JP7259000B2 - Imaging device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an imaging device.

In recent years, the lineups of compact digital cameras and mirrorless digital cameras have been enriched by each company, and differentiation is being made between high-end models and low-end models. In high-end models, for example, an electronic viewfinder (EVF) is built into the body of the digital camera. On the other hand, the electronic viewfinder on lower-end models can be attached externally as an option.

High-end digital cameras with built-in electronic viewfinders include those with protrusions provided on the upper part of the device body, those with the upper part of the device body made flat, and the like.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200000 discloses an example of a digital camera having a protrusion provided on the upper part of the device body. In the digital camera disclosed in Patent Document 1, a liquid crystal monitor is provided on the back of the device body, and an eyepiece portion of an electronic viewfinder is provided on a protrusion on the top of the device body.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-300001 discloses an example of a digital camera in which the upper portion of the device main body is flattened. In the digital camera disclosed in Patent Document 2, a display device and an eyepiece for an electronic viewfinder are provided on the rear surface of the camera body.

WO2010/029767 JP-A-2010-92028

In a digital camera having a projection on the upper part of the device body, the EVF eyepiece is provided on the projection. There is a loss of storability and portability.

On the other hand, a digital camera having a flat upper portion of the device main body does not impair storability and portability. However, since the display device and the eyepiece portion of the EVF are provided on the back surface of the device main body, there is a trade-off between the area of the eyepiece portion of the EVF and the area of the display portion of the display device. For example, there are design restrictions such as the need to reduce the display area of the display device in order to secure the area for the eyepiece of the EVF. That is, the degree of freedom in layout of the rear surface of the device main body is reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an imaging apparatus in which a display device and an eyepiece of an electronic viewfinder are more preferably arranged on the rear surface of the apparatus main body.

A brief outline of typical inventions disclosed in the present application is as follows.

An imaging apparatus according to a representative embodiment of the present invention includes an imaging optical system, an imaging element that receives light that has passed through the imaging optical system and generates an electrical signal, an apparatus body, and , a display device capable of displaying an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device, and an electronic device provided inside the apparatus body capable of displaying the image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device a viewfinder, wherein the display device is transmissive, and an eyepiece of the electronic viewfinder is provided in the transmissive region of the display device.

Among the inventions disclosed in the present application, the effects obtained by representative ones are briefly described below.

That is, according to the representative embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an imaging apparatus in which the display device and the eyepiece of the electronic viewfinder are more preferably arranged on the rear surface of the apparatus main body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the imaging device which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the imaging device which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of how to hold the imaging device when using it in the horizontal position; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of how to hold the imaging device when using it in a vertical position; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of display contents of the display device in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of display contents of the display device in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of display contents of the display device in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the EVF according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention; 3A and 3B are diagrams showing a comparison of the states of each part in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode; FIG. FIG. 7 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention; FIG. 11 is a rear view showing another configuration example of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the embodiment described below is an example for realizing the present invention, and should be appropriately modified or changed according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied and various conditions. It is not limited to the following embodiments. Moreover, it may be configured by appropriately combining a part of each embodiment described later.

(Embodiment 1)
<Structure of Imaging Device>
1 and 2 are diagrams showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 3 and 4 are block diagrams showing an example of the configuration of the imaging device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 1(A) and 2(A) are perspective views seen from the back of the device main body, and FIGS. 1(B) and 2(B) are sectional views seen from the left of the back. Note that FIGS. 1B and 2B clearly show the configuration of an EVF (electronic viewfinder), which will be described later.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the imaging apparatus 100 includes an apparatus main body 190, an imaging optical system 101, an imaging device 102, a captured image generation unit 103, a nonvolatile memory 121, a memory 122, an operation input unit 123, a speaker 124, It includes a storage unit 125, a display image generation unit 126, an image adjustment unit 127, a microphone 128, an orientation detection sensor 130, an eye proximity detection sensor 131, a control unit 110, a display device 150, an EVF 170, and the like. Note that the imaging apparatus 100 includes an internal power supply (such as a built-in battery or a replaceable battery stored in a storage unit) or an external power supply connection unit for supplying power to drive each unit, but is illustrated for simplicity of explanation. are omitted.
1 and 3 are examples of a system in which the display device 150 does not require a backlight. On the other hand, in the examples of FIGS. 2 and 4, the display device 150 is an example of a method using backlights, and further includes a first backlight 155 and a second backlight 156 . In the following, the examples of FIGS. 1 and 3 and the examples of FIGS. 2 and 4 will be described in parallel.

The device main body 190 is configured in, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, as shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 2(A). The apparatus main body 190 includes a front surface 190a from which the imaging optical system 101 of the imaging apparatus 100 receives light, a rear surface 190b on which the display device 150 is arranged in a horizontally long rectangular shape, a top surface 190e and a bottom surface 190f, and a front surface 190a. It has a first side surface 190c and a second side surface 190d located on the left and right sides of the main body 190, respectively. Therefore, the first side surface 190c and the second side surface 190d of the device main body 190 are located on opposite sides of the device main body 190 from each other. In the device main body 190 , each unit constituting the imaging device 100 is provided inside the device main body 190 and on each surface of the device main body 190 . A region near the upper surface 190 e of the device main body 190 constitutes the warship portion of the imaging device 100 .

The imaging optical system 101 is provided so that a part thereof protrudes from the front surface 190a of the apparatus main body 190, as shown in FIGS. 1B, 2B, 3 and 4, for example. This protrusion is called a lens barrel. The imaging optical system 101 includes, for example, a lens and a diaphragm (not shown). The imaging optical system 101 captures incident light from a subject on the front surface 190 a side of the device main body 190 . For example, FIGS. 1B and 2B show examples in which light of a predetermined angle of view is captured from the imaging optical system 101 from the front surface 190a side of the apparatus main body 190. FIG. The captured incident light is condensed by a lens (not shown), and the image sensor 102 is irradiated with the condensed incident light. A known technique may be used for such a configuration of the imaging optical system 101, and the present invention is not limited to a specific configuration. In the case of adopting a collapsible structure, the lens barrel portion of the imaging optical system 101 protrudes from the front surface 190a of the device main body 190 when the power of the imaging device 100 is turned on, and the power of the imaging device 100 is turned off. Then, the portion protruding from the front surface 190a may be configured to be accommodated in the device main body 190. As shown in FIG.

