal, but there is a problem that the operability of the respective functions is deteriorated by simply integrating the electronic still camera and the communication terminal.
[0004]
Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device that can be operated more easily without impairing the operability of each function.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, a composite device according to the invention described in claim 1 is:
  In a composite device that includes a circuit for realizing a communication function and a circuit for realizing a shooting function, and includes a device body and a lid portion that can be opened and closed with respect to the device body.
  The lidIs
  When the cover is exposed to the device main body and is exposed to a circuit for realizing the communication function, the telephone number used by the circuit is displayed while the shooting function is displayed. When the circuit for realizing is operating, a display unit that displays an image captured by the imaging function is provided,
  The device body is
  Can be operated with the lid open to the device bodyA first key group for operating a circuit for realizing the communication function,
  The lidIs provided in a position where it can be operated even when it is closed with respect to the device body, and designates a telephone number for displaying a telephone number on the display unit when a circuit for realizing the communication function is operating A second group of keys to
  A lens,
  A third key for instructing to capture an image through the lens when a circuit for realizing the photographing function is in operation on a surface on which the second key group is provided; ,
  It is characterized by having
[0011]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings as an example in which the embodiment of the present invention is applied to a composite device of an electronic still camera and a PHS terminal.
A. Configuration of the first embodiment
A-1. Composition of compound equipment
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a composite device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the figure, the composite device includes a circuit for realizing a communication function by PHS and a circuit for realizing a photographing function by an electronic still camera.
[0012]
(1) Electronic still camera section
In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes a CCD, which converts a still image formed through a lens (not shown) into an electric signal and supplies it to the buffer 2. The buffer 2 amplifies the still video signal to a predetermined level and then supplies it to the A / D converter 3. The A / D converter 3 converts the still video signal into digital data (hereinafter referred to as image data), and then supplies the digital data to a TG (Timing Generator) 4. The TG 4 generates a timing signal for controlling the drive circuit 4 that drives the CCD 1, supplies it to the drive circuit 5, fetches the image data in accordance with this timing signal, and outputs it to the data bus.
[0013]
Next, reference numeral 6 denotes a DRAM (dynamic memory), which is a storage medium for temporarily storing image data output from the TG 4. This image data is read out when the photographing for one screen is completed, and a color calculation process for separating the luminance signal and the color signal is performed. 7 is a process for compressing the luminance signal and the color signal separated by the color calculation processing by a compression method such as a JPEG (Joint Photographic Coding Experts Group) method, while expanding the compressed image data. The compression / decompression unit to be applied. A flash memory 8 stores the compressed image data (luminance signal and color signal).
[0014]
Next, 9 is an SG (Signal Generator), which superimposes a color signal on the luminance signal expanded by the compression / decompression unit 7 and adds a synchronization signal or the like to create a digital video signal. , Output to the VRAM (video RAM) 10 and the D / A converter 11.
[0015]
The VRAM 10 is a storage medium that stores the digital video signal. The D / A converter 11 converts the digital video signal output from the SG 9 into an analog signal (hereinafter referred to as an analog video signal), and outputs it from the output terminal via the buffer 12 as well as an LCD (liquid crystal display). Device) 13.
[0016]
Reference numeral 14 denotes an I / O port that functions as an interface for inputting and outputting a video signal converted into a serial signal. In particular, in the first embodiment, other devices (for example, an electronic still camera, a computer, etc.) ) Is used when transferring recorded image data. The actual connection is performed by the communication terminal 15 connected to the I / O port 14 as described below.
[0017]
(2) Communication department
In the figure, reference numeral 16 denotes a transmission / reception unit, which is composed of a frequency conversion unit composed of a reception unit and a transmission unit and a modem composed of a reception unit and a transmission unit. The receiving unit of the frequency converting unit mixes a signal received by the antenna ANT, which is input via an antenna switch for distributing transmission / reception, with a local oscillation signal having a predetermined frequency output from the PLL synthesizer. Frequency conversion from 9 GHz band to IF (intermediate frequency) signal in the vicinity of 1 MHz band. Further, the transmission unit of the frequency conversion unit mixes a π / 4 shift QPSK modulation wave supplied from a modem, which will be described later, with a local oscillation signal of a predetermined frequency output from the PLL synthesizer, so that a frequency of 1.9 GHz band is obtained. Convert and radiate from the antenna ANT via the antenna switch. Next, the reception unit of the modem described above demodulates the IF signal from the frequency conversion unit, separates it into IQ data, and sends it to the communication control unit 11. Further, the modem transmission unit creates IQ data from the data supplied from the communication control unit 17, modulates π / 4 shift QPSK, and sends it to the frequency conversion unit of the transmission / reception unit 16.
