Accessory device, control method, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application provides an accessory device, a control method, and a storage medium. The accessory device is attached in a removable manner between a camera device and an interchangeable lens. The accessory device performs first communication with the camera device and second communication with the interchangeable lens, and accepts a predetermined operation related to a manual focus operation. The accessory device sets an extent to which an amount of driving of a focus lens in the interchangeable lens is effective with respect to an amount of operation of a first operation unit, and transmits, to the interchangeable lens via the second communication, the amount of driving or a driving speed of the focus lens in the interchangeable lens in accordance with the predetermined operation and the set extent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to accessory devices attached between a camera body and an interchangeable lens, as well as control methods and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] In interchangeable lens camera systems where interchangeable lenses can be attached to a video recording device (hereinafter also referred to as the "camera body"), techniques for adjusting focus by autofocus (AF) or manual focus (MF) are known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-207363 discloses a camera system in which manual focus (MF) operation can be performed during autofocus (AF) operation by operating a focus control ring for interchangeable lenses.

[0004] In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-207363, for example, the user can perform MF (manual focus) operation to focus on a subject different from the subject that is the AF (autofocus) subject. However, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-207363 does not take into account the fact that camera bodies with various characteristics and interchangeable lenses can be combined, therefore, further improvement is needed in terms of the usability of MF operation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure is made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and this disclosure provides accessory devices that enable more user-friendly MF operation.

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of this disclosure provides an accessory device that is removably attached between a camera device and an interchangeable lens. The accessory device includes: a communication unit configured to perform first communication with the camera device and second communication with the interchangeable lens; a first operation unit configured to receive a predetermined operation related to manual focusing; a setting unit configured to set a degree to which the drive amount of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is effective relative to the operation amount of the first operation unit; and a control unit configured to, based on the predetermined operation and the set degree, transmit the drive amount or drive speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens via the second communication.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a method for controlling an accessory device removably attached between a camera device and an interchangeable lens. The accessory device includes a communication unit and a first operation unit. The communication unit is configured to perform first communication with the camera device and second communication with the interchangeable lens. The first operation unit is configured to receive a predetermined operation related to manual focusing. The control method includes: setting a degree to which a drive amount of a focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is effective relative to an operation amount of the first operation unit; receiving the predetermined operation via the first operation unit; and, based on the predetermined operation and the set degree, transmitting a drive amount or drive speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens via the second communication.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium including instructions for a method of controlling an accessory device removably attached between a camera device and an interchangeable lens, wherein the accessory device includes a communication unit and a first operating unit, the communication unit being configured to perform first communication with the camera device and second communication with the interchangeable lens, the first operating unit being configured to receive a predetermined operation related to manual focusing operation, the control method including: setting, via a setting unit, a degree to which a drive amount of a focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is effective relative to an operating amount of the first operating unit; receiving the predetermined operation via the first operating unit; and, via a control unit, transmitting, via the second communication, a drive amount or drive speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens according to the predetermined operation and the set degree.

[0009] According to the present invention, an accessory device capable of performing more user-friendly MF operation can be provided.

[0010] Other features of the invention will become clear from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a camera system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a diagram illustrating the communication path of the first communication according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figures 3A to 3C This is a diagram showing the communication waveform of communication method A of the first communication according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figures 4A to 4CThis is a diagram showing the communication waveform of communication method B of the first communication according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the communication path of the second communication according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This is a diagram showing the communication waveform of the communication method C of the second communication according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the appearance of the intermediate adapter according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the startup sequence of a camera system according to a first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of AF stop functions of a camera system according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the AF stop function of the intermediate adapter according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of AF drive range variation functions of the camera system according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 12A and Figure 12B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the AF drive range variation function of the intermediate adapter according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the AF drive range variation function of the camera system according to the second embodiment.

[0024] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of AF speed setting functions of a camera system according to a third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 15A and Figure 15B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the AF speed setting function of the intermediate adapter according to the third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of focus fine-tuning functions of a camera system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the focus fine-tuning function of the camera system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the sequence of temporary MF functions of a camera system according to the fifth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the temporary MF function of the camera system according to the fifth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of updating the "focus reference position information" stored by the intermediate adapter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 21A This is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the update process of the "focus reference position" stored by the intermediate adapter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 21B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the focus stop confirmation process performed by the intermediate adapter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 22A and Figure 22B This is a flowchart illustrating the process for storing focus positions according to the sixth embodiment.

[0034] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating the communication data replacement process performed by the intermediate adapter according to the sixth embodiment.

[0035] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the process of re-storing the focus position during zoom operation after the focus position has been stored, according to the sixth embodiment.

[0036] Figure 25A-1 and Figure 25A-2 This is a flowchart illustrating the operations performed in the focus position reproduction operation according to the sixth embodiment.

[0037] Figure 25B This is a flowchart illustrating the operations performed in the warning display process according to the sixth embodiment.

[0038] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating the focusing operation when the focus position is stored and a reproduction operation is performed according to the sixth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the focusing operation according to the sixth embodiment when the speed setting of the intermediate adapter is switched during focus reproduction drive.

[0040] Figure 28 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation in the inter-exposure focus drive processing when capturing a still image according to the seventh embodiment.

[0041] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating the focusing operation in the inter-exposure focusing drive when capturing a still image according to the seventh embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] First Embodiment

[0043] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Several features are described in the embodiments, but the invention is not limited to requiring all of these features; rather, these features can be appropriately combined. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same or similar configurations are given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0044] Camera system configuration

[0045] Figure 1A and Figure 1B An example of the functional configuration of a camera system (referred to as a "camera system") according to this embodiment is shown. The camera system includes a camera body 200 as an example of a camera device, an interchangeable lens 100, and an adapter device (referred to as an "intermediate adapter" or simply "adapter") 300 as an example of an accessory device. The camera body 200 of this embodiment can be used with the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate adapter 300 attached. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The example shown illustrates a camera system in which an intermediate adapter 300 is attached between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100. However, multiple adapters can be connected and attached between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0046] Notice, Figure 1A and Figure 1B One or more functional blocks shown can be implemented in hardware such as an ASIC or a programmable logic array (PLA), or in software executed by a processor such as a CPU or an MPU. Functional blocks can also be implemented as a combination of software and hardware.

[0047] In the camera system of this embodiment, multiple communication methods are used for communication between the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate adapter 300. The camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate adapter 300 send control commands, data (information), etc., through corresponding communication circuits 208, 112, and 303. Specifically, the camera system of this embodiment has a communication path through first communication units 2081, 1121, and 3031 of the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate adapter 300. The camera system also has a communication path through second communication units 2082, 1122, and 3032 of the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate adapter 300. The first communication units 1121, 2081, and 3031 and the second communication units 1122, 2082, and 3032 support multiple communication methods. These communication units can select the optimal communication method for various situations by synchronizing with each other and switching to the same communication method, depending on the type of data to be communicated, the purpose of communication, etc. Note that the communication methods, communication circuits, and communication paths are not limited to those described in this embodiment, and can take different forms, as long as the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate adapter 300 can communicate with each other. For example, the communication path can be a first communication unit or a second communication unit.

[0048] First, the configuration of the interchangeable lens 100, camera body 200, and intermediate adapter 300 will be described in more detail. The interchangeable lens 100 and intermediate adapter 300 are mechanically and electrically connected via a mount 400, which serves as a connecting mechanism. Similarly, the intermediate adapter 300 and camera body 200 are mechanically and electrically connected via a mount 401, which also serves as a connecting mechanism. Note that the mount 400 is schematically shown as a mount provided in the interchangeable lens 100 and a mount provided in the intermediate adapter 300 connected together, and these mounts are capable of being attached to and detached from each other. Similarly, the mount 401 is schematically shown as a mount provided in the intermediate adapter 300 and a mount provided in the camera body 200 connected together, and these mounts are capable of being attached to and detached from each other.

[0049] The mounting surfaces of the mounting members provided in each of the interchangeable lens 100, intermediate adapter 300, and camera body 200 are provided with communication terminals, which will be described below. When the units are connected via mounting members (such as mounting member 400 or mounting member 401), the corresponding communication terminals come into contact with each other. This allows the interchangeable lens 100, camera body 200, and intermediate adapter 300 to communicate with each other via the communication terminals (described below) provided in mounting members 400 and 401.

[0050] The interchangeable lens 100 and intermediate adapter 300 receive power from the camera body 200 via power terminals (not shown) provided in the mountings 400 and 401. The interchangeable lens 100 and intermediate adapter 300 then supply the power required for operation to the various actuators described below, as well as the lens microcomputer 111 and adapter microcomputer 302.

[0051] The interchangeable lens 100 includes a camera optical system. From the subject 150 side to the intermediate adapter 300 side, the camera optical system sequentially includes a field lens 101, a zoom lens 102, an aperture unit 114, an image stabilizing lens 103, and a focusing lens 104 for adjusting focus. The zoom lens 102 magnifies the subject image, and the aperture unit 114 adjusts the amount of light received by the image sensor 201. The image stabilizing lens 103 reduces image blur caused by camera shake (e.g., hand shakiness) by shifting in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the camera optical system.

[0052] Zoom lens 102 and focusing lens 104 are held by lens holders 105 and 106, respectively. Lens holders 105 and 106 are guided by guide shafts (not shown), enabling them to move along the optical axis (indicated by the dashed line in the figure). Lens holders 105 and 106 are then driven along the optical axis by stepper motors (M) 107 and 108. Stepper motors 107 and 108 move zoom lens 102 and focusing lens 104, respectively, in sync with drive pulses.

[0053] The lens microcomputer 111 is a lens control unit that controls the operation of each unit in the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the lens microcomputer 111 can control the operation of each unit in the interchangeable lens 100 by executing a program. The lens microcomputer 111 receives control commands, transmission request commands, etc., sent from the camera body 200 or the intermediate adapter 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. The lens microcomputer 111 performs lens control corresponding to the control commands and sends lens data corresponding to the transmission request commands to the camera body 200 or the intermediate adapter 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. The lens microcomputer 111 also drives the stepper motors 107 and 108 by outputting drive signals to the zoom drive circuit 119 and the focus drive circuit 120 in response to commands related to zoom, focus, etc. in the control commands. This enables zoom processing (controlling zoom operation via the zoom lens 102) and AF (autofocus) processing (controlling focus adjustment operation via the focusing lens 104).

[0054] The aperture unit 114 includes aperture blades 114a and 114b. The state (position) of the aperture blades 114a and 114b is detected by a Hall effect device 115. The output from the Hall effect device 115 is input to the lens microcomputer 111 via an amplifier circuit (Amp) 122 and an analog-to-digital converter (A / D) circuit (A / D) 123. The lens microcomputer 111 drives the aperture actuator (ACT) 113 by outputting a drive signal to the aperture drive circuit 121 based on the input signal from the A / D conversion circuit 123. This controls the light adjustment operation of the aperture unit 114.

[0055] Furthermore, the lens microcomputer 111, in response to camera shake detected by a vibration sensor (not shown), such as a vibration gyroscope, installed in the interchangeable lens 100, drives the anti-vibration actuator (ACT) 126 via the anti-vibration drive circuit 125. The anti-vibration actuator 126 includes, for example, a voice coil motor. This performs anti-vibration processing to control the shifting operation (anti-vibration operation) of the anti-vibration lens 103.

[0056] The interchangeable lens 100 also includes a manually operated control ring (referred to as an "electronic ring") 130 that can be rotatably manipulated by the user, and a ring rotation detector 131. The ring rotation detector 131 is, for example, a light interruptor that outputs a two-phase signal in response to rotation of the manually operated control ring 130. The lens microcomputer 111 can use the two-phase signal output from the ring rotation detector 131 to detect the amount of rotation operation (including direction) of the manually operated control ring 130.

[0057] The intermediate adapter 300 is, for example, an expander for changing the focal length, and includes a zoom lens 301 and an adapter microcomputer 302. Although this embodiment is described using the case where the intermediate adapter 300 is an expander as an example, the intermediate adapter 300 may also be a wide-angle converter for changing the focal length, a mounting converter for changing the flange back length, etc.

[0058] The adapter microcomputer 302 is an adapter control unit that controls the operation of each unit in the intermediate adapter 300. The adapter control unit can also be referred to as an "accessory control unit" or a "communication control unit." The adapter microcomputer 302 can control the operation of at least some units in the intermediate adapter 300 by executing programs. The adapter microcomputer 302 receives control commands, transmission request commands, etc., sent from the camera body 200 via the adapter communication circuit 303. Upon receiving a control command from the camera body 200 for the intermediate adapter 300, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs adapter control corresponding to the control command. Additionally, upon receiving a transmission request command from the camera body 200, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends adapter data corresponding to the transmission request command to the camera body 200 via the adapter communication circuit 303.

[0059] Furthermore, upon receiving a command for the interchangeable lens 100, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs communication conversion processing as needed, and then sends control commands, request commands, etc., to the interchangeable lens 100 via the adapter communication circuit 303 as needed. In addition, based on the operation of the adapter operation unit 320, etc. (described below), the adapter microcomputer 302 sends control commands, request commands, etc., to the interchangeable lens 100 via the adapter communication circuit 303 as needed.

[0060] The adapter microcomputer 302 receives lens data from the interchangeable lens 100 via the adapter communication circuit 303, which corresponds to a send request command made to the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, after performing communication conversion processing as needed, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends the lens data to the camera body 200 via the adapter communication circuit 303 as needed.

[0061] Similar to the interchangeable lens 100, the intermediate adapter 300 includes an adapter control ring (referred to as an "electronic ring") 310 and a ring rotation detector 311. The adapter control ring 310 serves as an operating member that can be rotatably manipulated by a user. Like the ring rotation detector 131 of the interchangeable lens 100, the ring rotation detector 311 is constructed, for example, by a light interruptor that outputs a two-phase signal in response to rotation of the adapter control ring 310. The adapter microcomputer 302 can use the two-phase signal output from the ring rotation detector 311 to detect the amount of rotational operation (including direction) of the adapter control ring 310.

[0062] In addition to the adapter control ring 310, the intermediate adapter 300 also includes an adapter operation unit 320. The operating components of the adapter operation unit 320 may include one or more operating components, such as switches, buttons, touch panels, etc.

[0063] The intermediate adapter 300 also includes an adapter notification unit 330 for notifying users of information. The notification components provided in the adapter notification unit 330 may be LEDs, LCDs (liquid crystal displays), speakers, vibrators, etc., and one or more notification components may be provided.

[0064] The intermediate adapter 300 also includes an adapter storage unit 340 for storing information. The adapter storage unit 340 may be, for example, a non-volatile memory. The adapter storage unit 340 stores information such as focus position information for focus position reproduction drive, warning confirmation information for communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, etc. Examples of the information stored in the adapter storage unit 340 will be described below.

[0065] The camera body 200 includes an image sensor 201, which may be a CCD sensor, a CMOS sensor, etc.; an A / D conversion circuit 202; a signal processing circuit 203; a recording unit 204; a camera microcomputer 205; and a display unit 206.

[0066] Image sensor 201 performs photoelectric conversion on the subject image formed by the camera optical system in interchangeable lens 100 and outputs an electrical signal (analog signal). A / D conversion circuit 202 converts the analog signal from image sensor 201 into a digital signal. Signal processing circuit 203 performs various types of image processing on the digital signal from A / D conversion circuit 202 to generate a video signal. Signal processing circuit 203 also generates focus information indicating the contrast state (focus state of camera optical system) of the subject image and brightness information indicating the exposure state based on the video signal. Signal processing circuit 203 outputs the video signal to display unit 206, and display unit 206 displays the video signal as a real-time viewfinder image for checking composition, focus state, etc.