The imaging element 102 is configured by, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), or the like. In each pixel of the imaging element 102, the incident light emitted from the imaging optical system 101 is stored as electric charge, thereby converting the incident light from the imaging optical system 101 into an electric signal. In this manner, the image sensor 102 generates an electric signal as an image signal for each pixel. That is, the imaging device 102 receives light that has passed through the imaging optical system 101 and generates an electrical signal. The generated electrical signal is output from the imaging device 102 to the captured image generation unit 103 .

The captured image generation unit 103 generates an image such as a captured image of a subject based on the electrical signal of each pixel output from the image sensor 102 . For example, the captured image generation unit 103 generates a captured image of a subject by converting an electrical signal output from the image sensor 102 into digital image data having a gradation width of a predetermined bit. Alternatively, the captured image generation unit 103 generates an HDR (High Dynamic Range) composite image based on a plurality of captured images generated by varying the amount of exposure to the image sensor 102 . Also, the captured image generation unit 103 may generate a moving image based on the electrical signals continuously output from the image sensor 102 . When a moving image is generated, for example, external audio information is acquired by a microphone 128, which will be described later. The generated captured image, HDR composite image, moving image, acquired audio information, and the like are output from the captured image generation unit 103 to the storage unit 125 and stored in the storage unit 125 .

In addition, in a rear live view mode and an EVF live view mode, which will be described later, the captured image generation unit 103 continuously displays images generated based on electrical signals continuously output from the image sensor 102 on the display device 150 or the EVF. The live view image is displayed on the display device 150 or the EVF display element 171 by outputting to the display element 171 .

The non-volatile memory 121 stores various programs, menu images, and the like that cause the imaging apparatus 100 to implement various functions. For example, the nonvolatile memory 121 stores various programs such as a program related to the basic operation of the imaging device 100, a program related to the camera function, and a program related to the voice recognition function. In addition, the nonvolatile memory 121 stores setting information and the like regarding the imaging device 100 .

Various programs stored in the non-volatile memory 121 are developed in the memory 122 . When various programs developed in the memory 122 are executed by the control unit 110, the imaging apparatus 100 implements various functions of each program. For example, when a program related to basic operations is executed, the imaging apparatus 100 implements the basic operations. Further, for example, when a program related to the camera function is executed, the imaging device 100 implements the camera function. Further, for example, the imaging device 100 may be configured to implement the voice recognition function when a program related to the voice recognition function is executed.

The operation input unit 123 is an instruction input unit that inputs an operation instruction to the imaging device 100 . The operation input unit 123 includes an imaging button 123a, a menu button 123b, an operation button 123c, an operation input key 123d, a power switch 123e, and the like, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, for example. In addition, other operation buttons or the like may be provided.

The power switch 123e is provided, for example, on the upper surface 190e of the apparatus main body 190, and switches the imaging apparatus 100 between a power-on state and a power-off state. In principle, the operations of the respective units described below function when the power is on.

The imaging button 123a is provided on the upper surface 190e of the apparatus main body 190. As shown in FIG. Specifically, the imaging button 123a is provided on the upper surface 190e of the apparatus main body 190 on the side of the first side surface 190c of the apparatus main body 190, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, for example. . When the imaging button 123a is lightly pressed, it is in a so-called half-pressed state, and the imaging optical system 101 performs focusing on the subject. Further, when the imaging button 123a is strongly pressed, the subject is imaged. Note that the imaging button 123a may be provided on the second side surface 190d side of the device main body.

The menu button 123b, the operation button 123c, and the operation input key 123d are provided on the first side surface 190c side of the rear surface 190b of the apparatus main body 190, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, for example. When the menu button 123b is operated, for example, a menu screen is displayed on the display device 150 or the like, which will be described later. When the operation button 123c is operated, for example, switching between a rear display mode and an EVF display mode, which will be described later, and a live view mode and a playback mode, which will be described later, are performed.

When the operation input key 123d is operated, for example, on a menu screen, selection of an item whose setting is to be changed, selection of change contents, and the like are performed. Also, when the operation input key 123d is operated, for example, selection of an image to be displayed on the display device 150 or the like is performed. Further, when the operation input key 123d is operated, selection of imaging mode (for example, normal imaging mode, HDR imaging mode, moving image imaging mode, etc.), selection of focus point, selection of imaging sensitivity, and the like are performed.

The speaker 124 outputs, for example, audio related to moving images. In addition, the speaker 124 outputs, for example, the shutter sound of the imaging device 100, notification sound related to operation, warning sound, and the like.

The storage unit 125 is composed of a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), or the like. The storage unit 125 stores, for example, the captured image generated by the captured image generation unit 103, the HDR composite image, the moving image, the audio information related to the moving image acquired by the microphone 128, and the like. The storage unit 125 may include not only internal storage, but also, in addition to or instead of, removable external storage.

The display image generation unit 126 generates, for example, various images to be displayed on the display device 150 and the EVF 170, which will be described later (for example, images related to the above-described setting screen, imaging mode selection screen, captured image selection screen, focus point selection screen, etc.). . In addition to these images, the display image generation unit 126 also includes, for example, current setting information when capturing an image (eg, various information such as the image capturing mode, the sensitivity of the image sensor 102, the shutter speed, the aperture value, and the digital level). You may generate the image which combined these screens.