[0018]
Next, the communication control unit 17 includes a transmission side and a reception side, and performs frame synchronization and slot data format processing. The receiving side extracts data for one slot from the received data supplied from the modem of the transmitting / receiving unit 16 at a predetermined timing, extracts a unique word (synchronization signal) from this data, and generates a frame synchronization signal. In addition, after descrambling the control data part and the voice data part, the control data is sent to the CPU 21 and the voice data is sent to the voice processing unit 18. In addition, the transmission side adds control data to the audio data supplied from the audio processing unit 18, adds a scramble, etc., and then adds a unique word or the like to create transmission data for one slot, It is inserted into a predetermined slot in the frame at a predetermined timing and transmitted to the modem of the transmission / reception unit 16.
[0019]
Next, the voice processing unit 18 described above is configured by a speech codec and a PCM codec. The speech codec performs digital data compression / decompression processing, and includes a reception side and a transmission side. The receiving side decodes the ADPCM audio signal (4 bits × 8 KHz = 32 Kbps) supplied from the communication control unit 17 into a PCM audio signal (8 bits × 8 KHz = 64 Kbps), and outputs the PCM codec to the PCM codec. The transmission side compresses the PCM audio signal supplied from the PCM codec by encoding it into an ADPCM audio signal, and sends it to the communication control unit 17. The PCM codec described above performs analog / digital conversion processing, and the receiving side converts the PCM audio signal supplied from the speech codec into an analog audio signal by D / A conversion, generates a sound from the speaker 19, and transmits it. The side converts the analog audio signal input from the microphone 20 into a PCM signal by A / D conversion, and sends it to the speech codec.
[0020]
Next, the CPU 21 controls the operation of each unit in accordance with a predetermined program and the switch state of the key input unit 9. In particular, in the first embodiment, the display direction of the display area on the LCD 13a is switched according to the input position of the changeover switch 31 provided in the key input unit 24 described later according to the flowchart described later.
[0021]
The ROM 22 stores programs executed by the CPU 21 (programs for electronic still cameras and programs for PHS terminals), various parameters (functions assigned to each key in each use), and the like. The ROM 22 may be electrically detachable and writable, and programs, various parameters, and the like stored in the ROM 22 may be stored in communication. The ROM 22 is not limited to a semiconductor memory as long as it is a storage device, and may be various disk storage devices (including disk storage media). Next, the RAM 23 stores data generated under the control of the CPU 21 or is used as a working area. Note that the memory of the RAM 23 is held by a power source from a battery (not shown). Next, when the key input unit 24 is used as a PHS terminal, the key input unit 24 functions as a numeric key for inputting a telephone number of a call destination (partner), a switch for performing on-hook / off-hook, a volume switch for changing sound output, and the like. When used as an electronic still camera, it is composed of a plurality of keys that function as shutter keys, playback keys, image feed keys, switches for setting various setting values, and the like. The state of these keys and switches is supplied to the CPU 21.
[0022]
The LCD 13a described above is composed of a substantially square (1: 1 = n: n) liquid crystal display for displaying an image in a display area having an aspect ratio of 1: n (n> 1), and the terminal is an electronic still camera. When used as a PHS terminal, the image taken by the CCD 1 and the image data after shooting stored in the flash memory 8 are displayed. On the other hand, when used as a PHS terminal, the dial key, telephone number, call time, transceiver mode are displayed. In the case of using as a videophone, etc., a video image taken by the CCD 1 or a video image from a partner terminal is displayed. A touch panel 13b is provided on the surface of the LCD 13a. When the displayed dial key, icon, or the like is instructed (pressed) by a user or a touch pen (not shown), the touch panel 13b supplies the position information to the key input unit 24. The position information is supplied to the CPU 21, and the CPU 21 executes dial input and a function assigned to the icon.