[0067] The camera microcomputer 205, which functions as a camera control unit, controls the camera body 200 in response to input from the operating component 207, such as a camera command switch and various setting switches. The camera microcomputer 205 sends control commands and request commands to the interchangeable lens 100 or intermediate adapter 300 via the camera communication circuit 208 as needed. The camera microcomputer 205 also receives lens data or adapter data from the interchangeable lens 100 or intermediate adapter 300. For example, based on focus information generated by the signal processing circuit 203, the camera microcomputer 205 sends control commands related to focus adjustment operations to the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the camera microcomputer 205 sends a request command to the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain lens data related to focus adjustment operations, and also receives lens data related to focus adjustment operations from the interchangeable lens 100.

[0068] The communication path of the first communication

[0069] The following will refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The following describes the communication paths configured between the camera first communication unit 2081 of the camera microcomputer 205, the adapter first communication unit 3031 of the adapter microcomputer 302, and the lens first communication unit 1121 of the lens microcomputer 111 in this embodiment. In the following description, the communication performed in these communication paths is also referred to as "first communication".

[0070] Figure 2AAn example of the communication path for the first communication is shown. The adapter first communication unit 3031 and the lens first communication unit 1121 communicate via signal lines connected through communication terminals provided in the mounting 400. The communication terminals provided in the mounting 400 include LCLK 11211, DCL 11212, DLC 11213, LCLK 30311, DCL 30312, and DLC 30313. The adapter first communication unit 3031 and the camera first communication unit 2081 communicate via signal lines connected through communication terminals provided in the mounting 401. The communication terminals provided in the mounting 401 include RTS 30314, DCL 30315, DLC 30316, RTS 20811, DCL 20812, and DLC 20813. In this embodiment, the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the lens first communication unit 1121 communicate using communication method A (described later), which is a three-wire clock synchronous serial communication method. On the other hand, the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the camera first communication unit 2081 communicate using communication method B (described later), which is a three-wire start-stop synchronous serial communication method and is different from communication method A.

[0071] Figure 2B It shows the relationship with Figure 2A Examples of different communication paths for the first communication are shown. The adapter first communication unit 3031 and the lens first communication unit 1121 communicate using signal lines connected via communication terminals provided in the mounting member 400. In this embodiment, the communication terminals provided in the mounting member 400 include RTS 11214, DCL 11215, DLC 11216, RTS 30317, DCL 30318, and DLC 30319. The adapter first communication unit 3031 and the camera first communication unit 2081 use... Figure 2A The same signal lines are used for communication, and these signal lines are connected via communication terminals provided in mounting component 401. The communication terminals provided in mounting component 401 include RTS 30314, DCL 30315, DLC 30316, RTS 20811, DCL 20812, and DLC 20813. Figure 2BIn the examples shown, the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the lens first communication unit 1121, as well as the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the camera first communication unit 2081, all communicate using communication method B, which is a three-wire start-stop synchronous serial communication method. Note that the combination of communication paths and methods is not limited to these examples, and other combinations can be used. For example, the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the lens first communication unit 1121, as well as the adapter first communication unit 3031 and the camera first communication unit 2081, can all communicate using communication method A.

[0072] Communication waveform of communication method A in the first communication

[0073] Reference Figures 3A to 3C The communication waveforms shown illustrate communication method A, which is a three-wire clock-synchronized serial communication method according to the first communication method of this embodiment. Communication method A is a communication method implemented between a communication master device and a communication slave device. The communication master device sends control commands, data transmission request commands, etc., and the communication slave device transmits data in response to the data transmission request command. Figure 2A In the embodiment shown, the adapter first communication unit 3031 is used as a communication master device, the lens first communication unit 1121 is used as a communication sub-device, and the two communicate with each other.

[0074] The clock signal LCLK is primarily used for data synchronization between the communication master device and the communication slave device. The communication signal DCL is used to send data, such as control commands and data transmission request commands, from the communication master device to the communication slave device. The data signal DLC is used to send data from the communication slave device to the communication master device. In communication method A, communication is conducted in full-duplex mode, where the communication master device and the communication slave device simultaneously transmit and receive data synchronously with the common clock signal LCLK.

[0075] Figure 3AThe waveform of a communication signal in one frame is shown; one frame is the smallest unit of communication. The master communication device outputs a clock signal LCLK consisting of eight pulse cycles, and also synchronously sends a communication signal DCL to the slave communication device. Simultaneously, the master communication device receives a data signal DLC output from the slave communication device synchronously with the clock signal LCLK. In this way, one byte (8 bits) of data is sent and received between the master and slave communication devices synchronously with this set of clock signals LCLK. This period of sending and receiving one byte of data is called a "data frame." After the data frame, a communication pause period is inserted by a communication wait request message (hereinafter referred to as a "communication wait request") BUSY (busy) notified by the slave communication device to the master communication device. This communication pause period is called a "BUSY frame." A communication unit consisting of a group including data frames and BUSY frames is called a "frame."

[0076] Figure 3B The waveform of the communication signal, consisting of three frames, is shown. Figure 3B During a three-frame time period (T1), the master communication device sends command CMD1 to the slave communication device and receives two bytes of data DT1a and DT1b corresponding to the command from the slave communication device. The type and number of bytes of the data DT corresponding to each command CMD are pre-determined between the master and slave communication devices. In the first frame, after transmitting the clock signal LCLK, the master communication device sends command CMD1 corresponding to the requested data DT1a and DT1b as the communication signal DCL. The data signal DCL in this frame is considered invalid data.

[0077] Then, the master communication device outputs a clock signal LCLK for eight cycles, and then switches the communication terminal state on the master device side from output format to input format. After the communication terminal state on the master device side is switched, the slave communication device switches the communication terminal state on its side from input format to output format. Then, the slave communication device sets the signal level of the clock signal LCLK low to notify the master communication device of a communication wait request BUSY. During the notification period of the communication wait request BUSY, the master communication device keeps the communication terminal state in input format and suspends communication with the slave communication device.

[0078] During the notification period of the communication wait request BUSY, the communication sub-device generates data DT1a corresponding to command CMD1. After preparation for transmitting the data signal DLC in the next frame is complete, the communication sub-device sets the clock signal LCLK high to notify the communication master device that the communication wait request BUSY has been cancelled. Upon recognizing that the communication wait request BUSY has been cancelled, the communication master device receives data DT1a from the communication sub-device by sending a frame of clock signal LCLK to the communication sub-device. Thereafter, the communication master device receives data DT1b in the same manner.

[0079] Figure 3C The waveform of the communication signal, consisting of four frames, is shown. Figure 3C During a four-frame time period (T2), the master communication device sends a command CMD2 to the slave communication device and receives three-byte camera data DT2a, DT2b, and DT2c corresponding to the command from the slave communication device. The slave communication device notifies the master communication device of a communication wait request (BUSY) in the first frame, but not in the second through fourth frames. This allows for shorter time intervals between frames.

[0080] Communication waveform of communication method B in the first communication

[0081] Reference Figures 4A to 4C The communication waveform shown illustrates communication method B, which is a three-wire start-stop synchronous serial communication method based on the first communication method of this embodiment. Communication method B is a communication method implemented between a communication master device and a communication slave device. The communication master device sends control commands, data transmission request commands, etc., and the communication slave device responds to the data transmission request command by transmitting data. Figure 2A In the illustrated embodiment, the camera's first communication unit 2081 serves as the main communication device, and the adapter's first communication unit 3031 serves as the sub-communication device, and the two communicate with each other. Furthermore, in Figure 2B In the illustrated embodiment, the camera body 200 and the intermediate adapter 300 communicate with each other, wherein the camera first communication unit 2081 is used as a communication master device and the adapter first communication unit 3031 is used as a communication sub-device. The intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 communicate with each other, wherein the adapter first communication unit 3031 is used as a communication master device and the lens first communication unit 1121 is used as a communication sub-device.

[0082] The Communication Request signal (RTS) is used to indicate the start timing of transmission and reception from the communication master device to the communication slave device. The Communication Request Signal (DCL) is used to send data, such as control commands and data transmission request commands, from the communication master device to the communication slave device. The Data Request Signal (DLC) is used to send data from the communication slave device to the communication master device.

[0083] In communication method B, the master and slave devices do not transmit and receive data synchronously with a common clock signal as in communication method A. Instead, they transmit and receive data at a predefined communication bit rate. The "communication bit rate" refers to the amount of data that can be transmitted per second, expressed in bits per second (bps). The master and slave devices communicate with each other using full-duplex communication, where they transmit and receive data simultaneously.

[0084] Figure 4A The waveform of the communication signal in one frame of communication method B is shown. One frame is the smallest unit of communication. When no data is being sent or received, the communication request signal RTS is high. When the communication master device sets the communication request signal RTS low, data transmission and reception begin. When the communication request signal RTS is detected to change to low, the communication slave device begins data output of the data signal DLC. Furthermore, when the start bit ST of the data signal DLC is detected, the communication master device begins data output of the data signal DLC.

[0085] The data format of the Data Frame (DLC) will be described in more detail. A DLC frame consists of the first half of a data frame and the subsequent BUSY frame. In the non-transmitting state, when no data is being transmitted, the signal level is high. The communication sub-device notifies the communication master to begin transmitting a DLC frame by setting the signal level low for one bit duration. This one-bit duration is called the "Start Bit (ST)," and the data frame begins from this bit. The communication sub-device then transmits one byte of data over an eight-bit duration from the second to the ninth bit. The data bit sequence follows MSB priority format, starting with the most significant data D7, followed by data D6 and D5, and ending with the least significant data D0. A parity (PA) bit is added to the 10th bit. The data frame, starting from the Start Bit (ST), is completed by setting the signal level high during the duration of the Stop Bit (SP), which indicates the end of the frame. The BUSY frame is then added after the Stop Bit (SP). The BUSY frame duration is the period during which the communication sub-device notifies the communication master of the communication wait request for BUSY. As shown in the figure, "DLC (with BUSY)" indicates a low signal level until the communication wait request BUSY is cancelled. When the communication sub-device does not need to notify of the communication wait request BUSY, a data format for a frame constituting a no-BUSY frame is also defined, as shown in the figure, "DLC (without BUSY)". In other words, the data format of the DLC data signal allows the communication sub-device to choose whether to notify of the communication wait request BUSY based on its processing status.

[0086] This section describes a method used by the communication master device to identify the presence of a communication wait request (BUSY). The communication master device defines one of bit positions B1 and B2 in the DLC (no BUSY) and DLC (with BUSY) waveforms in the diagram as a designated position P for identifying the presence of a communication wait request (BUSY). The selection of designated position P from bit positions B1 and B2 addresses the issue that the processing time after the data frame of the data signal DLC passes, until the signal level goes low to notify of the communication wait request (BUSY), varies depending on the processing performance of the communication sub-device. Which bit position B1 or B2 will be used as designated position P will be predetermined by the communication between the communication master device and the communication sub-device. Note that designated position P does not need to be selected from either bit position B1 or B2, but can be selected from a later bit position based on the processing capabilities of the microcomputers of both devices.

[0087] The following describes how, in communication method B, a BUSY frame is added to the data signal DLC as a supplement to the BUSY frame. In communication method A, the BUSY frame is added to the clock signal LCLK. In communication method A, the same signal line is used to communicate between the clock signal LCLK output by the communication master device and the communication wait request BUSY notified by the communication slave device. Therefore, conflicts between the outputs of the communication master device and the communication slave device are prevented by allocating available output periods on a time-division basis. To ensure that the outputs do not conflict with each other, an output prohibition period is inserted between the time when the communication master device completes the output of the clock signal LCLK and the time when the communication slave device is allowed to output the communication wait request BUSY, during which both outputs are prohibited. However, inserting an output prohibition period where communication is impossible reduces the effective communication speed. In communication method B, this problem does not occur because the BUSY frame is added to the data signal DLC, which is a dedicated output signal for the communication slave device.

[0088] The data format of the communication signal DCL will be described below. Since the communication signal DCL and the data signal DLC share the same data frame specification from ST to B2, they will not be described in detail. Unlike the data signal DLC, adding BUSY frames to the communication signal DCL is prohibited. Figure 4B The corresponding method in communication method B is shown. Figure 3B The waveform. That is, during the three-frame period (T1), the communication master device sends the command CMD1 to the communication sub-device and receives two bytes of data DT1a and DT1b corresponding to the command from the communication sub-device. Figure 4C The corresponding method in communication method B is shown. Figure 3CThe waveform is shown in the figure. In other words, the figure shows the waveform that occurs when the master communication device sends the command CMD2 to the sub-communication device during a four-frame time period (T2) and receives three bytes of lens data DT2a, DT2b, and DT2c corresponding to the command from the sub-communication device.

[0089] The communication path of the second communication

[0090] The following will refer to Figure 5 The communication path for the second communication is described below. In this embodiment, a second communication path is configured between the camera second communication unit 2082 disposed in the camera microcomputer 205, the adapter second communication unit 3032 disposed in the adapter microcomputer 302, and the lens second communication unit 1122 disposed in the lens microcomputer 111. Communication performed through this communication path is also referred to as "second communication".

[0091] The adapter second communication unit 3032 and the lens second communication unit 1122 communicate using signal lines, which are connected via communication terminals provided in the mounting part 400. The communication terminals provided in the mounting part 400 include CS11221, DATA 11222, CS 30321, and DATA 30322. The adapter second communication unit 3032 and the camera second communication unit 2082 communicate using signal lines, which are connected via communication terminals provided in the mounting part 401. The communication terminals provided on the mounting part 401 include CS 30323, DATA 30324, CS 20821, and DATA 20822. In this embodiment, the adapter second communication unit 3032 communicates with the lens second communication unit 1122, and the adapter second communication unit 3032 communicates with the camera second communication unit 2082 using communication method C, which is a dual-wire start / stop synchronous serial communication method. Communication method C will be described below.

[0092] Note that the above are merely examples of embodiments of the communication path for the second communication. The combination of communication path and communication method is not limited to this, but can be other combinations. For example, the adapter second communication unit 3032 and the lens second communication unit 1122 can communicate using communication method C, while the adapter second communication unit 3032 and the camera second communication unit 2082 can communicate using communication method A.

[0093] Communication waveform of second communication

[0094] Reference Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe communication waveforms shown illustrate communication method C, which is a two-wire start-stop synchronous serial communication method according to the second communication method of this embodiment. Communication method C is a communication method implemented between a communication master device and one or more communication sub-devices. The communication master device sends control commands, data transmission request commands, etc., and the communication sub-devices transmit data in response to the data transmission request commands. Figure 5 In the communication between the camera's second communication unit 2082 and the adapter's second communication unit 3032 shown, the camera's second communication unit 2082 is the main communication device, and the adapter's second communication unit 3032 is the sub-communication device. In the communication between the adapter's second communication unit 3032 and the lens's second communication unit 1122, the adapter's second communication unit 3032 is the main communication device, and the lens's second communication unit 1122 is the sub-communication device.

[0095] Compared to communication methods A and B, which are one-to-one communication between a master communication device and a sub-device, communication method C is a one-to-many communication, in which the master communication device can communicate with multiple sub-devices. Therefore, for example, another adapter second communication unit (not shown) can be connected between the camera second communication unit 2082 and the adapter second communication unit 3032. In this case, the camera second communication unit 2082 can communicate with both adapter second communication units.

[0096] Communication method C achieves one-to-many communication by switching between broadcast communication mode and P2P communication mode. Broadcast communication mode is characterized by data being simultaneously sent from the master communication device to all connected sub-devices. P2P communication mode is characterized by data being sent and received between the master communication device and any one of the connected sub-devices.