The image adjustment unit 127 adjusts images displayed on the display device 150 and the EVF display element 171 . For example, when the file size of the generated captured image is large and cannot be displayed on the display device 150 or the like, the image adjustment unit 127 adjusts the image quality of the captured image so that the captured image fits on the display device 150. conduct. Further, for example, when the file size of the generated captured image is small and the captured image is displayed only on part of the display device 150, the image adjustment unit 127 adjusts the captured image so that the enlarged captured image is displayed. You may adjust the image quality of an image.

The microphone 128 acquires the external sound of the imaging device 100 when capturing a moving image, for example. For example, the microphone 128 outputs the acquired sound to the control unit 110, and the control unit 110 generates sound data related to the sound. The generated audio data is output to and stored in the storage unit 125 .

The orientation detection sensor 130 is composed of, for example, an acceleration sensor. The orientation detection sensor 130 measures the magnitude and direction of gravitational acceleration applied to the imaging device 100 . The orientation detection sensor 130 outputs the magnitude and direction of the measured gravitational acceleration to the control unit 110 as acceleration information, and the control unit 110 detects the orientation of the imaging device 100 based on the acceleration information.

The eyepiece detection sensor 131 detects whether the user is using the EVF eyepiece 174 of the EVF 170 . The eye detection sensor 131 is provided near the EVF eyepiece 174 of the EVF 170 . For example, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, the eye proximity detection sensor 131 is provided in the vicinity of the position where the second side surface 190d and the upper surface 190e intersect on the rear surface 190b of the apparatus main body 190. ing. For example, an infrared proximity sensor may be used as the eye detection sensor 131 . In addition, the eye proximity detection sensor 131 may be configured by an induction system, a capacitance system, an ultrasonic system, an electromagnetic wave system, or the like. The eyepiece detection sensor 131 outputs, for example, the user detection result near the EVF eyepiece 174 of the EVF 170 to the control unit 110 as user detection information, and the control unit 110 controls the user to use the EVF 170 based on the user detection information. detect whether

The display device 150 is provided on the rear surface 190b of the apparatus main body 190, and can display an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device 102. FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, for example, the display device 150 includes an operation input section 123 (for example, a menu button 123b, an operation button 123c, and an operation input key 123d) on the rear surface 190b of the apparatus main body 190. and the eye contact detection sensor 131 . The display device 150 is configured in a horizontally long rectangular shape, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 2(A). Moreover, the display device 150 has translucency. The display device 150 is composed of, for example, an organic EL (Electroluminescence) panel, a liquid crystal panel, or the like. As a specific structure of the display device having transparency, for example, a known structure disclosed in US Patent Publication No. US2015/0098039 may be used.

A self-luminous display device such as an organic EL (Electroluminescence) panel does not require a backlight. Therefore, when using such a display device that does not require a backlight, as shown in FIG. A rear light-shielding mask (light-shielding mask) 175 may be provided without providing a backlight between them. The rear light-shielding mask 175 is made of, for example, a light-shielding resin or the like. In this case, in areas other than the EVF eyepiece 174 , the light transmitted through the display device 150 and the light emitted by the display device 150 itself are blocked by the rear light shielding mask 175 and are not transmitted into the apparatus body 190 .

Further, when using a display device such as a liquid crystal panel that requires a backlight to allow the user to visually recognize display contents, the first backlight 155 shown in FIG. and the rear light shielding mask 175 . That is, the first backlight 155 is arranged on the back surface of the display area of the display device 150 other than the EVF eyepiece 174 . Here, the light transmitted through the display device 150 and the light emitted by the first backlight 155 are blocked by the rear light shielding mask 175 and are not transmitted to the inside of the apparatus main body 190 . Here, the first backlight 155 alone cannot provide a backlight for the EVF eyepiece portion 174 of the display device 150, and only the EVF eyepiece portion 174 of the display device 150 becomes dark. . Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2B, for example, a second backlight 156 is provided in the EVF 170 in order to achieve a backlight function for the EVF eyepiece 174 of the display device 150. . A specific configuration and arrangement of the second backlight 156 will be described later.

The EVF 170 is provided inside the apparatus main body 190 as shown in FIGS. 1B and 2B, for example, and can display an image generated based on an electrical signal generated by the imaging element 102 . The EVF 170 includes an EVF display element 171, an EVF optical system 172, an EVF darkroom 173, an EVF eyepiece (eyepiece) 174, and the like.

The EVF display element 171 displays reproduced images (still images or moving images) such as captured images generated via the imaging optical system 101, the imaging element 102, and the captured image generation unit 103, live view images, and the like. Also, the EVF display element 171 displays a menu image. The EVF display element 171 is composed of, for example, an organic EL panel, a liquid crystal panel, or the like.

When a display device that does not require a backlight is used as the display device 150, the EVF optical system 172 is configured to have lenses 172a and 172c and a mirror 172b, as shown in FIG. 1B, for example. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the EVF optical system 172 is arranged behind the area of the EVF eyepiece 174 provided in the transparent area of the display device 150 when viewed from the outside of the device main body 190 . ing. The light of the optical image formed by the EVF display element 171 is guided to the EVF eyepiece 174 via the EVF optical system 172 and forms an image on the retina of the user's eye. That is, the image displayed by the EVF display element 171 is visually recognized by the EVF eyepiece 174 via the EVF optical system 172 .

For the optical design of the EVF optical system 172, for example, known techniques disclosed in JP-A-2005-148487 and JP-A-2007-311925 may be used.