[0023]
A-2. Appearance structure and usage of composite equipment
Next, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of the above-described composite device. It should be noted that portions corresponding to those in FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 30 denotes a shutter key for capturing an image captured by the CCD 1 when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera. Reference numeral 31 denotes a change-over switch for switching the display screen and the viewfinder of the LCD 13a. When the change-over switch 31 is turned down, the display area of the LCD 13a and the viewfinder 32 are horizontally long and turned up. In this case, the display area of the LCD 13a and the viewfinder 32 are set to be vertically long. The lid 33 provided with the LCD 13a is provided so as to be rotatable with respect to the main body in the direction of the arrow shown in the drawing, and can be opened and closed according to the usage pattern. The illustrated state is a state in which the lid 33 is opened.
[0024]
Reference numeral 34 denotes an operation key that is operated when displaying the telephone book (database) used for dialing or designating an arbitrary partner from the telephone book when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal. It is. Next, reference numeral 35 denotes a cross key that can be turned on / off in four directions, and is used when a cursor or a pointer is moved in data selection or function selection displayed on the LCD 13a. Reference numeral 36 denotes a communication key for dialing a predetermined number when the device is operating as a communication device. 37 is a disconnect key for disconnecting the established line, and 38 is a hold key for temporarily holding the call. Reference numeral 39 denotes a function key for selecting a function that can be executed when the electronic still camera or the communication device is operating. By the way, when transmitting a captured image during operation as an electronic still camera, selecting the image transmission with the function key 39 and selecting the image to be transmitted with the cross key 35 brings up a dial number input screen. Entering a dial number by touching the touch panel 13b or opening a telephone directory to select a destination and pressing the communication key 36 dials the selected partner and starts image communication after the line is connected. .
[0025]
A-3. Usage of compound equipment
Next, FIG. 3 to FIG. 6 are schematic views showing usage patterns of the composite device according to the first embodiment. The composite device takes a gripping form that is most easily used in the application depending on the application. In general, the operation of the camera (pressing the shutter key) is performed with the right hand, and the operation of the telephone (handset) is performed with the left hand. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the conventional operation form is taken over and the arrangement of various switches is determined in consideration of the gripping form for the intended use so that each function can be operated smoothly.
[0026]
(1) Electronic still camera (finder method)
First, when the composite device is used as a finder type electronic still camera, as shown in FIG. 3, the lid 33 provided with the LCD 13 a is closed and the right side of the main body is held with the right hand. In other words, it is the same as a state of holding a normal camera. In this case, the user confirms the subject from the finder 32 and operates the shutter key 30 with the index finger of the right hand holding the main body.
[0027]
(2) Electronic still camera (LCD display method)
Next, when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera of an LCD display method, as shown in FIG. 4, the lid portion 33 provided with the LCD 13a is opened so that the LCD 13a can be seen by the user. Hold the vicinity of the connection between the main body and the lid with your right hand. In this case, since the image captured by the CCD 1 is displayed on the LCD 13a in real time, the user checks the subject (the image appearance) on the LCD 13a and operates the shutter key 30 with the index finger of the right hand holding the main body. .
[0028]
(3) PHS terminal
Next, when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal, as shown in FIG. 5, the lid 33 provided with the LCD 13a is opened so that the LCD 13a can be seen by the user, and the main body becomes vertically long. Hold with your left hand. At this time, the speaker 19 is on the upper side and the microphone 20 is on the lower side. In this case, the LCD 13a displays dial keys, telephone numbers, a telephone book, and the like, so that the user operates the operation key 34 with the left hand holding the main body to select an arbitrary party from the telephone book. Or specify.
[0029]
(4) PHS terminal (using camera)
Next, when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal using a camera, as shown in FIG. 6, the lid 33 provided with the LCD 13a is opened so that the LCD 13a can be seen by the user, and on the back surface. Hold a photographic lens in the direction you want to shoot and hold it with your left hand so that the main body is vertically long. In this case, since the image captured by the CCD 1 is displayed on the LCD 13 in real time, the user presses the shutter key 30 with the left hand holding the main body while confirming the subject (the image appearance) on the LCD 13a, Import images.
[0030]
B. Operation of the first embodiment
Next, the operation of the composite device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Here, FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining processing for assigning a function to each key in accordance with an operating mode (electronic still camera or PHS terminal) in the composite device. First, in step S10, it is determined whether the electronic still camera or the PHS terminal is selected for use. When use with an electronic still camera is selected, a program for operating as an electronic still camera is read from the ROM 22 in step S12, and a function for the electronic still camera is assigned to each key in step S14. In step S20, the read program for the electronic still camera is executed.