[0097] In broadcast communication mode, the control signal CS is used to indicate the start timing of transmission and reception from the communication master device to the communication slave device. Additionally, the communication signal DATA is used to send data such as control commands and data transmission request commands from the communication master device to the communication slave device.

[0098] In P2P mode, the control signal CS is used to notify the completion of data reception between the communication master device and the communication slave device. Then, the communication signal DATA is used for data transmission from the communication master device to the communication slave device (such as control commands, data transmission request commands, etc.), and for data transmission from the communication slave device to the communication master device.

[0099] In communication method C, similar to communication method B, transmission and reception are performed at a predefined communication bit rate. The communication master device and communication slave device communicate using a half-duplex communication method, which enables bidirectional communication using a single data signal line by alternately switching between transmission and reception.

[0100] Figure 6A The diagram shows the communication waveform of the communication signal DATA in one frame of communication method C. One frame is the smallest unit of communication. (Refer to...) Figure 6A Describe the communication data format for communication method C. The communication data format is the same for both broadcast and P2P communication. This section will describe the communication data format in a case referred to as "start-stop synchronous communication," where the communication speed to be used for communication is predetermined, and data is sent and received at a communication bit rate according to that speed.

[0101] First, in the non-transmission state where no data is being transmitted, the signal level remains high. Next, the signal level is set low for one bit to notify the data receiver of the start of data transmission. This one-bit period is called the start bit (ST). Next, one byte of data is transmitted over an eight-bit period from the second to the ninth bit. The data bit sequence follows MSB priority format, starting with the most significant data D7, followed by data D6, data D5, and so on down to data D1, ending with the least significant data D0. A parity check (PA) bit is added to the 10th bit, and finally, the signal level is set high for the period indicated by the stop bit SP (which indicates the end of data transmission), thus completing a frame period that began with the start bit ST.

[0102] The above is merely an example of a communication data format implementation in communication method C, and other communication data formats can be used. For example, the data bit sequence can be LSB-preferred or 9 bits long, and parity (PA) information is not required. The communication data format can be switched between broadcast communication mode and P2P communication mode.

[0103] The following will refer to Figure 6B This describes the communication formats for broadcast and P2P communication. In broadcast communication, the master device sets the control signal CS low to notify the slave device that broadcast communication is about to begin, and then outputs the data to be sent on the communication signal DATA. Additionally, when the master device detects the start bit ST input from the communication signal DATA, it sets the control signal CS low. Note that the control signal CS level does not change at this point because the master device has already set it low.

[0104] Once the output up to the stop bit SP is complete, the communication master device cancels setting the control signal CS low. After receiving data input from the communication signal DATA up to the stop bit SP, the communication sub-device analyzes the received data and performs internal processing associated with the received data. Then, after the communication sub-device has completed preparation for receiving the next data, the signal level of the control signal CS goes high because the low output of the control signal CS is canceled. The communication master device can then detect that the reception processing of the communication sub-device is complete by confirming that the signal level of the control signal CS has gone high, and can determine that preparation for the next communication is complete. In this way, in broadcast communication, the signal sent by the control signal CS serves as a signal indicating that broadcast communication mode has started and is being executed.

[0105] P2P communication mode is a one-to-one (individual communication) mode in which a communication master device designates one of multiple communication sub-devices and sends / receives data only to / from the designated communication sub-device. To implement P2P communication mode, the communication master device includes a unit that enables the designation of a communication partner in P2P communication. In this embodiment, for example, the communication master device can designate a communication partner for P2P communication by sending data (containing identification information of the communication sub-device to be designated as a communication partner in P2P communication) in broadcast communication mode.

[0106] In P2P communication, the master device first outputs the data to be sent to the communication partner's sub-device on the DATA signal. Next, after outputting the stop bit SP, the master device sets the control signal CS low. Then, after preparing to receive data from the sub-device, the master device cancels the low-level output of the control signal CS.

[0107] After detecting a low level of the control signal CS, the communication sub-device designated as the P2P communication partner analyzes the received data input from the communication signal DATA and performs internal processing associated with that data. Next, after confirming that the control signal CS has returned to high, the designated P2P communication partner outputs the data to be transmitted on the communication signal DATA. Then, after the stop bit SP of the last byte of the data to be transmitted has been output, the communication sub-device sets the control signal CS low. After completing preparation for receiving data from the communication master device, the designated P2P communication partner cancels the low-level output of the control signal CS. Note that communication sub-devices not designated as P2P communication partners do not output the control signal CS or the communication signal DATA. As described above, the signal sent by the control signal CS in P2P communication serves as a status notification signal, indicating the end of data transmission and a standby request for the next data transmission.

[0108] Appearance of the intermediate adapter

[0109] The following will refer to Figure 7 The appearance of an intermediate adapter 300, used as an example adapter device, is described. Operating member 701 is a control ring corresponding to adapter control ring 310. Operating members 702 to 708 correspond to adapter operating unit 320 and include buttons, etc. Operating members 702 to 708 may be, for example, in the form of buttons, but may also be in other forms, such as being composed of a touch-sensitive panel. LED 709 is an example of adapter notification unit 330, and notifies the user of the operating status of a function, for example, through light.

[0110] Operation component 702 sets the sensitivity of the relationship between the focus drive speed in the autofocus control implemented in this embodiment, or the operating amount of the indicator adapter control loop 310 and the focus drive amount in the manual focus control. Operation component 703 is an AP stop button, which is operated to implement the focus pause function implemented in this embodiment. Operation component 704 is a reset button, which is operated to implement the storage and reproduction drive of the focus position (position of the focusing lens) implemented in this embodiment. Operation component 705 is a focus position storage button, which is operated to implement the storage and reproduction drive of the focus position implemented in this embodiment. Operation component 706 is a reproduction drive button, which is operated to implement the storage and reproduction drive of the focus position implemented in this embodiment. Operation component 707 is a focus movement button, as implemented in this embodiment, used to limit the focus drive range for infinity, or to drive the focus to infinity in manual focus control. Operation component 708 is a focus movement button, as implemented in this embodiment, used to limit the focus drive range for proximal, or to drive the focus to proximal in manual focus control.

[0111] Camera system startup sequence

[0112] The following will refer to Figure 8 The sequence diagram in the diagram describes the startup sequence of the camera system. This startup sequence is executed when the power to the camera body 200 is turned on in the state of the intermediate adapter 300, the interchangeable lens 100 attached to the adapter, and the camera body 200 according to this embodiment.

[0113] In step S801, once the power is turned on, the camera body 200 begins to supply power to the interchangeable lens 100. Power is supplied to the interchangeable lens 100 through the mounting bracket 400, mounting bracket 401, and intermediate adapter 300.

[0114] In step S802, the parameters in the focus position information (hereinafter referred to as "FPC information") returned from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera body 200 are initialized. For example, the parameters in the FPC information are initialized sequentially starting from the current physical focus position (focus lens position). This "FPC information" consists of parameters exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 as communication data. The FPC information does not necessarily have to be a parameter indicating the absolute position of the focus lens 104, as long as the FPC interchangeable lens 100 can update the starting position between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 104 as needed, as described with respect to steps S814 to S818. On the other hand, in order to realize the "function of storing the focus position at the desired position and performing reproduction drive" implemented in this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 stores "focus reference position information" which will be described later to manage the absolute position of the focus lens 104.

[0115] In step S803, the camera body 200 requests authentication information from the interchangeable lens 100 to determine the functionality of the interchangeable lens 100. This communication is sent to the intermediate adapter 300 via the mounting component 401, and the intermediate adapter 300 converts the request for authentication information into a communication protocol supported by the interchangeable lens 100. In step S804, the intermediate adapter 300 uses the communication protocol converted from the request to request authentication information from the interchangeable lens 100 via the mounting component 400.

[0116] In step S805, the interchangeable lens 100 sends authentication information to the intermediate adapter 300 via the mounting member 400 as a response to the authentication information request. The authentication information includes information about the functionality of the interchangeable lens 100. The intermediate adapter 300 converts the response to the authentication information request into a communication protocol supported by the camera body 200. At this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can determine the functionality of the currently attached interchangeable lens 100. In step S806, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a response to the camera body 200 via the mounting member 401 using the communication protocol converted from the response to the authentication information request.

[0117] In step S807, the "Focus Reference Position Information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself is initialized using the "FPC Information". In other words, at this time, both the "FPC Information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 and the "Focus Reference Position Information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 are initialized to the same value. In addition to the "Focus Reference Position Information", the intermediate adapter 300 also manages the "Focus Relative Change," which is the relative change of the focusing lens 104 relative to the reference position. In this process, the intermediate adapter 300 also initializes the "Focus Relative Change."

[0118] Subsequently, when AF operation is initiated by operating the operating member 207 of the camera body 200, in step S808, the camera body 200 sends a focus drive command as a control command to the intermediate adapter 300. In step S809, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, the focus drive command is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving this communication request, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104. Furthermore, the interchangeable lens 100 changes the "FPC information" managed by the interchangeable lens 100 to a value corresponding to the driving amount of the focusing lens 104.

[0119] In steps S810 and S811, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, an "FPC information" acquisition request is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the acquisition request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with "FPC information" managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S812 and S813, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, the response is sent to the camera body 200.

[0120] In step S814, the camera body 200 sends an initialization request for "FPC information". As described above, the "FPC information" does not necessarily indicate the absolute position of the focusing lens 104, but can be reset using the current position as a starting point, depending on the situation of the camera body 200. Upon detecting a notification of an initialization request for "FPC information" from the camera body 200, the intermediate adapter 300 performs the following steps S815 to S817 before sending the request to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0121] In step S815, the intermediate adapter 300 requests the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain the latest "FPC information". In step S816, upon receiving the "FPC information" request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds to the intermediate adapter 300 with the latest "FPC information" managed internally by the interchangeable lens 100. In step S817, the intermediate adapter 300 restores the "focus reference position information" stored by the intermediate adapter 300 itself, compensated for by the latest "FPC information" obtained in step S816.

[0122] In step S818, after the communication protocol conversion of the intermediate adapter 300, the interchangeable lens 100 is requested to initialize "FPC information". Upon receiving this request, the interchangeable lens 100 initializes the "FPC information" it manages. At this time, the "FPC information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 and the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 have different values. The "FPC information" is a parameter based on the current focus position (0). Conversely, the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 is information indicating the position of the focusing lens 104 determined at the time point in step S807. (Refer to later...) Figure 20 The flowchart in the diagram describes the process of updating the "focus reference position information" managed internally by the adapter using the latest "FPC information" in steps S814 to S818.

[0123] AF stop function

[0124] In the camera system of the first embodiment, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are connected via an intermediate adapter 300 with an AF stop function. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The sequence diagrams in this embodiment describe the processing of the camera system with AF stop function.

[0125] First, the AF stop function will be described. Normally, the camera system starts AF when the user presses the AF start button set on the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100, or when the shutter button is pressed halfway, etc. Alternatively, the camera body 200 can automatically start AF (tracking) when it detects a change in the shooting situation, etc. The AF stop function is used to temporarily stop these AF operations.

[0126] For example, in this embodiment, when the operating component 703 (AF stop button) provided in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed, the intermediate adapter 300 can fix the focus at the user's expected timing by stopping the AF tracking operation. Note that the method for operating the AF stop function is not limited to this, and for example, the start and end of the AF stop function can be toggled each time the operating component is pressed.

[0127] When AF operation is initiated by operating the operating member 207 of the camera body 200, in steps S901 and S902, after the communication protocol conversion processing of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus drive command is sent from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the focus drive command, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104 and updates the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In addition to the aforementioned FPC information, the focus information also includes a focus drive state indicating whether the focusing lens 104 is being driven, and AF / MF information indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is in AF or MF mode.

[0128] In step S903, the camera body 200 sends a focus information request to the intermediate adapter 300. In step S904, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, the focus information request is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In step S905, the intermediate adapter 300 sends focus information as a response to the focus information request. In step S907, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, the focus information is communicated to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S906, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the focus information stored by itself based on the latest focus information obtained in step S905.

[0129] When the AF stop function is started via the operating member 703 of the intermediate adapter 300, in step S908, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the adapter state setting stored within itself. This adapter state setting includes information indicating whether the AF stop function is currently operating. In step S908, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the AF stop function state information to a value indicating "currently operating". Then, in step S909, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a focus stop command to the interchangeable lens 100. This is done to fix the focus at the user's desired position by immediately stopping the focusing lens 104 while it is being driven. Note that the method of fixing the focus is not limited to this, and for example, if it can be determined from the focus information that the focusing lens 104 should be stopped, then step S909 is unnecessary. For example, an MF disable command (a command to disable the driving of the focusing lens by manual focusing) can be sent to the interchangeable lens 100 to prevent focus changes due to unintentional operation of the manual control ring 130, etc., by the user.

[0130] AF operation is initiated in response to the operation member 207 of the camera body 200 being manipulated. When the AF stop function of the intermediate adapter 300 is operating, even if the intermediate adapter 300 receives a focus drive command in step S910, the intermediate adapter 300 will not perform communication protocol conversion processing for the focus drive command. The processing performed when the intermediate adapter 300 receives a focus drive command while the AF stop function is operating is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 may convert its own stored focus information into information indicating a state different from the latest focus information received from the interchangeable lens 100. Furthermore, for example, the intermediate adapter 300 may return a response corresponding to the focus drive command to the camera body 200 without sending the focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. Alternatively, the intermediate adapter 300 may send a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 that converts the focus lens position to a fixed state.

[0131] Furthermore, even if the AF stop function of the intermediate adapter 300 is operating, the camera body 200 sends a focus information request in step S911. Then, in step S912, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, the focus information request is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S913 and S915, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, this response is communicated to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S914, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the focus information stored by itself based on the latest focus information obtained in step S913. Note that the intermediate adapter 300 can convert the focus information stored by itself into information indicating a state different from the latest focus information obtained in step S913. For example, even if the focus information from the interchangeable lens 100 indicates AF status, the intermediate adapter 300 can update the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself to MF status and send the information indicating MF status to the camera body 200.

[0132] When the operation of the AF stop function is terminated by the operation component 703 of the intermediate adapter 300, in step S916, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the AF stop function status information stored in the adapter status settings stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself to a value indicating "currently not in operation".

[0133] A series of operations involved in the AF stop function

[0134] The following will refer to Figure 10A and Figure 10B This section describes a series of operations of the intermediate adapter 300 with AF stop function in this embodiment. This series of operations is indicated by referring to the preceding section. Figure 8 During normal operation following the described startup sequence, the control operations involved in the AF stop function of the adapter microcomputer 302 in the intermediate adapter 300. This series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program and begins when the operating member 703 of the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed.

[0135] In step S1001, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to start the AF stop function. For example, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to start the AF stop function by detecting a pressed operation member 703 when the AF stop function status information is "currently not in operation". Note that the method for determining to start the AF stop function is not limited to this. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to start the AF stop function, the sequence moves to step S1002; otherwise, the sequence moves to step S1004.

[0136] In steps S1002 and S1003, the adapter microcomputer 302 updates the adapter state settings stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself and sends a focus stop command to the interchangeable lens 100 to initiate the AF stop function. The processing details of steps S1002 and S1003 are similar to those in steps S908 and S909 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0137] In step S1004, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to terminate the AF stop function. For example, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to terminate the AF stop function by detecting that the operation member 703 is not pressed when the AF stop function status information is "currently operating". Note that the method for determining to terminate the AF stop function is not limited to this. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to terminate the AF stop function, the sequence moves to step S1005; otherwise, the sequence moves to step S1006.