When a display device requiring a backlight is used for the display device 150, the EVF optical system 172 has lenses 172a and 172c, a half mirror 172d, and a second backlight 156, as shown in FIG. 2B, for example. It should be configured as follows. When the display content of the EVF display element 171 is to be visually recognized by the user, the second backlight 156 is turned off, and the light of the optical image formed by the EVF display element 171 passes through the EVF optical system 172 having a half mirror 172d. It is guided to the eyepiece 174 . That is, the image displayed on the EVF display element 171 at this time is visually recognized by the EVF eyepiece 174 via the EVF optical system 172 . When the backlight function of the second backlight 156 is turned on, the EVF display element 171 is turned off, and the light emitted by the second backlight 156 passes through the half mirror 172d and part of the EVF optical system 172. As a result, it functions as a backlight for the EVF eyepiece 174 of the display device 150 . By providing the second backlight 156 in the EVF 170 in this way, it is possible to prevent the lack of backlight in the portion of the display device 150 where the EVF eyepiece 174 is located.

3 and 4, illustration of each element of the EVF optical system 172 in the EVF 170 is omitted for the sake of simplicity of explanation.

The EVF darkroom 173 is made of a light-shielding material, and is provided so as to surround the EVF display element 171 , the EVF optical system 172 , and the EVF eyepiece 174 . Within the EVF 170, the area other than the EVF eyepiece 174 is shielded from light, and a dark room state is configured within the EVF 170. FIG. That is, the EVF 170 is configured to have a light shielding property except for the EVF eyepiece section 174 . Since the interior of the EVF 170 is in a dark room state, light from the inside of the apparatus main body 190 does not enter the EVF 170. Furthermore, the light in the EVF 170 and the EVF eyepiece of the display device 150 having transparency It is configured so that the light incident on the EVF 170 through the portion 174 also does not enter the inside of the device body 190 . Therefore, the EVF optical system 172 and the EVF display element 171 are arranged in a light-shielding space except for the EVF eyepiece 174 . Also, the second backlight 156 described above is arranged in such a light-shielding space.

The EVF eyepiece 174 is provided in a part of the display device 150 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, for example. Specifically, in the display device 150 , the EVF eyepiece 174 is provided on the second side surface 190 d side of the apparatus main body 190 and on the upper surface 190 e side of the apparatus main body 190 . More specifically, the EVF eyepiece 174 is provided in the upper left region of the display device 150 as shown in FIG. 1A, for example. An opening of the EVF darkroom 173 is in contact with the display device 150 . The EVF eyepiece 174 is configured by integrating the opening of the EVF darkroom 173 and the display device 150 in the area contacting the opening of the EVF darkroom 173 . Note that when the imaging button 123a is provided on the second side surface 190d side of the device main body 190, the EVF eyepiece 174 is positioned on the first side surface 190c side of the device main body 190 in the display device 150, and It is preferably provided on the upper surface 190e side of the device body 190 . Advantages of the arrangement of the EVF eyepiece 174 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of how to hold the imaging device when using it in the horizontal position. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of how to hold the imaging device when using it in the vertical position. If the EVF eyepiece unit 174 is arranged at the above-described position, even if the imaging apparatus 100 is used in the horizontal position, the user's hand operating the image capturing button 123a and the EVF eyepiece are positioned as shown in FIG. The face of the user looking into the portion 174 does not intersect. Also, even if the imaging apparatus 100 is used in the vertical position, the user's hand operating the imaging button 123a and the user's face looking into the EVF eyepiece 174 do not intersect, as shown in FIG.

The control unit 110 is composed of a computer such as a microprocessor unit, for example. The control unit 110 controls each unit constituting the imaging device 100 by executing various programs developed in the memory 122 .

For example, when executing a program related to basic operations, the control unit 110 performs control related to basic operations for each unit that configures the imaging apparatus 100 . For example, when a power switch (not shown) is operated to turn on the imaging device 100, the control section 110 activates each section of the imaging device 100 based on a program relating to basic operations.

For example, when executing a program related to the camera function, the control unit 110 performs control related to the camera function on each unit constituting the imaging device 100 . For example, when the image capturing button 123a is operated, the control unit 110 controls each unit related to image capturing to capture an image of the subject. Further, the control unit 110 causes each unit to generate an image such as a still image or a moving image of the captured subject. Also, the control unit 110 controls each unit of the imaging device 100 based on, for example, the operation of the menu button 123b, the operation button 123c, the operation input key 123d, and the like.

When the control unit 110 executes the program related to the voice recognition function, the control unit 110 performs control related to the voice recognition function to each unit constituting the imaging device 100 . For example, the control unit 110 causes the speaker 124 to output audio, the microphone 128 to acquire audio, and the like.

<Back display mode>
7 to 9 are diagrams showing examples of display contents of the display device in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The control unit 110 has a rear display mode (first display mode) in which the display device 150 displays a live view image and a reproduced image, and an EVF display mode (second display mode) in which the EVF 170 displays a live view image and a reproduced image. ) and .

For example, when the display device 150 is turned on, the control unit 110 switches to a rear display mode in which the EVF 170 is turned off. Specifically, when the operation button 123c or the like is operated and the rear display mode is selected, the control unit 110 turns on the display device 150 and turns off the EVF display element 171 . The rear display mode consists of a rear live view mode and a rear playback mode. When a display device requiring a backlight is used as the display device 150 shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the control unit 110 controls the first backlight 155 and Turn on the second backlight 156 .

It should be noted that "to turn off the EVF display element 171" means that the control unit 110 turns off the power supply to the EVF display element 171, or the image display by the EVF display element 171 in a state where the EVF display element 171 is energized. is stopped and the EVF display element 171 is not caused to emit light.

The rear view live view mode means displaying a live view image of the subject on the display device 150 . Specifically, the control unit 110 causes the image pickup device 102 to continuously output an electric signal for each pixel to the captured image generation unit 103 . Further, the control unit 110 causes the captured image generation unit 103 to continuously generate images of the subject. Then, the control unit 110 causes the captured image generation unit 103 to continuously output the generated images to the display device 150 . In this manner, the control unit 110 causes the display device 150 to display a live view image of the subject, as shown in FIG. 7A, for example. During this time, the control unit 110 turns off the EVF display element 171 so that the live view image or the like is not displayed on the EVF display element 171 as shown in FIG. 7A, for example.