[0031]
On the other hand, if use in the PHS terminal is selected, a program for operating as a PHS terminal is read from the ROM 22 in step S16, and a function for the PHS terminal is assigned to each key in step S18. In step 20 described above, the read PHS terminal program is executed.
[0032]
Next, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are flowcharts for explaining operations in the case where the composite device according to the first embodiment is used as an electronic still camera or a PHS terminal. First, in step S30, it is determined which operation mode (electronic still camera or PHS terminal) is selected. If the operation mode is a PHS terminal, the process proceeds to step S32 to enter a standby state. Next, in step S34, it is determined whether or not an incoming call is received. If an incoming call is received, in step S36, a ringer is ringed or a vibrator is driven to notify the user of the incoming call.
[0033]
Next, in step S38, it is determined whether or not it is off-hooked. If it is not off-hooked, the process returns to step S36 to repeat the notification operation. If it is off-hook, communication with the counterpart device is performed in step S40. Next, in step S42, it is determined whether or not it is on-hooked. If it is not on-hooked, communication is continued in step S40. On the other hand, if it is on-hooked, the process returns to step S30 described above.
[0034]
On the other hand, if the incoming call is not received, the process proceeds to step S44, where the dial key displayed on the LCD 13a is touched on the touch panel 13b or the telephone book is selected to select the other party, and the destination telephone number is input. Let Next, in step S46, a call is made using the telephone number input in step S44. In step S48, it is determined whether or not there is a response. If there is a response, the process proceeds to step S40 described above, and communication with the partner device is performed. Do. Then, in step S42, it is determined whether or not it is on-hook. If it is not on-hook, communication is continued in step S40. On the other hand, if it is on-hooked, the process returns to step S30 described above.
[0035]
If the operation mode is an electronic still camera, the process proceeds to step S50 shown in FIG. 9 to enter a standby state. Next, in step S52, it is determined whether or not the shutter key 30 has been half-pressed. If the shutter key 30 has been half-pressed, the image captured by the CCD 1 at that time is fixedly displayed on the LCD 13a (viewfinder) in step S54. Display), the process returns to step S30. On the other hand, if the shutter key 30 has not been half-pressed, the process proceeds to step S56 to determine whether or not the shutter key 30 has been fully pressed. If it is neither half-pressed nor fully-pressed, the process returns to step S50 and enters a standby state. On the other hand, if the chatter key 30 is fully pressed, the process proceeds to step S58, where the image captured by the CCD 1 is stored in the DRAM 6 and then stored in the flash memory 8. Then, the process returns to step S30.
[0036]
C. Second embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the composite device according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above (see FIG. 1), and the description thereof is omitted. The operation is also the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.
[0037]
Here, FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an external configuration of the composite device according to the second embodiment. Note that portions corresponding to those in FIGS. 2 to 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. As shown in the figure, the composite device according to the second embodiment has a shape without folding (flipper), and a lens 1a is disposed at the upper part of the front surface, and a shutter key 30 is disposed at the approximate center of the front surface. Also, the speaker 19 is on the upper side of the side surface, the microphone 20 is on the lower side of the side surface, and the communication key 36 for dialing a predetermined number when the device is operating as a communication device, and the established line are disconnected. A disconnect key 37 for holding, a hold key 38 for temporarily holding a call, and an LCD 13a (touch panel 13b) are arranged. The communication key 36, the disconnect key 37, and the hold key 38 are arranged in a line at substantially the same height as the shutter key 30 described above. The LCD 13a can stand upright with respect to the main body, with one side on the back side as a rotation axis.
[0038]
Also, on the back side, the telephone used for dialing when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal at the same height as the shutter key 30, the communication key 36, the disconnect key 37 and the hold key 38. An operation key 34 that is operated when displaying a book (database) or designating an arbitrary partner from the telephone book is arranged.
[0039]
Next, FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are schematic views showing usage patterns of the composite device according to the second embodiment.
(1) PHS terminal
When the composite device is used as a PHS terminal, as shown in FIG. 11, the composite device is held with the left hand so that the side on which the lens 1 a and the shutter key 30 are arranged is positioned in front. At this time, the speaker 19 is on the upper side and the microphone 20 is on the lower side. In this case, the LCD 13a displays dial keys, telephone numbers, a telephone directory, etc., so that the user operates the operation key 34 with the left hand (index finger, middle finger, ring finger, etc.) holding the main body. An arbitrary partner is designated from the telephone directory, or the communication key 36, the disconnect key 37, and the hold key 38 are operated with the left hand (thumb) holding the main body. Thus, also in the second embodiment, each key can be operated with the hand on the gripping side, so that it can be operated more easily without impairing the operability of each function.