[0138] In step S1005, the adapter microcomputer 302 terminates the AF stop function by updating the adapter state settings stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself. This process is similar to step S916 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0139] If, in step S1006, the adapter microcomputer 302 detects communication from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100, the sequence moves to step S1007 for communication protocol conversion processing. If no communication is detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 resumes from the beginning of the series of operations to repeat the control processing; that is, the sequence moves to step S1001.

[0140] In step S1007, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication content is a focus drive command, the sequence moves to step S1008; otherwise, it moves to step S1011. In step S1008, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF stop function status information is "currently operating." If the information is "currently operating," the sequence moves to step S1010; otherwise, it moves to step S1009. In step S1009, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100 and sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. In step S1010, the adapter microcomputer 302 does not send a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. The details are similar to those of step S910 described above and will not be described further. After the processing in step S1009 or step S1010 ends, the sequence resumes from the beginning of the process to repeat the control processing; that is, the sequence moves to step S1001.

[0141] In step S1011, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication content is a focus information request, the sequence moves to step S1012; otherwise, it moves to step S1016. In step S1012, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100, sends a focus information request to the interchangeable lens 100, and receives focus information from the interchangeable lens 100. This process is similar to steps S904 and S905 or steps S912 and S913 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail. In step S1013, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF stop function status information is "currently operating." If the information is "currently operating," the sequence moves to step S1014; otherwise, it moves to step S1015. In step S1014, the adapter microcomputer 302 updates the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself based on the obtained focus information. This process is similar to step S914 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail. In step S1015, the adapter microcomputer 302 transmits the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself using the protocol corresponding to the camera body 200. This process is similar to step S915 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail. After the process in step S1015 ends, the sequence resumes from the beginning of the process to repeat the control process, that is, the sequence moves to step S1001.

[0142] In step S1016, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content received from the camera body 200, converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100, and sends the communication to the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, if there is a response to the communication from the interchangeable lens 100, the system remains in standby mode until a response is received. If a response is needed from the camera body 200, the camera body 200 sends a response using the corresponding communication protocol. After the processing in steps S1006, S1009, S1010, S1015, and S1016 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 can either end the processing or resume from the beginning to repeat the processing; that is, the sequence can move to step S1001.

[0143] As described so far, according to this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 first accepts an operation from the auxiliary camera body 200 for operating a predetermined function (AF stop function). Then, based on this operation and a control command (focus drive command) from the camera body for the AF operation, the AF stop function of the AF operation is implemented by controlling the transmission of the control command to the interchangeable lens. In particular, in order to control the transmission of the control command to the interchangeable lens, the intermediate adapter 300 ensures that the control quantity related to the focus of the AF operation included in the control command is not sent to the interchangeable lens. In this way, by using an intermediate adapter with an AF stop function, a camera system with an AF stop function can be provided even when the camera body, interchangeable lens, etc., do not have an AF stop function.

[0144] Second Embodiment

[0145] The second embodiment of the invention will now be described. In this embodiment, the camera body and the interchangeable lens are connected via an intermediate adapter with AF drive range variation functionality. However, the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be substantially the same as that in the first embodiment. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0146] AF drive range change function

[0147] The AF drive range variation function will be described first. The AF drive range variation function is a function that can shorten AF search time or improve subject tracking performance by limiting the driving range of the focusing lens during AF operation to a desired range. For example, in this embodiment, when the receiving operation member 707 is pressed by the user, the intermediate adapter 300 sets a limit such that the focusing lens 104 is not driven beyond its current position towards infinity. When the receiving operation member 707 is pressed again by the user, the intermediate adapter 300 removes the set limit. Similarly, when the operation member 708 is similarly pressed by the user, the intermediate adapter 300 sets a limit such that the focusing lens 104 is not driven beyond its current position towards the near side. When the operation member 708 is pressed again by the user, the intermediate adapter 300 removes the set limit. Note that the operation method of the AF drive range variation function is not limited to this. For example, instead of the focus position when the desired setting button is pressed, a range with a predetermined width based on the focus position when the button is pressed can be set as the drive range. Alternatively, a predetermined desired position can be set as the drive range, without being based on the focus position when the button is pressed.

[0148] The following will refer to Figure 11The sequence diagrams in this embodiment are used to describe the processing of the camera system with AF drive range variation function. In this camera system, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are connected via an intermediate adapter 300 with AF drive range variation function.

[0149] When the AF drive range is set by pressing the operating member 707 or operating member 708 of the intermediate adapter 300, in steps S1101 and S1102, the intermediate adapter 300 obtains the latest "FPC information" from the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can use the "focus position information" obtained by adding the latest "FPC information" to the aforementioned "focus reference position information" to manage the absolute position of the focusing lens 104.

[0150] In step S1103, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the AF drive range status in its stored adapter status settings to a value indicating "current setting," and sets the AF drive range based on "focus position information." The AF drive range consists of an infinity limit position and a near limit position. When the AF drive range status is "current setting," the intermediate adapter 300 controls the focusing lens 104 to remain within the AF drive range. For example, if the user operation is to set the AF drive range using the operating member 707, the intermediate adapter 300 sets the infinity limit position based on the "focus position information." Furthermore, for example, if the user operation is to set the AF drive range using the operating member 708, the intermediate adapter 300 sets the near limit position based on the "focus position information." Note that the method of setting the AF drive range is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 can set the AF drive range to any desired range preset based on the "focus position information" when the desired setting button is pressed. Alternatively, the intermediate adapter 300 can set the AF drive range to any desired position preset based on "focus position information" when the desired setting button is pressed. Furthermore, for example, if the operating member is operated to set the infinitely farthest limit position further proximally than the proximal limit position, this operation can be ignored. The same applies when attempting to set the proximal limit position. Additionally, in this case, the intermediate adapter 300 can also notify the user that the AF drive range setting has been ignored by illuminating an LED in the adapter notification unit 330. However, the method of notifying the user that the AF drive range has been cancelled via the adapter notification unit 330 is not limited to this, and, for example, the fact that the AF drive range has been cancelled can be displayed on an LCD provided in the adapter notification unit 330.

[0151] When AF operation is initiated by operating the operating member 207 of the camera body 200, in step S1104, a focus drive command, as a control command for the interchangeable lens 100, is sent from the camera body 200 to the intermediate adapter 300. Then, in step S1105, the intermediate adapter 300, whose AF drive range state is "current setting," adjusts the focus drive amount sent to the interchangeable lens 100 to fall within the AF drive range. (See below for further details.) Figure 13 Details regarding the processing of the converted focus drive quantity are provided. Then, in step S1106, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 using the converted focus drive quantity. Upon receiving the focus drive command, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104 and updates the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. The focus information includes, in addition to the FPC information described above, infinity information indicating whether the position of the focusing lens 104 is at the infinity end of the drivable range, near-end information indicating whether the position of the focusing lens 104 is at the near end of the drivable range, etc.

[0152] In steps S1107 and S1108, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus information request from the camera body 200 is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving this focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S1109 and S1111, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, this response is sent from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S1110, the intermediate adapter 300 updates its own stored focus information based on the latest focus information obtained in step S1109. Note that the intermediate adapter 300 can convert its own stored focus information into information indicating a state different from the latest focus information obtained in step S1109. For example, even if the infinity information from the interchangeable lens 100 does not indicate an infinity state, if the "focus position information" equals the infinity limit position, the infinity information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself can be updated to indicate an infinity state. The intermediate adapter 300 can then send an indication that the state is at infinity to the camera body 200. The intermediate adapter 300 can perform a similar operation for near-side conditions.

[0153] If, when the AF drive range state is "currently set," the operating member 707 or 708 of the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed and the AF drive range is canceled, then in step S1112, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the AF drive range state to a value indicating "currently not set." Furthermore, the intermediate adapter 300 clears the AF drive range. The intermediate adapter 300 may also update the focus information stored within itself to match the latest focus information. Note that the method of canceling the AF drive range is not limited to operations performed via the operating member. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 may cancel the AF drive range in response to detecting the removal of the interchangeable lens 100, or in response to the activation of the zoom lens 102 of the interchangeable lens 100 (change in the imaging optical system). Furthermore, the intermediate adapter 300 may also notify the user that the AF drive range has been canceled by illuminating an LED in the adapter notification unit 330. Note that the method of notifying the user that the AF drive range has been canceled via the adapter notification unit 330 is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 can display the fact that the AF drive range has been canceled on the LCD set in the adapter notification unit 330.

[0154] A series of operations involved in the AF drive range change function

[0155] The following will refer to Figure 12A and Figure 12B This describes a series of operations of the intermediate adapter 300 with AF drive range variation function in this embodiment. This series of operations indicates the completion of the preceding steps. Figure 8 During normal operation following the described startup sequence, the control operations involved in the AF drive range change function of the adapter microcomputer 302 in the intermediate adapter 300. This series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program and begins when the operating member 707 or 708 of the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed.

[0156] In step S1201, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to set the AF drive range. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to set the AF drive range, the sequence moves to step S1202; otherwise, the sequence moves to step S1203. In step S1202, the adapter microcomputer 302 sets the AF drive range. The method for determining to start setting the AF drive range in step S1201 and the method for setting the AF drive range in step S1202 are similar to steps S1101 to S1103 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0157] In step S1203, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to cancel the AF driving range. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to cancel the AF driving range, the sequence moves to step S1204; otherwise, the sequence moves to step S1205. The method for determining to begin canceling the AF driving range in step S1203 and the method for canceling the AF driving range in step S1204 are similar to those in step S1112 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0158] If the adapter microcomputer 302 detects communication from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 in step S1205, the sequence moves to step S1206 for communication protocol conversion processing. If no communication is detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 resumes from the beginning of the series of operations to repeat the control processing, that is, the sequence moves to step S1201.

[0159] In step S1206, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication content is a focus drive command, the sequence moves to step S1207; otherwise, it moves to step S1210. In step S1207, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF drive range status is "current setting." If it is "current setting," the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1208; otherwise, it moves to step S1209. In step S1208, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the focus drive amount sent to the interchangeable lens 100 to fall within the AF drive range, after which the sequence moves to step S1209. (See below for further details.) Figure 13 Details regarding the processing of the conversion of focus drive quantity are given. In step S1209, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 using the communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0160] In step S1210, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication content is a focus information request, the sequence moves to step S1211; otherwise, it moves to step S1215. In step S1211, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100 and sends the focus information request to the interchangeable lens 100. Furthermore, the adapter microcomputer 302 receives focus information from the interchangeable lens 100, after which the sequence moves to step S1212. The details of step S1210 are similar to those of steps S1107 and S1108 described above, and therefore their details will be omitted. In step S1212, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF drive range state is "current setting". If the AF drive range state is "current setting", the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1213; otherwise, it moves to step S1214.

[0161] In step S1213, the adapter microcomputer 302 updates the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself based on the received focus information. The details of step S1213 are similar to those of step S1110 described above, and therefore will be omitted. In step S1214, the adapter microcomputer 302 transmits the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself using the communication protocol corresponding to the camera body 200. The details of step S1214 are similar to those of step S1111 described above, and therefore will not be described further.

[0162] In step S1215, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content received from the camera body 200, converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100, and sends the communication content to the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, if there is a response to the communication from the interchangeable lens 100, the adapter microcomputer 302 remains in standby mode until a response is received. If a response from the camera body 200 is required, the camera body 200 sends a response using the corresponding communication protocol. After the processing in steps S1205, S1209, S1214, and S1215 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 can either end the processing or resume from the beginning to repeat the processing; that is, the sequence can move to step S1201.

[0163] Next, we will refer to Figure 13 The operation performed by the focusing lens 104 in the camera system including the intermediate adapter 300 with AF drive range changing function in this embodiment is described when the AF drive range state is "current setting". Figure 13The range from "near end" to "infinity" indicates the area within which the focusing lens 104 can be driven. At this time, the current position information of the focusing lens 104 is sent as "FPC information" to the intermediate adapter 300 and the camera body 200. Furthermore, the absolute position of the focusing lens 104 is managed within the intermediate adapter 300 by the aforementioned "focus position information".

[0164] When the AF drive range status is "current setting", the AF drive range, consisting of the proximal limit position F13NL and the infinity limit position F13FL, is internally managed in the intermediate adapter 300. The AF drive range is set based on "focus position information" and is set from the proximal end to infinity. Furthermore, compared to the infinity limit position F13FL, the proximal limit position F13NL is further set on the proximal side.

[0165] For example, consider the case where the "focus position information" is F130 and the camera body 200 sends a focus drive command with a focus drive amount toward F131. In this case, the intermediate adapter 300 converts the command into a focus drive amount toward F132 based on the "focus position information" to avoid passing through the near-end position F13NL, and then sends the focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. Even if the focus drive command sent by the camera body 200 is a search drive for a focus drive amount without specifying the near end, the intermediate adapter 300 will still send the focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 to avoid passing through the near-end position F13NL. Specifically, the intermediate adapter 300 calculates a focus drive amount toward F134 based on the "focus position information" and then sends a focus drive command specifying the focus drive amount to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0166] Furthermore, consider, for example, the case where the "focus position information" is F130 and the camera body 200 sends a focus drive command with a focus drive amount toward F133. In this case, the intermediate adapter 300 converts the command into a focus drive amount toward F134 based on the "focus position information" to avoid passing through the infinity extreme position F13FL, and then sends the focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. Even if the focus drive command sent by the camera body 200 is a search drive for a focus drive amount not specified toward infinity, the intermediate adapter 300 will still send the focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 to avoid passing through the infinity extreme position F13FL. Specifically, the intermediate adapter 300 calculates the focus drive amount toward F134 based on the "focus position information" and then sends a focus drive command specifying the focus drive amount to the interchangeable lens 100. In this way, the focusing lens 104 of the interchangeable lens 100 is controlled to not exceed the AF drive range managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself.

[0167] As described so far, according to this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 first receives an operation from the auxiliary camera body 200 for operating the AF drive range variation function. Then, based on this operation and a control command (focus drive command) from the camera body for the AF operation, the AF drive range variation function is realized by controlling the transmission of the control command to the interchangeable lens. In particular, the intermediate adapter 300 changes the control amount (focus drive amount) related to the focus of the AF operation included in the control command, such that the control amount falls within a predetermined drive range of the focusing lens of the interchangeable lens 100, and then sends the control amount to the interchangeable lens 100. In this way, by using an intermediate adapter with AF drive range variation function, a camera system with AF drive range variation function can be provided even when the camera body, interchangeable lens, etc., do not have AF drive range variation function.

[0168] Third Embodiment

[0169] The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. In this embodiment, the camera body and the interchangeable lens are connected via an intermediate adapter with an AF speed setting function. However, the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be substantially the same as that in the embodiments described above. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0170] AF speed setting function

[0171] The AF speed setting function will be described first. The AF speed setting function allows the AF speed to be increased or decreased by changing the drive speed of the focusing lens during AF operation to a desired speed setting. For example, in this embodiment, when one of the buttons in the operating member 702 included in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed, the AF speed increases by the desired multiple. When another button in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed, the AF speed decreases by the desired multiple. Note that the method of operating the AF speed setting function is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 may have multiple multiples as AF speed levels (e.g., five levels, namely 1 / 4x, 1 / 2x, equal, 2x, and 4x), and the intermediate adapter may switch the multiples sequentially each time the setting button is pressed.

[0172] The following will refer to Figure 14 The sequence diagrams in this embodiment describe the processing of a camera system with AF speed setting function. In this camera system, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are connected via an intermediate adapter 300 with AF speed setting function.