On the other hand, the rear playback mode means displaying on the display device 150 an image (still image or moving image) captured by the imaging device 100 and recorded in the storage unit 125 . Specifically, control unit 110 causes display device 150 to display an image selection menu for allowing the user to select a captured image. Control unit 110 reads the image selected by the user from storage unit 125 and outputs it to display device 150 . In this way, the control unit 110 causes the display device 150 to display a reproduced image, as shown in FIG. 7B, for example. Note that even in the rear playback mode, the control unit 110 turns off the EVF 170 so that no image is displayed on the EVF display element 171, as shown in FIG. 7B, for example.

In the rear display mode, the control section 110 may cause the display device 150 to display the information of the image displayed on the display device 150 . For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the control unit 110 causes the display device 150 on the first side surface 190c side of the apparatus body 190 of the EVF eyepiece 174 to display an image. Further, the control unit 110 causes the display device 150 on the side of the bottom surface 190f of the device body 190 of the EVF eyepiece unit 174 to display image information.

In other words, the control unit 110 displays the live view image or the reproduced image in the area on the right side of the EVF eyepiece 174, and displays the information of the live view image or the reproduced image in the area below the EVF eyepiece 174. . Further, the control unit 110 may display the information of the live view image or the reproduced image displayed on the display device 150, for example, superimposed on the live view image or the reproduced image. At that time, it is preferable that the control unit 110 displays the information of the live view image or the reproduced image, for example, at the edge of the live view image or the reproduced image so as not to impair the visibility of the live view image or the reproduced image. .

In the rear display mode, control unit 110 may cause display device 150 in an area adjacent to EVF eyepiece unit 174 to display an image indicating that EVF 170 is available.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the control unit 110 controls the display device in the area surrounding the EVF eyepiece unit 174 from the bottom surface 190f side of the device main body 190 to the first side surface side 190c side. 150 may display an image (for example, a display such as "EVF READY") indicating that the EVF 170 is available.

<EVF display mode>
Further, the control unit 110 switches to the EVF display mode in which the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece unit 174 is turned off when the EVF 170 is turned on. Specifically, when the operation button 123 c or the like is operated and the EVF display mode is selected, the control unit 110 turns on the EVF display element 171 and displays the EVF eyepiece unit 174 in the display area of the display device 150 . Turn off the display of the part of . The EVF display mode consists of an EVF live view mode and an EVF playback mode. Note that when a display device apparatus requiring a backlight is used for the display device 150 shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the controller 110 controls the first backlight 155 and the second backlight 156 are both turned off.

Note that "to turn off the display of the EVF eyepiece 174 portion of the display area of the display device 150" means that the control unit 110 turns off the power supply to the EVF eyepiece 174 to the display device 150, It also includes a case where the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174 stops displaying an image while the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174 is energized, and the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174 does not emit light.

The EVF live view mode refers to causing the EVF 170 to display a live view image of a subject. Specifically, the control unit 110 causes the image pickup device 102 to continuously output an electric signal for each pixel to the captured image generation unit 103 . Further, the control unit 110 causes the captured image generation unit 103 to continuously generate images of the subject. Then, the control unit 110 causes the captured image generation unit 103 to continuously output the generated images to the EVF display element 171 of the EVF 170 and display the images on the EVF display element 171 . In this manner, the control unit 110 causes the EVF 170 to display a live view image of the subject, as shown in FIG. 7A, for example. During this time, the control unit 110 turns off the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174, for example, as shown in FIG. Keep it hidden.

On the other hand, the EVF playback mode means that an image (still image or moving image) captured by the imaging device 100 and recorded in the storage unit 125 is displayed on the EVF 170 . Specifically, control unit 110 causes EVF display element 171 to display an image selection menu for allowing the user to select a captured image. The control unit 110 reads the image selected by the user from the storage unit 125, outputs it to the EVF display element 171, and causes the EVF display element 171 to display the reproduced image. In this manner, the control unit 110 causes the EVF 170 to display a reproduced image, as shown in FIG. 7B, for example. Note that, even in the EVF playback mode, the control unit 110 turns off the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174 and displays an image on the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece 174 as shown in FIG. should not be displayed.

In EVF display modes such as the EVF live view mode and the EVF playback mode, the control unit 110 controls the display of the display device 150 as shown in FIGS. A portion of the area other than the EVF eyepiece 174 may be displayed in black. As a result, the light emission of the display device 150 is suppressed, and it is possible to prevent unnecessary light from entering the eye of the user who is eyeing the EVF eyepiece 174 and reduce the visibility of the display contents of the EVF display element 171 .

In the EVF display mode, control unit 110 may display an image indicating that EVF 170 is turned on in an area adjacent to EVF eyepiece 174 in the display area of display device 150 .

For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the control unit 110 controls the display device 150 surrounding the EVF eyepiece unit 174 from the bottom surface 190f side of the apparatus body 190 to the first side surface side 190c. , to display an image indicating that the EVF 170 is turned on. Further, the control unit 110 may cause the display device 150 in regions other than these to display black, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, for example.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the EVF according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In the EVF display mode, the control unit 110 may cause the EVF 170 to display information of the image (live view image or reproduced image) displayed on the EVF 170 . For example, the control unit 110 may cause the EVF display element 171 to separately display an image and image information on the same screen, as shown in FIG. 10A. Further, the control unit 110 may superimpose the image information on the image and display it, as shown in FIG. 10B, for example. Further, the control unit 110 may display setting information, a menu, etc. of the imaging device 100 in addition to image information.