[0040]
(2) Electronic still camera
Next, when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera of the LCD display method, as shown in FIG. 12, the LCD 13a is raised from the main body in the direction of the arrow so that the display surface of the LCD 13a faces the user side. The user holds the operation key 34 with the right hand so that the side on which the operation key 34 is disposed is positioned in front. In this case, since the image captured by the CCD 1 through the lens 1a is displayed in real time on the LCD 13a, the user confirms the subject (the appearance of the image) on the LCD 13a, and uses the right index finger of the right hand holding the main body to press the shutter key. 30 is operated. Thus, also in the second embodiment, each key can be operated with the hand on the gripping side, so that it can be operated more easily without impairing the operability of each function.
[0041]
In this way, in this embodiment, when using each function, switches (operators) operated by the function are arranged at positions where the hand can be operated by holding the main body. When using each function, it is possible to more easily operate the controls used for each function without impairing the operability when using a single-function device. That is, when used as an electronic still camera, various switches, in particular, the shutter key 30 are arranged at positions that can be operated with the right hand as in the case of operating the camera. On the other hand, when used as a PHS terminal, In the same way as when holding a telephone (handset), each switch is placed at a position where it can be operated with the left hand and operated with the left hand. The controls in each can be operated more easily (without changing).
[0042]
【The invention's effect】
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the circuit for realizing the communication function and the circuit for realizing the photographing function are incorporated.In the combined equipmentEquipment bodyThe lid provided so as to be openable and closable is exposed when the lid is open with respect to the device main body, and when the circuit for realizing the communication function is operating, While displaying a telephone number to be used, when a circuit for realizing the shooting function is operating, a display unit that displays an image captured by the imaging function,Equipment bodySaidThe lid is against the device bodyTheCan be operated in the open stateA first key group for operating a circuit for realizing the communication function, and a position where the lid can be operated even when the lid is closed with respect to the device body. A second key group for designating a telephone number for displaying a telephone number on the display unit when a circuit for realizing the communication function is operating, a lens, and the second key group. A third key for instructing to capture an image through the lens when a circuit for realizing the shooting function is operating, provided on the provided surface;Since it is provided, even a device having a plurality of functions can be operated more easily (without changing it).
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a composite device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a composite device.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining processing for assigning a function to each key in accordance with an operating mode (electronic still camera or PHS terminal).
FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation when the composite device according to the first embodiment is used as an electronic still camera or a PHS terminal.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation in the case where the composite device according to the first embodiment is used as an electronic still camera or a PHS terminal.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an external configuration of a composite device according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as a PHS terminal.
FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating a usage pattern (gripping pattern) when the composite device is used as an electronic still camera.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 CCD
2 buffers
3 A / D converter
4 TG
5 Drive circuit
6 DRAM
8 Flash memory
9 SG
10 VRAM
11 Compression / decompression unit
12 buffers
13a LCD
13b touch panel
14 I / O ports
15 Input / output terminals
ANT antenna
16 Transceiver
17 Communication control unit
18 Voice processing part
19 Speaker
20 microphone
21 Control unit
22 ROM
23 RAM
24 Key input section
30 Shutter key (operator)
31 selector switch
32 Finder
33 Lid
34 Operation keys (operators)

Claims (1)

In a composite device that includes a circuit for realizing a communication function and a circuit for realizing a shooting function, and includes a device body and a lid portion that can be opened and closed with respect to the device body.
The lid is
When the cover is exposed to the device main body and is exposed to a circuit for realizing the communication function, the telephone number used by the circuit is displayed while the shooting function is displayed. When the circuit for realizing is operating, a display unit that displays an image captured by the imaging function is provided,
The device body is
A first key group for operating a circuit for realizing the communication function, provided at a position where the lid portion can be operated in an opened state with respect to the device main body ;
A phone that is provided at a position where it can be operated even when the lid is closed with respect to the device main body, and displays a phone number on the display when a circuit for realizing the communication function is operating. A second key group for designating a number;
A lens,
A third key for instructing to capture an image through the lens when a circuit for realizing the photographing function is in operation on a surface on which the second key group is provided; ,
A composite device characterized by comprising:

Images