[0173] When the operating member 702 of the intermediate adapter 300 is operated and the AF speed setting is changed, in step S1401, the intermediate adapter 300 changes the AF speed setting state stored in the adapter state settings within itself to a value indicating "current setting". The intermediate adapter 300 sets the AF speed setting as needed. At this time, the AF speed setting is a multiple multiplied by the focusing lens drive speed when the focus drive command from the camera body 200 is converted to a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100. Note that the specification of the AF speed setting is not limited to this, and can, for example, be managed to replace the value of the focusing drive speed when converted to a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100. It should also be noted that if the interchangeable lens 100 is detected as a lens for which a focus speed cannot be specified, the intermediate adapter 300 can notify the user that AF speed setting cannot be performed by illuminating an LED provided in the adapter notification unit 330. The method for notifying the user that AF speed setting cannot be performed via the adapter notification unit 330 is not limited to this. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 can display the fact that AF speed setting cannot be performed on an LCD provided in the adapter notification unit 330.

[0174] When AF operation is initiated by the user operating the operation member 207 of the camera body 200, in step S1402, a focus drive command, which serves as a control command for the interchangeable lens 100, is sent from the camera body 200 to the intermediate adapter 300. Then, in step S1403, the intermediate adapter 300, whose AF speed setting state is "current setting," converts the focus drive speed sent to the interchangeable lens 100 based on the AF speed setting. Then, in step S1404, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 using the converted focus drive speed. Upon receiving the focus drive command, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104 and updates the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. The "focus information" includes information such as the aforementioned FPC information.

[0175] In steps S1405 and S1406, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus information request from the camera body 200 is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving this focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S1407 and S1409, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, this response is sent from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S1408, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the focus information stored by itself based on the latest focus information obtained in step S1407.

[0176] If the AF speed setting is canceled by the operating member 702 of the operating intermediate adapter 300 when the AF speed setting state is "currently set", then in step S1410, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the AF speed setting state to a value indicating "currently not set". The intermediate adapter 300 also clears the AF speed setting. Note that the method of canceling the AF speed setting is not limited to the operating member. For example, the intermediate adapter 300 may cancel the AF speed setting in response to the removal of the interchangeable lens 100, or it may cancel the AF speed setting when the camera optical system changes in response to the driving of the zoom lens 102 of the interchangeable lens 100. In addition, the user may be notified that the AF speed setting has been canceled by illuminating the LED in the adapter notification unit 330. The method for notifying the user that the AF speed setting has been canceled through the adapter notification unit 330 is not limited to this, and for example, the intermediate adapter 300 may display the fact that the AF speed setting has been canceled on the LCD provided in the adapter notification unit 330.

[0177] A series of operations involved in the AF speed setting function

[0178] The following will refer to Figure 15A and Figure 15B This section describes a series of operations of the intermediate adapter 300 with AF speed setting function in this embodiment. The processing instructions described herein are referenced prior to completion. Figure 8 During normal operation following the described startup sequence, the control processing involved in the AF speed setting function of the adapter microcomputer 302 in the intermediate adapter 300. This series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program and begins when the operating member 702 of the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed.

[0179] In step S1501, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to change the AF speed setting. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to change the AF speed setting, the sequence proceeds to step S1502; otherwise, the sequence proceeds to step S1503. The method for determining to start changing the AF speed setting in step S1501 and the method for changing the AF speed setting in step S1502 are similar to those in step S1401 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0180] In step S1503, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether to cancel the AF speed setting. If the adapter microcomputer 302 determines to cancel the AF speed setting, the sequence proceeds to step S1515; otherwise, the sequence proceeds to step S1504. The method for determining to cancel the AF speed setting in step S1503 and the method for canceling the AF speed setting in step S1515 are similar to those in step S1410 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail.

[0181] In step S1504, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether communication from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 has been detected. If the adapter microcomputer 302 has detected communication from the camera body 200, the sequence moves to step S1505 for communication protocol conversion processing. On the other hand, if no communication is detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 can end the process or resume from the beginning to repeat the process; that is, the sequence can move to step S1501.

[0182] In step S1505, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication is a focus drive command, the sequence moves to step S1506; otherwise, it moves to step S1509. In step S1506, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF speed setting function is currently operating. The adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF speed setting status is "current setting." If the status is "current setting," the sequence moves to step S1507; otherwise, it moves to step S1508. In step S1507, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the focus drive speed sent to the interchangeable lens 100 based on the AF speed setting (i.e., converts the focus drive amount). In step S1508, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100 using the communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100. After the processing in step S1508 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 can end the processing or resume from the beginning to repeat the processing; that is, the sequence can move to step S1501.

[0183] In step S1509, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content from the camera body 200. If the communication content is a focus information request, the sequence moves to step S1510; otherwise, it moves to step S1514. In step S1510, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100, sends a focus information request to the interchangeable lens 100, and receives focus information from the interchangeable lens 100. After that, the sequence moves to step S1511. The details are similar to those of steps S1405 and S1406 described above, so their details will be omitted. In step S1511, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the AF speed setting state is "current setting." If the state is "current setting," the sequence moves to step S1512; otherwise, it moves to step S1513. In step S1512, the adapter microcomputer 302 updates the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself based on the received focus information. The details are similar to those of step S1408 described above, therefore these details will be omitted. In step S1513, the adapter microcomputer 302 transmits the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself using the communication protocol corresponding to the camera body 200. The details are similar to those of step S1409 described above, therefore these details will be omitted. After the processing in step S1513 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 can end the processing, or it can resume from the beginning to repeat the processing; that is, the sequence can move to step S1501.

[0184] In step S1514, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication content received from the camera body 200, converts the communication content into a communication protocol corresponding to the interchangeable lens 100, and sends the communication to the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, if there is a response to the communication from the interchangeable lens 100, the system remains in standby mode until a response is received. If a response to the camera body 200 is required, the camera body 200 sends a response using the corresponding communication protocol. After the processing in step S1514 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 can end the processing, or it can resume from the beginning to repeat the processing; that is, the sequence can move to step S1501.

[0185] As described so far, according to this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 first receives an operation from the auxiliary camera body 200 for operating the AF speed change function. Then, based on this operation and a control command (focus drive control) from the camera body for the AF operation, the AF speed change function is implemented by controlling the transmission of the control command to the interchangeable lens. In particular, the intermediate adapter 300 changes the focus lens drive speed included in the control command and sends the control command to the interchangeable lens 100. In this way, by using an intermediate adapter with AF speed change function, a camera system with AF drive range change function can be provided even when the camera body, interchangeable lens, etc., do not have AF drive range change function.

[0186] Fourth embodiment

[0187] The fourth embodiment will now be described. In the camera system of this embodiment, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are connected via an intermediate adapter 300 with focus fine-tuning function. However, the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be substantially the same as that in the embodiments described above. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0188] Focus fine-tuning function

[0189] The focus fine-tuning function will be described first. Typically, when shooting scenes such as the starry sky, the camera is fixed on a tripod, and the MF (manual focus) function is used to fine-tune the focus, rather than the AF (autofocus) function. For example, focus can be fine-tuned by manipulating the manual control ring. However, this method makes it difficult to manipulate the manual control ring in small increments, hindering focus fine-tuning. Another example is the method of fine-tuning the focus by controlling the camera from a smartphone app. However, there is often a time lag before the app can control the camera, and the inability to quickly capture an image can lead to missed opportunities. Furthermore, this function is only available for camera models supported by the app.

[0190] The focus fine-tuning function is a function that allows for fine-tuning of the focus without requiring precise operation. For example, in this embodiment, when the operating member 707 or 708 provided in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed, the focusing lens 104 is driven to infinity and near, respectively, depending on the number of times the member is pressed. This allows for fine-tuning of the focus without the need for precise adjustments like a manual control ring. Note that the focus fine-tuning function is not limited to this, but can also be a method of gradually and continuously driving the focus while the operating member is pressed. Furthermore, this function is not limited to fine-tuning the focus, but can be configured, for example, to generally drive the focus for larger adjustments.

[0191] The following will refer to Figure 16 The sequence diagram in the figure describes the processing of the camera system with focus fine-tuning function in this embodiment. First, the processing of steps S901 to S907 is performed in the same manner as in the previous embodiment, and the focus information of the interchangeable lens 100 is sent to the intermediate adapter 300 and the camera body 200.

[0192] When the operating member 707 or 708, located in the intermediate adapter 300, is operated and the focus fine-tuning function is initiated, in step S1601, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. By sending a small focus drive amount to the interchangeable lens 100 each time the operating member 707 or 708 is operated, the focus can be fine-tuned without requiring minor user intervention. Furthermore, the intermediate adapter 300 can send information indicating that the interchangeable lens 100 is in MF (Minimum Focus) mode to the camera body 200. This ensures that unnecessary focus drive commands are not sent from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Note that the appropriate focus drive amount varies depending on the lens, but this will be discussed later. Although the above example describes the use of operating member 707 or 708, the configuration is not limited to this, and for example, an electronic ring (such as operating member 701), a lever (not shown), etc., that provides a click sound can be used instead. User operation of operation components 707 or 708 indicates that the user wishes to use the focus fine-tuning function. Therefore, the intermediate adapter 300 can use the setting period after step S1601 is completed as a period during which step S1603 (not shown) is not performed as an AF operation. Alternatively, the intermediate adapter 300 can use the setting period after accepting the start of the focus fine-tuning function via operation component 707, etc., as a period during which step S1603 is not performed even if a focus drive command is received. Note that at this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can convert the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself into information indicating a state different from the latest focus information obtained in step S905. Here, in addition to the FPC information mentioned above, the focus information may also include a focus drive state indicating whether the focusing lens 104 is being driven, AF / MF information indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is in AF or MF state, etc. For example, even if the focus information from the interchangeable lens 100 indicates AF state, the intermediate adapter 300 can update the focus information stored in the intermediate adapter 300 itself to MF state and send the MF state indication to the camera body 200. The MF (Master Focus) status is communicated to the camera body 200, enabling the suppression of unnecessary focus drive commands. Furthermore, depending on the camera, if the camera body 200 cannot shoot in AF (Auto Focus) mode, entering MF mode allows shooting to proceed.

[0193] After fine-tuning the focus using the focus adjustment function of the intermediate adapter 300, an AF operation is performed in response to an operation performed in the camera body 200. When the AF operation is initiated by operating the operating member 207 of the camera body 200, in steps S1602 and S1603, after the communication protocol conversion processing of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus drive command is sent from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the focus drive command, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104 and updates the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100.

[0194] Then, in steps S1604 and S1605, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus information request from the camera body 200 is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving this focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S1606 and S1608, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, this response is sent to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S1607, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the focus information stored by the intermediate adapter 300 itself based on the latest focus information obtained in step S1606. The above operations enable the focus fine-tuning function to operate temporarily during adapter operation and then return to AF operation based on instructions from the camera body 200.

[0195] A series of operations involved in the focus fine-tuning function

[0196] The following will refer to Figure 17 This section describes a series of operations of the intermediate adapter 300 with focus fine-tuning function in this embodiment. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program.

[0197] In step S1701, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the operating member 702 set in the intermediate adapter 300 has been pressed. If the operating member 702 has been pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1702; otherwise, it moves to step S1703. In step S1702, the adapter microcomputer 302 changes the coefficient of the focus drive amount. This will be described in detail later with reference to step S1708.

[0198] In step S1703, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the operating member 707 or 708 set in the intermediate adapter 300 has been pressed (whether the focus fine-tuning function has been started). If the operating member 707 or 708 is pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1704; otherwise, it moves to step S1701. In step S1704, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether communication is in progress from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. If communication is in progress, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1705; otherwise, it moves to step S1708. In step S1705, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the data that the camera body 200 is attempting to send to the interchangeable lens 100 is focus-driven data. "Focus-driven data" refers, for example, focus-driven commands, focus-stop commands, etc. If the data transmitted from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 is related to focus driving, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1706; otherwise, it moves to step S1707. In step S1706, the adapter microcomputer 302 operates such that the intermediate adapter 300 behaves in the same way as when it does not transmit data related to focus driving to the interchangeable lens 100. For example, one approach is for the adapter microcomputer 302 to discard data, preventing a request from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100. Alternatively, the adapter microcomputer 302 may transmit meaningless data (specifically, data that does not drive focus) from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100. This is because the user is attempting to fine-tune the focus, and unintentionally driving focus could confuse the user. Although not shown, a command to stop focus driving can be sent to the interchangeable lens 100 if the focusing lens 104 is not driven from its current state.

[0199] In step S1707, the adapter microcomputer 302 waits until communication from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 is complete. For example, if the adapter microcomputer 302 recognizes a focus information request being communicated, it waits until the communication is complete. This allows focus drive commands to be sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 without inconsistencies in the camera system.

[0200] In step S1708, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a focus drive amount based on the operation of the operating member 707 or 708 set in the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100. For example, in response to the operating member 707 being pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends data to the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the focusing lens 104 to infinity. Similarly, in response to the operating member 708 being pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends data to the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the focusing lens 104 to proximal. At this time, usability is improved by having the adapter microcomputer 302 reflect the coefficient of the focus drive amount updated in step S1702 in the drive amount. The coefficient of the focus drive amount is the degree to which the focus drive amount is effective relative to the operation amount of the operating member, and in this embodiment, the amount of a single operation of the operating member 707 or 708 drives the focusing lens. For example, in step S1702, it is conceivable that the adapter microcomputer 302 only performs operations to change the multiplier of the focus drive amount to 1 / 4x, 1 / 2x, 1x, 2x, and 4x. For example, the user can use the operating member 702 to select the coefficient of the desired focus drive amount based on the lens type, focal length, aperture value, etc. This allows for appropriate focus fine-tuning functionality for a single press of the operating member 707 or 708. Furthermore, the adapter microcomputer 302 can ensure that the focusing lens 104 is indeed driven by notifying the interchangeable lens 100 that the status is AF at the start of this series of processes. The details described here are merely examples; it is well known that depth of field (the range of distances on the subject side where the photograph appears to be in focus) varies depending on the pixel size in the camera, the focal length of the lens, and the aperture value, etc. Therefore, the adapter microcomputer 302 can determine and change the coefficient using configurations related to the depth of field of the interchangeable lens (such as the focal length and effective aperture of the interchangeable lens) and configurations related to the depth of field of the camera (such as the pixel size in the image sensor). For example, it's conceivable that for a configuration with a deeper depth of field, the coefficient of the focus drive amount would be relatively increased, while for a configuration with a shallower depth of field, the coefficient of the focus drive amount would be relatively decreased. Furthermore, it's possible to configure the system to receive changes to the coefficient of the focus drive amount from an external device such as a smartphone (not shown). Additionally, although an example of changing the coefficient of the focus drive amount has been given here, it's possible to configure the system to change the focus drive speed. Furthermore, when it's not desired to record focus drive sound while recording moving images, it's possible to configure the system to limit the focus drive amount, focus drive speed, etc.

[0201] Note that in this series of operations, if the camera body 200 is sending data to the interchangeable lens 100 while focus drive data is being sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100, then communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 needs to be paused. In the case of the first communication, the communication pause period can be represented by a BUSY frame. Therefore, while focus drive data is being sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100, BUSY frames can be maintained during communication between the camera body 200 and the intermediate adapter 300.

[0202] In step S1709, if the transmission from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 is paused, the adapter microcomputer 302 resumes the transmission. Once the processing in step S1709 is complete, the adapter microcomputer 302 can either end the processing or resume it from the beginning to repeat the processing, i.e., the sequence can be moved to step S1701.