When switching the display mode by operating the operation button 123c or the like, the control unit 110 switches between the rear live view mode and the EVF live view mode as shown in FIGS. 7A, 8A, and 9A, for example. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7(B), 8(B), and 9(B), the rear playback mode and the EVF playback mode are alternately switched. In addition to these, the control unit 110 may switch between the rear live view mode and the EVF playback mode, or may switch between the rear playback mode and the EVF live view mode.

<Automatic switching of display mode>
Up to this point, the case where the display mode is switched manually has been described, but the display mode may be switched automatically.

11A and 11B are diagrams showing a comparison of the state of each part in the rear display mode and the EVF display mode. When the eye contact detection sensor 131 does not detect the eye contact of the user, the control unit 110 switches to the rear display mode in which the display device 150 is turned on and the EVF 170 is turned off, as shown in FIG. 11, for example. At this time, if the display device 150 is a display device that requires a backlight, the controller 110 turns on both the first backlight 155 and the second backlight 156 .
Further, when the eye contact detection sensor 131 detects the user's eye contact, the control unit 110 turns off the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece unit 174 and switches to the EVF display mode in which the EVF 170 is turned on, as shown in FIG. 11, for example. . At this time, if the display device 150 is a display device that requires a backlight, the control unit 110 turns off both the first backlight 155 and the second backlight 156 .
In this manner, the control unit 110 alternately switches between the rear display mode and the EVF display mode based on the detection result of the user's eye contact by the eye contact detection sensor 131 . Specifically, the control unit 110 switches between the rear live view mode and the EVF live view mode as shown in FIGS. 7A, 8A, and 9A, for example. Further, the control unit 110 switches between the rear playback mode and the EVF playback mode, as shown in FIGS. 7B, 8B, and 9B, for example. Also, when the display mode is automatically switched, the control unit 110 may switch between the rear live view mode and the EVF playback mode, or may switch between the rear playback mode and the EVF live view mode. good.

<Effects of this embodiment>
According to this embodiment, the EVF eyepiece 174 of the EVF 170 is provided in the display device 150 .

According to this configuration, the EVF eyepiece 174 and the display device 150 do not have to be provided separately, so the tradeoff between the area size of the EVF eyepiece 174 and the area size of the display device 150 is eliminated. Specifically, if an area for the display device 150 is secured on the rear surface 190 b of the apparatus main body 190 , there is no need to separately secure an installation space for the EVF eyepiece section 174 . As a result, the imaging apparatus 100 in which the display device 150 and the EVF eyepiece 174 are more preferably arranged on the rear surface 190b of the apparatus main body 190 is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, a rear light-shielding mask 175 is provided between the display device 150 other than the EVF eyepiece 174 and the apparatus main body 190 .

According to this configuration, since the light transmitted through the display device 150 is blocked by the rear light shielding mask 175 in a region other than the EVF eyepiece 174, diffused reflection of the transmitted light is suppressed. As a result, the imaging apparatus 100 is provided in which deterioration of the contrast of the display device 150 is suppressed and the visibility of the live view image and the like displayed on the display device 150 is improved.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the EVF optical system 172 is arranged behind the area of the EVF eyepiece 174 provided in the transparent area of the display device 150 when viewed from the outside of the device main body 190 . ing.

With this configuration, the distance between the EVF display element 171 and the EVF eyepiece 174 is shortened, so the size of the EVF 170 can be reduced. This provides the imaging device 100 including the EVF 170 while suppressing an increase in size.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the display device 150 is configured in a horizontally long rectangular shape, and the imaging button 123a is provided on the upper surface 190e of the apparatus main body 190 on the side of the first side surface 190c of the apparatus main body 190 . The EVF eyepiece 174 is provided on the display device 150 on the side of the second side surface 190 d of the apparatus body 190 and on the side of the top surface 190 e of the apparatus body 190 .

According to this configuration, even when the imaging device 100 is used in the horizontal position and the vertical position, the user's hand operating the imaging button 123a and the user's face looking into the EVF eyepiece 174 do not intersect. A superior imaging device 100 is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, EVF 170 has a light-shielding property except for EVF eyepiece 174 . That is, the EVF optical system 172 and the EVF display element 171 are arranged in a light-shielding space except for the EVF eyepiece 174 .

According to this configuration, the light transmitted through the EVF eyepiece 174 is blocked by the EVF darkroom 173 , so that the light does not enter the apparatus main body 190 via the EVF 170 . As a result, a high-quality captured image with reduced noise is generated. In addition, according to this configuration, the inside of the EVF 170 can be set to a darkroom environment while the eyepiece is being eyed, and the deterioration of the contrast in the EVF eyepiece unit 174 can be suppressed, and the image pickup apparatus 100 with improved visibility of images and the like in the EVF 170 can be realized. provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the display device 150 is turned on, the control unit 110 switches to the rear display mode in which the EVF 170 is turned off.

According to this configuration, in the rear display mode, the display of an image or the like by the display device 150 and the display of an image or the like by the EVF 170 do not overlap in the portion of the EVF eyepiece 174, so the display quality of the display device 150 is improved. An imaging device 100 is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, control unit 110 causes display device 150 to display information of an image displayed on display device 150 in the rear display mode.

According to this configuration, the image information is recognized by the user, so that the imaging apparatus 100 with excellent convenience is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the display device 150 is a display device that requires a backlight, the first backlight is provided between the display device 150 other than the EVF eyepiece 174 and the apparatus main body 190. 155 is provided, and a second backlight 156 is provided within the EVF 170 .

According to this configuration, in the rear display mode, it is possible to prevent the backlight from missing only at the EVF eyepiece 174 of the display device 150 .

Further, according to the present embodiment, the display device 150 is composed of organic EL elements, which are self-luminous display devices.

With this configuration, the backlight can be omitted, so the display device 150 that is lighter and thinner is provided. As a result, the imaging device 100 that is lighter and thinner is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the EVF 170 is turned on, the control unit 110 switches to the EVF display mode in which the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece unit 174 is turned off.