[0203] As described so far, according to this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 accepts the focus fine-tuning function of MF operation and sets the coefficient of the focus drive amount. Then, based on the focus fine-tuning function operation and the coefficient of the focus drive amount, the focus fine-tuning function is implemented by sending the drive amount (or drive speed) of the focusing lens to the interchangeable lens. At this time, even if a control command for AF operation is received from the camera body, the intermediate adapter 300 does not send a control command to the interchangeable lens 100. On the other hand, the intermediate adapter 300 can notify the camera body that the state is MF mode. In this way, by using an intermediate adapter with focus fine-tuning function, a camera system with focus fine-tuning function can be provided, regardless of the combination of the camera body and the interchangeable lens. In other words, more user-friendly MF operation can be provided by such an adapter.

[0204] Fifth Embodiment

[0205] Next, the fifth embodiment will be described. In the camera system of this embodiment, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are connected via an intermediate adapter 300 with MF (Multi-Focus) function. However, the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be substantially the same as in the embodiments described above. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0206] MF function

[0207] In this embodiment, even when the camera body 200 is set to AF mode, the focusing lens 104 is driven by the operation member 701 provided in the intermediate adapter 300 according to the operation amount. This is because there are situations where it is desirable for the camera body 200 to perform MF operation while shooting in AF mode. For example, when the subject has low brightness or low contrast and is therefore difficult to focus on using AF, it is desirable for the user to be able to quickly adjust the focus using MF operation. With the intermediate adapter 300 of this embodiment, even in such scenarios, the user can quickly adjust the focus without switching the camera body 200 from AF mode to MF mode.

[0208] The following will refer to Figure 18 The sequence diagram describes the processing of the camera system with MF function in this embodiment. First, the processing of steps S901 to S907 is performed in the same manner as in the previous embodiment, and the focus information of the interchangeable lens 100 is sent to the intermediate adapter 300 and the camera body 200.

[0209] When MF function operation is initiated via the operating member 701 provided in the intermediate adapter 300, in step S1801, the intermediate adapter 300 sends a focus drive command to the interchangeable lens 100. The intermediate adapter 300 achieves operation similar to that of the manual control ring 130 provided in the interchangeable lens 100 by changing the focus drive amount according to the amount of operation of the operating member 701. For example, when the user rotates the manual control ring 130 slightly, a small MF operation amount can drive the focusing lens 104, while when the user rotates the manual control ring 130 significantly, a large MF operation amount can drive the focusing lens 104. At this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can send an indication that the lens is in MF state to the camera body 200 to ensure that unnecessary focus drive commands are not sent from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Note that the appropriate focus drive amount varies depending on the lens, but this will be discussed later. It should also be noted that although the use of the operating member 701 is given as an example, it is not necessary to limit this embodiment to this configuration. For example, it can be configured such that the MF operation amount changes based on the duration for which the operation member 707 or 708 is pressed, or based on the operation amount of a lever (not shown). User operation of the operation member 701 signifies that the user wishes to use the MF function, and therefore the setting period following the completion of step S1801 can be used as a period (not shown) during which step S1803, which is an AF operation, is not performed. Alternatively, the intermediate adapter 300 can use the setting period after accepting the start of the MF function via the operation member 707, etc., as a period during which step S1803 is not performed even if a focus drive command is received. Note that at this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can convert the focus information stored within itself into information indicating a state different from the latest focus information obtained in step S1806. The focus information includes, in addition to the aforementioned FPC information, a focus drive state indicating whether the focusing lens 104 is being driven, AF / MF information indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is in AF or MF mode, etc. For example, even if the focus information from the interchangeable lens 100 indicates AF mode, the intermediate adapter 300 can update its own stored focus information to MF mode and send the MF mode indication to the camera body 200. Notifying the camera body 200 of the MF mode enables the suppression of unnecessary focus drive commands. Furthermore, depending on the camera, if the camera body 200 cannot shoot in AF mode, being in MF mode allows shooting to be performed.

[0210] After the MF function of the intermediate adapter 300 is completed, the AF operation is performed according to the operation of the operating member 207 of the camera body 200. When the AF operation is started by operating the operating member 207 of the camera body 200, in steps S1802 and S1803, after the communication protocol conversion processing of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus drive command is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving the focus drive command, the interchangeable lens 100 drives the focusing lens 104 and updates the focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100.

[0211] In steps S1804 and S1805, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, a focus information request from the camera body 200 is sent to the interchangeable lens 100. Upon receiving this focus information request, the interchangeable lens 100 responds with focus information managed by the interchangeable lens 100. In steps S1806 and S1808, after the communication protocol conversion process of the intermediate adapter 300, this response is sent to the camera body 200. Furthermore, in step S1807, the intermediate adapter 300 updates its own stored focus information based on the latest focus information obtained in step S1806. This operation allows the focus function to operate temporarily during adapter operation and then return to AF operation based on instructions from the camera body 200.

[0212] A series of operations involved in the MF function

[0213] The following will refer to Figure 19 This embodiment describes a series of operations of the intermediate adapter 300 that can temporarily provide MF functionality even when the camera body 200 is set to AF mode. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program.

[0214] In step S1901, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the operating member 702 set in the intermediate adapter 300 has been pressed. If the operating member 702 has been pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1902; otherwise, it moves to step S1903. In step S1902, the adapter microcomputer 302 changes the coefficient of the focus drive amount. This will be described in detail later with reference to step S1908.

[0215] In step S1903, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the operating member 701 set in the intermediate adapter 300 has been operated. If the operating member 701 has been operated, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1904; otherwise, it moves to step S1901. In step S1904, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether communication is in progress from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. If communication is in progress, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1905; otherwise, it moves to step S1907. In step S1905, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the data that the camera body 200 is attempting to send to the interchangeable lens 100 is focus-driven data. "Focus-driven data" refers, for example, focus-driven commands, focus-stop commands, etc., as described above. If the data is focus-driven data, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S1906; otherwise, it moves to step S1907. In step S1906, the adapter microcomputer 302 operates such that the intermediate adapter 300 behaves in the same way as when it does not send data involved in the focus drive to the interchangeable lens 100. A specific example can be the same as described for the focus fine-tuning function in the fourth embodiment.

[0216] In step S1907, the adapter microcomputer 302 waits until communication from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 is complete. For example, if the intermediate adapter 300 recognizes a focus information request being communicated, it waits until the communication is complete. This allows focus drive commands to be sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 without inconsistencies occurring in the camera system.

[0217] In step S1908, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a focus drive amount based on the operation of the operating member 701 set in the intermediate adapter 300 from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, usability is improved by reflecting the coefficient of the focus drive amount updated in step S1902 in the drive amount. As described above, the coefficient of the focus drive amount is the degree to which the focus drive amount is effective relative to the operation amount of the operating member, and in this embodiment, the amount of a single operation drive focusing lens for the operating member 701 is set. For example, in step S1902, a configuration can be imagined where the adapter microcomputer 302 only changes the multiplier of the focus drive amount to 1 / 4x, 1 / 2x, 1x, 2x, and 4x. The user can use the operating member 702 to select the desired coefficient of the focus drive amount according to the lens type, focal length, aperture value, etc. This enables the provisioning function (MF) that appropriately sets the relationship between the operation amount of the operating member 701 and the focus drive amount. Furthermore, the adapter microcomputer 302 can ensure that the focusing lens 104 is indeed driven by notifying the interchangeable lens 100 that the status is AF at the beginning of this step. The details described here are merely examples; it is well known that depth of field (the range of distances on the subject side where a photograph appears to be in focus) varies depending on pixel size, focal length, and aperture value. Therefore, the adapter microcomputer 302 can determine and change coefficients using configurations related to the depth of field of the interchangeable lens (such as the focal length and effective aperture of the interchangeable lens) and configurations related to the depth of field of the camera (such as the pixel size in the image sensor). For example, it is conceivable that the coefficient for the focus drive amount would be relatively increased for a configuration with a deeper depth of field, and relatively decreased for a configuration with a shallower depth of field. Furthermore, it is possible to configure the focus drive amount coefficient to be changed from an external device such as a smartphone (not shown). Moreover, although an example of changing the focus drive amount coefficient has been given here, it is possible to configure the focus drive speed to be changed. Furthermore, if it is not desired to record focus drive sound while recording moving images, it is possible to configure settings to limit the amount of focus drive, focus drive speed, etc.

[0218] Note that in this series of operations, if the camera body 200 is sending data to the interchangeable lens 100 while focus drive data is being sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100, then communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 needs to be paused. In the case of the first communication, the communication pause period can be achieved by a BUSY frame, and therefore, a BUSY frame can be maintained during communication between the camera body 200 and the intermediate adapter 300 while focus drive data is being sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0219] In step S1909, if the transmission from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 is paused, the adapter microcomputer 302 resumes the transmission. Once the processing in step S1909 is complete, the adapter microcomputer 302 can either end the processing or resume it from the beginning to repeat the processing, i.e., the sequence can be moved to step S1901.

[0220] As described so far, according to this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 accepts MF (Multi-Focus) operation and sets the coefficient of the focus drive amount. Then, based on the MF operation and the coefficient of the focus drive amount, the MF function is implemented by sending the drive amount (or drive speed) of the focusing lens to the interchangeable lens. At this time, even if a control command for AF operation is received from the camera body, the intermediate adapter 300 does not send a control command to the interchangeable lens 100. On the other hand, the intermediate adapter 300 can notify the camera body that the state is MF. In this way, by using an intermediate adapter with MF function, the MF function can be temporarily provided while performing the MF function, regardless of the combination of the camera body and the interchangeable lens. In other words, a more user-friendly MF operation can be provided by such an adapter.

[0221] Sixth Embodiment

[0222] Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. In the camera system of this embodiment, the intermediate adapter 300 stores the focus position and implements the reproduction drive. The configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be basically the same as that in the above embodiments. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0223] Operation of intermediate adapter 300 during the initialization of "FPC information" processing

[0224] Reference Figure 20 This describes a series of operations performed during the initialization of "FPC information" between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, for updating the "focus reference position information" managed internally by the intermediate adapter 300. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by a program executed by the adapter microcomputer 302.

[0225] In step S2001, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines the communication content from the camera body 200 and determines whether the communication is an initialization request for "FPC information". If the communication is related to the initialization request, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2002; otherwise, the processing of step S2001 is repeated.

[0226] In step S2002, the adapter microcomputer 302 processes the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain the latest "FPC information". This processing is performed before requesting the interchangeable lens 100 to initialize the "FPC information". In step S2003, the adapter microcomputer 302 restores the "focus reference position information" stored by the intermediate adapter 300 itself, compensated for by the latest "FPC information" obtained in step S2002. In step S2004, the adapter microcomputer 302 converts the communication protocol of the initialization request for the "FPC information" detected in step S2001 and sends the result to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0227] By performing the above processing, the intermediate adapter 300 can determine the absolute position of focus using the "focus position information," even if focus drive control has already been performed between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, the intermediate adapter 300 can obtain the "focus position information" by adding the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself to the "FPC information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0228] However, as will be discussed later... Figure 25B The warning shown in subroutine 2502 indicates that when zoom drive is executed, an error may occur between the focus position, which is the actual focal plane, and the "FPC information" due to mechanical structure. Alternatively, depending on the type of actuator controlling the drive of the focusing lens 104, an error may occur between the focus position, which is the actual focal plane, and the "FPC information" when the focus drive is repeated. The intermediate adapter 300 uses the "FPC information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 to manage focus position information, and the reliability of the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 may be reduced as a result. In this case, the intermediate adapter 300 updates the "focus reference position" in response to the pressing of the "focus reference position" reset button (operating member 704) provided in the intermediate adapter 300, as follows: Figure 21A As shown.

[0229] Intermediate adapter 300 updates "focus reference position information"

[0230] The following will refer to Figure 21AThe update process for the "focus reference position" is described. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by the adapter microcomputer 302 executing a program. In step S2101, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether a trigger for updating the "focus reference position" exists within the intermediate adapter 300. For example, this trigger corresponds to the pressing of the operating member 704. If the trigger is detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2102; otherwise, the process of step S2101 is repeated.

[0231] In step S2102, the adapter microcomputer 302 initiates an update process for the "focus reference position" between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100. As described later in detail with respect to step S2112 and thereafter, corresponding to step S2107, the intermediate adapter 300 cannot accept focus drive from the camera body 200 during this process. Therefore, the adapter microcomputer 302 masquerades the state of the interchangeable lens 100 relative to the camera body 200, for example, masquerading as manual focus.

[0232] In step S2103, the adapter microcomputer 302 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 to disable manual focus (MF) operation. This process is designed to prevent the "FPC information" within the interchangeable lens 100 from being altered by the MF operation of the interchangeable lens 100 while the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 is being updated (as described below).

[0233] In step S2104, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the interchangeable lens 100 is a lens capable of confirming the absolute reference position of the focusing lens 104. The adapter microcomputer 302 uses the authentication information communicated by the interchangeable lens 100 to the intermediate adapter 300 in step S805 to make this determination. An example of such a lens capable of confirming the absolute reference position of the focusing lens 104 can be given by setting a device (called a "reset sensor") at a specific position within the focus drive range. Using such a lens, the absolute position of focus can be reconfirmed by driving the focusing lens 104 to the position where the reset sensor is arranged. If the intermediate adapter 300 determines based on the authentication information that the lens can confirm the absolute reference position of focus, the sequence proceeds to step S2105; otherwise, the sequence proceeds to step S2106.

[0234] In step S2105, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a request from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 to confirm the absolute reference position of the focusing unit. In step S2106, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a request from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the focusing lens 104 to infinity or near. In step S2107, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs either a process of waiting for the focusing lens 104 to stop or a process of ignoring the focus drive request from the camera body 200. (See below for further details.) Figure 21B This will be described in detail.

[0235] In step S2108, the adapter microcomputer 302 is in a state where the focusing lens 104 has reached and stopped at infinity or near. In this state, the adapter microcomputer 302 requests the interchangeable lens 100 to initialize the "FPC information" and initializes the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself. At this time, the "FPC information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 and the "focus reference position information" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 are re-initialized to the same value.

[0236] In step S2109, the adapter microcomputer 302 initializes the "focus relative change amount" managed internally by the intermediate adapter 300. The "focus relative change amount" is a parameter indicating the amount of change in the focusing lens as a difference from the "focus reference position information," and will be described in detail later. In step S2110, the adapter microcomputer 302 initializes various "warning determination parameters" used to determine states where the accuracy of the focus position reproduction drive cannot be ensured, which will be referred to later. Figure 25B The warning display subroutine 2502 shown is described. In step S2111, the adapter microcomputer 302 terminates the update process of the "focus reference position information" between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100. The adapter microcomputer 302 cancels the MF operation prohibition set in step S2102 (ensuring that the focus drive request is not accepted from the camera body 200).

[0237] The following will refer to Figure 21B The focus stop confirmation process of the intermediate adapter 300 performed in step S2107 is described (steps S2112 to S2319).

[0238] In step S2112, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether communication exists from the camera body 200. If some kind of communication exists, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2113; otherwise, it moves to step S2120. In step S2113, the adapter microcomputer 302 confirms the content of the communication from the camera body 200. Specifically, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the detected communication is for inquiring about the status of a switch set in the interchangeable lens 100 for switching between AF and MF functions. If the communication is for inquiring about the status of AF and MF, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2114; otherwise, it moves to step S2115.

[0239] In step S2114, the adapter microcomputer 302 communicates the MF function to the camera body 200. This ensures that no focus drive request will be made from the camera body 200 until the update of the adapter's "focus reference position information" performed in this series of operations is completed.

[0240] In step S2115, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the communication content from the camera body 200 is a focus drive request. If the communication content is a focus drive request, the sequence moves to step S2116; otherwise, it moves to step S2117. In step S2116, the adapter microcomputer 302 sends a message to the camera body 200 indicating that focus drive cannot be performed. In step S2117, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the communication content from the camera body 200 is a focus drive request. If the communication content is a focus drive request, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2118; otherwise, it moves the sequence to step S2119. In step S2118, even if the intermediate adapter 300 receives the communication, the adapter microcomputer 302 does not communicate with the interchangeable lens 100. In step S2119, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs communication protocol conversion on the communication requested from the camera body 200, and then communicates with the interchangeable lens 100. The adapter microcomputer 302 also performs communication protocol conversion on the response from the interchangeable lens 100 and responds to the camera body 200.

[0241] In step S2120, the adapter microcomputer 302 queries the interchangeable lens 100 for the focus status. In step S2121, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the lens focus has stopped based on the interchangeable lens 100's response to step S2120. If the response from the interchangeable lens 100 indicates that the focus has not stopped, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2112 to repeat. Figure 21BThe process continues, and if focusing stops, the sequence is moved to step S2108 (end the subroutine).

[0242] The above processing can offset the error in the "FPC information" exchanged between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 that is accumulated in relation to the actual position of the focusing lens 104 due to the driving error when repeatedly driving the focusing lens 104.

[0243] Note that the process of moving the focus to infinity or near in step S2106 can be performed as follows. For example, whether to move the focus to infinity or near can be determined by intercepting the communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, or it can be determined based on optical data (such as subject distance information) obtained through communication between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0244] Additionally, the intermediate adapter 300 can determine whether an actuator prone to drive errors, such as a stepper motor, is installed based on the authentication information of the interchangeable lens 100 obtained in step S805. The adapter microcomputer 302 can determine whether to drive the focus to infinity or near-infinity based on the characteristics of the actuator. Furthermore, when an actuator less prone to focus drive errors is installed, focusing can be stopped at the current focus position and the "focus reference position" updated without the need to move the focus to one end. In this case, the intermediate adapter 300 uses the authentication information received from the interchangeable lens 100 in step S805 for determination.

[0245] Focusing on the target location storage processing operation

[0246] The following will refer to Figure 22A and Figure 22B This describes the process performed when the operating component 705 (focus position storage button) located in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by executing a program via the adapter microcomputer 302.

[0247] In step S2201, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether a press of the operating member 705 is detected. If a press of the operating member 705 is detected, subsequent processing for updating the "focus relative change" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 begins (i.e., the sequence moves to step S2202). If a press of the operating member 705 is not detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 repeats the processing of step S2201.

[0248] In step S2202, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether a communication request from the camera body 200 is being sent to the intermediate adapter 300 when the pressing of the operating member 705 is detected in step S2201. If communication processing is in progress at this time, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2203; otherwise, it moves the sequence to step S2208.

[0249] In step S2203, the adapter microcomputer 302 analyzes the communication command group sent from the camera body 200, determines a communication delimitation of the smallest meaningful unit of data length, converts the communication protocol of that data length, and sends the result to the interchangeable lens 100. This processing enables the connection and communication of communication commands implemented between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 (e.g., such as...). Figure 4B (The communication command shown has any desired data length).

[0250] In step S2204, following the communication in step S2203, the adapter microcomputer 302 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain "FPC information," regardless of the communication request from the camera body 200. In step S2205, following the communication in step S2204, the adapter microcomputer 302 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain "zoom position information," again regardless of the communication request from the camera body 200. This "zoom position information" is used in determining whether a warning will be displayed if the accuracy of the drive position may decrease during playback drive. (Refer to later...) Figure 25B The warning display subroutine 2502 shown describes the warning display. In step S2206, the adapter microcomputer 302 initiates communication between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 in response to the remaining communication commands in the communication command group from the camera body 200, which were implemented as interrupts in steps S2204 and S2205.

[0251] In step S2207, the adapter microcomputer 302 obtains "FPC information" and "zoom position information" from the received data returned from the interchangeable lens 100, which are responses to the communication interrupted in steps S2204 and S2205, and returns the remaining received data to the camera body 200. In step S2208, since there is no communication request being made from the camera body 200, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs processing to obtain the "FPC information" and "zoom position information" between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0252] In step S2209, the adapter microcomputer 302 stores the relative change of the "focus reference position information" as the "focus relative change" in the adapter storage unit 340 based on the "FPC information" obtained from the interchangeable lens 100 in step S2204 or step S2208.

[0253] In step S2210, the adapter microcomputer 302 stores the value obtained by adding the "focus reference position" and "focus relative change" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself as the "focus reproduction target position" in the adapter storage unit 340. The "focus reference position" and "focus relative change" are managed separately in this way for the following reasons. That is, as mentioned above... Figure 20 As described, the "FPC information" communicating between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 can be initialized at any time in response to a command from the camera body 200. In this way, the "focus reference position" can be compensated after the absolute position information of the focus is confirmed using the initialized "FPC information".

[0254] In step S2211, the adapter microcomputer 302 detects the current attitude information and temperature information of the interchangeable lens 100 and stores this information in the adapter storage unit 340. Specifically, the attitude information of the interchangeable lens 100 is information such as when the camera body 200 is held in an upright position, a vertical position, downward, or upward. Since the camera body 200, the intermediate adapter 300, and the interchangeable lens 100 are all attached, the intermediate adapter 300 can detect the attitude information detected by any of these devices. For example, if configured such that attitude information is sent from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100, the intermediate adapter 300 can obtain this information by intercepting the communication content. Alternatively, if configured such that attitude information is sent from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera body 200, this information can be obtained by communicating a request for attitude information from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 through a sequence similar to that in step S2205. Furthermore, the intermediate adapter 300 can be made capable of detecting attitude information. This also applies to methods for obtaining temperature information. The determination of whether to use attitude and temperature information for warning display will be discussed later. Figure 25B The warning display subroutine 2502 shown describes how the warning is displayed.

[0255] In step S2212, the adapter microcomputer 302 initializes the "focus drive counter" managed by the intermediate adapter 300. This information manages the history of drive and stop processing of the focusing lens 104 in the interchangeable lens 100. This information is used for the following references. Figure 25BThe warning display subroutine 2502 shown describes the determination of the warning display by monitoring the control error during repeated drive and stop processing.

[0256] This will refer to Figure 23 The communication processing of steps S2203 to S2207 described above is described in detail. Figure 23 An example of the communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, as determined in step S2202, is shown when the operating member 705 (focus position storage button) is pressed.

[0257] The dashed section 2301 indicates an example of communication between the camera body 200 and the intermediate adapter 300. The DCL (DCA) indicated by 2302 is communication data sent from the camera body 200 to the intermediate adapter 300. The DLC (DAC) indicated by 2303 is communication data sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the camera body 200. The data in the DCL (DCA) indicates that Command 1 (CMD1) with a data length of three bytes, indicated by 2304, Command 2 (CMD2) with a data length of two bytes, indicated by 2305, and Command 3 (CMD3) with a data length of five bytes, are communicated consecutively. The three response values ​​(i.e., 2307, 2308, and 2309) of the DLC (DAC) data communicated consecutively from the intermediate adapter 300 to the camera body 200 are the response values ​​corresponding to these three communication commands. In other words, the response value for the communication indicated by 2304 is 2307. At this point, there is a one-to-one correspondence between each communication command and its data length, and the intermediate adapter 300 can determine the data length of each command by interpreting the communication commands from the camera body 200.

[0258] On the other hand, the dashed portion 2310 indicates an example of communication between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 when the pressing of the operating member 705 is detected between the communication of command 1 indicated by 2304 and the communication of command 2 indicated by 2305.

[0259] The DCL (DAL) indicated by 2311 is communication data sent from the intermediate adapter 300 to the interchangeable lens 100. The DLC (DLA) indicated by 2312 is communication data sent from the interchangeable lens 100 to the intermediate adapter 300. Command 1, with a data length of three bytes, indicated by 2313, is communication data in which the intermediate adapter 300 converts the communication protocol of the communication command (indicated by 2304) sent from the camera body 200. Similarly, Command 2, indicated by 2314, corresponds to the communication indicated by 2305, and Command 3, indicated by 2315, corresponds to communication 2306.

[0260] If the intermediate adapter 300 receives command 1, switches the communication protocol, and detects a press of the operating member 705 while performing the communication indicated by 2313, then the communication indicated by 2316 with the interchangeable lens 100 occurs before the communication indicated by 2314. As a result, four data points are returned from the interchangeable lens 100 to the intermediate adapter 300: 2317, 2318, 2319, and 2320. 2320 is not the communication requested by the camera body 200; therefore, the intermediate adapter 300 communicates these three data points—2317, 2318, and 2319—to the camera body 200, which has switched the communication protocol. More specifically, the data indicated by 2317 is sent to the camera body 200 as data 2307. Similarly, the data indicated by 2318 corresponds to 2308, and the data indicated by 2319 corresponds to 2309.

[0261] The above processing enables the intermediate adapter 300 to obtain "FPC information" from the interchangeable lens 100 at the fastest timing when the operating member 705 is pressed, and to store real-time focus position information when the operating member 705 is pressed.

[0262] In obtaining the "FPC information" in step S2203, if the delay from the timing of pressing the operation member 705 (focus position storage button) is small, the focus position can be stored with higher accuracy. Therefore, in the example above, this is implemented between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 as an interruption of the communication command group from the camera body 200. However, it is also possible to obtain the zoom position information in step S2204 between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 after a series of communication command groups from the camera body 200 have been implemented.

[0263] Additionally, this embodiment describes an example of a system in which two parameters, namely "focus reference position" and "focus relative change," are managed by the intermediate adapter 300 to manage the absolute position information of the focusing lens 104 in the interchangeable lens 100. However, these parameters can also be managed as a sum of the two, namely "focus position information." In this case, when referring to... Figure 20 When the initialization request communication of "FPC information" from the camera body 200 is detected, similar to the processing in step S2003, the current value of "FPC information" can be used to compensate for the "focus reference position".

[0264] A series of operations performed during zooming after pressing the focus position storage button.

[0265] As will be referred to later Figure 25BAs described, during zoom drive, due to the mechanical structure, an error may occur between the focus position, which is the actual focal plane, and the "FPC information." After this zoom drive, the accuracy of the focus position reproduction drive may decrease. Conversely, if, as in the reference... Figure 22A and Figure 22B If a zoom drive is performed after storing the target position for focus reproduction without a focus drive, the focus position after the zoom drive is again stored as the target position for focus reproduction. This prevents a decrease in the accuracy of the focus position reproduction drive.

[0266] Reference Figure 24 The aforementioned process is described. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by executing a program via the adapter microcomputer 302. Also note that the focus reproduction target position has already been stored. Figure 22A and Figure 22B In the process of processing.

[0267] In step S2401, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the focusing lens 104 of the interchangeable lens 100 has changed from a stopped state to a driven state. This determination can be made by intercepting communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, or by periodic communication between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 to confirm the focus drive state. If a change in the drive state of the focusing lens 104 is detected, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2402; otherwise, it moves the sequence to step S2405.

[0268] In step S2402, the adapter microcomputer 302 increments the "focus drive counter" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 itself. Note that this "focus drive counter" has already been incremented. Figure 22A and Figure 22B The focus position storage operation is initialized in step S2212. In step S2403, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the "focus drive counter" incremented in step S2402 has exceeded a predetermined number. This determination is made to address situations where the focus drive and stop processes have been performed more than a predetermined number of times, as will be discussed later. Figure 25B The warning described indicates that this is because, depending on the type of actuator that controls the drive of the focusing lens 104, an error may occur between the focusing position, which is the actual focal plane, and the "FPC information" when the focusing drive is repeated.

[0269] In step S2404, the adapter microcomputer 302 enables the "warning display flag" managed by the adapter microcomputer 302. In step S2405, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether a zoom drive of the interchangeable lens 100 has occurred. This determination can be made by intercepting communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100, or by periodic communication between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100 to confirm the zoom drive status. If the zoom lens 102 is detected to be in a drive state, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2406; otherwise, it returns to step S2401. In step S2406, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the "focus drive counter" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 is 0. If the counter is 0, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2407. A counter of 0 corresponds to the following situation: after storing the "focus reproduction target position," a zoom drive occurs without a focus drive. On the other hand, if the counter is not 0 (i.e., if a focus drive has been performed after storing the "focus reproduction target position"), the sequence moves to step S2409.

[0270] In step S2407, the adapter microcomputer 302 waits for the drive of the zoom lens 102 in the interchangeable lens 100 to stop. In step S2408, the process is repeated. Figure 24 The storage of the "focused reproduction target position" is shown. In step S2409, similar to step S2404, the adapter microcomputer 302 enables the "warning display flag" managed by the intermediate adapter 300. After the processing in steps S2408 and S2409 is completed, the adapter microcomputer 302 returns the sequence to step S2401.

[0271] Through the above processing, if zooming is performed without focusing after storing the "focus reproduction target position," the "focus reproduction target position" can be automatically re-stored, thus improving usability. In this case, it is possible to refer to it later without performing a zoom drive. Figure 25B The warning described indicates that processing should continue even if a warning is displayed in subroutine 2502.

[0272] A series of operations in focus reproduction drive processing

[0273] The following will refer to Figure 25A-1 and Figure 25A-2 This describes a series of operations performed when the operating component 706 (reproducible drive button) located in the intermediate adapter 300 is pressed. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by executing a program via the adapter microcomputer 302.

[0274] In step S2501, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether a press of the operating member 706 has been detected. If the operating member 706 has been pressed, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2502; otherwise, the processing of step S2501 is repeated. In step S2502, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs a subroutine for displaying a warning. (See below for further details.) Figure 25B The subroutine is described below. In step S2503, the adapter microcomputer 302 begins focus reproduction drive processing between the intermediate adapter 300 and the interchangeable lens 100. In step S2504, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs a subroutine (focus stop confirmation processing) to wait for the drive of the focusing lens 104 in the interchangeable lens 100 to be stopped by the intermediate adapter 300. This subroutine is similar to the one described in the reference section. Figure 21B The process described in steps S2112 to S2121.

[0275] In step S2505, the adapter microcomputer 302 obtains the "FPC information" from the interchangeable lens 100 in the state where the focusing lens 104 is stopped in step S2504, and updates the "focus relative change" managed by the intermediate adapter 300. In step S2506, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the focus drive speed setting has been changed by the operating member 702 of the intermediate adapter 300. Note that this speed setting is similar to the reference... Figure 14 Details of the description. If the speed setting has been changed, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2507; otherwise, it moves the sequence to step S2508.

[0276] In step S2507, the adapter microcomputer 302 requests focus drive from the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, the adapter microcomputer 302 generates the absolute position information of the focusing lens 104 based on the speed set in step S2506, the "relative focus change" updated in step S2505, and the pre-stored "focus reference position information." Furthermore, the absolute position information of the focusing lens 104 is obtained and compared with... Figure 22A and Figure 22B The difference between the stored "focused target position" is calculated, and the interchangeable lens 100 is requested to perform focus drive to cancel the difference.

[0277] When no focus speed setting is performed in the intermediate adapter 300, or the focus speed setting has been cancelled, step S2508 is performed. The adapter microcomputer 302 maintains the speed of the focus drive request previously made from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Alternatively, the adapter microcomputer 302 may request the highest focus drive speed from the interchangeable lens 100.

[0278] In step S2509, the adapter microcomputer 302 communicates to obtain the drive status of the focusing lens 104 from the interchangeable lens 100. In step S2510, the status of the focusing lens 104 obtained in step S2509 is determined, and if the status is an abnormal state where focusing drive cannot be performed, a warning is issued in step S2511. (Refer to...) Figure 21B The warning handling is described in detail. An example of an abnormal focusing state could be that the focusing lens 104 becomes inoperable due to external factors such as an impact to the focusing unit or being pushed by hand.