According to this configuration, in the EVF display mode, the display of an image, etc., by the EVF and the display of an image, etc., by the display device 150 do not overlap in the EVF eyepiece section 174, so the display quality of the EVF 170 is improved. An imaging device 100 is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, in the EVF display mode, control unit 110 causes display device 150 other than EVF eyepiece 174 to display black.

According to this configuration, the imaging apparatus 100 is provided that further suppresses deterioration of the contrast of the display content of the EVF 170 due to unnecessary light entering the eye of the user who is eyeing the EVF eyepiece unit 174 .

Further, according to the present embodiment, in the EVF display mode, control unit 110 causes display device 150 in an area adjacent to EVF eyepiece 174 to display an image indicating that EVF 170 is turned on.

According to this configuration, the current display mode can be recognized by the user, so that the imaging apparatus 100 with excellent convenience is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, in the EVF display mode, control unit 110 causes EVF 170 to display information of an image displayed on EVF 170 .

According to this configuration, the user can obtain image information without looking away from the EVF eyepiece 174, so that the imaging apparatus 100 with excellent convenience is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the display device 150 is a display device that requires a backlight, the first backlight is provided between the display device 150 other than the EVF eyepiece 174 and the apparatus main body 190. 155 is provided, a second backlight 156 is provided in the EVF 170, and the second backlight 156 is turned off in the EVF 170 in the EVF display mode.

According to this configuration, it is possible to provide the imaging device 100 that further suppresses the deterioration of the contrast of the display content of the EVF 170 in the EVF display mode.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the eye contact detection sensor 131 does not detect the user's eye contact, the control unit 110 switches to the rear display mode in which the display device 150 is turned on and the EVF 170 is turned off.

According to this configuration, if the user takes his or her eyes off the EVF eyepiece 174, the display mode is automatically switched to the rear display mode. be done.

Further, according to the present embodiment, when the eye contact detection sensor 131 detects eye contact of the user, the control unit 110 turns off the display device 150 of the EVF eyepiece unit 174 and switches to the EVF display mode in which the EVF 170 is turned on. .

According to this configuration, if the user is looking into the EVF eyepiece 174, the display mode is automatically switched to the EVF display mode. Therefore, the imaging apparatus 100 is provided with excellent convenience without the need for switching the display mode. be.

(Embodiment 2)
In this embodiment, a case where a light blocking member is provided adjacent to the display device 150 will be described. FIG. 12 is a rear view showing an example of the configuration of an imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

The imaging device 200 according to this embodiment includes a light blocking member 281 as shown in FIG. 12, for example. Specifically, on the rear surface 190b of the device main body 190, there is provided around the display device 150 to prevent light from entering the EVF eyepiece 174 from between the EVF eyepiece 174 and the user's face when the user's eyes are on the eyepiece. A light blocking member 281 is provided.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the light shielding member 281 is provided over the second side surface 190d side and the upper surface 190e side of the apparatus main body 190 with respect to the display device 150 . For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the light shielding member 281 is composed of a light shielding member 281a and a light shielding member 281b. As shown in FIG. 12, the light shielding member 281a is provided on the side of the second side surface 190d of the apparatus body 190 and extends in the lateral direction (longitudinal direction) of the display device 150. As shown in FIG. On the other hand, the light blocking member 281b is provided extending in the longitudinal direction (horizontal direction) of the display device 150 on the upper surface 190e side of the device body 190 . As a result, when the user uses the imaging device in the horizontal position as shown in FIG. Intrusion of light can be suppressed. The light shielding member 281 (281a, 281b) is made of, for example, a light shielding resin or the like.

Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, light shielding members 281a and 282b are provided on the left and upper sides of the EVF eyepiece 174. In addition to this, around the EVF eyepiece 174, It is preferable to provide a light shielding member as much as possible.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the light shielding member 281 is configured such that the length of the apparatus main body 190 on the side of the upper surface 190e is at least twice the length of the EVF eyepiece 174 in the longitudinal direction of the display device 150. preferably. That is, the light shielding member 281 is configured such that its horizontal length is at least twice the horizontal length of the EVF eyepiece 174 . Thus, it is preferable that the light shielding member 281b has a lateral length sufficiently longer than the lateral width of the EVF eyepiece 174. As shown in FIG. As a result, when the user uses the imaging device in the horizontal position as shown in FIG. 5, it is possible to minimize the angle at which light can enter from the upper surface 190e of the device main body 190, which is highly likely to receive sunlight. Become. Also, for example, when the user uses the imaging device in the vertical position as shown in FIG. can be narrowed down.

FIG. 14 is a rear view showing another configuration example of the imaging device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In the imaging device 200 of the present embodiment, the light shielding member 282 may be provided on the first side surface 190c side of the device main body 190 with respect to the display device 150 . As a result, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, when the user uses the imaging device in the vertical position, it is possible to further prevent light from entering from the first side surface 190c side of the device main body 190, which is highly likely to be exposed to sunlight. becomes possible. The light shielding member 282 extends in the lateral direction (longitudinal direction) of the display device 150, as shown in FIG.

<Effects of this embodiment>
According to this embodiment, the following effects are obtained in addition to the effects of the above-described embodiments. According to this embodiment, the light shielding member 281 is provided adjacent to the periphery of the display device 190 .

According to this configuration, light entering the EVF eyepiece unit 174 from between the EVF eyepiece unit 174 and the user's face is suppressed when the user's eyes are closed. An improved imaging device 200 is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the light blocking member 281 is provided over the display device 150 over the second side surface 190d side and the upper surface 190e side of the device body 190 . Further, the light shielding member 281 extends in the lateral direction of the display device 150 on the side of the second side surface 190d of the apparatus main body 190, and extends in the longitudinal direction of the display device 150 on the side of the upper surface 190e of the apparatus main body 190. ing.