[0279] In step S2512, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the operating member 706 has been released. If the operation has been cancelled, the sequence moves to step S2513; if the operation is continuing, in step S2514, it is determined whether the driving of the focusing lens 104 has stopped. The adapter microcomputer 302 repeats the processing from step S2509 until the driving of the focusing lens 104 stops, and once the focusing lens 104 stops, the sequence moves to step S2515.

[0280] In step S2515, the adapter microcomputer 302 obtains "FPC information" from the interchangeable lens 100 indicating that the focusing lens 104 is in a stopped state. In step S2516, based on the "FPC information" obtained in step S2515, it is determined whether the focus has been successfully driven to the target focus position specified in step S2506. If the focusing lens cannot be driven to the target focus position, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs a warning process in step S2517. As an example of a situation where the focusing lens cannot be driven to the focus position, the following situation can be given: the interchangeable lens 100 has a setting that limits the range within which the focus can be driven.

[0281] If the focusing lens 104 does not stop in step S2514, the adapter microcomputer 302 moves the sequence to step S2518 and, similar to step S2506, determines whether the user has changed the focus speed setting. If the focus speed setting has been changed, in step S2519, the adapter microcomputer 302 notifies the interchangeable lens 100 of the changed focus drive speed information. Then, the process is re-executed from step S2509, regardless of whether a user operation has been performed. (See below for further details.) Figure 27 The description describes changing the speed setting during the reproduction drive. In step S2513, the adapter microcomputer 302 terminates the processing in subroutine 2504 for suppressing the focus drive request from the camera body 200 and ends the series of operations.

[0282] Warning display confirmation for intermediate adapter 300

[0283] The following will refer to Figure 25B The warning displayed in step S2502 indicates the determination of the processing subroutine. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by executing a program via the adapter microcomputer 302.

[0284] In step S2520, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines the reference. Figure 22A and Figure 22B The process for storing the focus position is described as being executed. If the focus position storage process has not yet been performed, the sequence proceeds to step S2524, which involves displaying a warning. Alternatively, if the focus position storage process has already been performed, the sequence proceeds to step S2521.

[0285] In step S2521, the adapter microcomputer 302 compares the attitude information when the reproduction drive button of the operating member 706 is pressed with the attitude information obtained during the focus position storage processing in step S2211, and determines whether there is a difference. Note that, similar to step S2211, the method for obtaining attitude information may be to obtain information from the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100, or to obtain attitude information through attitude detection set in the intermediate adapter 300.

[0286] In step S2522, the adapter microcomputer 302 compares the temperature information when the reproduction drive button of the operating member 706 is pressed with the temperature information obtained during the focus position storage processing in step S2211, and determines whether at least a predetermined difference exists. This can be determined based on the type of actuator driving the focusing lens 104 ( Figure 1A The stepper motors 107 and 108 in the intermediate adapter 300 are used to switch the threshold used to compare the differences between these temperature information instances. Note that, similar to step S2211, the method of obtaining temperature information can be from the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100, or from temperature information detection set in the intermediate adapter 300. In step S2523, the adapter microcomputer 302 determines whether the "warning display flag" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 is enabled. If the flag is enabled, the sequence moves to step S2524; otherwise, the series of operations ends.

[0287] Because it has been determined through one of steps S2520 to S2523 that the drive accuracy may decrease during focus reproduction drive processing, in step S2524, the adapter microcomputer 302 notifies the user of a warning status via the adapter notification unit 330. In communication with the camera body 200, the adapter microcomputer 302 can, for example, communicate by not following... Figure 23The communication format shown is used to prompt the camera body 200 with an error display. While the warning display is being processed, the focus playback drive process can continue, or it can be stopped at this point.

[0288] As a result of the aforementioned focus position reproduction operation, the focus can be driven from the focus position when the reproduction drive button is pressed to the reproduction drive focus position pre-stored by the intermediate adapter. Furthermore, by identifying factors such as changes in zoom position, attitude, temperature, and the number of focus drives as potential causes of decreased focus reproduction drive accuracy, a warning can be displayed to the user.

[0289] Next, we will refer to Figure 26 Describe how the focus position is manipulated as a result of the aforementioned update processes, etc. Note that the aforementioned update processes, etc., include... Figure 21A "Focus on reference location information" update processing Figure 22A and Figure 22B The behavior of the button when the focus position is stored in the operation, and Figure 25A-1 and Figure 25A-2 The focus position in the image reproduces the behavior during the operation.

[0290] exist Figure 26 In the graph 2601, the horizontal axis represents time, while the vertical axis indicates the position of the focusing lens 104. First, when the camera startup process is performed at the timing 2602 indicated on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300 sets the "focus reference position" managed by the intermediate adapter 300 in the aforementioned step S807. At the same time, the "FPC information" communicating between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 is set to zero. The focus reference position (1) indicated by 2603 on the vertical axis indicates that this focus position is managed by the intermediate adapter 300 as a reference position.

[0291] The change in focus position indicated in interval 2604 indicates a change in the focusing lens 104 caused by a focus drive command sent to the interchangeable lens 100 via the intermediate adapter 300 based on the autofocus control from the camera body 200, or by a manual focus operation.

[0292] When the timing indicated by 2605 on the horizontal axis receives an operation from the user to update the focus reference position, as shown in the reference... Figure 21A As described in step S2107, focus stop waiting process is performed. Figure 26 (The process in step S2606). In this process, after confirming that the focusing lens 104 has stopped, the intermediate adapter 300 re-stores the focusing position indicated by 2607 on the vertical axis as the "focus reference position". Note that... Figure 26The system indicates that the attached lens is one that can be checked for its absolute reference position, as determined in step S2104, and that a reset sensor is present at the focus position indicated in 2607. At this time, the "FPC information" used for communication between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 is set to zero.

[0293] In interval 2608, similar to interval 2604, the user changes the focus position via autofocus control or manual focus control. When the intermediate adapter 300 detects an FPC information initialization request from the camera body 200 at timing 2609 on the horizontal axis, it... Figure 20 The processing updates the "focus reference position" stored by the intermediate adapter 300. The focus position shown at 2610 on the vertical axis is the focus position from when the FPC initialization request is detected. In addition, the value of the "FPC information" obtained by the intermediate adapter 300 from the interchangeable lens 100 in step S2002 is the difference from 2607 (i.e., the "focus reference position (2)" indicated by 2611). In addition, the amount of compensation for the "focus reference position information" in step S2003 corresponds to the value shown at 2611.

[0294] Subsequently, when the user operates the focus position storage button at the timing indicated by 2612 on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300... Figure 22A and Figure 22B In step S2203 or step S2208, "FPC information" is obtained from the interchangeable lens 100. At this time, the latest "FPC information" is obtained without stopping the focus position. The zero position of the "FPC information" at this time is the focus position shown in 2610, and the "FPC information" obtained at the time shown in 2612 on the horizontal axis is the focus change amount shown in 2613. Then, at the same position as the focus reproduction target position stored in the intermediate adapter 300, the focus position at this time is the focus position shown in 2614. Therefore, 2615, indicating the difference between the current focus position and the focus reference position, is stored by the intermediate adapter 300 as "focus relative change amount".

[0295] In interval 2616, similar to interval 2604, the user changes the focus position via autofocus control or manual focus control. When the user's reproduction drive operation is received at the timing indicated by 2617 on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300 performs the focus stop waiting process shown in 2618 (focus stop confirmation process in step S2504). The "FPC information" of this focus stop position is the difference between it and the zero position 2610 of the "FPC information" shown in 2619. After focus stop, through the processing in step S2506, a focus reproduction drive 2620 is performed on the focus reproduction target position. The focus drive amount 2622 at this time can be obtained through the following relational expression.

[0296] Focusing drive amount 2622 = {Focusing reproduction target position 2614 - (Focusing reference position (2) 2607 + Focusing relative change amount 2621)}

[0297] In this way, focus position storage and playback can be driven through user operation. Although this embodiment describes the case of storing only one focus position, the embodiment is not limited to this and multiple focus positions can be stored.

[0298] Next, we will refer to Figure 27 This describes the focusing operation when the focus speed setting is changed during the focus reproduction drive, as described in step S2518. Figure 27 In graph 2701, the horizontal axis represents time, while the vertical axis indicates the position of the focusing lens 104. At the start of these focusing operations, the focusing lens 104 is at the "current focus position" shown in 2702 on the vertical axis. Here, as an example, the case where the focus position is driven to the "focus reproduction target position" shown in 2703 on the vertical axis will be described.

[0299] When the intermediate adapter 300 is set at the timing indicated by 2704 on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300 stores the setting value. Subsequently, the focus speed setting is changed at each timing indicated on the horizontal axis. For example, speeds 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 can be selected, setting the speed to decrease sequentially starting from speed 1. Note that this process corresponds to... Figure 25A-1 Step S2506 is shown.

[0300] Next, a focus reproduction drive operation is performed at timing 2705 on the horizontal axis. As a result of this operation, focus drive begins with a quick setting set at 2704 (2706). Next, when a focus speed setting operation for the intermediate adapter 300 is performed at timing 2707 on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300 stores the setting value and communicates the change in speed setting to the interchangeable lens 100. This process corresponds to... Figure 25A-2 The step S2518 is shown. This operation causes a switch to a focus drive (2708) at a speed setting slightly slower than the speed set at 2704. Subsequently, when speed setting changes are performed at the timings shown at 2709, 2710, and 2711 on the horizontal axis, the intermediate adapter 300 gradually switches the focus reproduction drive speed to a lower speed. Although Figure 27 The example illustrates the operation of gradually decreasing the speed setting, but the speed setting can also be increased appropriately or switched between high and low speeds. These operations enable control of the focus reproduction drive speed in response to user input.

[0301] Seventh Embodiment

[0302] The seventh embodiment will now be described. In the sixth embodiment, focus position storage and reproduction drive are achieved through user operation. However, in this embodiment, focus drive between exposures is achieved by automatically performing focus reproduction drive during exposure via intermediate adapter 300. However, the configuration of the camera system in this embodiment can be substantially the same as in the embodiments described above. Therefore, configurations and processes that are the same or substantially the same as those in the foregoing embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be skipped where differences are of concern.

[0303] A series of operations when taking still images

[0304] Reference Figure 28 This describes a series of operations performed when capturing a still image according to this embodiment. Note that this series of operations can be implemented by executing a program via the adapter microcomputer 302.

[0305] In step S2801, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs... Figure 22A and Figure 22B The series of operations shown (focus reproduction target position storage processing). In step S2802, the adapter microcomputer 302 monitors the communication from the camera body 200 and determines whether the current shooting mode of the camera body 200 is a still image shooting mode. If the shooting mode is not a still image shooting mode, the adapter microcomputer 302 ends the processing (or returns the sequence to step S2801), while if the shooting mode is a still image shooting mode, the sequence moves to step S2803.

[0306] In step S2803, the adapter microcomputer 302 monitors communication from the camera body 200 and monitors the exposure time information of still image capture from the camera body 200. In step S2804, the adapter microcomputer 302 obtains the latest "FPC information" from the interchangeable lens 100. In step S2805, the adapter microcomputer 302 monitors communication from the camera body 200 and determines whether still image capture exposure start information is being communicated. If exposure start information is not being communicated, the adapter microcomputer 302 returns the sequence to step S2802; if exposure start information is being communicated, the sequence moves to step S2806. In step S2806, the adapter microcomputer 302 calculates the drive speed of the focus drive between exposures. For example, the adapter microcomputer 302 calculates the drive speed based on the exposure time obtained in step S2803, and the focus drive amount calculated according to the latest "FPC information" obtained in step S2804 and the reproduction target position information stored in step S2801. In step S2807, the adapter microcomputer 302 performs... Figure 25A-1The focus reproduction drive process is shown.

[0307] Will be further referenced Figure 29 The description is provided to supplement the reference. Figure 28 The described operation. Figure 29 In graph 2901, the horizontal axis represents time, while the vertical axis indicates the position of the focusing lens 104. 2902 on the vertical axis indicates the focus reproduction target position stored in step S2801. It is assumed that this focus reproduction target position was recorded by the user before the still image capture operation.

[0308] The vertical axis 2903 indicates the position of the focusing lens 104 before still image capture. The horizontal axis 2904 indicates the timing at the start of exposure. The intermediate adapter 300 determines this timing information based on information communicated from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 (corresponding to the processing in step S2803).

[0309] Intermediate adapter 300 communicates a focus drive request to interchangeable lens 100 (in the process of step S2807 above), and as a result, focusing lens 104 operates as shown in 2905. The values ​​obtained in step S2806 are used as the focus drive amount and drive speed at this time. The timing shown in 2906 on the horizontal axis ends.

[0310] In this way, by operating the intermediate adapter 300 which pre-stores the focus reproduction drive position, focus drive control between exposures during still image capture can be easily achieved.

[0311] Other embodiments

[0312] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of this invention. Therefore, claims are made to disclose the scope of this invention.

[0313] The embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (programs) that perform the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer or central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device reads out and executes the program.

[0314] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An accessory device removably attached between a camera device and an interchangeable lens, said accessory device comprising: A communication unit configured to perform a first communication with the camera device and a second communication with the interchangeable lens; The first operating unit is configured to accept a predetermined operation related to manual focusing operation; The setting unit is configured to set the degree to which the driving amount of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is effective relative to the operating amount of the first operating unit. as well as A control unit is configured to send the driving amount or driving speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens via the second communication, according to the predetermined operation and the set degree.

2. The accessory equipment according to claim 1 further includes: The second operating unit is configured to accept a first operation that is different from the predetermined operation. The setting unit changes the degree according to the first operation.

3. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The setting unit changes the degree according to the configuration related to the depth of field of the interchangeable lens and the camera device.

4. The accessory equipment according to claim 3, wherein, Configurations related to the depth of field of the interchangeable lens include the focal length or effective aperture of the interchangeable lens.

5. The accessory equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The configuration related to the depth of field of the camera device includes the size of the pixels in the image sensor of the camera device.

6. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, When the control unit sends the driving amount or driving speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens according to the predetermined operation and the set degree, the control unit does not send the control commands related to focusing drive received from the camera device via the first communication to the interchangeable lens.

7. The accessory equipment according to claim 6, wherein, During the set period following the acceptance of the predetermined operation, the control unit does not send control commands related to focus drive received from the camera device via the first communication to the interchangeable lens.

8. The accessory equipment according to claim 6, wherein, Control commands related to focus drive received from the camera device include commands to drive the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens or commands to stop the focusing lens.

9. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, When the control unit sends the driving amount or driving speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens according to the predetermined operation and the set degree, the control unit notifies the camera device via the first communication that the interchangeable lens is in manual focusing mode.

10. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, When the control unit sends the driving amount or driving speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens to the interchangeable lens according to the predetermined operation and the set degree, the control unit suspends the first communication.

11. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The predetermined operation includes the operation of the rotating operating component.

12. The accessory equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The predetermined operation includes pressing the operating component.

13. A method for controlling an accessory device, said accessory device being removably attached between a camera device and an interchangeable lens, wherein, The accessory device includes a communication unit and a first operation unit. The communication unit is configured to perform first communication with the camera device and second communication with the interchangeable lens. The first operation unit is configured to receive predetermined operations related to manual focus operation. The control method includes: Configure the degree to which the driving amount of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is effective relative to the operating amount of the first operating unit; The predetermined operation is received through the first operation unit; and Based on the predetermined operation and the set degree, the drive amount or drive speed of the focusing lens in the interchangeable lens is sent to the interchangeable lens via the second communication.

14. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the control method according to claim 13.

15. A computer program product comprising a computer program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the control method according to claim 13.

Images