According to this configuration, the light shielding member 281 is provided in the vicinity of the EVF eyepiece 174, so that light entering the EVF eyepiece 174 can be further suppressed. As a result, the imaging device 200 is provided in which the deterioration of the contrast in the EVF 170 is further suppressed and the visibility of the EVF 170 is further improved.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the light shielding member 281 has a length on the side of the upper surface 190e of the device main body 190 that is at least twice the length of the EVF eyepiece 174 in the longitudinal direction of the display device 150. It is configured.

According to this configuration, light entering from the obliquely upper right side of the display device 150 is suppressed, so that the deterioration of the contrast in the EVF 170 is further suppressed, and the imaging device 200 in which the visibility of the EVF 170 is further improved is provided.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the light shielding member 282 is provided on the first side surface 190c side of the device main body 190 with respect to the display device 150 and extends in the lateral direction of the display device 150 .

With this configuration, light entering from the lateral direction of the display device 150 is suppressed, so that the imaging apparatus 200 with improved visibility of the EVF 170 is provided. In addition, according to this configuration, even when the imaging apparatus 200 is used in the vertical position, the penetration of light from above the display device 150 is suppressed. An improved imaging device 200 is provided.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the configuration for realizing the technology of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Numerical values appearing in the text and drawings are merely examples, and the effect of the present invention is not impaired even if different values are used.

Some or all of the functions of the present invention described above may be realized by hardware, for example, by designing an integrated circuit, or a computer such as a microprocessor unit may implement a program for realizing each function. It may be realized by software by interpreting and executing, or may be realized by using both hardware and software.

Also, the control lines and information lines shown in the drawings are those considered necessary for explanation, and do not necessarily show all the control lines and information lines on the product. In practice, it may be considered that almost all configurations are interconnected.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100... Imaging device, 110... Control part, 131... Eye detection sensor, 150... Display device, 155... First backlight, 156... Second backlight, 170... EVF, 171... EVF display element, 172... EVF Optical system 173 EVF darkroom 174 EVF eyepiece 175 Rear light-shielding mask 190 Apparatus body 190b Rear 190c First side 190d Second side 190e Upper surface 200 Imaging device, 281, 281a, 281b, 282... light shielding member

Claims (6)

an imaging optical system;
an imaging device that receives light that has passed through the imaging optical system and generates an electrical signal;
a device body;
a display device provided on the back surface of the apparatus main body and capable of displaying an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device;
an electronic viewfinder provided inside the device body and capable of displaying an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device;
with
wherein the display device is transmissive, and an eyepiece portion of the electronic viewfinder is provided in a transmissive region of the display device;
A light shielding member is provided on the rear surface of the device main body, adjacent to the display device, to suppress light from entering the eyepiece,
The light shielding member is provided over the second side surface side located on the right side with respect to the front surface of the apparatus main body and the upper surface side of the apparatus main body with respect to the display device,
the light shielding member extends in the lateral direction of the display device on the second side surface side of the device body, and extends in the longitudinal direction of the display device on the top surface side of the device body ;
In order to prevent light from entering between the user's face and the eyepiece portion when the user's eyes are brought into contact with the eyepiece, the light shielding member provided on the upper surface side of the apparatus main body with respect to the display device is attached to the eyepiece. The light shielding member disposed near one side of the upper surface side of the apparatus main body of the eyepiece section and provided on the second side surface side of the apparatus main body with respect to the display device is provided on the apparatus main body of the eyepiece section. A positional relationship between the eyepiece and the light shielding member in the display device is determined so as to be arranged near one side of the second side surface.
Imaging device. The imaging device according to claim 1,
The light shielding member is configured such that the length of the upper surface side of the device main body is at least twice the length of the eyepiece portion in the longitudinal direction of the display device.
Imaging device. The imaging device according to claim 1,
The light shielding member is provided on a first side surface side positioned to the left of the front surface of the device body with respect to the display device,
The light shielding member on the first side surface side of the device body extends in the lateral direction of the display device,
Imaging device. an imaging optical system;
an imaging device that receives light that has passed through the imaging optical system and generates an electrical signal;
a device body;
a display device provided on the back surface of the apparatus main body and capable of displaying an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device;
an electronic viewfinder provided inside the device body and capable of displaying an image generated based on the electrical signal generated by the imaging device;
with
wherein the display device is transmissive, and an eyepiece portion of the electronic viewfinder is provided in a transmissive region of the display device;
A light shielding member is provided on the rear surface of the device main body, adjacent to the display device, to suppress light from entering the eyepiece,
The light shielding member is provided over the display device on a second side surface side positioned in a first direction with respect to the front surface of the device main body and on the upper surface side of the device main body,
the light shielding member extends in the lateral direction of the display device on the second side surface side of the device body, and extends in the longitudinal direction of the display device on the top surface side of the device body ;
In order to prevent light from entering between the user's face and the eyepiece when the user's eyes are closed, the light shielding member provided on the upper surface side of the apparatus main body with respect to the display device is attached to the eyepiece. The light shielding member arranged near one side of the upper surface side of the apparatus main body and provided on the second side surface side of the apparatus main body with respect to the display device is the eyepiece portion of the apparatus main body. 2, the positional relationship between the eyepiece and the light shielding member in the display device is determined so as to be arranged in the vicinity of one side of the side surface of the display device.
Imaging device. In the imaging device according to claim 4,
The light shielding member is configured such that the length of the upper surface side of the device main body is at least twice the length of the eyepiece portion in the longitudinal direction of the display device.
Imaging device. In the imaging device according to claim 4,
The light shielding member is provided on a first side surface side of the display device positioned in a second direction different from the first direction with respect to the front surface of the device body,
The light shielding member on the first side surface side of the device body extends in the lateral direction of the display device,
Imaging device.

Images